ft>\ r ^•v % ." _«>' H q. V % V ^ v % Si, ^ ^ # %< ^ y % AMERICAN SCENES: BEING A SELECTION OF THE MOST INTERESTING Sttriirntts inAmm(angist0rB, TO "WHICH 18 ADDED, A HISTORICAL SKETCH OF EACH OF THE UNITED STATES. ALSO, % Ckait0togxcal Cable OF THE EVENTS IN THE LATE WAR, WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS. By JOHN W. BARBER, AUTHOR OF VARIOUS HISTORICAL COLLECTIONS, And ELIZABETH G. BARBER, SOLD ONLY BY SUBSCRIPTION! SPRINGFIELD, Mass. D. E, FISK & CO. 1868. " Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1868 By JOHN W. BARBER, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the District of Coon, $• .0* Jt3j PREFACE. The object of this work, is to present to the reader a series of Historical Incidents in American History, (some of which may not be generally known,) in an historical, pictorial, and poetic form. We are awar 1 that the plan of this work differs from any we have yet seen, but we natter ourselves that it will be found interesting and in- structive. In the historical introduction to each of the scenes de- scribed, we have aimed at accuracy and simplicity ; in the lines that follow, there is, of course, latitude given to introduce moral and religious reflections. Whatever we have advanced of this nature, we trust will be found in accordance with the great and vital principles of Christianity. Instead of glorifying mere military he- roes, as is too often the case among all nations, we have aimed to give prominence to men who practised the virtues of Christianity. Such men only are the real patriots and nobles of the human race, and such only are worthy of lasting remembrance. In some instances, in the composition of the stanzas, we have not hesitated to use the language, or mode of expression used by others, whenever it would forcibly convey what we wished to present. Simple illustrations of great moral truths have been aimed at, rather than originality of thought or elegance of diction. Whatever may be thought of the work as a literary production, we have aimed to produce strictly an American Book, the influence of which, we trust, will be found on the side of "God and humanity," and we be- lieve some part of it at least, will, in some form, live, after we, father and daughter, have left these mortal scenes. J. W. B. E. G. B. New Haven, Conn. Since the decease of the junior compiler of tins work, a large portion of it, in its present form, has been added, and now for the first time appears in print. A short History of the United States is given, together with some account of the Administration of each of the Presidents, and a historical sketch of each State, to which is prefixed its "armorial bearings," or " coat of arms." Changes are occasionally made in these, but it is believed, that, with one or two exceptions, they are all represented in their present form. The various scenes which have been exhibited during our late military contest, will, for a long period, retain their prominence in thejmblic mind, and it is therefore believed that the Chronological Table in this work, giving the dates, &c, of all the important events during war, will prove acceptable to the reader. J. W. B. CONTENTS Page- The Pilgrim Fathers, 7 Ancient Church, Jamestown, 10 Pocahontas, * - 13 Massasoit, the Sachem, 16 The Grave of Lady Fenwick, 18 First Settlers of Connecticut, 20 Roger Williams, of R. I. 24 The Regicide Judges, - 26 Deliverance of Hadley, 29 Preservation of Mr. Stoddard, 32 William Penn, - - 34 The Salem Martyrs, - 36 The Indian Reformer, 38 D'Anville's fleet destroyed, 40 Count Zinzendorf, - 42 Rescue of Major Putnam, 46 True Wife and Mother, 48 The Mother's voice, - 51 Col. Boone in Kentucky, 54 Anthony Benezet, - 56 Dartmouth College, - 58 Washington asks pardon, 60 Gen. Reed refuses bribery, 62 Passing the Delaware, 64 Washington at Morristown, 67 Funeral of Gen. Frazer, 69 Death of Count Donop, 72 Death of Baron DeKalb, 75 Moravian Indian Martyrs, 77 Prince Gallitzin, - - 80 Mohawk women Council, 82 iJajor Campbell's Grave, 85 The Western Missionary, 88 Page, Perilous passage on the Lakes, 90 Shenandoa, the Oneida chief, 93 First born on the Reserve, 96 Judge White's grand-child, 98 Blessing on New Jersey, 100 I The perishing Mother, 102 Church in the Wilderness, 104 Thanksgiving, - - 106 Discoveries and Settle- ments, - - - 109 War op the Revolution, 113 One of Many, - - 117 Round Tower at Newport, 1 21 Sickness among Indians, 1 23 Destruction of the Pequots, 125 Death of Marquette, - - 127 Settlers of Granville, O. 129 Attack on Brookfield, 132 Destruction of Schenectady, 134 Dustan Family's escape, 136 Burial of Rev. Mr. Treat f 138 Swedish Church in Del. 140 The Blind Preacher, 142 New Haven Spectre Ship, 145 Burial of De Soto, - 1 48 Chief Justice Marshall, 1 50 Dr. Franklin and the Cruci- fixion - - - 152 Steuben and Lieut. Gibbons, 154 Indian Messenger, - 156 General Herkimer, - 158 Red Jacket, the Seneca ch'f, 1 60 CONTENTS. Page. Two honest men, - 162 Death of Lieut. Woodward. 1 05 Tecumseh, the Shawnee chief, 168 "Our Father,' 1 - - 171 Unionist and Confederate, 173 Death of Gen. Mitchell, 175 Iron-clad Monitor, - 177 Soldier's last Letter, - 179 Important Events in the Secession War, - 181 Star Spangled Banner, - 196 The American Hero, - 198 Patrick Henry, - - 201 Slave Prayer Meeting, 205 Dark day in 1780, - - 209 The ministry sustained, 212 Earthquake at New Madrid, 214 Visit of LaFayette, - - 218 Bunker Hill, - - - 222 Franklin Oak - - 226 Joh a licJidolph, - - 228 KosHuth, Gov. of Hungary, 233 The Omi tfaken Bucket, 237 Temperance Reformation, 239 Pace. The Cherokee Mission, 244 Home, sweet home, - 248 Gen. Daniel Morgan, - 251 The Burial at Sea, - - 254 Daniel Webster, the orator, 256 John Brown, the abolition- ist, 260 Prince of Wales' visit, - 266 Passengers remarkably saved, - - - 269 Russian Fleet at N. York, 272 Dakota Indians, - - -275 Riot in New York, - - 279 Inauguration in N. Orleans, 283 | Anti-Slavery Documents, 288 Washington's Farewell Ad- dress, - - 292 Months of the Year, - 297 National Hymn, - - 309 Outline History, U. S. 313 Revolutionary War, 327 Presidential Administra- tions, - - - 332 History of each State, 345 ERRATA. On page "254," for "1833," read " 1853." " " "250," " "June 5th," read "April 1st." Landing of tho Fathers at Plymouth, THE PILGRIM FATHERS. The Colony at Plymouth, Mass., was the first permanent Eu- ropean settlement in New England. It was planted principally tor the sake of the free and undisturbed enjoyment of religious liberty. Being persecuted in England, their native country, they went to Holland in 1G08, where they remained till they sailed for America. Having procurred two small ships, they departed from Leyden, after having kept a day of fasting and prayer, with Mr. Robinson, their pastor, for God to direct them on their way. They proceeded to Plymouth, Eng., one of their ships being con- demned, the other, called the May Flower, crowded with passen- gers, about one hundred in number, put to sea, September 6th. After a long and dangerous passage, they arrived at Cape Cod, November 9th. After exploring the country, they finally landed at a place they called Plymouth, on the 22d of December, 1R20. The anniversary of their landing is celebrated by their descendants as a religious festival. Dark was the day with storms ! Old ocean rolled in foam, and dashed its madd'ning billows on the shore. Deep rnoanod the ancient forests to the wintry winds. Their naked limbs they stretch towards heaven and shiver in the northern blast. The green earth, seared by frosts, is stiff with ice, and white with snow. In by-gone years these western shores were one vast wild. The ravening beast, or man more savage still, roamed in the forest shade and on the misty hill. A snow white sail is seen towards the rising sun. A feeble band is on the rolling surge. Westward the dove-like sail pursues its way. 'Tis like the star of heaven amid the shadowy clouds, the harbinger of day. A germ of mighty Empire moves within that fragile bark. The noblest born of earth are there ; the men of soul who go where duty leads, against a world in arms. Dauntless in Freedom's holy cause, their eye on heaven, they quail not 'neath a ty;< nits' power The mighty God alone they fear, and him they love. They near the icy shore. No rolling drum, nor thundering cannon speak them near. Angelic spirits hover round, and guard their onward way. The ocean Eagle soared above the foaming waves to see a sight so strange. The stormy sea in its far distant roar, gave forth its note of joy. The gently waving pine, with its soft, solemn music, vast and deep, murmured a pleasant welcome. Amid the forest gloom, far from their father land, they stand undaunted. The sea bird's scream, the wolf howl, and the yells of savage men around are heard. In God's Great Temple, in the open air, they call on Him they love, to guard them from the dangers pressing nigh. Their prayer is heard. They raise their notes of joy. Their music sweet, is borne by winds along, and the wild woods repeat l heiv hymn of prai e ! 9 No glittering mines of gold allured them to this distant shore. They sought their wealth above, and " Freedom to worship God " on earth. No warrior's crown, nor Fame's loud trumpet blast, impelled them onward. They sought a brighter, yea, a holier, heavenly crown of life, undimmed by tears and blood. They sought their honor from above, unsoiled, and lasting as eternal years. The times of old have rolled away ! the ashes of the Pilgrims rest beneath the soil they trod. Their spirit lives and broods around. Their sons still westward press their way. The forests dark and wild, still fall before them. The yellow grain, waving in summer glow, and golden corn ripening in the autumnal sun, stands thick around. The heaven- ward pointing village spire is seen on hill and dale. The Star of Empire rises in the mighty West! Green is the earth o'er the Pilgrim graves, but greener and brighter grows their fame. The hate of despots can not blast, nor purblind bigot zeal tarnish the brightness of their honored names. Their record is secure on high : an adamantine tower resting on ocean's bed, 'gainst which the an- gry surges roar, and foam, and dash in vain ! In Freedom's holy cause, our Fathers suffered, toiled, and died. The story spreads and widens with advancing years. In regions yet unknown, where the wild Indian roams, their names will yet be known, and their example tell on generations yet unborn. A mighty host shall yet arise towards the setting sun, on to the broad Pacific sea, who will with thrilling accents celebrate that day when the Jone Pilgrim band first trod the ice-bound shore ! j. w. B. 10 Ruins of the Church at Jamestown. ANCIENT CHURCH AT JAMESTOWN. Jamestown, in Virginia, the first permanent British settlement in North America, was founded by Capt. John Smith and his companions, May 13th, 1607. The only vestiges of this ancient town are the remains of the church steeple or tower, about thirty feet in height, and a disordered group of tomb stones. The precise date when this church was erected can not now be ascer- tained, but it is supposed to have been nearly two hundred and forty years since. This place has been the scene of many interesting events in the early history of Virginia. Old church ! beside thy ruined walls The same bright waters flow, And still the golden sunlight falls On thee, as long ago, When first amid the solemn wood, Thy walls in stately beauty stood. 11 But thou art crumbling to decay, This moss grown arch alone Tells of the centuries passed away, The generations flown ; The " dark brown years" with storm and blast, A.nd withering blight, have o'er thee passed. Where roams the dusky chieftain now 1 Where blaze the council fires ; And where the race of paler brow, Virginia's noble sires ? The groups who filled yon house of prayer ? Echo repeats, and answers " Where ?" Lone relic of a by-gone age ; The traveler seems to see The story traced on History's page, Revived again by thee : The by-gone years return once more, When first the white man trod the shore. The gallant ship again has sped, Her course the ocean o'er ; The snowy sails once more are spread By old Powhatan's shore ; He seems to see its gallant band Tread (he fair soil of this new land. He seems to see the group that bowed, Old church, to worship here ; The stately forms of rulers proud, 1: The gallant cavalier ; The flower of England's chivalry, Youth, beauty, age and infancy. Here Pocahontas kneels again To take the holy vow ; And here Powhatan with his train Of warriors mingles now ; And gallant Rolfe, here claims his bride, The Indian Princess by his side. Old church, the Fathers long have slept, They moulder now with thee ; Above thine ancient walls have swept The waves of Time's broad sea ; Of spire and aisle and arch bereft, But little now of thee is left. So earth at last must pass away, Each stately tower and dome ; Its castles proud, its ruins gray ; All frail as ocean's foam, Swept on by Time's resistless sea, And lost in vast eternity. But humble hearts that gathered here, Shall rise in that great day, When the Almighty shall appear, And earth shall pass away ; Above the mighty wreck shall soar To live when " time shall be no more." E. G B, 13 POCAHONTAS. In the preceding stanzas, the marriage of Pocahontas with Mr. Rolfe is introduced. The following account of this Indian princess, is from Allen's American Bio- graphical Dictionary. " Pocahontas, daughter of Powhattan, emperor of the Indians of Virginia, was born about the year 1595. When Captain Smith was taken prisoner in 1607, and it was determined that he should be put to death, his head was placed upon two large stones at the feet of Powhattan, that a number of Indians, who stood ready with lifted clubs, might beat out his brains. At this moment, Pocahon- tas rushed to the spot and placed her own head upon his. From regard to his daughter, the savage king spared his life. In 1609, when but fourteen years of age, she went to Jamestown, in a dreary night, and unfolded to Captain Smith a plot, which the Indians had formed for the extermination of the English, and thus at the hazard of her life saved them from destruction. In 1612, after Captain Smith left the colony, she was, for a bribe of a copper kettle, be- trayed into the hands of Captain Argal, and detained a prisoner, that better terms of peace might be made with her father. He offered five hundred bushels of corn for his daughter, but before this negotiation was completed, a different and more interesting one had commenced. A mutual attachment had sprung up be- tween her and Mr. Thomas Rolfe, an Englishman of good charac- ter, and with the consent of Powhattan they were married. This event restored peace, and secured it for many years. Pocahontas eoon made a profession of Christianity and was baptized. In 1616 she accompanied her husband to England, where she was received with distinction at court. It is said, that king James expressed great indignation, that one of his subjects would dare to marry into a royal family. As she was about to embark for Virginia, in 1617, she died at Gravesend, aged about twenty-two years. She is represented as a pious Christian. She left one son, Thomas Rolfe ; and from his daughter descended some of the most respec- table families in Virginia." 2 14 THE INDIAN MOTHER. Pammehanuit, an Indian of distinction, with his wife on Mar- tha's Vineyard, having lost five children within ten days of their birth, had a sixth child born about the year 1638, a few years be- fore the English first settled on the Island. The mother, greatly distressed with fear that she should lose this child also, and utterly despairing of all human help, took up her little son, and went into the fields to weep, alone. While here, it was powerfully im- pressed upon her mind, that there is one Great Almighty Being, who was to be prayed to for help. She accordingly called on this God for mercy, and dedicated her child to him. It lived, and afterwards became an eminent minister of Christ to the Indians. The Indian Mother mourns her children gone, For one by one, to fell disease a prey ; Quickly they faded in life's earliest morn, And only one is left to cheer her way. She looks upon her child : must he too leave Her lonely home for yonder spirit land ? 15 Must she be left alone on earth to grieve, Bereft of all her smiling household band ? Is there no help ? her anxious heart inquires : In vain the Indian Powaw tries his skill : No savage rite his demon God inspires, The mother's heart is sad and cheerless still. Despairingly she wanders with her boy, Through lonely fields, in sorrow and forlorn, When suddenly a blessed gleam of joy Breaks on her darkened soul like rays of morn. " Oh yes ! there must be one who rules above, The Great Good Spirit yet unknown to me, The Lord of all, a God of boundless love, The mighty maker of the earth and sea. He made the sun to rise from ocean's bed, And sink behind the western hills at night : He makes the moon her silver light to shed, The twinkling stars to shine with radiance bright. By him the earth in summer verdure glows, The forest boughs with smiling green are spread : The yellow corn in plenty he bestows, He guards his chosen ones and gives them bread. He feeds the little birds that skim the air, The fishes gliding through the limpid wave : His goodness and his love are every where, On him I call, for he alone can save. True faith was this, of that untutored mind, Though long in darkness she had blindly trod, The child she freely thus to Heaven resigned, Was spared to be a servant of his God. 16 MASSASOIT, THE INDIAN SACHEM. In 1623, Massasoit, the Indian Prince of Sachem, of the Mas- sachusetts Indians, being sick, the Governor of Plymouth Colony sent Edward Winslow and Jonn Hambden to make him a visit. They arrived at the Sachem's house about midnight, and found him surrounded by his people, using their charms and incantations, with hideous noises, in order for his recovery. He was so far ex- hausted that his sight was gone, but on being informed that two of his English friends had come, he desired to speak with Mr. Wins- low, regretting that he could never see him more. Mr. Winslow then carefully administered cordials which he had brought with him, which operated kindly, and soon restored his sight and strength. Upon his recovery he said, " Now I know the English are my friends and love me, and I shall never forget their kind- ness." In gratitude to his English friends, he disclosed a plot which the Indians had formed to destroy them. This timely no- tice probably saved the colony from destruction. Stretched on a bed of pain, the Sachem lay, Great Massasoit, to fell disease a prey. 17 Darkness broods round ! his soul is filled with fears, Save ! Great Spirit save ! for death appears. With savage rites, his tribe a clamorous crowd, Have gathered round with innovations loud ; Louder, and louder rose the horrid strain, The chieftain suffers still, and all is vain. " His eyes are dim, no more will he behold The king of day, with beams of brightest gold : The silver moon, the lake, the rock-bound shore, The smiling woodland, he will see no more. No longer shall he seek the forest shade, Or hunt the deer within the greenwood glade ; In love he ruled the warriors of his race, But death is near ! who ? who shall fill his place ?" So spake his people, as they gathered round To see him die ; but hark ! what sudden sound Of unexpected joy is heard this hour? Rejoice ! the white men come with healing power. They come in mercy, and with skillful hand, Beside the chieftain's couch, the travelers stand ; With soothing care the fell disease is stayed, And gratefully, the chieftain owns their aid. " The white men are my friends, they love me well ! In peace and love we will together dwell " No more will we against the white man plot, His deed of kindness, shall not be forgot." The vow was kept, and as the years rolled round, In Massasoit a faithful friend they found ; He ne'er forgot the white man's kindly deed, The aid they gave him in his hour of need. 2* 18 Monument of Lady Fenwick, Saybrook, Conn. THE GRAVE OF LADY FENWICK. At the mouth of Connecticut River, about forty rods south of the remains of Saybrook Fort, is a sort of tabular monument erected over the remains of Lady Anne Botcler or Butler, the wife of Col. Fenwick, the commander of the fort at Saybrook Point. This lady was the daughter of an English nobleman, and consequently retained her maiden name. She accompanied her husband into this then wilderness, and lived in a rude fort, surrounded by hostile savages. She died in 1648, and was buried on a small elevation called " Tomb Hill," near the water. Her husband afterwards returned to England, and was appointed one of the Judges for the trial of Charles I. " The dark brown years have passed over it : she sleeps alone, far from the land of her Fathers, ' at the noise of the sounding surge !' Her tomb is seen by the mariner, as he passes by on the dark rolling sea !" Ossian. Not in a sunny vale That blooms in beauty in her native isle, Not in the heart of some secluded dale, Where the blue skies with gentle radiance smile. 19 Not in some stately pile, Or gorgeous vault beneath her castle home ; Not in the Abbey's dim and shadowy aisle, Where anthems peal through fretted arch and dome. No ! they have made her grave Afar, alone ! beside the rolling surge, Where ocean birds their dusky pinions lave, And foaming billows sound her ceaseless dirge ! Far out upon the wave Where the wild breezes fill the snowy sail, \ The hardy mariner makes her lonely grave, And hears her requiem in the stormy gale. Far from her native land, Like some fair flower, she slowly drooped and died, The fairest, frailest, 'mid the Pilgrim band, The gentle daughter of a house of pride. What though no costly shrine Her hallowed dust with stately pomp should grace, The daughter of a long ancestral line, Has won a holier, nobler resting place. For lofty hearts and true, Their holiest tribute to her memory paid , Hands strong, the spirits high commands to do, 'Mid prayers and tears her resting place have made. There let her calmly sleep, Where the dark wave her ceaseless requiem sighs, Till the last Trump shall break that slumber deep, And she with myriad hosts of earth shall rise ! E. G. B. 20 Mr. Hooker and his Congregation passing through the Wilderness. FIRST SETTLERS OF CONNECTICUT. About the beginning of June, 1636, the Rev. Messrs. Hooker and Stone, with their congregation of about one hundred men, women and children, took their departure from Cambridge, near Boston, Mass., and traveled more than two hundred miles, through a trackless wilderness, to Hartford, Conn. They had no guide but their compass, and made their way over mountains, through swamps, thickets and rivers, which were passed with great difficulty. They had no cover but the heavens, nor any lodgings but those that simple nature afforded them. Mrs. Hooker, being feeble, was carried upon a horse litter ; the company were nearly a fortnight upon their journey. " This adventure was the more remarkable, as many of this company were persons of figure, who had lived in England, in honor, affluence and delicacy, and were entire strangers to fatigue and danger." " The forest through which they passed, for the first time resounded with the praises of God ; the Indians following them in silent admiration." Beneath the deep and verdant shade, Amid a new found land. 21 Through forests wild, the wand'rers strayed, A Pilgrim exile band. The magic needle for their guide, The changeless Polar star, They wandered on, through paths untried, To seek a home afar. And manhood's stately form was there, Fair childhood with its glee, \nd tottering age with hoary hair, And smiling infancy. And gentle woman with her smile, Cheered danger's darkest hour, Who bloomed of old in Britain's isle, Of princely halls the flower. And one, a suffering one and meek, They bore o'er hill and dale, While o'er her pale and sunken cheek Swept evening's chilling gale. O'er rock and hill, by stream and glade, Through arches deep and high, Where gorgeous hues of forest shade, First met their wondering eye. The forest monarchs stood in bands, The stately oak and pine, And spread abroad their leafy hands, Like priests at nature's shrine. 22 And there, like incense, softly rose The strains of prayer and praise, And broke the Sabbath like repose With soft harmonious lays. And oft as evening's purple shade Was lost in twilight dim, Together in the forest glade They sang their evening hymn. And when the rosy morning woke The Pilgrim's song of praise, There on the Indian's ear first broke, In sweet harmonious lays. And here the child of dusky brow, Who long in darkness trod, First learned in humble faith to bow, And seek the Pilgrim's God. Fair native land ! what led them thence, The dazzling lure of gold 1 The thrilling tales of eloquence, That Poet lips have told ? Nay ! one whose name to song is dear, Through many a land abroad, Hath told what turned their footsteps here, l% Freedom to worship God!" E. G. 23 Thomas Hooker, the first minister in the colony of Connecticut, was born in Leicestershire, England, in 1586, and was educated at Emanuel College, Cambridge. After preaching for some time in London and Chelmes- ford, he was silenced for his non-conlbrmity. He came to New England in 1633, in company with Mr. Cotton and Mr. Stone. He had great influence in establishing the order of the churches in Connecticut. He was re- markable in his manner of preaching. With a loud voice, an expressive countenance, and a most command, ing presence, he preached with a zeal and energy sel- dom equaled. He appeared with such majesty in the pulpit, that it was pleasantly said of him that " he could put a king in his pocket." He died of an epidemic fe- ver, July 7th, 1647. As he lay on his death bed, one of his weeping friends said to him, " Sir, you are going to receive the reward of all your labors." "Brother," he replied, u I am going to receive mercy." Samuel Stone, the teacher of the church at Hartford, and colleague to Mr. Hooker, was born at Hartford, England, and died July 20th, 1663. " While he was regarded as one of the most accurate and acute disputants of his day, he was also celebrated for his wit and humor. Dr. Mather says of him, * He was an extraordinary per- son at an argument ; and as clear and smart a disputant, as most that ever lived in the world." The following inscription is on the monument erected to his memory at Hartford. " New England's glory and her radiant crowne, Was he who now in softest bed of downe, Til glorious resurrection morne appeare Doth safely, sweetly sleep in Jesus here. Tis known beyond compare he did excell ; Errors corrupt by sinewous dispute He oppugne and clearly them confute ; .Above all things he Christ his Lord prefer'd Hartford, thy richest jewel's here inter'd." 24 ROGER WILLIAMS. Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, was one of the early Puritan ministers who came over to New England. As some of his religious sentiments differed from most of those by whom he was surrounded, and as he refused to cease preaching to them, he was banished from the colony. In the depth of winter, in 1636, he was obliged to leave his family in Salem, Mass., and return into the wilderness of Rhode Island, where he might enjoy religious freedom unmolested. Here he fixed upon a spot, which in grateful remembrance of " God's merciful providence to him in his distress," gave the name of Providence. His memory is de- serving of lasting honor for the liberty and generous toleration which he gave " to all sorts of consciences," and for his kindness and benevolence to the native Indians, and all others with whom he was connected. Williams, a name to human freedom dear, True noble of the human race : Firm in the truth of God, he feels no fear, Though danger stares him in the face. 25 Freedom to think, to act, and worship God, The great Creator gives to man : Frail man would o'er his brother hold the rod, And tell him where to pray, and when. 44 Freedom to worship God," for this to gain, Williams retires into the wilderness ; 'Mid wintry snows he feels that God is near, To kindly cheer him and to bless. That God who kindly led in times of old, By ravens, in the desert wild and wide, Doth keep his servant in these western wilds, And all his wants are well supplied. He builds his cottage in a lonely place, Trusting in God for his defence ; Religious freedom kindly gives to all, And founds his city Providence. From Persecution's fierce and cruel power, A place of Refuge here is found : To worship God as conscience prompts the soul Oh call it 44 high and holy ground !" Oh haste the hour, when persecuting men No more shall curse the earth abroad, When bigot fire and flames, no more consume The servants of the living God. Great Power above ! oh give us all to feel Thee still our Father and our Guide ; Be thou our Light through this dark wilderness, For all is dark and drear beside. 20 The Judges Cave, New Haven. THE REGICIDE JUDGES. On the restoration of monarchy in England, the Judges who condemned King Charles I. to death, were obliged to flee the kingdom to save iheir lives. General Gofle and Whalley, two of the judges, made their escape to New England in 1(160, but were compelled to live in great secrecy to prevent being apprehended by the King's commissioners. Sometimes they were hid in cel- lars, by the colonists who secretly befriended them, other times they would resort to the woods, caves, and other hiding places. They concealed themselves for a while, in a kind of a cave or ap- erture beneath some detached rocks near the summit of West Rock, about two miles from New Haven, Conn. This place is now called the Judges Cave, and on one of the rocks is inscribed " Opposition to Tyrants is obedience to God." If tradition be correct, their remains now rest near those of Col. Dixwell,back of the Center Church, in New Haven. On the mountain, stern and high, Bleak and lonely lies the cave, Giant rocks around it lie, Forest trees around it wave. 27 And the river far below, Narrowed to a silver thread, And the fields in summer's glow, Far before the eye are spread. While the city's distant spires, And the blue and rolling bay, Glisten in the crimson fires, Kindled at the close of day. Many a score of years ago, Wilder scenes then met the eye, Of the two who looked below, From their rocky fortress high. Lonely was the view, and wild, And the exile's cave was bleak, Rocks by Nature rudely piled Formed the home, they came to seek. Wintry winds came howling by, Storms would in their midst intrude. And the panther's gleaming eye, Looked upon their solitude. Outcasts from their place of birth. Like the holy men of old ! In the dens and caves of earth, Parched with thirst, and chilled by cold. Nobles of the Pilgrim race, Fame like theirs will ne'er decay : Still is seen their hiding place, But the exiles, where are they 1 Still the Pilgrim's burial ground, Keeps their ashes in its trust, Hoary age, the spot has crowned Earth to earth ! and dust to dust ! Earth shall keep their precept still, " That to brave the tyrant's rod, With a firm unfettered will, Is obedience to God." E. o. B» 28 One of the Regicides, Col. John Dixwell, resided in New Ha- ven, Conn., for a long period, under the assumed name of James Davids. He was married in ihis place, and left a wife and two children. At his death, he discovered his true character to the people. Fearing his enemies might dishonor his ashes, he re- quested that only a plain stone might be erected, inscribed with his initials, J. D., Esq., with his age and time of his death. Af- ter a lapse of one hundred and sixty-one years, on Nov. 22, 1849, his remains were disinterred by his relatives, and re-committed to the earth, back of the Center Church, standing on the public square or green. A tasteful and durable monument is placed over his remains. The inscription on the east side, is as follows, viz. John Dixwell, a zealous patriot — a sincere christian, an honest man, he was faithful to duty through good and through evil report, and having lost fortune, position and home in the cause of his country, and of human rights, found shelter and sympathy here, among the fathers of New England. His descendants have erected this mon- ument as a tribute of respect to his memory, and as a grateful record of the generous protection extended to him, by the early inhabitants of New Haven. Erected, A. D. 1849. Inscription on the west side : Here rest the remains of John Dixwell, Esq., of the Pri- ory of Folkestone, in the county of Kent, England, of a family long prominent in Kent, and Warwickshire, and himself possessing large estates, and much influence in his country ; he espoused the popular cause in the revolu- tion of 1640. Between 1640 and 1660, he was colonel in the army, an active member of four parliaments, thrice in the council of state, and one of the high court which tried and condemned King Charles the First. At the restoration of the monarchy, he was compelled to leave his country ; and after a brief residence in Germany, came to New Haven, and here lived in seclusion, but en- joying the esteem and friendship of the most worthy cit- izens, till his death in 1688-9. 29 Gen. Gaffe repulsing the Indians. DELIVERANCE OF HADLEY. When Gen. Goffe, one of the judges of King Charles I, was secreted in Hadley, Mass., in September, 1675, the Indians at- tacked the town, while the inhabitants were at public worship. The men immediately took to their arms, but were soon thrown into the utmost confusion, till GofFe, entirely unknown to them, white with age, of a commanding and venerable aspect, and in an unusual dress, suddenly appeared among them, encouraged the affrighted inhabitants, put himself at their head, and by his mili- tary skill, led them on to an immediate victory. After the dis- persion of the enemy, he instantly disappeared. The wondering inhabitants, alike ignorant whence he came, and where he had retired, imagined him to be an angel, sent for their deliverance. Hark ! hark ! the watchman's thrilling cry, Falls wildly on the ear ; To arms ! forth to the conflict fly ! To arms ! the foe is near. 3* 30 Pale grew the tender mother's cheek. As silently she pressed, With feelings words might never speak, Her loved ones to her breast. Now louder rose the savage yell, The echoing woods along ; These rav'ning wolves, who, who can quell ? For they are fierce and strong. Unused to mortal, savage strife, Pale grew the Pilgrim's brow : Disordered now he strives for life, Oh ! who shall save him now ! The man of God has bowed him there, His flock around him press ; Wilt thou not hear thy servant's prayer, While in this wilderness 1 " Save us, O God ! our Father, save," Was now the fervent cry ; " No other refuge now we have, Swift to our rescue fly !" The prayer is heard ! a form is seen Amid the frighted band, Firm as a rock, bold and serene, With flashing sword in hand ! His waving locks are snowy white, Made venerable by time ; And yet his eye is keen and bright As that of manhood's prime. 31 "Courage ! cheer up ! ye pilgrim band!" His tones are loud and clear, Like one accustomed to command, He stands unflinching here. 44 Stand here ! stand there ! and thus control These furious men of blood :" Unwonted courage nerves the soul Of him who trusts in God. " Our leader bold ! he's from above, He bears a charmed life," So spake the soul that saw him move. Unharmed amid the strife. Awed by his mien of majesty, The lightning of his eye ; The foe fall back in wild dismay, They shrink, they run, they fly ! The strife is o'er ! the battle plain The Pilgrim band has won ; But wonderingly, they look in vain For him who led them on. Mysteriously the stranger came, As strange his flight had been ; None knew his story or his name, Amid these wondering men : But deemed him as an angel sent, For their deliverance given ; While many a prayer that evening went From thankful hearts to heaven. 32 PRESERVATION OF MR. STODDARD. Solomon Stoddard was for a long period the minister of the Gospel at Northampton, Mass., where he died in 1729, in the 86th year of his age. He " possessed probably more influence than any other clergyman in the province, during a period of thirty years. Here he was regarded with a reverence which will be scarcely rendered to any other man. The very savages are said to have felt towards him a peculiar awe." It is said that once when he was passing from Northampton to Hatfield, a Frenchman, or Canadian Indian, in ambush, pointed his gun at him, but was warned by the Indians not to fire, because that man " was Englishman's God." He was also preserved, it is said, in a similar manner, while meditating in an orchard back of the church in Deerfield, on a sermon he was about to preach. Unharmed where foes in ambush lay, The man of God passed by, Though danger frowned upon his way, And sudden death was nigh. 33 For twice the foe with murderous aim His heart a mark had made, And twice the musket's fatal flame The Indian's hand had stayed. " The white man's God, thou shalt not harm," The dusky warrior cried ; His grasp was on his comrade's arm, His musket turned aside. What wondrous power is this, that charmed The savage Indian so ? That thus the man of God, unharmed, Should pass a lurking foe ? Oh anxious hearts ! foreboding ill ! In this a lesson read ; God's love, a shield is round you still, Where duty's path shall lead. His presence like a wall of fire, Will circle round your way ; With awe the fiercest heart inspire, And hate's fell weapon stay. Oh timid hearts ! oh anxious souls ! This lesson keep in view ; He who the threatened ill controls, Will he not care for you ? Then on ! where duty's path shall lead, Away Math doubt and fear ! Stand at your post ! your hour of need Shall find a guardian near. E. G. B. 34 WILLIAM PENN. William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, came over to AmericT in 1682, with a colony of Friends or Quakers. He en- deavored to plant and sustain his infant colony, on the principles of Christian Love. He gave free toleration to all religious sects, purchased his land honestly of the Indians, and treated them kindly : and it is said that in their wars with the whites, they never killed a Quaker, knowing him to be such. He founded his capital, which he called Philadelphia, or seat of brotherly love. William Penn was the son of an Admiral in the English navy, who persecuted him on account of his religious sentiments. He also was imprisoned for the same cause, and suffered much in his attempts to do good to others. Moved by the love of God and man, he turned, A friend indeed from childhoods stately home, To mingle with the few, whom pride had spurn'd, Afar amid the western wilds to roam. A father's angry frown he heeded not — The world's cold taunts ; the flattering voice of Fame ; But with a humble sect, he cast his lot, And meekly bore his Master's cross of shame. 35 He might have won amid his native land, A place where dazzling glories gleaming shone ; He might have swayed the sceptre of command, With favored nobles near a kingly throne. But loftier aspirations filled his mind, To found an Empire where sweet peace should reign ; Friends, native land, he cheerfully resigned, And sought a place beyond the rolling main. Unarmed except by Love, in danger's hour, He moved midst savage men ; his power they feel ; All conquering Love ! more mighty in thy power, Than thundering cannon, or the glittering steel. Like coals of fire, it melts the stubborn will : Those who had lurked like tigers for their prey, With fell design, with murderous aim to kill, Those savage foemen quailed, and owned thy sway. And he who wears the garb of Love may stand, Firm as if circled by a wall of fire ! Hate will not lift 'gainst him the murderous brand, And kindled flames of fell revenge expire ! Immortal Penn ! what though a crowd unkind, Heaped cruel insult on thine honored name, E'en prison walls could not suffice to bind The noble spirit, fearless still of shame. Immortal Penn ! thou hast not lived in vain, Thy bright example still shall brightly shine, And numerous voices here, and o'er the main, With deathless laurels shall thy name entwine. And thou, blest Love ! descended from above, Myriads of voices yet shall pierce the skies, Shall sing the mighty truth, that God is Love ! And many a Philadelphia, yet shall rise. J. W. B. 36 THE SALEM MARTYRS. In 1692, occurred one of the most surprising and afflicting scenes ever witnessed in New England, from the supposed preva- lence of witchcraft. At this period, many learned and eminent men in England and America, fully believed in the existence of this crime. The excitement commenced in Salem and its vicin- ity. About one hundred persons were accused ; about fifty con- fessed themselves guilty. Those who confessed themselves guilty of this crime, appear to have done it in order to save their lives, as they afterwards declared themselves innocent. Twenty per- sons were executed for practicing witchcraft, most of whom ex- hibited a forcible example of the strength of moral principle. It appears that if they would only confess the crime like the others, their lives might have been spared. But these martyrs, (as they may be truly called,) rather than confess what they knew to be untrue, nobly preferred to suffer death. When the wild storm so strange, burst o'er the land, Dark was the hour, strong was the spell, 37 When high and low, to false accusers gave The hearing ear, to slanders fell. Oh sacred love of truth divine ! for thee, Many the martyr's path have trod, Though fire and shameful death their lot would be, If they spoke truth before their God. True sons and daughters of the Pilgrim race, Their honor from above they seek ; Their life with all its charms they freely give, Rather than lying words to speak. Their friends with tears come round, and urge them on To save their lives ; this, this they press, Oh own what weak and frenzied men have said, And live your fellow men to bless. No, no ! these hero-martyrs firm replied, Death in its shameful form we brave : Nought but the simple truth shall pass our lips, We can not lie our lives to save. Oh blessed power that nerves the Christian soul ; His strength he feels is from on high : Rather than in the least to swerve from truth, He'll give up all, and nobly die. Then cease to sneer, nor raise the foolish laugh, At weakness here, wherever found ; How few in this dark world, can pierce beyond, Bewildering mists that float around. But look with triumph on these noble souls, Who duty's path have nobly trod : For truth, like those of old, they gave up life, True martyrs of the living God. J. W. B. 4 38 THE INDIAN REFORMER. In the year 1745, the devoted missionary, David Brainerd, la- bored among the Indians in Pennsylvania. When at a conside- rable distance from the English settlements, he met with an Indian reformer, who, though dressed with bear skins, in a most wild and fantastic manner, with a rattle in his hand, was evidently sincere and honest in his way. Notwithstanding his outward appearance, there was much in his character which appeared christian-like. He said that he formerly lived like the rest of the Indians, but God had changed his mind and shown him what he should do. Since that time he had tried to serve him, and he loved all mankind as he never did before. He was derided by most of the Indians as a precise zealot. He opposed their drink- ing strong drink (or fire water) with all his power, and when at any time he could not prevent it, would go weeping to the woods. In every clime in this dark world abroad, God can the thickest clouds dispel : His being to the weakest mind can show, By many signs infallible. 39 Oh let us not, the mercy of our God, Confine to our own sect or place : He is the Lord of all, of high and low, Father of all the human race. The Indian wild in the far lonely wood, Feels the " Great Spirit " ever near ; His voice within he hears, and upward looks, And calls on God, and God will hear. This sum of heavenly truth, that " God is Love," On Pagan hearts this Light of day, Pours forth new light ! new Love inspires his soul, And hateful passions die away ! He meekly strives his brethren to reclaim, From the destructive power of sin, To drink no more the fiery, maddening draught, But strive to have all peace wiihin. But if they were to his entreaties deaf, His soul was pained, his tears they fell ; Into the forest depths he took his way, Before the Lord his griefs to tell. What though his sacredotal robes may seem, Uncouth and barbarous to our sight, Oh judge him not severe ! he fancies thus, This mode of dress, he thinks it right. His paler brother too, has modes and forms, Of priestly dress : in various ways, Attracts the notice of his fellow men, As fancy, or as fashion sways. With equal eye, the Father of us all, Whether in skins or silks we dress, He sees us all ! he knows our thoughts and aims, With pity sees our weaknesses. Throughout all time and place, he that performs The works of love and righteousness ; God will accept, though lame his creed, The upright man will surely bless. J. W. B. 40 m # DESTRUCTION OF D'ANVILLE'S FLEET. In 1746, a powerful fleet from France, under the command of Duke D'Anville, consisting of about forty ships of war besides transports, sailed to ravage and destroy the English settlements, on the American coast. The consternation was great among the colonies, especially when they learnt that no fleet had sailed from the mother country in quest of the French. But a kind Provi- dence appeared for their deliverance. A most remarkable series of disasters pursued the French. The Duke D'Anville died in a sudden and unexpected manner ; his successor, in a fit of delirium, killed himself. The fleet sustained much damage by storms, and great loss by shipwrecks. In addition to this, a mortal sickness prevailed, and swept off a large portion of the troops, and the re- mainder soon after embarked for France. Such an instance of preservation, without the aid of human power, seldom occurs ; and the pious people of that time, ascribed their deliverance to that Being, who caused the Assyrian monarch to return to his own country, without so much as shooting an arrow against Je- rusalem. 41 The dark'ning clouds of war are gathering fast, The foe draws near with towering pride, Threatening our land with fiery 'vengeance storm, And desolation far and wide. In proud array the hostile fleet of France, Are marshaled for the onset dread ; A powerful force urged on by swelling sails, By noble, warlike Captains led. God of our Fathers ! kindly save us now, Oh shield us by thy mighty power ; Oh Father, hear us in our deep distress, And save us in this trying hour. Thine ancient people, when the mighty hosts By proud Senacherib were led, Their prayers they raised to thee : in one short night, Thy power did lay them helpless, dead. Our father's prayers were heard : sickness prevails ; Death thins the ranks ; o'erpowers the foe ; The frowning heavens above are dark with storms. The foaming billows rage below. By stormy winds dismantled, and o'er-powered, The mighty ships are sunk like lead : Amid the waste of waters wide around, The foe lies low among the dead. Disease and flood, and stormy winds, and death, Fulfill the will of the Most High : Strong is the power that kindly guards all those, That on the mighty God rely. 4* J. W. B. 42 ZINZENDORF, THE MORAVIAN MISSIONARY. In 1742, Count Zinzendorf, the celebrated Moravian mission- ary, went among the Shawnee Indians, in the Wyoming valley in Pennsylvania. Unable to appreciate the pure motives of his mission, they suspected him of being a spy, or a land speculator in disguise, and accordingly they sent some of their number to kill him. Zinzendorf had kindled a fire in his tent, and was deeply engaged in writing and meditation when the Indians stole upon him, to execute their bloody commission. Warmed by the fire, a large rattle snake crept forth, and glided harmlessly over the legs of the holy man unperceived by him. The Indians, however, were at this very moment looking stealthily into the tent and saw the movement of the serpent. Awed by this scene, they desisted from their bloody purpose ; they soon retired, and informed their countrymen that the Great Spirit protected this white man, and they dared not raise their hands against him. Alone ! and far from childhood's home, He crossed the stormy sea to roam, An exile, in the forest wild, To seek and save frail nature's child ; The dusky Indian who hath made, His home within the green wood shade. 43 Sweet lover O Charity divine ! What wondrous mighty power is thine ! Which thus the ties of nature rends, And severs country, kindred, friends, And ills to share, all perils brave, A fallen sinful race to save. Count Zinzendorf, of noble race, Like him of Patmos finds a place, To hold communion sweet, on high, Where heavenly visions meet the eye ; To write : and to the churches tell, Though dark around, yet all is well. Upward he looks ! his spirit flies, To far off bowers of Paradise, To meet with spirits of the just, Made perfect in their love and trust ; Unmoved he sits, serene his brow, What angel guards his musings now 1 For see ! what danger now betides ! A horrid serpent o'er him glides : Calmly he sits, unconscious still Of aught that now may threaten ill : The poisonous reptile all disarmed, Creeps on, and leaves him quite unharmed. He rests ! while savage foes draw near, Amazed they stand in wondrous fear : What potent spell, what magic charm Can shield the pale faced man from harm ? Some mighty power to them unknown, Must guard this stranger when alone. He sleeps ! but sleep like his, may speak A lesson words are all too weak To tell ; the white man's God hath power To shield his servant at this hour ; That he whom Israel's Watchman keeps, Through threatened ills, untroubled sleeps. 44 MORAVIANS. The United Brethren, or Moravians, of whom Connt Zinzendorf was a distinguished member, derive their or- igin from the Greek Church, in the 9th century. The society, as at present, was placed on a permanent foun- dation in 1722, by the Count, who gave the persecuted brethren in Moravia, a place of refuge on his estates in Saxony. Zinzendorf, having adopted the sentiments of the Brethren, was consecrated one of their Bishops, and from thenceforward devoted his life to the cause. Under the guidance of the Count, certain article? of union were agreed to, which embraced only the great truths of Scripture. Individuals of all Protestant denom- inations, consequently have always been freely admitted into their communities without renouncing their peculiar creeds. Discussions respecting controverted points are avoided, but they make the merits of Christ their princi- pal theme, and hope of salvation. The Brethren early turned their attention to this coun- try, in order to introduce Christianity among the Indians. In 1741, they settled near the forks of the Delaware, in Pennsylvania. Count Zinzendorf, then on his mission- ary tour in America, visited this place on Christmas in that year, and lodged in a log-house, attached to which was a stable. From this circumstance the name of Bethlehem was given to the settlement. " No people have probably done so much in the cause of mis- sions, in proportion to their means, as the Moravians. The suf- ferings and devotedness of their missionaries have been great. They have oftentimes gone forth, single-handed and unknown, among the slave population in the West Indies, the degraded and filthy Greenlanders, and the savages of our own country. In some instances ten, in others near fifty years have elapsed, ere they saw any fruit ; yet they continued to labor, full of faith, and struggling against misrepresentation, suffering, and loss of life," 45 Bethlehem, the largest town of Moravians in this country, is about 48 miles north of Philadelphia, and contains about 1600 inhabitants, mostly of German de- scent. The town is> beautifully situated, and is celebra- ted for its neat and orderly appearance. The following, respecting their religious customs, &c, is from a recent publication. As usual among the Germans, great attention is paid to music ; almost every dwelling has its piano, and it forms one of the most interesting features of their public worship. Before the Lord's supper, they have a love feast, when all assemble expressly to listen to vocal and instrumental music, interspersed with hymns, in which the congregation join, while they partake of a cup of coffee, tea, or chocolate, and light cakes, in token of fellowship and brotherly union. Easter morning is devoted to a solemnity of a peculiar kind. At sunrise the congregation assemble in the graveyard ; a service, accompanied by music, is celebrated, expressive of the joy- ful hopes of immortality and resurrection, and a solemn commem- moration of those who, in the course of the last year, have gone to heaven. Soon as a person dies, the event is announced by solemn instru- mental music, from a band stationed in the church tower. Differ- ent tunes are played, signifying the age, sex, and condition of the deceased ; so it is then usually known who is dead. These death hymns, sounding, as they often do, upon the still morning or eve- ning air, must have a singularly melancholy effect upon the hearer, reminding him that he too is mortal. Their funeral services are usually performed in church ; from thence the congregation march to the grave, preceded by a band of music. If the deceased is a female, the ladies follow first after the coffin ; if a male, the re- verse. They consider death as no evil, but the entrance to eternal bliss, and therefore do not mourn for friends, nor wear insignia of grief. In alluding to the departed, they use the expression, " helm gehen," signifying that they have gone home. The graveyard, like most of this denomination, is laid out as a garden, and planted with trees, under which are seats for visitors. The graves are de- void of the disagreeable coffin-like shape of our own ; but resemble flower beds, and in many cases are covered with myrtle and other ornamental plants. The monuments are small slabs laid horizon- tally upon the graves, the inscriptions uppermost, and bearing sim- ply the name, age, and place of decease. 46 RESCUE OF MAJOR PUTNAM. In 1758, Major Putnam, when near Fort Edward, during the war with the French and Indians, was taken prisoner by the. latter. They determined to roast hirn alive. Accordingly they stripped him, bound him to a tree, and piled up dry brush and other fuel in a circle around him, which they set on fire. A sud- den shower damped the rising flame. Still they strove to kindle it, until at last the blaze ran fiercely round the circle. The sava- ges yelled in triumph, and Putnam fully believed that his final hour had now come. He summoned all his resolution, and composed his mind as far as he could, to bid farewell to all he held most lear. The bitterness of an agonizing death wan in a manner past, and nature was quitting her last hold on life, when a French offi- er rushed through the crowd, opened a way by scattering the jurning brands, and severely reprimanded the savages. This was Molang, the commanding officer, who, having received in- formation of what was going on, rushed to the relief of Putnam, and at the last moment saved his life. A fearful sight now rises to the view, In the dark northern forests wild ; Putnam the brave is seized, condemned to .death, Fast bound amid the blazing pile. r The scorching fire begins to rise ; Loud sounds the savage demon yell : The suffering victim looks for help above, From foes the children dire of hell ! Oh Father help him in this trying hour ; Help him ! he calls on thy great name : The prayer is kindly heard, a sudden shower Puts out the kindling, rising flame. With fell revenge and hate, the savage crew Kindle again the raging fire ; Prepare a feast of death, and see once more, A victim brave, in flames expire. The savage yells in horrid triumph rise, Like demons mad, they dance around ; The crackling, roaring flames now mount on high, The death-song swells with fearful sound. My hour is come ! I shall behold no more My loved ones, and my partner dear ! Perish I must ! within this scorching flame : No human help doth now appear. Yet Father thou canst save ! when all below Is darkness to the human eye ; Yet Father to thy stern decree I bow, Submissive at thy feet I lie. That man is blessed, who puts his trust in thee, Who lives, or dies at home, abroad : Strong is the power that kindly guards him round, Strong is his helper, Father, God ! A voice is heard ! a noble form appears, Molang, the generous Frenchman, braves, Drives back the wretches with indignant frown, Scatters the fire, the victim saves. Oh noble thus ! our enemies to love, Kindly assist them in distress ; And him who reigns above, the Lord of all, The merciful will surely bless. 48 THE TRUE WIFE AND MOTHER. In 1764, Col. Boquet, having conquered the Indians in the vi- cinity of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, compelled them to sue for peace. One of the conditions of peace was, that the Indians should de- liver up all the women and children whom they had taken into captivity. Many of these had learned the language of their cap- tors, adopted their habits, and were bound to them by ties of affec- tion. The separation between the Indians and their prisoners was heart-rending. Some afterwards made their escape, and re- turned to the Indians. One female, who had been captured at the age of fourteen, had become the wife of an Indian Chief, and mother of several children. When informed that she was to be delivered to her parents, her grief could not be alleviated. " Can I," said she, " enter into my parents dwelling ? Will they be kind to my children ? Will my old companions associate with the wife of an Indian 1 And my husband, who has been so kind — I will not desert him !" That night she fled to the camp of her husband and children. Strange is the forest scene, A. sorrowing group is there ; 49 The Indian with his dusky brow, And woman pale and fair. The parting hour has come, And tearfully they stand ; While friends their long lost kindred claim, Amid that forest band. " Back to the white man's care, The captives we restore ; But to the Indian's homes and hearts, They will return no more. Mother, and wife, and maid, From hill, and stream, and dell ; And from your homes beneath the shade, Ye go : farewell ! farewell !" These mournful words are heard, Sad as a funeral knell ; And the proud Indian's bitter tears, Fall with the word, farewell ! Hark ! for 'tis woman speaks, The Mother and the wife : Hear ! for her kindred bid her rend The ties more dear than life. " They bid me seek again, The home of childhood's years ; But oh ! its far off beauty shines, But dimly through my tears. A dearer home is mine, Within the green wood glade ; 5 50 There dwells my love, my children play, Beneath its leafy shade. My children ! born and reared Amid the forest wild ; Will not the white man proudly spurn, The Indian's dusky child ? And those I loved of old, My friends in years gone by, Will they not mark the Indian's wife With cold averted eye ? And he I loved so well, That heart so kind and true ; Can ye give back such love as his, Which I resign for you 1 And shall I leave him ? No ! I leave the white man's care ; Back to the forest's depths I go, My home and heart are there. Yes ! for a mother's love, No laws of caste can bind ; And only in one faithful heart, The wife her home may find. So woman's love will shine, Alike through good or ill, In palace hall, or forest shade, Pure and unchanging still. E. G. B. 51 THE MOTHER'S VOICE. In 1764, Col. Boquet of Pennsylvania, having defeated the In- dians, compelled them to sue for peace. One of the conditions upon which peace was granted, was that the Indians should re- store all the women and children they had taken captive from the white settlements. Many had been seized when very young, forgot their own language, and grew up to maturity, in the wig- wams of the savages, adopting their manners and customs. A great number of the restored prisoners were brought to Carlisle, — many a mother found a lost child, but others could not desig- nate their children. Among these, was an aged woman, whose child, little girl, had been teken from her several years before ; but was unable to recognize her daughter, or converse with the released captives. With a breaking heart, she lamented to Col. Boquet her hapless lot. The Colonel requested her to sing a hymn which she used to sing to her daughter when a little child. This was no sooner complied with, than tho long-lost daughter rushed into the arms of her mother. In strange fantastic dress arrayed, The rescued captives stand, 52 With warriors of the forest shade Amid the little band, Of friends that here their kindred claim, Repeating each familiar name. And here the mother seeks with tears, Her loved, her long lost child, So changed by lapse of weary years, From the young face that smiled, Upon her in her childish glee, In days of helpless infancy. Dark was the storm of war that swept The peaceful country o'er ; When friends and kindred sadly wept, For those they saw no more : And many a mother mourned her child Borne captive to some forest wild. What tone, that long lost child shall reach, What voice her tale impart ? She knoweth not her loved one's speech ; And with a heavy heart, She looks from face to face with tears, To seek the one, long lost for years. Is there no dear familiar word, Which on her ear should break ? Is there no lay in childhood heard Sweet memory's chords to wake, To free that spirit from its spell ? The soldier bade the mother tell. 53 She sings the song of other days, The hymn so sweet and mild , One of the simple cradle lays, She sang her infant child, And learned that loved one's childish tone, To mingle sweetly with her own. A mother's voice ! what magic art It hath to touch the soul ; It enters in the inmost heart, Its passions to control : That voice that lulled the babe to rest, fn slumber on a mother's breast. A mother's voice, it tells of love, Such as few hearts may know, Such as v the angels feel above, For those they guard below ; A love the world can never chill, Pure, undefiled, and changeless still. Oh blessed voice ' oh long lost strain Thy tone has pi erced one ear ! The daughter echoes back again, The song to me: nory dear : She rushes to her mother's breast ! A mother's heart n ust think the rest ! 5 : E. G. B. 54 COL. BOONE'S FIRST VIEW OF KENTUCKY. In 1769, Col. Daniel Boone, and a few others from Virginia, made an exploring expedition into the wilderness westward. After a long fatiguing march over a mountainous region, they came to the top of an eminence, from whence, with joy and won- der, they discovered the level and beautiful landscape of Ken- tucky. " Here," says Col. Boone, " nature was a series of won- ders, and a fund of delight. Here she displayed her ingenuity and industry, in a variety of flowers and fruits beautifully colored, elegantly shaped, and charmingly flavored : and we were diverted with numberless animals, presenting themselvee perpetually to our view. The buffaloes were more numerous than cattle on other settlements — their numbers were amazing.'* Fair was the scene that lay, Before the little band, Which paused upon its toilsome way, To view this new found land. Field, stream, and valley spread, Far as the eye could gaze, 55 With Summer's beauty o'er them shed, And sunlight's brightest rays. Flowers of the fairest dyes, Trees clothed in richest green ; And brightly smiled the deep blue skies, O'er this enchanting scene. Such was Kentucky then, With wild luxuriance blest ; Where no invading hand had been : The garden of the West. Such must have seemed the land, Columbus found of old ; Whose beauties lay on every hand, Whose charms were never told. So to the Christian's eyes, The land of promise seems : So many a fairy vision lies, Before our gaze in dreams. Kentucky ! years have passed Since first they pressed the sod ; Another race its lot has cast, Where once the Indian trod. Fair as thou wert of old, The patriot's cause be thine, Thy sons for Liberty be bold, For Freedom's rights divine. E. G. B. 56 .'i!l|l ! :iilji!i|ltl|.| ; Y; Benezet instructing colored children. ANTHONY BENEZET. This celebrated philanthropist was a native of France. On account of religions persecution in that country, his parents, in 1731, removed to London. While here, the family adopted the religious opinions of the Society of Friends, and in 1731, emigra- ted to Philadelphia. In his zeal to do good, he left a profitable mercantile business, and devoted himself to the instruction of youth. He was a friend to the poor and distressed of every de- scription, and labored most earnestly for their relief and welfare. He made great exertions to have the slave trade suppressed. The unfortunate and degraded situation of the African race in this country, deeply moved his sympathy, and he made strong efforts for their elevation and improvement. The loss of this benevolent man was deeply felt, and his funeral was attended by all religious denominations. Many hundred colored persons, with tears, fol- lowed his remains to the grave. An American officer of the Revolutionary army, in returning from the funeral, pronounced a striking eulogium upon him. " I would rather," said he, "be Anthony Benezet, in that coffin, than the great Washington with all his honors." 57 Servant of God ! thy work is done, No more thy thoughts employ On earth below : the victory's won ! " Enter thy master's joy." Like him thy suffering bosom heaved, Thy tears like rain-drops flowed, For suffering, fallen, wretched man, Thy soul with mercy glowed. Long didst thou meekly strive and toil, To raise an injured race, And give them hope 'mid keen despair, And beings lost embrace. The widow and the fatherless, With sighs and tears deplore, This benefactor of our race On earth, they see no more. Oh, sainted one ! in this dark world Too few like thee are seen ; " Like angel heavenly visitants, Too few and far between." No hollow, false, deceitful tears, O'er Benezet are shed, Thy memory will live above, When earth gives up its dead. No rattling drum, no volley loud, Speaking of war's dread trade ; No gaudy banners proudly wave, Where thy remains are laid : Oh no ! angelic hosts attend, Thy spirit to convey, From these dark bewildering scenes, To endless, perfect day. Kind heaven doth guard thy sleeping dust, Though scattered round, abroad : Thy spirit sweetly rests within The bosom of thy God ! J. W. B. 58 FOUNDING OF DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. In 1770, Dr. Wheelock removed from Connecticut, his family and school to Hanover, New Hampshire, and laid the foundation of Dartmouth College at that place. The roads at that period, being rough and unfinished, the pupils performed the journey on foot. The site selected for the college and other buildings, was an extensive plain, shaded with lofty pines, with no accommoda- tions except two or three log huts. A college and ether buildings were erected and partially finished before the autumnal snows set in. In the ensuing winter, the snow lay four feet in depth, between four and five months. " Sometimes standing in the open air, at the head of his numerous family, Dr. Wheelock pre- sented to God their morning and evening prayers : the surround- ing forests, for the first time reverberated the solemn sounds of supplication and praise." In the deep shadow of the solemn wood, With rustling pines, and woodland songsters nigh, The man of God amid his scholars stood, And raised the tuneful song of praise on high. Dartmouth, endeared to science is thy name, Thy bounteous gift yet still shall long endure, 59 These dauntless hearts, these weary travelers came, Thy gift for unbom thousands to secure. No pompous rites the pleasing service crowned, No organs swell, no costly robes wore there, But murmurs of the forest reigned around, Unbroken save by sounds of praise and prayer. It was a simple structure which they reared, Deep in the heart of that secluded grove, But by the labor of their hands endeared, And hallowed by a blessing from above. Far different this from proud ancestral piles, Beyond the sea, 'mid England's stately homes, Where shadowy stillness reigned in cloistered aisles, The dust of centuries, on ponderous tomes. Where pale monastic men still pondered o'er, Old volumes saved from all destroying time, Not such famed Dartmouth, was thy treasured store, Nor dim religious splendor such as theirs, was thine. But through the winter's storm, and summer's heat, Fair Science, did thy children gather there, The Indian youth sat at Instruction's feet, With his white brother, void of slavish fear. Deep lay the snow its humble walls around, When winter's wind came howling fiercely by ; Their couch oft-times in summer's heat the ground, And the blue vault above, their canopy. Such Dartmouth, were thy " founding times " of old, Clouds of the morn that ushered in thy days, Of calm prosperity when we behold Thy numerous sons, rehearse old Dartmouth's praise. E. G. B. 60 Washington asking pardon of Mr. Payne. WASHINGTON'S ACKNOWLEDGEMENT. In 1754, Washington, then a young man of 22 years of age, was stationed with his regiment at Alexandria. At this time, an election for public officers took place, and the contest between the candidates became exciting and severe. A dispute took place between Mr. Payne and Washington, in which the latter, (an occurrence very uncommon with him,) became warm, and said something which gave Mr. Payne so much offense, that he knocked Washington down. Instead of flying into a passion, and sending him a challenge to fight a duel, as was expected, Washington, upon mature reflection, finding that he had been the aggressor, he resolved to ask pardon of Mr. Payne on the morrow. Accordingly he met Mr. Payne the next day, and ex- tended his hand in a friendly manner : " Mr. Payne," said he, " to err is nature : to rectify error is glory. I find I was wrong yesterday : but I wish to be right to day. You have had some satisfaction : and if you think that was sufficient, here's my hand : let us be friends." It is hardly necessary to state, that ever after- wards they were so. 61 Great Washington ! more noble far thou wert, When like a suppliant thou didst meekly yield, Than when thy banners waved in victory high, O'er foemen prostrate on the battle field. Thou canst forgive ! oh heavenly blessed power ! Our brother frail, his insults to forgive, To rise above revenge, that passion strong, And good for evil, kindly, nobly give ! True courage this ! that nobly dares do right, Nor heeds the proud, the puny worldling's scorn *? Fears not the slanderous tongue, or hellish spite, But bravely, boldly, meets the thick'ning storm. He soars above the fogs that close him round, The dark sulphureous clouds that frown below, To realms above, where seraph voices sound, Where Love and Friendship pure, forever glow. So like Monadnock's lofty towering height, When all below the murky clouds deform ; Though lightning's flash, though loud the thunder rolls, In sunshine peers above the raging storm. Oh little souls, that have no strength to rise Above an insult : choose the better part, Cherish the noble feeling of the soul, That crushes hate when rising in the heart. Be like the Father of your country bold, 'Tis Godlike thus, for evil good inspire ; It calms the stubborn spirit sweetly down, Melting the soul with coals of heavenly fire ! 6 J. W. B. 62 GEN. REED REFUSING THE BRIBE. In May, 1778, when Gen. Joseph Reed, of Pennsylvania, was a member of the American Congress, three Commissioners from Great Britain, Governor Johnstone one of them, addressed pri- vate letters to Francis Dana, Robert Morris, and Gen. Reed, to secure their influence towards restoring harmony with the mother country, by giving up their independence. But the attempt was in vain with these patriots. Gen. Reed, who was somewhat des- ponding of the American cause, had a direct proposition made to him, by a lady employed by Gov. Johnstone, that if he would effect a re-union between' the two countries, that ten thousand pounds, and the best office in the gift of the crown in America, should be at his disposal. He replied, " that he was not worth purchasing, but such as he was, the king of Great Britain was not rich enough to do it." No honors high, bestowed by kingly hands ; No glory bright, to gain the mob's applause ; Nor titles proud to cluster round his name, Can move the hero from his country's cause. 63 No mines of gold can draw the patriot's soul, Who to his country stands : no golden shower Can blind his vision to his country's good; In virtue strong, he scorns the tempter's power. When titled men clothed with official power, To tempt his soul with wealth and honor high, He spurns the bribe ! and nobly, boldly tells, Though poor, no king is rich enough to buy. No threats of dangers, chains or banishment, Or gifts of wealth, or power, or titled name, Can daunt, or lure the noble lofty soul, That feels, oh Liberty ! thy sacred flame. My country ! sacred home ! I feel the power These magic watch words give the inmost soul ; More potent far than kingly mandates are, The patriot's noble spirit to control. Though tyrant's stalk around with pomp and power, Boasting with pride that God hath made them so, Freedom " though crushed to earth shall rise again," And men its lasting triumphs yet shall know. What hosts are crushed by dire oppression's chain. Throughout the wide-spread earth around, abroad ; And creep and cringe before their fellow-worms, Who claim the high prerogative of God. Go make those little craven servile souls, Their birth-right for a mess of pottage give ; The high born soul disdains the proffered bribe, And nobly scorns in slavery's garb to live ! J. W. B. 64 PASSING THE DELAWARE. The summer and fall of the year 1776, was the most gloomy period of the American Revolution. After a series of disasters, Gen. Washington was obliged to retreat from New York towards Pennsylvania. The army, which had consisted of 30,000 men, was reduced to about 3000. Many of these were ragged, without shoes, and pinched with hunger. Their footsteps through the ice and snow, were marked with blood as they fled before the enemy. The American cause seemed desperate, and Congress recommended to each of the States, to observe " a day of solemn fasting and humiliation before God." Washington saw the ne- cessity of striking a successful blow for the salvation of his coun- try. On the night of Dec. 25th, 1776, the army re-crossed the Delaware, and advanced to attack a division of Hessians, who lay at Trenton in fancied security. They were taken by surprise. A few with their commander, Col. Rahl, were killed, and 1000 were made prisoners. The oppressor's marshalled hosts mighty in arms advance. The sons of Freedom flee before their haughty foes. The full fed tyrants stalk around. 65 The men of servile souls creep forth and do them homage. The lonely star of Freedom bright shi- ning on these western shores, grows dim, and dark sulphureous storms now brood around. In war's dread strife, our father's ranks grew thin and scattered. They bent before the raging storm. Through ice and snow, their footsteps marked their path with blood. With fleets and armies strong, the foe pursued, resolved to crush the feeble few, who nobly stood in arms for freedom's holy cause. The heavens grew dark with clouds ; the tem- pest thickened round their path, their friends grew sad and silent. Crushed down, but not destroyed, our fathers hearts grew firm and strong. Like the firm oak that shoots its roots into the earth, more deep and strong, when rudely shaken by the whirlwind blast ! One band remained. Firm in their country's bleeding cause, they scorn to yield. One mighty effort more to make for freedom, sinking beneath the tyrant's power, they forward move. With lion hearts, and arms of steel, resolved on victory high, or nobly fall as martyrs for the rights of men. They cross the raging flood, 'mid wintry blasts and crackling ice. Safely they reach the other shore. Their ranks in stern array are formed. Onward they press on icy pavement strong. The mortal conflict hastens on. An Empire's fate hangs trem- bling in the breeze. Freedom is lost, or victory won. The thoughts of home steal o'er and fill their souls. Perhaps the coming storm will lay them low in blood, and those they love will see their forms no 6* 66 more. Their souls are moved within. They curse that lust of power and pride that swims in tears and blood. To crush this power, they boldly breast the leaden, deadly, thundering storm ! The sun had tipped the distant hills with silvery light, when roused from sleep, the foe appeared in sight. Columbia's chieftain rises in his might, and waves aloft his flashing steel. Once more ! my fellow soldiers brave ! once more ! he cried. For Freedom high now boldly strike ! As when some mighty storm, with whirlwind power, sweeps o'er the plain, so rushed our fathers on the haughty foe. Dismayed, o'er-powered and crushed, they fell before the fiery tempest. They lay their weapon in the dust and ask for life. Fair Freedom smiled in tears of joy, that now this west- ern world was free ! Though storms may rage, and blacker grow the skies, desert not Truth, or Freedom's holy cause. With heart sincere, oh firmly breast the howling storm, and quail not before the .lightning's flash. The right shall yet prevail, the foe shall fall, and final victory yet shall come ! 67 WASHINGTON AT MORRISTOWN, N. J. In 1777, the American army were obliged to retire before the superior force of the enemy, in the vicinity of Philadelphia, and encamped at Valley Forge, about 22 miles distant. The army arrived at this plaice, about the 18th of December, and it is said that they might bave been tracked, by the blood of the soldiers feet, in marching bare-footed over the hard, frozen ground. The army built themselves log-huts, or cabins, for a shelter ; but they endured'extreme suffering, from the want of provisions, blankets and clothing, and many perished from privations and disease. The American army had also suffered much the previous winter, when they lay at Morristown, N. J. It is related, that on one occasion, Washington told one of his hungry men, to go to his table and refresh himself, while he would take his gun and per- form the duty of a common soldier, as a sentinel in his place. The commander-in-chief, by many similar acts of condescension, greatly endeared himself to the American soldiers. 'Mid winter's howling storms of snow and ice, Tne soldiers still with hope inspired, Reared their rude cabins 'mid the chilling blast, With love of home and freedom fired. 68 111 clad they shivered in the wintry wind, No blasts could cool their hearts desire ; By hunger sore, and fell disease they fell, And in their country's cause expire. True heroes those ! that stand like valiant men, Though sufferings many, keen and long; No bribes can move them from their country's cause, For freedom firm ! in virtue strong ! Great Washington their life of hardships shares, With courage bold and martial grace His presence cheers the faint desponding heart, He takes the humblest soldiers place. Greatness of mind is this, that soars above The petty place of rank and birth, That feels for every man a brother's love ; Such are the noblest minds on earth. The noble chieftain scorns, disdains to leave His soldiers in their sore distress ; He shares the sufferings, dangers, toils, Which round his soldiers hourly press. Thy spirit Liberty ! our Fathers felt, With lion hearts, and upward eye ; Firmly they stood in Freedom's holy cause, Nor cowered beneath the angry sky. 69 FUNERAL OF GEN. FRAZER. In October, 1777, Gen. Burgoyne, when advancing upon the Northern States from Canada, was effectually checked in his progress at Saratoga. Near this place, a bloorly battle was fought, in which Gen. Frazer, one of the principal officers of the enemy, fell, mortally wounded, by a shot from one of Morgan's rifle men. As he lay dying he was heard to exclaim, " oh iatal ambition!" " oh my poor wife !" He was buried according to his request, on an elevation near Hudson river, on which was a battery. His remains were attended to the grave, at 6 o'clock in the evening, by the general officers ; and the funeral scene is described as unusually soiemn, impressive and awful, by the voice of the chaplain, being accompanied by constant peals from the American artillery, and the cannon shot which flew thick around and near the procession. The warrior sleeps, he wakes no more, At glory's voice of chivalry : 70 His part am r d the strife is o'er ; He starts not at the cannon's roar, Nor rolling drum, nor musketry. No more the soldier leads the band, Of Britain's warlike infantry, They hear no more his stern command, Nor gleams his sword, nor waves his hand, Urging to death or victory. The rifle lays the chieftain low, By Morgan, aimed so fatally, He falls where streams of life blood flow, Where comrades 'neath the deadly blow, Have fallen, wounded mortally. So " glory leads, but to the grave," Such was the soldier's destiny, To meet his doom he crossed the wave, His life blood flowed, his deeds so brave, Were given for chains and slavery. In evening shadows sinks the sun, And life departs thus mournfully, Its brightness fades in shadows dun, And so the hero's course was run, And ended thus in tragedy. His lifeless form is borne on high, In solemn martial pageantry While threat'ning clouds obscure the sky, And fires of death are flashing nigh, And roar of dread artillery. 71 They grant the soldier's last request, Though death flies round so fearfully, They lay the warrior down to rest, The turf upon his lifeless breast, His grave is in the battery. Ashes to ashes ! dust to dust ! The chaplain's voice thus steadily, Gives back to earth its mournful trust, Slowly and sadly as he must, Amid war's dread artillery. And in the soldier's native land, The tidings fall most heavily ; The wailings of his household band, O'er him, laid low by war's dread hand, The spirit move to sympathy. Oh when shall war's dread tumult cease. And brothers dwell in unity, The captive from his chains release : Father of all ! oh give us peace, And heaven born love and harmony. 72 Count Donop mortally wounded at Red Bank. COUNT DONOP. In 1777, Col. Donop, a brave Hessian officer, made an attacK on the Red Bank, an American fortification, on the New Jersey side of the Delaware. Col. Greene, the commander, having retired to an inner fort before the attack, the Hessians entered the out- works with shouts, supposing they had gained the victory. But as they advanced a short distance, a most terrible and over- whelming fire, strewed the ground with the dead and dying. Count Donop, mortally wounded, was conveyed to the house of a Friend near by, where he expired. " See in me," said the dy- ing Count, " the vanity of human pride ! I have shone in the courts of Europe ; and am now dying in the house of an obscure Quaker !" Dark lowering clouds float o'er the sky afar, Fit emblem of the dark'ning shade of war : Above the smiling land of peace outspread, Where bannered armies of invaders tread. 73 The Hessian warrior onward leads the way To scenes of blood, in battles proud array ; Bright visions dazzling float before his gaze, When sovereign tongues shall speak the soldier's praise : When laurel wreaths shall crown his brow with fame ; When beauty's lips shall proudly speak his name ; When minstrel harps amid his native land, Shall sound the victories of his conquering hand. With pride he bids the band of freemen brave, Who nobly sought their native land to save, Lay down their hostile arms, or else prepare. The traitors ignominious doom to share. His soldiers mount the walls, and victory cry, Their shouts exulting, and their banners high, When see ! they downward sink ! in groans they fall ! A storm of deadly fire sweeps o'er them all ! Alas, poor Donop ! whither now have fled The dreams which their enchantment round thee shed ; Thy noble form all crushed and mangled lies, In blood, in groans, in mortal agonies. " Oh cursed ambition ! false deceitful spell, Hath lured me on to learn the trade of hell ; Hath led me far across the rolling sea, To crush a nation struggling to be free. Sinking in death, uncared for, and unknown, I lie, who 'mid the pomp of courts have shone : No gentle voice shall whisper words of peace, Or bid the parting spirit sweet release !" 7 74 Not so the Christian Soldier ! though he dii . He wins a crown beyond the starry skies : With peaceful hope he yields his latest breath, And gains the victory in the hour of death. No mad ambition goads him to the field, Against the widow, and the orphan steeled ; To gain on History's brilliant page a name, Though men may bleed, may die to give him fame. But Love, sweet Love ! impelled alone by thee, The Christian Soldier, fetterless and free, The wretched cheers ! the drooping heart shall raise, Though none on earth may ever speak his praise. But when the dread and final hour shall rise, And rolling thunders cleave the parted skies ; When dire convulsions rend the stormy spheres ; And o'er the wreck of time the Judge appears : The Christian Hero, in that hour shall stand, Arrayed in shining robes at his right hand ; On Life's fair book shall there be traced his name, In lines of living Light ! to deathless fame ! 75 DEATH OF BARON DE KALB. The Baron de Kalb, a General in the American Revolutionary army, was a native of Germany, born about the year 1717. He fell mortally wounded in a battle near Camden, S. C, while vainly attempting to prevent the defeat of the Americans under Gen. Gates, August, 1780. He appears to have had a kind of presentiment, that he would fall in the approaching contest, which he expressed to several of the American officers, who were deeply affected by this circumstance. Said this brave foreigner, " To die, is the irreversible deoree of Him who made us. Then what joy to be able to meet death without dismay. This, thank God, is my case. The happiness of man is my wish : that happiness I deem inconsistent with slavery. And to avert so great an evil from an innocent people, I will gladly meet the British to-mor- row, at any odds whatever." An aged hero from a distant land, For freedom's cause hath crossed the sea , The brave de Kalb, a name to freemen dear. Periled his all for Liberty. 76 Tyrants and despots with their iion power, Have cursed the earth, both far and wide , Millions condemned to suffering, toil and death, To bloat their fellow- worms with pride. The warlike Britons marshalled hosts draw near . Aloud they raise the battle cry : " The foe I'll meet ; on to the conflict go, Though in the bloody storm I die." " To die, is the irreversible decree Of Him who governs all below : I feel within the solemn time draws nigh, When from these mortal scenes I go." De Kalb thus spoke : he leaves his friends in tears, With high resolve, come death or life ; He meets the foe, he braves the fearful storm, For others good he joins the strife. With thundering cannon, and with rolling drum, The storm of death sweeps wildly by ; With overpowering numbers rush the foe, With deafening shouts the fearful fly. The stranger hero quails not ! still he stands, Nerved to the conflict, scorns to flee : Wounded he falls, his life-blood freely flows, Sacred to Freedom ! Liberty ! 77 THE MORAVIAN INDIAN MARTYRS. Several depredations having been committed by hostile Indi- ans, on the frontier inhabitants of Pennsylvania and Virginia, a company of upwards of 100 men, under the command of Col. Williamson, crossed the Ohio, determined on vengeance. On the 8th of March, 1782, they came upon the Moravian settlements at Salem and Gnadenhutten, and by false pretences, caused the Christian Indians to assemble at the latter place. Here they were treacherously imprisoned and barbarously murdered. These Indians, ninety in number, consisting of men, women and children, when their immediate death was determined on, kneeled down and prayed to God their Savior, took affectionate leave of each other, and then sang a hymn of praise to Him who would soon relieve them from all pain and sorrow. Impatient of delay, the blood-thirsty wretches interrupted the last hymn they could sing on earth, and demanded if they were not ready for death. They answered yes, and added, they had commended their souls to God, with the assurance that he would receive them. They were then put to death. Those of the soldiers, eighteen in number, who opposed these murders, stood at a distance, wringing their hands, and calling God to witness, " that they were innocent of the lives 7* 78 of these harmless Christian Indians." The unchristian savages were themselves amazed at this bloody deed. They said that they had endeavored to draw their brethren back to heathenism, but that the Great Spirit, in order to prevent it, had taken them to himself. Our time is come ! when we must go Into the " Spirit Land " on high ; The cruel white man false has proved, And basely led us here to die. Great God of all ! on thee we call ; Our murderous foes around us press ; Our souls receive : be with us now. Nor leave us in our sore distress. 'Mid pale faced savage, cruel men, These Christian Martyrs meekly stood, Like harmless lambs, 'mid cruel wolves, Like those of old, they call on God. He gives his servants mighty power, Courage to meet their threatened doom, And with his smile to cheer the hour, Of danger's deepest, darkest gloom. These servants of the living God, Unite in hymns of joyful praise, Meet the last earthly summons dread, And loud their songs of triumph raise. " Make haste ! no longer sing and pray ; Make haste, your blood we wait to shed So spake the fell, infernal crew, Like wolves impatient to be fed. 79 One loved, and long, and last embrace ; They pardon all, and are forgiven : Meekly they die, calling on God, Like Stephen, look, and rise to heaven. Oh sacred power ! that nerves the soul, To suffer death 'mid scenes like this : Above the world the spirit soars, Resting in lasting heavenly bliss. Silent in death these martyrs lay;' They triumphed in the darkest hour : Like saints of old, they nobly fell 'Mid hellish spite, and demon power. The savage pagan hears the tale, How white men kill the men that pray ; Amazed he stands at deeds like this, Murder most foul in open day. " Oft have we tried to draw them back, No more the Christian's God to love," This to prevent, the red men said, " Their God has taken them above." Prince Gallitzin, at Loretto, Penn. PRINCE GALLITZIN. Demetrius Augustus Gallitzin, a Catholic clergyman of Cambria Co., Perm., was born at Munster, in Germany His father, Prince de Gallitzin, ranked among the highest nobility of Russia ; his mother was the daughter of a celebrated Field Mar- shal, under Frederick the Great. The young Prince held a high commission in the Russian army from his infancy. While quite a youth, he came to America, and landed at Baltimore in 1782. He soon turned his attention to the christian ministry, and for 42 years exercised the pastoral office in Cambria County. When he first came to this place, situated among the Alleghany mountains, he found it a wilderness, but by great labor and privations, and after expending a princely fortune, he succeeded in making " the wilderness to blossom as the rose." He who might have reveled in princely halls, spent thirty years in a log cabin, denying him- self, that he might raise the fallen, clothe the naked, and feed the hungry. He died in May, 1840, at Loretto, near Ebensburg, aged 70 years. Servant of God ! thy heavenly mission's o'er, Thy work in this dark world is done ; 81 Thy Master calls thee to a throne above ; Thy conflict's past ! thy victory's won ! Though born in princely halls and nursed with pride, Though wealth was thine, and honor, fume ; Too poor it proved, to fill a soul like thine, That sought a new and holier name. Then ask not with a bigot's purblind zeal, Which ? Paul or Cephas he preferred : But did he strive to do his master's will, And did he humbly walk with God 1 Oh for that love of Truth ! that looks above, The feeling of a bigot's heart ; That tramples down the walls that men would raise, To keep God's servants wide apart. Gallitzin ! born a nobleman of God, Thyself thou didst not seek to please, By shrinking far away to cloistered walls, To doze out life in listless ease. Oh no ! but like thy master, thou didst toil, Among a fallen race, around, abroad, And preach his gospel to the humble poor, And call the wandering back to God. The splendors of a royal Court were left, To hush the cries of sore distress : To clothe the naked, feed the hungry poor, The widow and the orphan bless. Did glory bring thee to the tented field, And warlike hosts await thy nod ? Oh no ! thou liv'st to save the lives of men, Yes ! like thy Savior, Jesus, God. Oh for that time ! when men like Christ shall live ! Too few like thee, oh sainted one, Thy heavenly Master's footsteps here have trod : Servant of God, well done ! well done ! J. w. 82 COUNCIL OF THE MOHAWK WOMEN. Justice has hardly been done to the virtues of the Indian wo- men of our country. Instances have been known, when by their influence as peace-makers, they have prevented many bloody wars. Alive to the interests of those dear to them, they have implored those who had the power to stop the traffic of epirituous liquors, the use of which has ruined so many tribes. In May, 1802, the Mohawk women assembled in council, to which they called the celebrated Capt. Brant, and other chieftains of the tribe. Addressing them as Uncles, in the Indian manner, they lamented the many misfortunes among them caused by drinking the "fire waters," and implored them to stop the trade. There being con- tentions among the Mohawk warriors and chieftains, they en- treated them to bury all disputes, and added, that as they had in a great measure been the cause of stirring up their male relations, they would do it no more. Capt. Brant replied, addressing them as " nieces," that they would do their best to have these evils don away. Blest are the messengers of peace, Who come with soothing power. 83 To bid the storms of passion cease, In hatred's darkest hour. In every clime, fair woman mild, Her gentle sceptre wields, And man's proud spirit, stern and wild, Beneath its influence yields. When the accursed " fire waters " came, Among the Indian race, To kindle hatred to a flame, With misery and disgrace. Then gentle woman's voice was heard, The Mohawk matron's prayed, The honored chieftains of their race, For Right to lend their aid. The white man comes with draughts of fire, To barter here for gain ; Sons, brothers, sires, the poison drink, With misery on its train. The mother's prayers, the wife's deep sighs, The sister's hapless lot ; The tears that fall from orphan's eyes, Alike are heeded not. Brother with brother madly strives, Ruled by a demon sway, And fiercely shed each others blood, Like ravenous beasts of prey. 84 *' Oh bid the murderous traffic cease, Ye chieftains of our race ; And to the reign of peace and love, These fiendish deeds give place. Oh drive the poison far away, And bid the white man bring The maddening liquor here no more, Nor touch the accursed thing. So let our simple prayer be heard, Our by-gone joys restore ; Bury the hatchet in the earth, And live in peace once more." The chieftains listened to their prayer, And pledged their vow that day, To touch no more the poisonous draught, But drive it far away. So woman should thy voice be heard, And so thine influence given ; Quelling the stormy passions power, Leading the soul to Heaven. CAMPBELL'S GRAVE. On the 5th of July, 1779, a body of 3000 men, under the com- mand of Gen. Tryon, landed near New Haven, Conn and pro- ceeded to the invasion of that place. About 1500 of the enemy, under Gen. Garth, landed at West Haven Point, and took up th.ir march for New Haven. Their march along the summit of Milford Hill with their scarlet uniform, and well burnished arms flashing in the sun beams, is described as a most imposing scene. Adjutant Campbell, tall and elegant in person, of splendid mili- ary appearance, and the idol of the soldiers, commanded one of he advance guards of the enemy. He was shot down by some of the militia! who had hastily assembled to oppose their progress. He was carried into a humble dwelling nearby where he ex- nired His body was found on a bed unattended, and was car- K on a sheep-rack to his grave. The spot is stiU to be seen, designated by a small rough stone on which is inscribed « Camp- bell. 1779," erected, by the Author of this work, in Sept. 1844. No marble monument is thine ; No stately pile, no massive tomb, 8 86 Where waving banners proudly shine, Amid the Abbey's gloom : No pompous strains to tell thy praise ; No child of song awakes his lays ; No organ's peal through arches high, A requiem to thy memory. No, thine is but a lowly grave, Beneath New England's deep blue sky ; Its summer flowerets o'er thee wave, Its winds thy requiem sigh : A lowly grave, one simple stone, Tells of thy song linked name alone , Alone, afar ! above the plain, Thy sleeping dust doth still remain. Sleep on, oh gallant soldier thou ! Sleep on and take thy dreamless rest ; Death's seal upon thy noble brow, The turf upon thy breast : But calm beneath these smiling skies, The forest city near thee lies, The murmuring river rolls between, Her stern old rocks, her bowers of green. Perhaps amid thy native land, Thine own fair isle beyond the sea, The loved ones of thy household band, Looked long in vain for thee : For thee they watched through long bright hours : For thee they decked their green wood bowers ; And listened at the homestead door, For footsteps they should hear no more. 87 Oh bright thy country's banners danced, And fluttered in the morning light ; And flashing steel and scarlet glanced, All bathed in radiance bright : At night their path was lone once more, The drum was still, the strife was o'er : And thou the noblest of them all, Doomed in the foremost ranks to fall. Full many a year since then has passed, Of toil for blood bought liberty : Right manfully the die was cast, For death or victory. And now our flag floats far and wide, Its stars and stripes, our conntry's pride, And we a people brave and free, To God alone bow heart and knee. But when the last dread trump shall sound, And like a scroll roll back these skies, From every bloody battle ground, Earth's myriad hosts shall rise ; And marshaled rank on rank shall stand, The warrior hosts of every land ; Then forests wild, and ocean's bed, Alike that day give up their dead. E. 6. 88 THE WESTERN MISSIONARY. About the year 1800, at the period of the first settlement of our western states, itinerant missionaries were sent from the east to labor in the new settlements scattered here and there in the wilderness. In order to extend the light of religion, and lay the foundation of happiness and intelligence to a great people yet to come, these devoted men endured much toil, danger and suffering in the tedious forests, unknown deserts, and trackless uninhabited regions. One of these missionaries, while travelling in the north- ern section, in the depth of winter, became bewildered and be- numbed by the chilling frost. He was found sometime after- wards, having been frozen to death while on his knees, in the attitude of prayer. True Patriot of the human race is he, A soul of noble, yea of heavenly birth ; Who lives to scatter light and love abroad, The faithful servant of his God on earth. No golden region far doth lure him on, Nor hope of honor bright, nor selfish love 89 Inspires his breast: his soul, with eagle eye, Looks upwards to the realms above. What though thy lowly name will not appear Upon the musty rolls of human fame, In God's own book of everlasting life Is found inscribed thy new and holier name. The proud of earth may scorn thy humble mien, Despise thy work, disdain thy feeble voice ; Angels attend thee in thy mission round, And ever in thy labors kind rejoice. Through forests dark and wild, o'er mountains high. In wilds wherever human foot has trod, To dark benighted, fallen, wretched men, Thou art the high Ambassador of God. No ravening beasts, nor savage cruel men, Thy firm and dauntless heart can ever move, Nor summer's burning heat, nor winter's cold, Can stay thy noble embassy of love. Thou laborest still ; waiting thy masters will, To be discharged, and calmly then obey, The summons to thine everlasting rest, In realms of endless light ! eternal day ! The time is come ! fierce howls the wintry blast ; No farther onward can the wanderer go ; Kneeling, on God he calls ; calmly he dies, Amid a lonely wilderness of snow. Oh thus to die ! and nobly thus to fall ! When on a mission, holy, high like this ; Immortal honor bright, it gives the soul, " Sacred, substantial, never fading bliss." Angelic hosts now hail thee welcome home ; Thy godlike spirit dwells among the just ; Though ravening wolves may howl, and roam around, Thy God will guard his servant's sleeping dust. 8* J. w. B. 90 PERILOUS PASSAGE ON THE LAKES. The North American Indians appeared to have far more cor- rect views of the Deity than most heathen nations. Though gen- erally Polytheists, or believers in many gods, yet they believed there was one Supreme God or Great Spirit who ruled over all. A person long resident among the Indians, states that he has of- ten seen them pray to the Great Spirit when about to engage in any enterprise of moment, or hazard. An Indian woman of his acquaintance, wishing to visit an island in one of our great North- ern Lakes, was in trouble on account of the great hazard of the undertaking. Placing herself in the attitude of prayer, she fer- vently prayed to the Great Spirit to give her a safe passage. i hen addressing herself with energy to paddling her frail canoe h rough the foaming waters, she was landed on the desired shore in safety. Tite thickening foam is on the deep, The tall grass waves around, And through the pines, the storm winds sweep, With wild and mournful sound. 01 Afar the sullen waters roar. And low the wild bird flies ; While threatening clouds portentous soar, And darker frown the skies. The Indian matron views the scene ; Far off yon island lies ; Loud roars the pathless gulf between, The lake's broad billows rise. Undaunted stands the fearless form, Of one who dares to brave, The fury of the coming storm, The madness of the wave. "Great Spirit, thou dost rule the sea, By thine Almighty power ; Thy feeble creature calls on thee, Oh save me in this hour ! When as the wreaths of smoke rolled by, The fiery deluge came, Wrapping the prairie, and the sky, In one broad sheet of flame. And when the deer flew quickly past, Urged on by terror wild, And perished in the fiery blast, Then thou didst save thy child. When the fierce wolf, and panther howled, Around their forest den, And round my pathway wildly howled, Still thou wert with me then. 92 When cruel foemen like a flood, O'erwhelmed our smiling land, Nor spared the tender infants blood, Thou savest me from their hand. Great Spirit ! creature of thy care, To thee alone I bow ; Thou didst of old in danger spare, Oh save thy servant now !" The frail canoe has left the shore ; Far, far behind it lies ; The lightnings flash, the thunders roai, And darker grow the skies. But still she calls on God to save ; She plies the nimble oar ; The bark flies on, she skims the wave ; She nears, she gains the shore ! E. O. 03 SKENANDOA, THE ONEIDA CHIEF. Skenandoa, the celebrated Oneida chief, was the firm and effi- cient friend of the United States during the Revolutionary war. He was very savage, and addicted to drunkenness during his youth, but by the effort of Rev. Mr. Kirtland the missionary, and his own reflections, he lived a reformed man more than sixty years, and died in Christian hope. He died in 1816, at Oneida Castle, near Utica, N. Y., at the advanced age, it is said, of one hundred and ten years. He desired to be buried near Mr. Kirtland, his beloved minister and father, that he might, (to use his own ex- pression,) " Go up with him at the great resurrection." To a friend who called on him a short time before his death, he thus expressed himself through an interpreter : "I am an aged hemlock. The winds of an hundred winters have whistled through my branches ; I am dead at the top. The genera- tion to which I belonged have run away and left me ; why I live, the Great Good Spirit only knows. Pray to my Jesus that I may have patience to wait my appointed time to die !" Time with unsparing hand, Sweeps all away, the dark brown years have 94 An aged hemlock, grey with years I stand, My leaves are scattered, and my top is dead. An hundred winter's winds have o'er me past, And left my branches bare amid the chilling blast. An hundred springs have brought The swelling buds, the flowers, the early rain, The sun's bright rays, the forest depths have sought And freed the streamlets from their icy chain ; ' They brought the songs of many a woodland bird, And the green leaves by balmy breezes stirred. But they shall bring to me The tender foliage of my youth no more ; My Spring is past, and wasted stands the tree Whose beauty, Summer's breath can ne'er restore ; Spring, Summer, Autumn, with their charms have flown, And in my Winter time I stand alone. And all I used to love In by-gone years, amid my race are gone ; Still smile the fields, where we were wont to rove ; My comrades heed no more the blushing dawn, Or the wild notes that called them to the chase, Like morning vapor, gone ! who, who shall fill their place 1 The streams go bubbling by, Beside whose banks, the red man used to stray ; The skies as warmly smile ; with softest sigh, Amid the moaning grove the breezes play : "Will ye come back, oh friends I loved of yore?" The winds reply " No more ! they come no more !" Like them I too must go, — The good Great Spirit, soon for me will call ; 95 Why thus so long, I linger here below, I know not ; but my Savior knoweth all , Oh friends, that he will grant me patience, pray, That I may calmly wait, through long delay. And when that call, I hear, And longing, weary, I shall go to rest, Lay me by him, who taught me first to fear The white man's God, the Father ever blest ; Lay me by him, that I with him may wake, When the Great Resurrection morn shall break. Oh brave and honored chief! Death's summons found thee waiting for the day, Whose peaceful coming brought thee sweet relief, And called the prilgrim from his weary way, To join the blood-washed throng around the throne, Where age steals on no more, nor grief is known. 96 Death of the child of Judge Kingsbury. FIRST BORN OF THE RESERVE. Among the first families that wintered on the Connecticut Western Reserve, (the north-eastern section of Ohio,) was that of Judge James Kingsbury. They arrived at Conneaut, (some- times termed the Plymouth of the Reserve,) during the summer of 1796, soon after the country was first surveyed. Being compelled by business to visit the State of New York, with the expectation of a speedy return to his family, Judge Kingsbury was detained by a severe sickness till winter set in. As soon as he was able, he proceeded on his return, with an Indian to guide him through the wilderness. His horse having- been disabled, he left him in the snow, and mounting a bag of flour on his own back, he urged his way onward towards his family. He finally arrived in safety, and found the partner of h-is cares, reduced by famine to the last stages in which life can be supported ; and near her, on a little pal- let, lay the remains of his youngest child, born in his absence, who had just expired for the want of that nourishment which the mo- ther was unable to give. Child of Ohio's pioneers ! First in its northern wilderness ! 'Mid wintry storms and forests wild, Suffering by hunger, sore distressed ! The Mother helpless, lonely, sad, In a rough dwelling famished lies : Her sufferings keen ; her friends away ; Her little one, it moans and dies! Through forest branches bare and high, Fierce sweeps the wind the cottage paea ; The Wolf-howl and the Panther's scream, Are heard above the wintry blast. Where is the husband? father, where? When will he come 1 O see thy child ! Vain is the call ! louder the wind Is heard along the forest wild. A weary wanderer, lost, forlorn, Perhaps he roams the forest o'er ; Perhaps by ravening beasts he's torn, Or chilled, he sinks to rise no more. So spake in tears the suffering wife ; Beside her lay her infant dead, First bom upon the wild Reserve, By hunger sore its spirit fled. Through suffering thus, Ohio rose Thy-fields, from out the wilderness ; Thy brave and hardy pioneers, Millions of freemen yet shall bless. And such was woman's love, that led Through western wilds, her fragile form ; Like rainbow beauty, softly shed, And gleaming brightest through the storm. 9 98 iiAN YERRY, AND JUDGE WHITE'S GRAND-CHILD. Judge White, the first settler of Whitetown, N. Y., removed to that place in 1784. Han Yerry, an Oneida Chief, who lived in the vicinity, called on the Judge one day, and asked him if he was his friend ? Yes, he replied. Well then, said the Indian, do you believe that I am your friend 1 The Judge again replied, yes. Then said Han Yerry, I will tell what I want, then I shall know whether you speak true words. The Indian then pointed to a little child, the daughter of one of his sons, two or three years old, and said : my wife wants to take her home to stay one night with us, and we will bring her home to-morrow. The feelings of the grand-father and the mother were put to a severe test. They however concluded it would be best to put confidence in the word ol the savage, and thus appeal to his sense of honor. They were told to take the child. A long night and day succeeded, with many foreboding fears on the part of the mother. At the close of the day, the little child was brought back, arrayed in all the finery of Indian attire. This adventure was the cause of an ardent at- tachment between the whites and Indians. The Indian clasped the smiling babe, And bade the prattler rest, 99 In childhood's fearless innocence, Upon his dusky breast. A.nd towards his forest home he turned, While yet the mother's eye Looked on her child, and red-browed guest, In strange anxiety. ' Let us be friends," the Indian said, This prattling child shall ba, Between the pale faced race, and mine, A pledge of amity. Back to the Indian's forest home, This child I bear awhile ; For one amid the woodland wild Will love his infant smile." He turns him to depart once more ; Pale grows the mother's cheek ! The conflict 'twixt her love and fear, A mother's heart may speak. How shall she let the dear one go, Far from its mother's breast ; She must, or make a deadly foe Of her dark Indian guest. Slow through the forest winding path, She sees their figures fade ; She gazes still, till they are lost Amid the deep'ning shade. The night wears on, and comes the day, But come no chief or child : Slow pass the tedious hours away, The mother's heart is wild. But sudden up the woodland path, A stately form appears; They come ! the Indian and the child ; Sad mother, dry thy tears. Then anxious mother be at rest, Kind hearts thy child restore ; Thy confidence hath made thy guest A friend for evermore. 100 Arms of New Jersey. THE INDIAN BLESSING, ON NEW JERSEY. In 1832, a petition was presented by Bartholomew S. Calvin, an aged Delaware Indian, for some compensation for relinquish- ing some rights his tribe had in hunting and fishing in New Jersey. The Legislature received the petition, and granted 2,000 dollars, being all that was solicited. Calvin returned a letter of thanks to tn"e Legislature, in which he feelingly bears his testimony to the high sense of justice ever shown by the people of New Jersey, to a feeble and wasted people. Said he, " not a drop of our blood have you spilled in battle. — Not an acre of our land have you taken but by our consent. ** * There may be some who would despise an Indian benediction: but when I return to my people, and make known the result of my mission, the ear of the Great Sove- reign of the Universe, which is still open to our cry, will be pen- etrated with our invocation of blessings upon the generous sons of New Jersey. * * * * Unable to return them any other compensa- tion, I fervently pray that God will have them in his holy keep- ing, *** and receive them into his kingdom above." Brothers ! to you the mighty and stout hearted, To you, who fitly speak the white man's power; Type of a race, whose glory is departed, Aged and weak I come to you this hour. These broad green fields, these hills, these woodlands hoary The chieftains of our nation trod of old : 101 Our smiling lakes, our rivers fraught with story, We offer to your pale faced race for gold. For proudly to your honor, be it spoken, Since first the white man sought these vales we tread, No treaty of our peace, has yet been broken, No drop of Indian blood has yet been shed. Farewell ! we go, and blessings be upon you : The Indian's path is towards " the setting sun ;" Your kindly deeds, your noble acts have won you The Red Man's thanks, long as his life shall run. Let others scorn the humble boon we proffer, An Indian's benediction on your lot, 'Tis all we have to give ; and this we offer, Though humble, hearts like yours, will spurn it not. And when towards home, our journey we are wending, And tell the deeds of noble hearts and true ; Then grateful prayers, and warmest blessings, blending, Shall reach the Almighty's ears for yours, and you. So spake the Indian, and'no prouder story E'er graced the lists of worldly rank and fame ; No other State can boast the meed of glory, That's linked New Jersey with thine honored name. G. B. 102 THE MOTHER PERISHING WITH COLD. In December, 1827, Mr. Blake, with his wife and infant daugh- ter, while traveling in a sleigh over the Green Mountains in Vermont, were overtaken by a snow storm. The storm was so thick and furious, that their horse refused to stir. Mr. B., realiz- ing his dangerous position, after protecting his wife and child as well as he could against the storm left them, intending to seek for aid at the first house he could find. He was soon benumbed by the cold, and fell, and found himself unable to rise. His wife, as is supposed, alarmed at his long absence, left the sleigh in or- der to find him. When within thirty rods of her husband, she was overcome by the cold. Knowing her fate, she stripped her- self of the thickest part of her clothing and wrapped up her infant daughter. Mr. Blake was found alive the next morning, with his hands and feet badly frozen : the body of his wife was found lifeless and cold : and lifting up the infant from its snowy bed, the hearts of the beholders were rejoiced to see it smile. In the following stanzas, some extracts are taken from Mrs. Seba •Smith's expressive lines on this touching incident. The storm was fierce, the wintry blast Howled deep at close of day ; 103 And where the snow fell thick and fast, The travelers pressed their way : The husband, wife, and infant child, Alone, amid the tempest wild. To save that cherished wife and child, The husband braves the snow ; But the fierce storm grew still more wild, He can no farther go : 'Tis vain against the blast to press. He sinks amid the wilderness. And she the mother with her child ! Sweet woman's song has told, How bravely in the tempest wild, She braved the blast so cold : And how that frail defenceless form Pressed on, still on, amid the storm. And how the mantle from her breast, She folded round her child ; And as she sank at last to rest, Upon her infant smiled ; With love that death could never chill, Pressed to her heart that infant still. Now fiercely howled the wolf afar, And loudly roared the blast, With chill of death : the morning star Its ray around him cast ; And waving pines, with mournful sound, So deep and solemn, wailed around. At dawn the traveler passed by, And found her icy form, Who, when no earthly friend was nigh, Perished amid the storm : " He moved the robe from off the child — ■ The babe looked up and sweetly smiled." A mother's love ! thus, thus through all It lives through every ill : No storms fts courage can appal, Nor icy blast can chill: Like evergreens 'mid wintry snows, With brighter beauty ever glows. 104 CHURCH IN THE WILDERNESS. In the western part of Virginia, in the mountainous region, the country is thinly settled, and the roads few. In some counties there are no settled clergymen, and the inhabitants are princi- pally dependent on itinerant preachers, to conduct the public worship of their larger religious assemblies. In order to enjoy their religious privileges, they assemble together from a large district of the surrounding country, and once every year form a kind of religious Encampment. The engraving is from an orig- inal drawing from Howe's Hist. Coll. Virginia, and represents one of these encampments. The rude structure seen in the cen- tral part, is for public religious services. It is surrounded on three sides by rows of log cabins, built for the convenience of the people who assemble here to worship God, in the depth of a wild forest. In the lone forest, solemn, dark and wild, Where men from worldly turmoil meet : Oh sacred spot ! where God is worshipped, In love and unity complete ! No towering turrets meet the wondering eye ; No massive structure high and wide ; 105 No columns high, nor gaudy frescoed walls, Speaking of wealth, of power, of pride. Oh no ! nought but a simple, lowly shed, A cover from the sun-lit heat ; No doors to close 'gainst him with " raiment vile,** Nor is he shown a beggar's seat. blessed place ! where Christians love to meet, In this dark wilderness of sin ; To talk of Him they love, oh converse sweet ! Their heavenly work they thus begin. No pompous priest attempts, with flowery words, To gain on earth a brilliant name ; Who loves the fleece more than the flock itself: A stigma on the Christian name. No puppet men are wanted here to teach, To show forth things they never knew, Like tinkling cymbals, and like sounding brass Like changing winds, like morning dew. But in the humble stand, the man of God appears, With zeal divine, and ardent love ; His soul yearns kindly o'er his fellow men, And longs to turn their thoughts above. They feel the flame ! they raise their notes of praise ; The forest echoes with their voice : Oh heart-felt joy ! they feel that heaven is near ; They in the love of God rejoice. Oh for that time ! when holy, heavenly power, Shall cleanse this fallen world from sin ; When every heart, the power of Christ shall prove, And life immortal feel within. J. W. B. ion THANKSGIVING. The first settlers of New England, having no regular set fa^ts and festivals in their church discipline, appointed days of fasting on special occasions, such as times of great mortality, scarcity of provisions, and times of public dangers in times of war. Days of Thanksgiving were appointed on occasions of great joy, such as the termination of Indian and French wars, remarkable deliv- erances from dangers, &c, and especially for abundant crops. This ancient practice is still kept up, and has been extended to many States of our Union, who now annually appoint a day of fasting and humiliation in the spring, and a day of Thanksgiving, generally in the last of November, of each year. The '' church going bell," summons the people to the house of God, where ihe preacher on these occasions, generally recounts the mercies ©f *He past and other years. The scattered members of each family meet under the paternal roof, and it is of gratitude, hilarity ami joy. The rolling year has well nigh fled ! Crowned with the mercy of our God each season passed away ! Our garners full ! enough for each, and all. The 107 father, grey with years, calls his offspring round ; the mother, with willing hand, prepares the dainty treat. The festive board groans with the choicest food. Brothers and sisters meet, in friendship dear, and chastened joy. This festal day, the happiest of the year, is hailed with joyful welcome. The aged sire, with fond re- membrance, and with grateful thanks, tells of the scenes of old. The young in years, blooming in life's fair morn, now meet in childish glee. The merry laugh, the noisy gambols of the joyous youth are heard around. In times of old. the red man of the forest shade, lurked round our Father's dwellings. Thirsting for blood, he raised the murderous hatchet, and aimed the swift-winged arrow fraught with death. His eye spared not the beauteous maiden bathed in tears, the whitened locks of age, nor infants smiling at their mother's breast. Oh give your thanks to God, for he is good and kind. The savage lurks around no more ! His fearful yells no longer rouse us from our midnight slumbers. His bloody hatchet, buried in earth, re- mains ; his knife is broken, and his arrow wings its deadly flight no more ! The men of France, with their dusky allies, moved from the north, with hostile steps. Red des- olation marks their path 'mid wintry snows : in silent watches of the night they burst in upon the sleeping villagers. In horror wakened, they fall in blood. The flames rise high ! the morning sun looks on the smoking ruins round. Give thanks ! The mother with her offspring at her breast, trembles no more ! The mighty ships 108 of France, freighted with death, are scattered by the tempest blast, or sunk like lead, beneath the mighty waters ! The foe's strong hold, high on the frowning rock, is taken, and on these western shores, he bears his sway no more. The hostile British hosts, pass o'er our land. Their path is marked by fire and blood. With iron power they strive to crush a people struggling to be free. With proud contemptuous scorn, they forge our chains. They claim the right divine, to guide our thoughts, to take our hard-earned bread, and lord it o'er our land. Give thanks ! that now no despots have the pow- er to say, where, when, and how, to worship God. Give thanks ! no one can take our children's bread to feed and pamper lordly pride. No royal pauper here, to feed and clothe, by the hard earnings of the laboring poor. We reap on soil we claim our own, and toil for those we love. Earth's struggling millions crushed to the dust, look upward with their longing eyes. The bow of Promise glows on dark'ning clouds, that flee before the orb of day. Give thanks ! The Despot's pow- er, hoary with age, grows weak ; fetters and chains, brown with the rust of time, now break away. With bosom bare, her eye on heaven, fair Truth advances, and the shades of night retire. A voice is heard above, that " God's unsufFering kingdom soon shall come !" 109 DISCOVERIES AND SETTLEMENTS. IN THE ORDER OF TIME. 1492. Long centuries ago, the Genoese, The bold Columbus crossed the stormy seas, With courage bold, with spirit firm and brave, A land to find beyond the western wave. 1497. Sebastian Cabot, son of Venice, came In later years, this new found land to claim, To find for unborn millions here a home, Where savage men alone were wont to roam. 1512. Next Ponce de Leon, sought thy verdant bowers, Fair Florida, the lovely land of flowers ; 1528. And next de Narvaez, with his hostile band, Sought to invade, and conquer this fair land. 1535. Far to the North, where wild Canadians roam, Carlier]\he Frenchman, sought to find a home ; lo no 1539. And in the South, De ISoto sought for gold, Where the great Mississippi's waters rolled 1562! And next, the Frenchman Ribault, with his band, Of fearless exiles sought Columbia's strand, And near the blue Edisto, sought in vain, A home amid the western wilds to gain. 1584. Raleigh, the knight, and soldier, bold and brave, Sent forth his comrades o'er the Atlantic wave, And this fair Southern State, Virginia named, From England's virgin Queen, in history famed. 1586. Next Grenville, crossed the ocean with his band, A Colony to plant in this new land : Again, and yet again, come o'er the wave, Virginia's pioneers, the bold and brave. 1602. Years passed away ; on Massachusetts shore, The daring Gosnold turned his prow of yore : 1608. Next Chesapeake, brave Smith explored thy bay, And far Quebec, arose to mark the day. 1609. Brave Hudson next, to this new country came, And blue Manhattan gave thy later name ; 1611. Champlain, the Frenchman, many a year ago, His record left where silvery waters flow. 1614. The sea-girt coast, throughout our country famed, By Charles the monarch, was New England named ; While Holland's sons filled fair Manhattans isle, And where New Jersey's fruitful tallies smile. 1/1 1620. And next the glorious " Pilgrim Fathers " came. To Plymouth rock, a spot endeared to fame ; 1623. New Hampshire next, Columbia's Switzerland, Was peopled by the Pilgrim's hardy band. 1627. Fair Pennsylvania, smiling Delaware, The Swedes, and Fins, first sought a dwelling the'-e 1633. Next Maryland, the noble Baltimore, With his adherents sought thy fertile shore. 1635. Then old Connecticut, along thy side, Thine early settlers laden vessels glide , Old Windsor still repeats the red man's name, And Hartford tells her early settlers fame. 1636. Next dauntless Williams, with a spirit free, Rhode Island, found a hiding place in thee, A fugitive who gained a deathless fame, And with his country's annals linked his name. 1637. New Haven next, city, and colony, Thy noble founders sought a home in thee ; 1639. Next Narraganset in thy rolling bay, The vessels of fair Newport's settlers lay. For twelve bright years, behold new scenes arise ! Oh fair Columbia 'neath thy smiling skies, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Carolina fair, With bright New Jersey's annals mingling there. 1682. Next Penn of memory well beloved and great, The ocean crossed to found a peaceful State ; A city where sweet Peace and Love should reign, And richest blessings follow in their train. 112 1682. While brave La Salle bestowed his monarch's name, Where now a home the generous Frenchmen claim; 1702. And Louisiana, 'neath thy smiling skies, We next behold a New Orleans arise. 1723. The settler turns to thee, Green Mountain State, And Trenton, linked with our young country's fate ; 1733. The increasing tide fair Georgia moves to thee, 1740. Exploring thy fair borders Tennessee, 1749. Next Nova Scotia, on thy strand so bleak, The sons of Britain came a home to seek ; 1765. To Tennessee and Carolina fair, New groups of hardy settlers now repair. 1773. And fair Kentucky to thy fertile land, Came hunter Boone and his adventurous band ; 1787. Next fair Ohio, 'neath thy smiling skies, Amid thy woods the log built cabins rise. 113 Scene at Letitiglon. WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. EIGHT YEARS. 1775. [The first year of the Revolution.'] [n seventeen hundred seventy-five began Our country's struggles for the rights of man : In Massachusetts, firm for freemen's right, On Lexington's green plain began the fight. On Bunker's bloody hill, where Warren fell, The sons of Freedom strong, their prowess tell ; And brave Montgomery, with ardor fired, Before Quebec, 'mid wintry snows expired. The people spurn their tyrant's hateful sway, The Royal Governors now flee away • 10' 114 A youthful nation, (men, both bold and true,) For Freedom strong, now rises to the view. 1776. ln " Seventy-six," George Third, the British king, Commands his Hessian soldiers, forth to bring Their burnished arms, and cross the stormy sea, To crush a people struggling to be free. Our fathers now their freedom strive to gain, Their Independence boldly now proclaim ; They pledged their " Fortunes, sacred Honor, Life," And periled all amid the deadly strife. Great Britain's hostile troops in proud array, New York they take, and onward press their way ; Our father's fled, but still for Freedom brave, At Trenton's fight, their bleeding country save. 1777. In " Seventy-seven," from far Canadian snows, Behold Burgoyne advancing with our foes ; Let Bennington rehearse that foe's defeat, And Saratoga's plains, the tale repeat. Let Brandywine, our fathers prowess speak, And the bright waters of the Chesapeake : When driven from the land of peaceful Penn, Death's dangers darkened o'er our gallant men. And while the Patriots forced to quit the field, Resolved on Independence, scorned to yield ; " Mother of States, and Statesmen," still in thee, Was found a shelter for the noble free. 115 1778. In " Seventy-eight," from sunny France, a band Of gallant spirits, gave a brother's hand : And now, amid the clouds of gloomy fears. Freedom looked up, and brightly smiled through tears. Blue Narraganset, in thy rolling bay, The generous Frenchmen's freighted vessels lay ; While gallant Steuben, far from " Fatherland," In warlike science, gave his heart and hand. See fair Savannah, struggling with the foe, Behold within her walls the life blood flow : Now Carolina's plains were darkened o'er, With clouds of war, they feel the foemen's power. 1779. In " Seventy-nine," through want and much distress, Our fathers still for Freedom onward press : Red ruin stalks around, the flames rise high, Norwalk, and Fairfield, low in ashes lie. O'er deep morass, o'er mountain, and o'er plain, Led by their brave commander, gallant Wayne, Our troops press on, at lonely midnight hour, The fort they gain, their foes they overpower. See now the red man with the foe allied, The " Continental " force, they now defied ; 'Gainst Sullivan, their tribes they fight in vain, Their country wasted, and their warriors slain. 1780. In " Eighty," Carolina ravaged by the foe, Beheld her gallant patriot sons laid low ; Her army close besieged, and forced to yield, Charleston now falls, and Britons gain the field. IJ6 Cornwallis to the South, now bends his way, Gates he defeats, who flees with sore dismay, The foe stalks round, with haughty power and pride, With fire and sword spreads devastation wide. Arnold, a traitor's perjury is thine, The sword once laid on Freedoms sacred shrine, Against thy country's injured cause was turned, While patriot souls, the foul Apostate spurned 1781 Behold the routed foe on Cowpens field, By Morgan's gallant band compelled to yield ; While proud Cornwallis, forced at last to fly, And gallant Green's brave band, won victory. And northward still, the invading forces came, Invading peaceful homes, with sword and flame, While once again, from sunny France a fleet, Appeared our Father's sinking hearts to greet. Then quailed at last, our country's haughty foes, Then Freedom's sun, in glorious brightness rose ; At Yorktown with humiliation sore, Cornwallis yields : — the bloody strife is o'er. 1/7 UNITED STATES, Columbia ! land of Liberty — home of the brave and free ; The pilgrim sons of many a clime have found a home in thee ! Along thy wide-spread shore, the flag of every clime is furled, And Hope's prophetic eye still turns to greet this Western World. ITALY, Columbia ! centuries ago, the daring Genoese, The far off mighty West to seek, sailed over unknown seas: The pride and power of Italy, since then, have passed away ; The " Star of Empire" in the West has risen, since that day. Oh, Italy ! thine exile sons, in fair Columbia see The tokens of a mightier power than ever dwelt in thee ; The Eagle that unfurled its wing o'er Capitol ian dome, Broods o'er the Western Empire now, as once o'er ancient Rome. 1/8 SPAIN. Thy sons, fair Spain, were earliest here, from out thy orange bowers ; DeLeon sought sweet Florida, thy lovely land of flowers ; And proud de Narvaez gained thy shore, and with his warrior band In vain essayed, in olden time, to conquer this new land. Then, seeking for the golden stores of which the Spaniards told, Came brave DeSoto with his band, twelve hundred comrades bold ; He sought the flowery wilds beyond, and on, still on, he pressed, Where the dark Mississippi rolled, with calm majestic breast. What though the haughty Spaniard now, the Indian's dusky race, To children of a paler brow at last have given place 1 Their sunny homes are southward still ; their names are storied o'er Along the blue Pacific wave, and Mexico's bright shore. FRANCE. Where once the wild Canadian tribes were wont of old to roam, The gay and generous Frenchmen came to seek another home, By fair Edisto's glancing stream, on Carolina's plain, And northward, 'neath a colder sky, along the blue Champlain. Thy sons, sweet France, throughout our land, are scattered far and wide ; Their place is seen where crystal waves of proud St. Lawrence glide ; By old Quebec's stern fortress rock ; by Montreal's dark towers ; And where of old the Hugenot sought Carolina's bowers. And Louisiana, through her fields, thy fame in music tells, And where the Mississippi's tide all proudly ebbs and swells ; And far from France, a New Orleans, the stately Southern Queen, A home is theirs, and Florida with vales of changeless green. 119 ORE AT BRITAIN. Old England hither sent her sons, in by-gone days of yore, When gallant Raleigh sent his fleet to old Virginia's shore, That whispers, in her name, the fame of England's virgin Queen, And Roanoke tells the tale along its banks of green. While Jamestown wears its laurels yet, Virginia tells with pride, Of noble sons and statesmen, still to Britain's blood allied ; And Massachusetts wears it yet her glory and her crown, That hoary Plymouth rock is hers, a spot of broad renown. Where first the Pilgrim sires set foot, a noble exile band, Whose sons are scattered far and wide, throughout our happy land ; Their sails are set on every stream, their feet on every shore ; They climb the mountains, tread the vales, and skim each ocean o'er. SWEDEN. Where the blue Baltic laves the rocks of Sweden's rugged strand, There came from out its forests dark, a hardy northern band ; A band of Swedes and Fins to seek a distant shore more fair ; The sylvan home of peaceful Penn, and smiling Delaware. mm NORWAY. Tradition tells not when these came, the children of the North, The bold Norwegians, from the land of waving forests forth, And left their rude memorials, Rhode Island, on thy shore, The relics of a hardy race, that lingers here no more. But on JVeto Jersey's fertile soil, along her verdant plains, Still courses old Norwegian blood, in hardy freemen's veins ; On Bergen's hills their homes they rear, and still they find a place, Strong, brave and firm for Freedom's rights, the bold Norwegian race. uo HOLLAND. Where sluggish streams roll slowly past, in Holland's distant land, There came to seek these western wilds a brave adventurous band ; Their dwellings in a stranger land, crowned fair Manhattan's isle, And where, past hills and banks of green, the Hudson's waters smile. Where rolled the " fresh" Connecticut, their vessels on its breast. Where lies a smiling city now, their fortress they possessed ; And o'er New Jersey's smiling plains their homes are scattered wide, And crown the verdant banks that line the blue Manhattan's side. GERMANY. And westward still they also turn, the noble, sturdy band Of patriot souls and loving hearts, from distant " Fatherland f* Old Pennsylvania tells their praise, and on the inland shore That lines our mighty chain of lakes, *heir feet have gone before. And still the tide comes sweeping in, and o'er the giant West ; The labor of their busy hands, the fertile soil hath blessed ; They build them there a happy home, they plant anew the vine, And in the broad Ohio, find another river Rhine. Thus let the mighty tide set in, from many a distant land ; We have for all an ample home, for all a welcome hand ; And what our land hath ever been, it is its pride to be, A refuge for the exile still, a dwelling for the free. e. 121 INTERESTING EVENTS, ANTIQUITIES, &c. ROUND TOWER AT NEWPORT, R. I. On the summit of the hiU, on the declivity of which Newport, R. I is built, is an interesting relic of antiquity usually denomi- nated the - Stone Mill." Some suppose it was built by the first set- tlers for a kind of wind mill, others believe that it was a watch tower, erected by the Scandinavians, or Northmen, long before the dis- rovery of Columbus. This last opinion is not without reason, as it is well known that about A.D. 1000, a number of Norwegian na- vigators visited our coast, and attempted to plant colonies. 1 his tower is about thirty feet in height, resting on arches supported by circular pillars. The top is without a roof, and the interior desti- tute of any fixtures. The stones of which it is constructed are small and appear to have been laid in a mortar made of sand and oyster shells, cementing the whole mass together like a solid rock. By whose hands erected, or for what purpose, no tradition remains to give an answer. From off this watch-tower's lonely height, What eyes looked o'er the waters dark, If. 122 And marked afar, the sail of white, The plunging prow, the wandering bark ? Who reared thy mystic wall 1 his name" I ask thee, but I ask in vain. Tell me, ye wild and dusky race, Who trod these hills and shores of old ? Can ye the mystic story trace In dark traditions ye have told ? Silent in death the warrior lies, No sign remains, no voice replies. Ye stormy winds that sweep on high, O'er the lone hill, with fitful wail ; Ye waves that sound your minstrelsy, Have ye no voice to tell the tale ? The winds sweep on, the wild wave roar, No voice will tell, on sea or shore. Was it the fierce and hardy band Of wandering Northmen, famed of old, Who left their far off rugged land Of waving pines, and endless cold, That helped this ancient wall to rear, And fought the warrior's battles here ? Deeds that the bards rehearsed in song ; Tales that the ancient sages told Of midnight revels, loud and long, Of shouts that crowned the warrior bold, Who drank the life blood of his foes, And chased the wolf o'er polar snows ? I ask in vain ! thou canst not tell Thy story of the hidden past ; The rolling seas may ebb and swell, And wildly howl the stormy blast, Still shall thou silent stand tu be A wonder and a mystery ! u. 6. 1 123 MORTAL SICKNESS AMONG THE INDIANS. About the year 16l8, just before the settlement of the colony at Plym uth, a mortal sickness or plague swept off the greater part of the Indians along the eastern shores of the United States. In 1619, Capt. Dermer, an Eng- lish adventurer, having wintered at an Indian town on the northern coast sailed southward on his way to Vir- ginia, and landed at several places where he had been before. He found many towns depopulated ; in others but few of the natives remained alive and those suffering from the disease which appears to have been a kind of plague, as they showed their sores and described those of which their companions died. The mortality among the Indians appears to have pre- vailed a number of years. In 1622, the Plymouth set- tlers went to Massachusetts (now Boston) to purchase corn of the natives ; they found them afflicted with a " great sickness not unlike the plague." It is stated by 124 creditable historians, that of the thirty thousand Indians composing the Massachusetts tribe only about three hun- dred were left alive. When the settlers arrived, in 1620, they found the bones of those who had perished, in many places left unburied. At Plymouth, which was formerly a populous place, every human being had died of the pestilence. There appears to be considerable difference of opin- ion with regard to the nature of the disease which swept off so many of the natives. Some suppose it to have been the small pox, othei-3, the plague, which raged at this time in many parts of the world, while many suppose it to have been the yellow fever, as it was stated by some of the Indians who survived, that the bodies of their companions who died were " exceeding yellow all over before they died, and afterwards." Whatever the disease was, it appears to have broken down the spirits of the survivors, to that extent, that for a number of years they made but little opposition to the settlers. The following occurrences relative to this pestilence, have been related. A few years before the sickness, a French ship was wrecked on Cape Cod, but the men and cargo were saved. The natives, however, killed all but three or four of the crew and divided their goods. The men who were spared were sent to one tribe and another as slaves. One of them learned so much of their language as to tell them that God was angry with them for their cruelty and would destroy them and give their country to another people. They answered " that they were too many for God to kill." He replied "that God had many ways to kill of which they were ignorant." Afterwards, when the great pes- tilence came, they remembered the man's words, and when the Plymouth settlers arrived at Cape Cod they feared the other part of the prediction would soon bo accomplished. 125 Soldiers reposing by Porter's Rocks. EXPEDITION AGAINST THE PEQUOTS. The expedition in 1637 against the Pequot Indians in Connec- ticut, one of the most haughty and warlike tribes that ever existed in this country was a memorable event attended with remarkable circumstances. At this time the colony of Connecticut consisted of three towns, Hartford, Wethersfield and Windsor. The Pequots having murdered a number of the inhabitants and threatened the destruction of the whole colony, it was determined to make war against them. For this purpose ninety men were mustered at Hartford, being about half the efficient force of the whole colony. They were commanded by Captains Mason and Underhill, and were accompanied by Mr. Stone the teacher of the church at at Hartford, as chaplain. Previous to the marching of the expedition, tradition says th* soldiers were addressed in a most eloquent manner by Mr. Hook- er, the minister of Hartford. He told them that they were not as- 126 ■cmbled by ferocious passions, but to secure safety for their wives and harmless babes, and above all the liberties, and lives of Christ's church in this new world. Their enemies had blasphemed God and slain his servants; you are only the ministers of his justice. They were ripe for destruction ; their cruelty was notorious ; and cruelty and cowardice are always united. " March, then," said he, " with Christian courage, and your enemies shall fall like leaves under your feet." The expedition having arrived at Saybrook fort, Capt. Mason and his officers being somewhat divided in opinion whether it would be best to march through the wilderness directly to the Pe- quot fort, or go round by the Narragansett country and endeavor to take the fort by surprise. In this state of affairs, the officers earnestly desired Mr. Stone, to pray that their way might be di rected, and that their enterprise might be crowned with success. Mr. Stone, accordingly, spent most of the night in prayer, and the next morning informed Capt. Mason that he had done as he h;id desired, and was entirely satisfied that the plan of going round by Narragansett was the best. The council of officers was again called, and they unanimously agreed with Mr. Stone. Having proceeded to the Narraganset country they were joined by about 200 of that tribe. From that place they went westward towards the Pequots. As the little army drew near the fort of the terrible Pequots many of the Indians betrayed much fear and re- tired into the rear. Uncas, however, with his Mohegans remained faithful. On the evening before the attack, they arrived at Porter's Rocks, near the head of Mystic, in Groton, where they encamped. " The men were faint and weary, and though the rocks were their pillows, their rest was sweet." About two hours before the da'wn of the 26th of May, the men were roused with all expedition, and briefly commending them- selves and their cause to God, marched to the fort, about two miles distant. The fate of Connecticut was to be decided by sev- enty-seven brave men. The barking of a dog, when within a few rods of the fort, aroused the sentinel, who cried out, Owannux ! Owannux ! i. e. Englishmen ! Englishmen ! Capt. Mason entered the fort, the enemy fought desperately, and the conflict seemed doubtful. Seizing a fire-brand, Capt. Mason set fire to a wigwam which set the whole fort in a blaze. The roar of the flames, the yells of the savages, the discharge of the musketry formed an aw- ful and terriffic scene. The destruction of the Pequots was terri- ble. Out of five or six hundred only fourteen escaped the fire and sword; of these seven were captured. The English lost but two men ; and about twenty wounded. Connecticut was saved, and the most warlike tribe in New England defeated and ruined. 127 DEATH OF MARQUETTE. Among the discoverers and many adventurers who came over to the new world, some appear to have been actuated by higher mo- tives than worldly gain, or honor. Of this class was James Mar- quette, a devoted French Catholic missionary, from Canada, tie was accompanied by M. Joliet, of Quebec, and five boatmen I his little company passed through the straits of Mackinac, and then passed over to the Mississippi, which they explored south, to a con- siderable extent. Through all their difficulties and wanderings, Father Marquette appears to have acted the part of a Christian mis- sionary, and endeavored to cultivate a spirit of peace and love among the Indians. On his return, May 18th, 1675, up Lake Mi- chigan, he proposed landing at the mouth of a small stream on the Peninsula, to perform religious devotions. Leaving his men with the canoe, he went apart to pray, they waiting for him. As much time passed, and he did not return, they called to mind that he said something of his death being at hand, and anxiously went to seek him They found him dead ; where he had been praying, he had died. His companions dug a grave near the mouth of the stream, and buried him in the sand. 123 Hark, hark ! a voice now calls thee from above, Servant of God ! thy work is nobly done ; The mission kind, thine embassy of love On earth is closed ; thy final victory's won. The fragile bark shall bear thee here no more, Through inland seas, and waters deep and wide ; 'Mid rocky islets, and a rugged shore, Nor on the rapid Mississippi's tide. 'Mid chilly wintry blasts, and fervid summer's glow, Through deserts wild, thy feet shall range no more, Or pass the prairie vast, or fields of snow ; Nor shall thou hear again Niagara's roar. No brilliant golden dreams did lure thee here To toil through this dark howling wilderness, 'Twas love that drew thee on, devoid of fear, Thy God was ever with thee for to bless. No more amid these earthly scenes to sigh, Thy feeling heart w : li cease to swell with grief; The bitter tear no more shall fill thine eye, At sorrow where thou couldst not give relief. Oh press me not to criticise his creed ; Away with tests of sects, and bitter zeal ; Did he the naked clothe, the hungry feed ? And childlike, Christlike, in his spirit feel ? Yes, yes ! he felt the power of Christ within, In love, he scattered heavenly light abroad ; Faithful he lived in this dark world of sin, He rests above ! he sweetly rests with God. J. W. B. 129 Sacred music heard in the Wilderness. FIRST SETTLERS IN GRANVILLE, OHIO. The first settlers of Granville, Ohio, emigrated from Massachusetts, in the autumn of 1805, and were forty two days on their journey. Their first business on their arrival was to hear a sermon. The novelty of worship- ing in the woods, the forests extending every way for hundreds of miles, the dangers to which they were ex- posed, the hardships which they had undergone, with the thoughts of the homes they had left, all conspired to make this time one of deep interest. When they began to sing, the echo of their voices among the trees was so different from what it was in the beautiful meeting-house they had left, that they could no longer restrain their tears. Like the Jews of old, " They wept when they re- membered Zion." H appears that two or three years previous to this time, that Mr. Reese, a pious Welsh Baptist, had built a cabin 130 a mile or two north of where these settlers were located. While searching for his cattle, he ascended the hills near by, and heard the singing of the choir. The reverbera- tion of the sound from the hill tops and trees, threw the good man into a serious dilemma. The music at first seemed to be behind, then in the tops of the trees or the clouds. He stopped till he had caught the accurate direc- tion of the sound, and then passing the brow of the hill, he saw the audience sitting on the level below. He went home and told his wife that God's promises were sure, and that religion would finally prevail everywhere. He said, " these must be good people — I am not afraid to go among them." Though he could not understand Eng- lish yet he afterwards constantly attended their meetings. Hark, hark ! what voices rise in sweetest notes, Borne on the autumn breeze ; What strain of heavenly music floats Amid the whispering trees ? Is it a far off seraph angel song Comes downward from the skies, So sweetly swells, and rising «»•-- peals along In soirit melodies ? So asks the wondering good man as he strayed And heard the melting ray Rise o'er the valley, up the hill, the glade, Around his winding way. For only in these lonely wilds before His listening ear had heard The panther's horrid scream, the winds deep roar, Or notes of woodland bird. 131 It was new England's hardy wandering band, That gathered in these woods, Sang the sweet hymns of far off native land, Amid these solitudes. The dark old forests wild, re-echoed there The chorus as they sung, And with their sweetest notes of praise and prayer The woodland arches rung. The thoughts of distant home came back again, The sweet sad memories, And mournful tears were mingled with the strain That floated to the skies. But he who spell-bound paused that strain to hear, Glad on his way returned And told his household, one above was near Whose promise he had learned. Oh sweetest tones of heavenly melody, That on the stillness broke, It was our kindest Father's voice on high That with your music spoke. Not in the rolling thunder's awful voice, Not in the lightning's glare, But swelling tones that made the heart rejoice Proclaimed that God was there. 132 ATTACK ON BROOKFIELD In August, 1675, soon after the commencement of Philip's war, the little town of Brookfield, Mass., was attacked by the savages. The people of the village, about seventy persons in all, on the first alarm fled to a house slightly fortified, which was soon surrounded by the enemy, who, for two days and nights, endeavoured to destroy the house, or its inmates. For this purpose they shot burning arrows, and thrust long poles with fire- brands at the ends toward the house. This proving in- effectual, the savages filled a cart with hemp, flax and other combustible matter, and setting it on fire, thrust it forward towards the house by long poles spliced to- gether. The destruction of the poor people now seemed inevitable. At this critical time an unexpected shower of rain put out the fire. 133 Major Willard, at this time, was at Lancaster with a company of forty-eight horsemen, hearing of the critical 8ituation of the people at Brookfield, hastened on about thirty miles, and reached the besieged garrison in the night. A drove of cattle which had been frightened from the place by the yells and firing of the Indians, happen- ing to be on the route, which Major Willard took, fell into his rear, and followed him into the village. The Indians " hearing the noise of a great host" fled like the Syrians that were encamped against Samaria. The villagers in terror fled, dismayed, Beneath an humble roof a shelter made, Pursued by foes with deadly hate inspired. Their herds are scattered, and their homes are fired. The murderous fiery arrow flies in vain, See now on wheels they forward send the flame : God only now can save — on him thay call, Their cry is heard : the rain-drops quickly fall. Quenched is the flame, but still the foes draw near, But God protects them, and they feel no fear ; A troop of horsemen through the twilight shade, Are heard far off; they come to give them aid. The noise of trampling hoofs is heard around, The scattered cattle in the troop are found, The savage band now deem that hosts are nigh. And quick into their native forests fly. So thus Samaria lay besieged of old, As in the page of holy writ 'tis told : The warlike Syrian hosts were made to hear The sound of horses, chariots, thundering near. With wild amaze, they trembling, quickly fled, The city's saved, the famished poor are fed ; So thus the Lord will guard with kindly care His suffering chosen people everywhere. 1? 134 DESTRUCTION OF SCHENECTADY. In the war between England and France, the French, when they were in the possession of Canada, incited the Indians to fall on the frontier settlements, and often ac- companied them in their expeditions. On February 8th, 1690, a body of 200 French and fifty Mohawk Indians, after marching twenty-two days, came to Schenectady. On Saturday evening, about midnight, the French and Indians entered the place through a gate which had been carelessly left open. In order that every house might be surprised nearly at the same time, they divided them- selves into parties of six or seven each. The inhabi- tants were in a deep sleep, an d the first notice they had of the enemy was given by their horrid yells at their doors. In this dreadful surprise and consternation it was in vain to resist, and this wretched people became an easy prey to their enemies after suffering the most horrid atrocities too shocking to relate. l'J5 Sixty-three persons were killed and twenty-seven carried into captivity. A few persons effected their escape towards Albany with no other covering but their night clothes, the distress of whose condition was mueh enhanced by a great fall of snow, twenty-five of whom lost their limbs from the severity of the frost. It was the hour of night, And weary eyes had closed in quiet sleep, And hearts were revelling in the visions bright, The happy dreams that come with slumber's deep : Stern, wintry freezing midnight reigns around All, all is hushed in silence, deep, profound. • And far around was spread The fleecy mantle of the winter's snow, The trees were stiff* with ice : all foliage dead, And the dark earth lay frozen far below. No faithful sentry paced their dwellings past, Or braved that midnight hour, the freezing blast. There seemed no danger nigh ; And thus they slept, unconscious yet of ill ; Hark, hark ! close by, the savage fearful cry Bursts on the chilly air, the war-cry shrill ! Rouse, rouse from sleep ! the foe, the foe is near ! With fearful shouts, their horrid forms appear. Hear on the midnight air A voice of wailing with the savage yell, The child's faint shriek, the mother's dying prayer, The piercing cry for mercy wildly swell, And flashing see, where blood in streams is poured The Indian's tomahawk, and the Frenchman's sword. Oh, wild and fearful night ! Oh night of horror ! thus to usher in That Sabbath day of rest, of calm delight Which they were wont with praises to begin, Now scattered wide, the morning's early glow Showed blackened ashes round, and blood-stain'd snow. r>6 ESCAPE OF THE DUSTAN FAMILY. On the 15th of March, 1697, the Indians made a des- perate attack upon Haverhill, Mass., murdering and cap- turing nearly forty of the inhabitants. They approached the house of Thomas Dustan, who was at that time en- gaged at his daily labor. Mr. Dustan hearing the yells of the savages, seized his gun, mounted his horse, and hastened to his house with the hope of hurrying them to a place of safety. His wife (who had been recently confined) was trembling for her safety, and the children weeping and calling on their mother for protection. He instantly ordered seven of his children to fly in an oppo- site direction from that in which the danger was ap- proaching, and went himself to assist his wife. But he was too late — before she could rise from her bed the Indians were upon them. 137 Seeing there was no hope of saving his wife, Mr. Dustan mounted his horse, and rode full speed after his flying children. The agonized father supposing it im- possible to save but one, determined to seize the one most dear to him and leave the rest to their fate. He looked for the favorite child from the eldest to the youngest but he could not find it, all called him father, and stretched out their little hands toward him for pro- tection. He could not make a selection, and therefore resolved to live or die with them all. A party of the Indians pursued Mr. Dustan as he flea from the house in pursuit of him and his children. He dismounted from his horse, placed himself in the rear of his children, and returned the fire of the enemy often and with good success. In this manner he retreated for more than a mile, alternately encouraging his children and loading and firing his gun, until they all arrived at a place of safety. Mrs. Dustan also escaped in a most remarkable man- ner. After killing her infant, the Indians took her and her nurse off with them to a small island, since called Dustan's Island, in the river above Concord, in New Hampshire. After staying here for a short time, they were informed that they must soon start for a distant set- tlement, where they would be obliged to run the gauntlet stripped of their clothing. This they determined to avoid or perish in the attempt. Being assisted by an English lad, and arming themselves with tomahawks, they arose in the night, and when the Indians were asleep killed ten of twelve Indians on the island, took off their scalps, sailed down the river and made their escape to the set- tlements. IV 138 BURIAL OF MR. TREAT. One of the greatest snows in this country fell in February, 1717. It was so deep that people stepped out of their chamber windows on snow shoes. With the fall of snow there was a great tempest which was so violent that all communication with near neighbors for a time ceased. Great numbers of cattle were destroyed, many of whom were found dead standing on their feet as if alive many week3 afterwards, when the snow had melted away. It was during this storm that Mr. Treat, the first min- nister at Eastham, on Cape Cod, died. He was distin- guished for his evangelical zeal and labors, not only among his own people, but also among the Indians in his vicinity ; and he was the instrument of converting many of them to the Christian faith. He learnt their language, visited them at their wigwams, and by his kindness and affability, won their affections ; they venerated him as their pastor, and loved him as their father. At the time 139 of his death the roads were impassable owing to the great depth of snow. His body was therefore kept sev- eral days, till an arch could be dug through which it could be borne to the grave, the Indians, at their earnest request, being permitted, in turn, to carry the corpse, and thus pay the last tribute of respect to the remains of their beloved pastor. They bore him to his grave, Not through the vallies clothed in smiling green, They saw not round their path the long grass wave, Nor the blue sky above, with smiles serene. They laid him down to rest, Not in the church-yard where his fathers lay ; No waving willows murmured o'er his breast, No summer birds made music on the spray. No ! through the chilling snow, Whose fleecy mantle far and wide was spread, When the cold earth lay frozen far below, With steps unequal, bore they on their dead. On through the bitter cold, The Indians bore their pastor to his rest ; Deep in that snowy mantle's chilly fold, And the white shroud of winter on his breast. But in that world of Light, To which so oft he turned their spirit's gaze, Trusting that he had joined the Seraphs bright, That ever dwell 'neath Eden's noontide rays. Where there shall be no snow, No tempest blast, but endless summer reigns, And Life's fair River sparkles in the glow Of Heaven's own glory o'er these boundless plains ! E. G. B. 140 SWEDISH CHURCH AT WILMINGTON, DEL. The first permanent settlements along the Delaware were made by the Swedes. The successful enterprise of the Dutch at New Amsterdam, (New York,) awa- kened the attention of Gustavus Adolphus, the illustrious monarch of Sweden, who now determined to plant a colony in the new world. His death, in 1632, prevented his main project, but it was revived, on a smaller scale, under the minority of Queen Christiana, and a number of Swedish vessels were sent to the Delaware with colo- nists. They first landed on a spot near Cape Henlopen, and were so charmed with the appearance of the place that they called it Paradise. They proceeded up the river and made a settlement on Christiana Creek. As " the Swedes never left their religion behind them" they paid the earliest attention to its institutions. The church rep- resented in the engraving was built of stone in 1698, near the banks of the Christiana. It is said that the Swedish women assisted in its erection, by preparing mortar, and conveying it to fhe workmen. 141 O'er the Atlantic's wilderness of waters From the far Northland, cold, and bleak, and dark, There came a band of Sweden's sons and daughters, And hither turned their wandering storm- t«ss'd bark. Here from the hearths of new found homes repairing, Thro' long long days of toil, their church they reared, Here women came, their cheerful labor sharing, With heart and hand and smile their labor cheered. Here bowed the matron, and the blue eyed maiden, And stalwart manhood, stout of heart and hand ; The " faint old man," with years and labor laden, The grey-haired pastor of the exile band. And while the shadows, in the east are speading Their sombre mantle over earth and sea, With reverent steps, his lowly pathway treading, Relic of olden time, I come to thee ! Scathed by the tempest, dark with years, and hoary, Thy tower is crowned with fading sunlight now, Pure as the halo, with its golden glory, Old painters wreathed around some sainted brow. How changed the scene ! the Swedish sires have slumbered For many a year, beside this silver stream ; Those days of old, by hoary ages numbered, Have fled with all their changes, like a dream. In the sweet blush, the snowy sails are gleaming, Fair Christiana, on thy placid breast, Floating like white-winged spirits in our dreaming, Slowly and softly past this place of rest. Years, that have marked the rise and fall of nations, Have smiled on Sweden's lone and exile band, Have seen amid earth's widening generations, Their beauteous homes that rise in this fair land. Farewell old church ! rrlay coming years long spare thse. To be as now, a spot of broad renown, And the green banks of Christiana wear thee, A fadeless gem, amid old History's crown. e. g. b 142 CHURCH OF THE BLIND PREACHER. The above is a representation of a wooden building in a forest near the little village of Gordonville, Orange county, about seventy miles from Richmond, Va. Though an humble structure, yet it possesses a peculiar interest, from its being the building in which was heard the thrill- ing eloquence of the " Blind Preacher" so enthusiasti- cally described by Mr. Wirt in the celebrated work en- titled the " British Spy." This blind preacher was James Waddel, D.D., for a long period a Presbyterian clergy- man in Virginia, who died in 1805, at the age of seventy years. In the latter part of his life he was afflicted with blindness, and it was during this period, in 1803, he was heard by Mr. Wirt. It was one Sunday "(says Mr. Wirt,) as I travelled through the county of Orange, that my eye was caught by a cluster of horses tied near a ruinous old wooa^n house in the forest, not far from the road side. Having 143 frequently seen such objects before in travelling through these states, I had no difficulty in understanding that this was a place of religious worship. Devotion alone should have stopped me, to join in the duties of the congregation; but I must confess to hear the preacher of Mich a wilderness was not the least of my motives. On entering, I was struck with his preternatural appearance. He was a tall and very spare old man. His head, which was covered with a white linen cap, his shrivelled hands, and his voice, were all shaking under the influence of a palsy ; and a few moments ascertained to me that he was perfectly blind. The first emotions which touched my breast were those of ming- led pity and veneration. But ah ! sacred God ! how soon were all my feelings changed ! The lips of Plato were never more worthy of a swarm of bees, than were the lips of this holy man ! It was a day of the administration of the sacrament ; and his subject, of course, was the passion of our Saviour. I had heard the subject handled a thousand times. I had thought it exhausted long ago. Little did I suppose that in the wild woods of America I was to meet with a man whose eloquence would give to this topic a new and more sublime pathos than I had ever before witnessed. As he descended from the pulpit to distribute the mystic symbols, there was a peculiar, a more than human solemnity in his air and manner, which made my blood run cold and my whole frame shiver. He then drew a picture of the sufferings of our Saviour; his trial before Pilate ; his ascent up Calvary ; his crucifixion, and his death. I knew the whole history ; but never, until then, had I heard the circumstances so selected, so arranged, so colored ! It was all new, and I seemed to have heard it for the first time in my life. His enunciation was so deliberate that his voice trembled on every syllable, and every heart in the assembly trembled in unison. Hi9 peculiar phrases had that force of description that the original scene appeared to be, at that moment, acting before our eyes. We saw the very faces of the Jews : the staring, frightful distortions of malice and rage. We saw the buffet ; my soul kindled with a flame of indignation, and my hands were involuntarily and convulsively clenched. But when he came to touch on the patience, the forgiving meek- ness of our Saviour; when he drew, to the life, his blessed eyes streaming in tears to heaven ; his voice breathing to God a gentle prayer of pardon on his enemies, " Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" — the voice of the preacher, which had all along faltered, grew fainter and fainter, until his utterance being 114 ent-rely obstructed by the force of his feelings, he raised his hand- kerchief to his eyes, and burst into a loud and irrepressible flood of grief. The effect is inconceivable. The whole house resounded with the mingled groans, and sobs, and shrieks of the congrega- tion. It was some time before the tumult had subsided so far as to per- mit him to proceed. Indeed, judging by the usual, but fallacious stand of my own weakness, I began to be very uneasy for the situ- ation of the preacher. For I could not conceive how he would be able to let his audience down from the height to which he had wound them, without impairing the solemnity and dignify of his subject, or perhaps shocking them by the abruptness of the fall. But — no ; the descent was as beautiful and sublime as the elevation had been rapid and enthusiastic. The first sentence, with which he broke the awful silence, was a quotation from Rousseau," Socrates died like a philosopher, but Jesus Christ like a God." This man has been before my imagination ever since. A thou- sand times, as I rode along, I dropped the reins of my bridle, stretched forth my hand, and tried to imitate his quotation from Rousseau ; a thousand times I abandoned the attempt in despair, and felt persuaded that his peculiar manner and power arose from an energy of soul which nature could give, but which no human being could justly copy. In short, he seems to be altogether a being of a former age, or of a totally different nature from the rest of men. As I recall, at this moment, several of his striking at- titudes, the chilling tide, with which my blood begins to pour along my arteries, reminds me of the emotions produced by the first sight of Gray's introductory picture of his bard : " On a rock, whose haughty brow, Frowns o'er old Conway's foaming flood, Robed in the sable garb of woe, With haggard eyes the poet stood ; (Loose his beard and hoary hair Streamed, like a meteor, to the troubled air:) And with a poet's hand and prophet's fire, Struck the deep sorrows of his lyre." 145 THE NEW HAVEN SPECTER SHIP. The first settlers of New Haven, Conn , were principally mer- chants from London, men of substance, piety, and moral worth. Thev intended to found a commercial colony, but the attempt proved unsuccessful. In 1647, they freighted a ship for England, with the greater part of their merchandize, having on board several of their principal men. After cutting for her a passage through the ice, the ship left New Haven harbor in the month oi January She was supposed to have foundered at sea, as she was never heard of afterwards. The following Spring no tidings having arrived of the ship, the pious people of the Colony were led to pray "that God would let them know (if it was his pleasure) the fate of their friends." In the ensuing June, (as it is related by Rev. Mr. Pierpont,) after a great thunder storm, about an hour before sunset, the sky being serene a ship like that which they fitted out, appeared in the air, for about halt an hour under full sail, from the mouth of the harbor, directly against the wind. This strange occurrence drew out many spectators. The vessel at length came so near as to be apparently within a stone's throw of those on shore. At this time her ■masting eeerned to be blown off; her hull overset, and finally ail appear- 13 146 ances vanished into the clear air. It is supposed by some that this appearance in the clouds was caused by a reflection of a ship sailing at the time, on the ocean, south of the harbor. However this may be, the New Haven people considered it as an answer to their prayers, whereby the fate of the vessel and their friends were mercifully made known. Mid wintry storms and ice, the Pilgrim bark, freighted with forest riches, moves with the swell- ing sail. The icy barrier strong, removed, she onward plows her way. She bears on board the men of high born souls, and courage bold. Mid mutual prayers and tears, they leave their loved companions on these western wilds, and venture on the ocean wide. The wintry blasts are hushed. Fair is the opening flower that springs to life amid the withered foilage of the departed year. The sum- mer's sun advances, and the wide earth rejoices in his coming beams. The hills and dales, the forests high and wide, all, all, are clothed in living green. The notes of birds as yet unknown, warble on high at morning's dawn. When evening's shades appear, myriads of voices from the low earth, and shady pools around, lull the tired laborer to repose. Oft to the south, the pilgrims turn their eyes to see the swelling sail coming with those they love. They look in vain ! The ocean rises and falls again : now roaring, foaming, lashed into fury by the whirlwind storm, or in calm repose with glassy surface, brightly gleaming 'neath the noon- tide sun, or in the softer beams of the pale moon by night. Summer advances ; and the earth gives promise of the harvest full. But the hope of the lone strangers grows lesser still, for those that ventured 147 on the mighty deep. Their thoughts arise to Him who holds the winds and waves, and rules above, below. With due submission to His will, they ask to know the fate of those they love. The heavens grow black with clouds ; the lightnings flash, the thunder rolls ; the storm roars wildly round. The storm is o'er ; the winds are still. The herbs and flowers with rainbow hues display their beauty bright ; tht tall tree lifts its green head on high, and all the earth around is clad in beauteous green, and every herb, and flower, and tree, praise Him above, with fall- ing tears of joy, that glisten in the parting beams of day. A sight, now passing strange, appears ! On to the south, mid cloudy vapors high, a ship with swelling sails is seen. Onward she comes direct against th' opposing breeze. Nearer, and to the wondering eye the long lost ship appears. But lo ! the shadowy form now fast dissolves. The masts are blown away. The bark so bravely riding, is seen dismantled, and overturning soon in shadowy mists ascends on high. The pilgrim prayer is heard. They read its answer in the misty cloud. Their ship is wrecked amid the mighty waters, and their friends have sunk into their ocean graves amid the foam- ing billows. Great God ! unfathomed are thy ways, yet we believe thee good and kind. Though loud the tempest howls, though lightnings flash, and the loud thunders shake creation wide, yet calmly on thy throne above, thou rulest all, and^doest all things well. 148 BURIAL OF DE SOTO. In May, 1539, Ferdinand De Soto, who had served und^r Pizarro in the conquest of Peru, landed in Florida. He had asked and ohtained permission of the king of Spain to conquer Florida, at his own cost. Lured by the hope of finding gold, a body of upwards of thirteen hundred men were collected, many of whom were of the nobility of Spain. He penetrated into the country northward of the Gulf of Mexico, and wandered about in search of the precious metals, exposed to famine, hardships, and opposition of the natives. In this extraordinary expedition of more than four years' duration, more than half the men perished. Having arrived at the mouth of Red River, on the Mississippi, De Soto died under the weight of his troubles, and his companions, to conceal his death from the Indians, sunk his remains in a hollow oak in the waters of the Mississippi. Not with the proud array, That through the forest in its splendor passed, The whispering pines, high arching o'er their way 1 . And the bright banners to the breezes cast. 149 When came the soldier brave, The cavalier with glancing sword and plume, The flower of chivalry, from o'er the wave, Where Spain's bright bowers in fadeless beauty bloom. The dark robed priest was there, Bearing the cross amid that soldier band ; The trumpet's thrilling voice burst through the air, And joyous voices hailed this new found land. There pranced the fiery steed, The Andalusian charger, o'er the sod, Proudly, as bearing home to glory's meed, His lord, the fields of old Castile he trod. And smiling far away, Wooing them on, still on, to orange bowers ; In the blue distance Louisiana lay, And all their path wound through a land of flowers Not with this proud array, They bore De Soto near the flowing tide, From where within his soldier's camp he lay, And none dare weep when this brave soldier died. In Mississippi's wave, Where its dark water's turbid currents flow, The hollow oak his coffin, and his grave The river's bed, full many a fathom low. Where were the visions bright That bade his followers hearts beat proud and high 1 All vanished, bearing with them in their flight, The thought of conquest, power, and pageantry. So fade the dreams of earth, The golden drains of pride, and pomp, and power, Perish alike with hopes that gave them birth, The fair, frail offspring of a parting hour. E. O. B. 13* 150 CHIEF JUSTICE MARSHALL. It is not long since a gentleman was traveling in one of the counties of Virginia, and about the close of the day stopped at a public house to obtain refreshment and spend the night. He had been there but a short time, before an old man alighted from his gig, with the apparent intention of becoming a fellow guest with him at the same house. As the old man drove up, he ob- served that both the shafts of his gig were broken, and that they were held together by withes formed from the bark of a hickory sapling. Our traveler observed further that he was plainly clad, that his knee buckles were loosened, and that something like negligence pervaded his dress. Conceiving him to be one of the honest yeomanry of our land, the courtesi^ of strangers passed between them, and they entered the tavern. It was about the same time that an addition of three or four young gentlemen was made to their number; most, if not all of them of legal profes- sion. As soon as they became conveniently accommodated, the conversation was turned, by one of the latter, upon an eloquent harangue which had that day been displayed at the bar. It was replied by the other, that he had witnessed, the same day, a de- gree of eloquence no doubt equal, but that it was from the pulpit. Something like a sarcastic rejoinder was made to the eloquence of the pulpit ; and a warm and able altercation ensued, in which the merits of the Christian religion became the subject of dis- cussion. From 6 o'clock until 11, the young champions wielded the sword of argument, adducing, with ingenuity and ability, every thing that could be said, pro and con. During this pro- tracted period, the old gentleman listened with all the meekness and modesty of a child, as if he was adding new information to the stores of his own mind ; or perhaps, he was observing, with philosophic eyes, the faculties of the youthful mind, and how new energies are evolved by repeated action ; or, perhaps, with patriotic emotion, he was reflecting upon the future destinies of his country, and on the rising generation upon whom those destinies must devolve ; or, most probably, with a sentiment of moral and religious feeling, he was collecting an argument, which, characteristic of himself, no art would be " able to elude, and no force to resist." Our traveler remained a spectator, and took no part in what was said. At last one of the young men, remarking that it was impossi- ble to combat with long and established prejudices, wheeled around, and with some familiarity exclaimed, " Well, my old gentleman, what think you of these things V If, said the traveler, a streak of vivid lightning had at that moment crossed the room, their amazement could not have been greater than it was with what followed. The most eloquent and unanswerable appeal was made for nearly an hour by the old gentleman that he had ever heard or read ; so perfect was his recollection that every argument urged against the Christian religion, was met in the order in which it was advanced. Hume's sophistry on the subject of miracles was, if possible, more perfectly answered than it had already been by Campbell. And in the whole lecture there was so much simplicity and energy, pathos and sublimity, that not another word was uttered. An attempt to describe it, said the traveler, would be an attempt to paint the sunbeams. It was immediately a matter of curiosity and inquiry who the old gentleman was ; the traveler concluded it was the preacher, from whom the pulpit eloquence had been heard ; but no, it was the Chief Justice of the United States. — American Anecdotes. 152 DR. FRANKLIN AND THE PICTURE OF THE CRUCIFIXION The following anecdote of Dr. Franklin, the American states- man and philosopher, is related upon good authority. As the doctor, after a long and eventful life, lay upon his death-bed, some weeks before he expired, he requested his old nurse, Sarah Humphries, of the Society of Friends, to bring into his room a picture of the crucifixion which he had in his collection. His face brightened up as he looked at it ; and he said, " Aye, Sarah, there's a picture worth looking at ! that's the picture of Him who came into the world to teach men to love one another !" He requested her to put it up over the mantel piece, where he could see it constantly as he lay in his bed. He was often times ob- served looking at it with attention, and it appears that his last look was directed to the representation of Him " who went about doing good." " Place it before my failing eyes, That I may view in silence now, The suffering victim as he dies, The streaming side, the saint-like brow. 153 ; Tis he, the wonderous Son of God. Who from the Father's throne above, The paths of earth in meekness trod, And taught us here that "God is love." 'Tis he, whose yearning heart could feel The tears, the woes of all mankind : Who came the sick, the maimed to heal, And pardon for the guilty find." So spake the statesman, in the hour Which closes life's eventful day, W T hen its bright dreams of fame and power, Like morning vapors pass away. Around his brow, the wreath of fame A nation's hand had proudly placed : In other lands, a Franklin's name On glory's brilliant page was traced. Yet not his philosophic themes, Nor Science, with enlightening power, Nor manhood's proud and lofty dreams, Could cheer like this his dying hour. No precepts of a by-gone age, No schemes of proud philosophy, No ancient hero, saint, or sage, Could boast of deeds so great and high. What love so sacred, so sincere ! For enemies, the God-like died ! " Oh ! let me see, and feel him near, Oh ! let me view the crucified." 154 BARON STEUBEN AND LIEUT. GIBBONS The Baron Steuben was a German officer of distinction under Frederic the Great, King of Prussia, who came over to America as a volunteer, and introduced a military system of order and discipline into the American army. At a review, the Baron caused Lieut. Gibbons, a brave and valuable officer, to be arrested and ordered into the rear, for a fault which it appeared afterwards another had committed. At a proper moment, the commander of the regiment came forward and informed the Baron of his mis- take, and of Lieut. Gibbons' accute feelings under his unmerited disgrace. " Desire him to come to the front," said the Baron. Taking off his hat, although raining at the time, he, addressing the lieutenant, said : " Sir, the mistake which was made, might, in the presence of an enemy, been attended with fatal conse- quences. I arrested you as its author, but I have reason to believe I was mistaken. I therefore ask your pardon. Return to your command. I would not deal unjustly by any ; much less by one whose character as an officer is so respectable." "After the capture at Yorktown, the superior offi- cers of the American army, together with their allies, 155 vied with each other in acts of civility and attention to the captive Britons. Entertainments were given by all the major-generals except Baron Steuben. He was above prejudice or meanness, but poverty prevented him from displaying that liberality towards them which had been shown by others. Such was his situation, when, calling on Col. Stewart, and informing him of his intention to entertain Lord Cornwallis, he requested that he would advance a sum of money, as the price of his favorite charger. ''Tis a good beast,' said the baron, ' and has proved a faithful servant through all the dangers of the war ; but, though painful to my heart, we must part.' Col. Stewart immediately ten- dered him his purse, recommending the sale or pledge of his watch, should the sum prove insufficient. ' My dear friend,' replied the baron, * 'tis already sold. Poor North was sick, and wanted necessaries. He is a brave fellow, and possesses the best of hearts. The trifle it brought is set apart for his use. My horse must go — so no more. I beseech you not to turn me from my purpose. I am a major-general in the service of the United States ; and my private convenience must not be put in a scale with the duty which my ranks imperiously calls upon me to perform.' " The principal part of the town of Steuben, in Oneida County, State of New York, was granted to Baron Steuben for his ser- vices in the revolutionary war. He resided on his farm on this tract till his death. The annexed inscription to his memory was formerly on a tablet on the wall of the German Lutheran Church in the city of New York : — " Sacred to the memory of Frederick William Augustus Baron Steuben, a German ; knight of the order of fidelity ; aid-de-camp to Frederick the Great, king of Prussia ; major-general and inspector-general in the revolu- tionary war ; esteemed, respected, and supported by Washington. He gave military skill and discipline to the citizen soldiers, who, fulfilling the decrees of heaven, achieved the independence of the United States. The highly polished manners of the baron were graced by the most noble feel- ings of the heart. His hand, open as day for melting charity, closed only in the strong grasp of death. This memorial is inscribed by an American, who had the honor to be his aid-de-camp, the happiness to be his friend. Ob. 1795." 150 THE FAITHFUL INDIAN MESSENGER. In 1788, a number of the citizens of Massachusetts sent a Committee into the Indian country of the Six Nations, to treat with the natives for a tract of land. After the Committee had arrived it beeame necessary for one of them (Major Schuylei) to write to the commanding officer at Fort Niagara for his assist- ance to negociate the treaty. An Indian messenger undertook to carry the letter to Niagara, and bring back the answer. In the meantime, Maj. Schuyler was taken sick, and sent towards Albany. The messenger returned with a letter to Maj. Schuyler, and not observing him among the Committee, refused to deliver it to any one else. They offered him fifty dollars if he would deliver it ; but he spurned the offer. They then threatened to take it by force. When this was interpreted to him, he sternly clenched the letter in one hand, and his knife in the other, threatened " he would plunge it into his own breast before he would be guilty of a breach of trust." He was accordingly suffered to go after Major Schuyler, and perform his engagement. Oh ! not alone on Christian ground The noblest hearts are found. 157 Nor Nature's dark untutored child, On desert sands, or forest wild, In God's own image made, retains Some gleams of brightness mid his stains ; Some scattered wrecks of the divine, That in his fallen nature shine. So with the forest's dusky child, Though reared in regions dark and wild, Though known not by a Christian name, Untaught what Honor's laws may claim, His noble soul no bribe can lure, He holds his missive still secure, No threats can shake his purpose true, No dazzling gold can tempt his view ; Nay, rather than be false, to die Defending his fidelity. If this untutored savage heart Thus nobly acts the Hero's part, . How we who bear the Christian name, Should view the scene and blush with shamo If from our path we turn aside, Allured by wealth, or pomp, or pride. Be ours through life the purpose high, To nobly act our part, or die ! Like Abdiel, what e'er surround, " Faithful amid the faithless found." . 14 158 GEN. HERKIMER. The family of Gen. Nicholas Herkimer was among the Ger- mans who first settled the Mohn.-ik Valley. When the British, tories and Indians besieged Fort Stanwix, at Rome, Gen. Herki- mer summoned the militia to march to the relief of the garrison. On the 5th of August, 1777, having arrived at Oriskany, he de- termined to halt for reinforcements. Some of his principal offi- cers, eager to press forward, began to denounce their commander as a tory and coward. The brave old man calmly replied, that he considered himself placed over them as a father, and did not wish to lead them into any difficulty from which they could not be extricated. Their clamor however increased, and their gen- eral being stung by their reproaches, at length gave the order to " march on." They soon fell into an ambuscade of the enemy, and a most bloody fight ensued ; the officers so eager for the conflict were the first to flee. Gen. Herkimer fell wounded in the early part of the action, and was placed on his saddle against the trunk of a tree "for a support, where, exclaiming, '*/ will face the enemy," he continued for six hours to issue his orders with firmness and decision. 159 After the battle was over, he was conveyed to his house, be- low Little Falls on the Mohawk, on a litter, '■ where," says Col. Stone, " his leg, which had been shattered five or six inches be- low the knee, was amputated about ten days after the battle, by a young French surgeon in the army of Gen. Arnold, and con- trary to the advice of the general's own medical adviser, the late Dr. Petrie. But the operation was unskillfully performed, and it was found impossible by his attendants to staunch the blood. Col. Willet called to see the general soon after the operation. He was sitting up in his bed, with a pipe in his mouth, smoking, and talking in excellent spirits. He died the night following that visit. His friend, Col. John Roff, was present at the amputa- tion, and affirmed that he bore the operation with uncommon fortitude. He was likewise with him at the time of his death. The blood continuing to flow — there being no physician in imme- diate attendance — and being himself satisfied that the time of his departure was nigh, the veteran directed the Holy Bible to be brought to him. He then opened it and read, in the presence of those who surrounded his bed, with all the composure which it was possible for any man to exhibit, the 38th psalm — applying it his own situation. He soon after expired ; and it may well be to questioned whether the annals of man furnish a more striking example of Christian heroism — calm, deliberate, and firm in the hour of death — than is presented in this remarkable instance. Of the early history of Gen. Herkimer, but little is known. It has been already stated that his family was one of the first of the Germans who planted themselves in the Mohawk valley. And the massive stone mansion, yet standing at German Flatts, bespeaks its early opulence. He was an uneducated man — with, if possible, less skill in letters, even than Gen. Putnam, which is saying much. But he was, nevertheless, a man of strong and vigorous understanding — destitute of some of the essential re- quisites of generalship, but of the most cool and dauntless cour- age. These traits were all strikingly disclosed in the brief and bloody expedition to Oriskany. But he must have been well acquainted with that most important of all books — The Bible. Nor could the most learned biblical scholar, lay or clerical, have selected a portion of the Sacred Scriptures more exactly appro- priate to the situation of the dying soldier, than that to which he himself spontaneously turned. If Socrates died like a phi- losopher, and Rousseau like an unbelieving sentimentalist, Gen. Herkimer died like a Christian Hero." 160 Red Jacket and his Cabin on the Bvffalo Reservation. RED JACKET. Red Jacket, the celebrated Seneca Chief, was born in 1756. His Indian name was Sa-go-ye-wat-ha, a word signifying one who keeps awake by magical influence. He was a true specimen of the Indian character, as a chief, and as an orator. He was the foe of the white man. His nation was his god. He died on the Buffalo Reservation in 1832. A short time previous to his death, he went around among his people, at their cabins, and told them that he was passing away, and his counsels would soon be heard no more, and the craft and avarice of the white men would prevail. " Many winters," said he, " I have breasted the storm, but I am an aged tree, and can stand no longer ; my leaves are fallen, and soon my aged trunk will be prostrate. I go to join the spirits of my fathers, but my heart fails when I think of my people, who are soon to be scattered and forgotten." His tribe was divided into two parties, one called the Pagan, the other Christian. He belonged to the Pagan, while his wife be- longed to the Christian party. During the last sickness of Red Jacket, there seemed to be quite a change in his feelings respect- 161 ing Christianity. He repeatedly remarked to his wife, he waa sorry he had persecuted her — that she was right and he wrong, and as his dying advice told her, " Persevere in your religion, it is the right way" The home of our Fathers' shall know us no more, We are passing away from the hill and the shore, We leave the green meadows, the rock and the stream, For the days of our glory have passed like a dream. A nation of strangers is taking our place, But none will lament for the red man's lost race, Like the light of the sun at the close of the day, Like the dew and the mist, we are passing away. A tree of the forest, no more I shall brave The tempests of winter, that over me rave, My branches all withered, my foliage all strown I soon shall lie prostrate, decaying and lone. I go to the land of the Spirits above, And there shall my feet through their hunting grounds rove. So spake the old chieftain, as onward he strayed Mid the homes of his tribe, by the stream and the glade. Dark sons of the forest, as widely ve roam, From the woods and the streams, that of old were your home, As the homes of the white man spread wide through the land. And the forests behind you are bowed by his hand : May the sunshine of faith on your vision arise, Which guides to a lovelier land in the skies ; The hope that is changeless, your twilight illume, And gild, with its brightness, your path through the tomb. £. 6. B. 14* 162 TWO HONEST MEN. Many years since, two aged men living near, or in the State of Pennsylvania, traded, or in the common phrase, " swapped horses," on this condition, that after a week's trial of each other's animals, the one who thought he had the best of the bargain, should pay to the other two bushels or bags of wheat. The time of trial having expired, the two men loaded their horses with the wheat, and as it happened met each other about half way from their respective homes. '* Where art thou going V said one. " To thy house with the wheat," answered the other. " And whither art thou riding?" " Truly," replied the first, " I was taking the grain to thy house." Each pleased with his bargain thought the wheat justly due his neighbor, and was going to pay it. True Honesty 's a virtue rare, Too little seen on earth ; Many its praises may declare, But few show forth its worth. 163 " 'Tis naught, 'tis naught," the buyer says. " The quality is poor, 'Tis worth but half the price," but strives The bargain to secure. But when the bargain he has made, And gained the end in view, He straitway boasts his skill in trade, What cunning craft can do. Two men in Pennsylvania State, Of Honesty possessed, Their horses " swapped," but could not .ell Which horse would prove the best Loving their neighbor as themselves, They sought each other's good, And so with friendly hearts agreed, This plan was understood : Should one his bargain chance to find The best, two bags of grain Should be the surplus he would bring, To make it right again. Each thought his neighbor's horse the best, Each proved an honest man, For each concluded now to act, Upon their settled plan. Said one, " I think in this affair I have th' advantage quite ; And so in duty bound, I'll go And make the matter right.' 164 He took his wheat, away he went His journey to pursue, When lo ! half way he met his friend Mounted, and loaded too. " I'm glad to see thee, friend," he cried, " As we our word have given, I find my bargain proved the best, This grain will make it even." With much surprise his friend replied, " My errand is the same, My trade was best, to bring your due, Loaded like you, I came." How they at last the matter fixed, We know not ; but 'tis plain, That mid the tricks and arts of trade, Some Honesty remains. 165 DEATH OF LIEUT. WOODWARD— Oregon. Since the commencement of this publication, the authors, with man)' others, have been called to mourn with the widow and fatherless, for the loss of a husband and father, on the distant shores of the Pacific. Lieut. K. S. Woodward W3S an officer of much promise in the U. S. Revenue Service, esteemed and respected by his associates. Above all, he was a decided Chris- tian, " firm for his God to live or die." On account of his nauti- cal skill, he was entrusted with the command of the U. S. schooner Patuxent, to cruise on the dangerous coast of California and Oregon, above San Francisco. On Nov. 9th, 1850, while en- gaged in the perilous undertaking of sounding a passage through the surf at the mouth of Klamet river, in Southern Oregon, his boat was upset, and after an ineffectual struggle in a foaming 1 sea, perished in the service of his country, at the a"ge of thirty- four. His remains were recovered, and buried near the place where he was lost. Far onward to the setting sun, to where the broad Pacific waters, vast and deep, foam, dash and roar, from thence the mournful tidings come ! 166 We ne'er shall see him more ! He whom we loved so well, lies cold and lonely on that rock- bound shore ! Far onward to the setting sun, From the Pacific's rock-bound shore, Of him we love, the tidings come, "On earth we ne'er shall see him more." No warrior's crown, bedimmed with tears and blood : No rolling drum, speaking of war's dread trade : nor trumpet voice of Fame, moved thee onward. No. Duty to those most dear; duty to thy country and thy God, impelled thee to this distant sea. No warrior's crown, bedimmed with blood, Nor Fame allured thee thus from home; Love to thine own. duty to God, Impelled thee far abroad to roam. A seaman's and a Christian's heart was thine. Generous and brave, with high resolve, thou didst not fear to own thy Master, though a world might frown or sneer. On land and sea, 'mongst high and low, firm to thy purpose, still for God to live and die ! A Christian seaman's heart was thine, Noble and brave, that knew no fears ; Thou darest to own God's truth divine, 'Mid high or low, 'mid frowns or sneers. Thy God did try thee, and he found thee stead- fast still. It is. enough. No more thy Master tries thee here. Temptation shall no more assail, nor trials move thee more. Man is but mortal here. From future ills, thy God and Father sum- mons thee above. Thy Master tried thee — found thee true, Finished thy toils : thy work is done, No more on earth for thee to do : The final victory now is won. A seaman's death was thine ! No mortal hands removed thee hence. Out on thy ocean 167 home, amid the roar and foam of God's own mighty sea, the summons came. Vain is the help, or skill, or power of man. Thy God hath called thee, for thy time hath come ! A seaman's death on ocean's wave Was thine, from early years thy home. Thy summons came, no power could save, God called thee ! for thy hour had come ! High rise the fearful billows, swelling, foaming, dashing on the adamantine shore ! The sea-bird screams above the rolling waters. The winds howl round, and the vast sea in its tumultuous roar, joining, will sound thy ceaseless dirge ! High rise the billows 'gainst the shore ; Tumultuous moans the foaming surge ; The sea-bird's scream, the sea's wild roar, Shall sound thy ceaseless funeral dirge I Safe in the bosom of thy God, we have no tears to shed for thee. But who shall break the tidings dire, to the lone widow and orphans far away. Their souls were one. Great God ! be thou their strength and shield, through this dark vale of tears ! Safe in the bosom of thy God, We have no tears to shed for thee ; To those who feel thy chastening rod, A Husband and a Father be. There rest awhile, my son. On that wild and rugged shore, angelic beings watch thy dust. When the last trump shall sound, and the roll-call from the Book of Life is heard, then wilt thou answer from thy lowly bed, and in the twinkling of an eye, wilt rise and stand among the chosen ones of God ! There rest, my brother, on that shore, Till Life's roll-call shall waken thee •, Thy form all glorious, up shall soar, Forever with thy God to be. j. \v. b. and e. o. a. 168 Harrison House, Vincinnes, bid , the place of the iuterview between Tecumaeh and General Harrison. TECUMSEH, THE INDIAN CHIEFTAIN. The celebrated Tecumseh was the son of a Shawnee Chieftain, and was born it is stated at Piqua, Clarke Co., Ohio, about the year 1768. — Like Napoleon, in his boyish pastime he showed a passion for war, and was soon acknowl- edged as a leader among his tribe, by whom he was loved and respected, having great power and influence over them. In the spring of 1810, Gen. Harrison (afterwards Presi- dent of the U. S.) being Governor of the Northwestern Ter- ritory, resided at Vincennes, the seat of government. Having learned that Tecumseh had been visiting the Indian tribes along the valleys of the Illinois and Wabash, for the purpose of uniting them against the whites, invited him to meet him in council. Gov. Harrison, the officers of the territory, some of the principal inhabitants, with a military company, made suit- able preparations to receive their distinguished visitor. The council was held in an open lawn before the Governor's 169 house, in a grove of trees which then surrounded it, a few which, with the house, are now remaining. At the time appointed, Tecumseh with some fifteen or twenty warriors, made their appearance. As he approached the elevated platform on which the Governor and his officers were seat- ed, the Governor invited him through his interpreter, to come forward and take a seat with him and his counsellors, premising the invitation by saying " It was the wish of their 4 Great Father,' the President of the United States, that he should do so." The Chief paused for a moment af- ter these words were uttered, and raising his tall form to its greatest height, surveyed the troops and the crowd around him. Then for a moment fixed his keen eyes on the Governor, turned them to the sky above, with his sin- ewy arm pointed towards the heavens, and with a tone and manner indicative of scorn and contempt for the paternity assigned him, said in a clarion voice heard throughout the whole assembly : " My Father! — The sun is my father — the earth is my mother — and on her bosom will I recline." Having finish- ed, he stretched himself with his warriors on the green sward. The effect, it is said was electrical, and for some moments there was perfect silence. The Governor then informed him, that he understood that he had complaints to make of injuries done the Indians, and that he, (Tecumseh,) asked redress for grievances. To this, he would reply, that he felt disposed to hear all just complaints and redress all wrongs. That as between him- self and so great a warrior as Tecumseh, there should be no concealment but every thing should be done "under a clear sky and open path." Tecumseh arose as soon as the Governor had finished. Noble in form, dignified but graceful, he seemed the perfect orator. In a voice at first low but musical, he commenced his reply. As he warmed with his subject, his clear and " trumpet-like" tones could be heard at a great distance. Perfect silence prevailed, except when his warriors gave their guttural assent to some eloquent recital of the red man's wrongs and the white man's injustice. Fully ac- quainted with the history and traditions of the Indians, he in a speech which occupied an hour in the delivery, recap- 15 110 itulated the wrongs of the red man, from the massacre o ' the Moravian Indians, during the revolutionary war down to the time he had met the Governor in council. Governor Harrison in his reply stated that the charges made by Tecumseh of bad faith against the government were unfounded, That in all their dealings with the red men they had always been governed by strict rules of right and justice. That the government had a right to purchase lands of the Miamis who were the real owners, being a dif- ferent people from the Shawnees who had no right to inter?) fere. The interpreter commenced explaining the speech to\ Tecumseh, who after listening to a portion of it, sprung to his feet and began to speak with great vehemence of manner, and told the interpretor to tell the Governor that " he lies" When this was made known, the Governor told Tecumseh "he would hold no further council with him," and the meeting broke up. Upon Tecumseh making an apology the next day for his language, the council was con- tinued. At its conclusion, the Governor asked if there would be any danger to the person who had been appointed to run the boundary line around the lands recently pur- chased. Tecumseh, although surrounded by a force four times the number of his own, firm and intrepid informed him it would be at the peril of their lives. Then said the Gov- ernor, " the United States will support their claim by the sword," " So be it" was the stern and haughty reply of the " Shawnee Chieftain," as he took his leave and termi- nated the last conference between two of the most celebra- ted men of the West. Upon the breaking out of the war of 1812, between the United States and Great Britain, Tecumseh joined the lat- ter. At the battle of the Thames, in Upper Canada, be- tween Gen. Harrison and Gen. Proctor, the latter was as- sisted by a body of 1,200, or 1,500 Indian warrians led on by Tecumseh. While the battle raged, his terrible voice was heard encouraging his warriors ; he fell at their head, and with him fell the last hope of our Indian enemies. " He Mas endowed with a powerful mind, and the soul of a hero. There was an uncommon dignity in his countenance and manners, and by the former he could be only distinguished even after death, among the slain, for he wore no insignia of distinction." 171 The Slave Boy and his Teacher. " OUR FATHER." In those States where Slavery is established by law, it is deemed unsafe to teach the slaves to read. Accordingly, laws are passed to punish those who make the attempt. Persons, therefore, who wish to give religious instruction to these poor people, must do it orally, i. e. by word of mouth. On one oc- casion, while the instructor was teaching a little slave boy the " Lord's Prayer,'* he was directed to repeat the words after him. The teacher began with the two first words, " Our Fa- ther." " What," said the slave boy, addressing his teacher, "is he your Father f" " Certainly," said the teacher. "And is he mine too," asked the boy. " Yes," was the xeply. " Then we are brothers* replied the boy ; a logical deduction from premi- ses which cannot be set aside. If indeed then we are all brethren, a brother's treatment is due to our fellow-man, even if his skin is of a darker shade than our own. Is he your Father ? is he truly mine ? u, Tis true," the teacher said, "'tis thus we're taught," " If we one Father have," the .slave boy said, "Then surely are we brothers, are we not ?" 172 Reasonings like this, we all should truly see, Nor dare discard our mighty sovereign's word ; Clear as the noon-day's sun, his precepts be — He is our loving Father, Maker, God. Why should we feel above the lowly poor, And give no friendly hand to help him rise ; Did not "Our Father" make his colored skin — Then let us not his work on earth despise. Then give to him, a brother's treatment, kind : Oppress, discard him not, and do not fear To do thy duty toward thy fellow-men, Though fools may laugh, and proud oppressors sneer. What though he's poor, and has a darken'd skin, He has a soul like thine, of priceless worth ; If proud and haughty ; thou art poor and vile, If Christian ; he's a nobleman by birth. To put to everlasting shame, the sin, 'Mongst mortals vile, the sin of human pride, Our sovereign Lord was in a stable born, Despised ; and like a malefactor died. Father of all ! we on thy footstool dwell, — make us all our every duty see : — Crush down our foolish, hateful, cruel pride, And Christ-like, let our every action be. 173 The dying Union Soldier attended by a Confederate. THE UNION AND THE CONFEDERATE SOLDIER. In the Secession "War, when raging in Virginia, a Union Soldier, mortally wounded, lay on the battle field in a dying siate, while the enemy was passing by. Feeling his end approaching, he called to some one passing by. Upon coming to the spot where he lay, he earnestly inquired if there was any Christians among the Confederate soldiers ; if so, he wished one would come to his side. Such an one was found, and he was directed by his superior to attend the dying soldier in his last moments. These two soldiers, though widely different from each other as far as worldly interests were concerned, found themselves, as Christians, closely united. The dying Unionist, as his brother Christian was earnestly praying for him, forgetting all worldly differences, grasped his hand and held it till he departed, as a token of union and love. The murderous conflict now has past, And left the soldier in his gore ; His life-blood flows, he sinks apace, And far off friends he'll see no more. 15* 174 Dread hour ! to take our final leave, Of all below we hold most dear ; To wing our flight to unknown worlds, And at God's judgment bar appear. No thoughts to spend on human strife ; Our dying soldier looks above, "Where hateful scenes can never rise, And naught appears but heavenly love. " how I want God's people near, And all the love of Christ to feel, To meet me in this trying hour, And humbly by my side to kneel." 'Twas thus the Christian soldier felt, And soon his prayer was heard on high, — A foeman seen in battle strife, Doth now appear a brother nigh. " Give me thy hand, my brother kind, We two are in sweet unity ;" 'Twas thus the dying soldier spoke — " One, ever one ! so let us be." A blessed hope sustains us here, While passing through this world of sin ; We rise above all party hate, And feel the love of Christ within. 175 DEATH OF GEN. MITCHELL. Maj. Gen. 0. M. Mitchell, commander of the Department of the South was one of the noblest, accomplished and ef- ficient officers in the United States army in the Secession War. Previous to the breaking out of the hostilities he had devoted himself to Astronomical pursuits. By the lectures he gave in the most prominent places in our land on this sublime science, he acquired a reputation, it is believed, superior to all others ■who have ever spoken on this subject in this country. Above all, he was a devoted Christian. Although having no prede- lictions for military service, yet from patriotic motives he was induced to make great personal sacrifices, and offer his services to his country in her hour of peril. His military career was of the first order, striking and efficient. At all proper times and occasions, he assembled his command, and as one fellow- being to another, urged the importance of a religious life. The scene presented of a military chieftain in the open air, in wild and mountainous districts, as an ambassador from Heaven to those under him, was one of surpassing interest and sub- limity. When ordered to Hilton Head, near Charleston, S. C, he found the poor slaves (or contrabands as they are called) 1*76 subject to ill-treatment from the prejudiced whites. His first work, almost, was to see to their comfort. He erected houses for them away from the soldiers' camp. A church was erected for them, and he was at its dedication and spoke to them as a kind father to his children. When striken down by the yel- low fever, he was not only calm and resigned, but triumphant in the hopes of redemption. When his speech had failed, his eyes were turned upward, and he pointed towards Heaven. He expired October 30th, 1862. Amid the distant realms on high of starry light, Immensity above, around, abroad, And worlds before unknown, bring to our sight, 'Twas thine the lot, to show these works of God. — His country calls ! on to the rescue fly ! Foemen move on, draw near with purpose dire, Our Hero in this cause, fears not to die, Standing for right, and martyr-like expire 1 While moving 'mid the scenes of warring strife The Christian Hero tells of joys above ; Points out the pathway to the realms of Life ; Invites, entreats, persuades with Christian love. Eyes to the blind ; feet to the helpless lame ; This was thy heavenly mission here : — In noble, heavenly work like this, Too few alas ! in this dark world appear. Dark was the hour, when snatch'd from us below, One fit to live amid the worlds on high ; But since, Great God ! thou wiliest so ; Low at thy feet, we would submissive lie. — Soldier of Christ ! thy work is nobly done : The order comes ! retire from fields of strife : The conflict's past ! the final victory's won : Receive thy crown of glory, Heavenly Life ! — Hear, most High ! our earnest, constant cry : ' Protect us ! save us ! when our foes draw near : may our country's hosts on thee rely, And Christian Leaders in our ranks appear. 177 Sinking of the Monitor off Cape Hatteras THE IRON- CLAD MONITOR. One of the most important events in naval history is the con- flict between the iron clad Confederate steamer Merrimae and the U. S. iron clad boat the Monitor, at the mouth of James River, Virginia, March 9th, 1862. The Monitor was built un- der peculiar circumstances. Washington was blockaded — a Confederate fleet threatened it, and the Confederate iron clad Merrimae was almost ready to ruin our wooden men-of-war, towards the close of 1861. To meet this formidable ship a kind of raft boat was constructed by Capt. Ericsson, in which the crew were below the water line, except those who worked the two guns placed in the revolving turret, placed on the iron clad deck which appeared a few inches above the water. The Merrimae commenced her work of destruction by sink- ing the frigate Cumberland, and burning the Congress, she then proceeded to destroy the Minnesota. At this critical time, when all hearts were filled with dismny, the Monitor arrived from New York, and by a few well directed shots forced her to retire. Thiswas considered by many, as a special interposition of ITS Providence, as the Merrimac never afterwards committed any depredations, and was finally destroyed to prevent her from falling into the hands of the Unionists. The Monitor after un- dergoing some repairs, at the close of the year, set forward on a Southern expedition, manned with a force full of hope and brilliant expectations. But Divine Providence ordered other- wise. When towed by the gun-boat Rhode Island, during a violent storm, off Cape Hatteras, she sprang a leak, and with five officers and twelve men, sunk down and perished amid the mighty waters, Dec. 31, 1862. Our forlorn hope was like a David sent, To meet our foe in our extremity ; Who like Goliath clad in armor strong: — Vanquished he falls ; the boasting foemen flee. Our Monitor, a nation's boast and pride, Goes forth again to meet the stubborn foe, Onward she presses round the stormy Cape, Battling with winds above, and foaming waves below. But man is weak 'mid elemental strife, Weak is his power, and vain his boasted skill : — When God directs the storm, the swelling tide, And stormy w r inds, fulfill His sovereign will. Our Monitor ; brave ship, the nation's pride, A grateful people will thy loss deplore ; Thy mission guided by a mighty arm lias been performed ; no one shall view thee more. Save us from trusting to an arm of flesh, But let us put our trust, Lord, in thee ; hear our prayer, when dangers pre=s around, And always thus, our helper, guardian, be. 179 Capt Willard on the field of Anticiam, Sept. 16, 1862. THE SOLDIER'S LAST LETTER. War is a great evil, but as men now are, it reems unavoidable- The soldier who engages in it, if actuated by Christian principles, is in a mission, one of the highest and noblest on earth, and is as much a minister of God, as he who preaches salvation to a lost race. If he falls in the defence of the right, he falls a martyr to save his country, and imitates Him from Heaven who gave his life for the world. On the eve of battle, standing on the verge of two worlds, liable to be ushered in a moment into that unseen and unknown, tries the inmost soul, and is indeed an honest and sol- emn hour. The true soldier now thinks of " sacred home," he leaves his last message ; or writes his " last letter" to those he loves. An example of this is found in the diary kept by Capt. S. F. Willard of Madison, Conn., who fell in the battle of Aniie- tam, Sept. 1863. Within a few minutes afier he had made his last entry in his diary, he was killed by a shot from the enemy. He was a professed Christian, and an ardent lover of his country. He entered its service, from the highest motives of exalted patriotism. Middle'own Valley, Monday morning, Sept. 15, 18fi2. Theso may be my last words ; if so. they are these : — I have full faith in Jesus Christ, ray Savior ; I do not regret that I have fallen in defence of 180 my country ; I have loved you truly, and know that you have loved me, and in leaving this world of sin, I go to another and better one, wh^re 1 am confident I shall meet you. I freely forgive all my enemies, and ask th. m for Christ's sake, to forgive n>e. If my body should ever reach home, let there be no ceremony ; I ask for no higher honor than to die for my country, lay me silently in the grave, imitate my virtues, and forgive all my errors. — I prefer death in the cause of my country, to life in sympathy witb its ene- mies. And now my precious wife, good bye. — May the grace ot God sus- tain you, and we will meet at last in heaven. Signed in the valley on the battle-ground near Bolivar Heights, Md. SAMUEL FRANCIS WILLARD. Tuesday morning, — later. The battle has commenced ; one man killed within 20 rods of me, by a shell. My faith is in God ; if I die, I die in the faith of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who died that I might live. We are now to go into battle. God save my men, God save me, God save the United States of America, God bless you my own dear wife, and may we meet at last in Heaven where there will be no war or sin. The death storm thunders near ! my Savior, God, In this dread hour I put my trust in thee : — Thy will I know not, but I know and feel, Safe as Almighty power, would have me be. Sulphureous clouds darken the sky above, The rolling drum, the bugle's warlike blast, The thundering cannon, and the clash of steel Are raging : foes and friends are falling fast. While on the verge of death, my soul to thine, Dearest on earth, is with thee hovering near; "Weep not : if now I leave this world of sin, My faith is strong in God : I feel no fear. My enemies I freely now forgive, Trusting they will do the same by me, I ask no higher, nobler honor here, My country ! than to give up life for thee. The battle comes ! Great God on thee T call, My men, my country, thou our Savior be, — I fall : — Safe in the bosom of my God My spirit waits, dearest one for thee. IMPORTANT EVENTS SECESSION W^R. Confederate Flag. 1860. December 20. — Ordinance of Se- cession unanimously adopted by the South Carolina Convention at Charleston. — Dec. 24. South Caro- lina delegation withdraw from U. I S. Congress. — Dec. 26. Major An- | derson with 60 men withdraws from | Fort Moultrie to Fort Sumter. — Dec. 30. United States Arsenals in South Carolina seized. 1861. January 2. — Fort Pulaski near Savannah, seized by order of the Governor of Georgia. — Jan. 3. South Carolina Commissioners at Washington return to Charleston. — Jan. 4. National Fast. United States Arsenal at Mobile seized. Jan. 9. Star of the West, with reinforcements for Fort Sumter fired on and forced to return. — Jan. 10. Secession of Mississippi and Florida. — Jan. 11. Alabama secedes. Jan. 19. Georgia secedes. — Jan. 25. Louisiana secedes. February 1. — Texas secedes. — Feb. 4. Southern Con- vention at Montgomery, Ala. — Feb. 9. Jefferson Davis elected President, and A. H, Stephens Vice-President of the Confederate States of America. — Feb. 25. News re- ceived of the treason of Twiggs at Texas. March 11. — Constitution of the "Confederate States" unanimously adopted by a Congress at Montgomery, Ala. 16 182 April 13. — Fort Sumter with a garrison of 100 men under Major Anderson, surrendered after a bombardment Attack on Fort Sumter. of 34 hours. — April 15. President Lincoln calls for 75,000 men. Tremendous excitement. — April 19. Massachusetts 6th Regiment assailed by a mob ; 3 soldiers killed and sev- eral of the mob. Blockade of the Southern ports. — April 20. Gosport Navy Yard near Norfolk burnt, including ships, frigates, &c, mounting over 400 guns. May. 3. President Lincoln calls for volunteers to serve for three j^ears. — May 22. Seat of the Confederate Govern- ment transferred from Montgomery to Richmond. — May 24. First movement of United States forces into Virginia. Col. Ellsworth killed at Alexandria. About thirty millions of dollars raised in various States to sustain the Union. June 3. — Gen. Beauregard in command of the Confed- erate troops at Manassas Junction. — June 12. Harper's Ferry abandoned by the Confederate troops. Union Con- vention at Wheeling ; Government of Virginia re-organ- ized; T. H. Pierrepont, Governor. — June 28. Marshall Kane, chief police officer in Baltimore, arrested. July 4. — Meeting of United States Congress. A Na- tional Loan of $250,000,000 authorized.— July 21. Battle of Bull Run ; Federal troops routed with the loss of 481 killed, 1011 wounded and 1216 missing; 25 cannon and 2500 muskets taken. Gen. McClellan arrives at Washing- ton, to take command of the army of the Potomac. August 1. — Gen. Fremont at St. Louis, commander of 183 the- Western army. — Aug. 10. Battle near Springfield, Mo. Gen. Lyon killed ; Federal forces retired to Rolla with a loss of 223 killed and 721 wounded.— Aug. 28. Hatteras Inlet, N. C, forts captured by Commodore Stringham and Gen. Butler. — Aug. 30. — Gen. Fremont proclaims martial law in Missouri ; property of rebels confiscated, slaves emancipated. j September 4. — Gen. [Bishop] Leonidas Polk took posses- sion of Columbus, Ky. — Sept. 11. Gen. Rosecrans defeats the Confederates near Gauley river, Va. — Sept. 15. John A. Washington, Confederate, killed near Cheat Mountain, Va. — Sept. 16. Many of the Maryland Legislature arrested, their meeting prevented. — Sept. 21. Col. Mulligan with 2,600 men at Lexington, Mo., surrendered to a superior Confederate force. October 11. — Com. Hollins with a Confederate Steam Ram attempts to sink the Union fleet at the passes of the Mississippi ; unsuccessful. — Oct. 21. Battle at Ball's Bluff; Union troops driven back ; Gen. Baker killed. — Oct. 31. Retirement of Gen. Scott. Gen. McClellan appointed com- mander of the National troops. November 2. — Gen. Fremont removed from his command at the West. — Nov. 7. Bombardment and capture of the Forts at Hilton Read, Port Royal, S. C, by Com. Dupont Port Royal Forts Bombarded. and Gen. Sherman. — Nov. 9. Mason and Slidell captured , by Com. Wilkes of the United States ship San Jacinto. Nov. 20. The inhabitants of Acromac and Northampton Cbunties, Va., return to their allegiance. — Nov. 23. Con- federate batteries bombarded by Fort Pickens, and the United States ships. 184 December 4. — Ship Island, Miss., occupied by the Union troops. — Dec. 11. Great fire in Charleston ; loss estimated at $7,000,000. — Dec. 28. Suspension of Specie payments in New York. — Dec. 30. Mason and Slidell surrendered. 1862. I r January 19. — Battle of Mill Spring, Ky., Confederates defeated, Gen. Zollicoffer killed. Union loss 246. Confed- erate 349, and large amount of stores, &c. Com. Footers Flotilla bombarding Ft. Henry, February 6. — Commodore Foote, with 7 gun-boats cap- tured Fort Henry on the Tennessee River. Gen. Tighlman and 60 men taken prisoners. Three U. S. gun-boats went up the river to Florence, Alabama. — Feb. 8. Battle oj Roanoke I. N. C, by the Union military and naval forces, un- der Gen. Burnside and Com. Goldsborough, entrenchments stormed; Unionists captured 3,500 stand of arms, 75 tons Battle of Fort Donelson. of ammunition and 2,500 prisoners. — Feb. 10. Fort Donel- 185 son, Tenn., captured by Gen. Grant, Gen. Buckner and 14,000 men surrendered. Gen. Pillow and Floyd escaped with 5000 men. — Feb. 25. Nashville surrendered to the Union forces. March 3. — Columbus, Ky., evacuated by the Confede- rates. — March 8. Confederate iron clad steamer Merrimac at- tacks the Union ships in Hampton Roads, the Cumberland Conflict between the Monitor and MtTrimac. sunk, the Congress burnt. March 9. The Monitor attacks the Merrimac and after a contest of 5 hours forces her to retire in a sinking state. — March 6, 7 and 8. Battle of Pea Ridge, Ark., Unionists under Gens. Curtiss, Sigel, defeat. the Confederates under Gens Van Dorn, McCullock and Price. Gen. McCullock killed. — March 12. Centerville and Manassas occupied by the Union troops. St. Augustine, Gen. Burnside?s Expedition. Fla., surrendered. — March 14. Newbern, N C, captured by Gen. Burnside. — March 23. Victory at Winchester, Va., by the Unionists, under Gen. Shields, over the Confeder- ates under Jackson. 16* 186 April 5. — Attack on Yorktown, Va., under the direction of Gen. McClellan. — April 6 and 7. Battle of Pittsburg Landing or Shiloh, Confederates captured Gen. Prentiss and most of his troops. April 7. Confederates checked by gun-boats, and reinforcements under Gen. Buell. Confed- erates driven towards Corinth. Union loss 13,000. Con- federates supposed to be greater. Island No. 10 in the Mississippi captured by the Union gun-boats under Com. Foote. — April 11. Huntsville, Ala., taken by Gen. Mitchell. ; Fort Pulaski, near Savannah, Ga., taken. — April 16. Sla- very abolished in the District of Columbia. — April 24. Com. Farragut after a bombardment of nearly a week of Com. Farragut passes the Forts below New Orleans. Forts Jackson and St. Philip, below New Orleans, passes them, and removes obstructions in the Mississippi. — April 25. Fort Macon at Beaufort, N. C, surrendered. — April 26. New Orleans captured by Commodore Farragut, with the Union fleet. Gen. Butler soon after takes pos- session of the city. May 4. — Yorktown, Va., evacuated by the Confederates. May 10. Norfolk, Va., surrendered. Gosport Navy Yard burnt. May 11. The Merrimac burnt. May 20. General McClellan's advance reached New Bridge, 8 miles from Richmond. — May 23. Severe fighting by Gen. Banks' ad- vance at Front Royal, Va. — he afterwards reaches the Po- tomac. — May 29. Confederates successfully evacuate Cor- inth, Miss. — May 31. Battle of Fair Oaks, near Richmond, commenced. June 1. — Severe battle of Fair Oaks. Union loss during two days 5,739. Confederates driven out of Strasburg, Va 187 by Gen. Fremont's force. — June 6. Memphis, Tenn., occu- pied by the Union troops. Great gun-boat battle at Mem- phis; 7 Confederate gun-boats and rams destroyed. — June 7. W. B. Mumford executed for tearing down the Ameri- can flag at New Orleans. — June 16. Battle of James Island, near Charleston, S. C. Unionists repulsed — June 24. Evacuation of the White House Landing by Gen. McClel- lan commenced. — June 26. Terrific and bloody battles com- menced before Richmond and lasted about six days. Gen. » McClellan falls back from the Chickahominy to a more se- cure position on James River. Union loss in killed, wound- ed and missing, 15,224. Confederate loss supposed about 30,000. — June 27. Gen. Fremont relieved from his com- mand in Virginia. Fremont's, Banks', and McDowell's forces consolidated under Gen. Pope. July 1. — President Lincoln calls for 300,000 additional men, for the army. — June 11. Gen. Halleck assigned to the command of the land forces of the United States. June 15. Confederate iron clad gun-boat Arkansas ran past the Union vessels and reached Vicksburg. — June 23. Gen. Pope issues stringent orders against disloyalists in Virginia. July 25. The President issues a proclamation to all persons to return to their allegiance in 60 days on pain of confisca- tion, &c. August 4. — A draft for 300,000 men for 9 months, ordered. Aug. 5. Baton Rogue, La., attacked; 5000 Confederate troops under Gen. Breckenridge, defeated. Gen. Williams killed. — Aug. 6. The iron clad Confederate steamer Arkan- sas destroyed by the Essex. — Aug. 9. Battle of Cedar Moun- tain between 7000 Union troops, under Gen. Banks, and 12,000 Confederates under Gen. Jackson, who retreated next day. — Aug. 16. Union troops evacuated Harrison Landing, Va. — Aug. 18. Gen. Pope commenced his retreat in Va. — Aug. 29. Battle of Groveton, near Bull Run. Gen. Sigel's corps engaged. Confederates defeated. Col. Fletcher Webster killed. September 1. — Generals Kearney and Stephens killed in an engagement near Fairfax Court House. — Sept. 2. Gen. McClellan assigned for the defence of Washington. — Sept. 5. Confederates crossed the Potomac into Maryland near Point of Rocks. — Sept. 6. Confederate force under Gen. Hill, occupied Frederick City, Md. — Sept. 7. Bowling Green 188 occupied by the Unionists, under Gen. Negley. Gen. Pope assigned to the command of the army of the North West. Sept. 10. Confederates approach Cincinnati, Ohio, great ex- citement: 3000 laborers called to the trenches. — Sept. 13. Gen. McClellan's head quarters at Frederick City. — Sept. 1 4. Battle of South Mountain, Md. Confederates defeated. Union loss 2,325. Gen. Reno killed. — Sept. 15. Harper's Ferry and 12,500 Union troops surendered by Col. Miles. Sept. 16, 17^ Battle of Antietam. Confederates defeated. Gen. Mansfield killed. Union loss 12,469. Estimated Con- federate loss at South Mountain and Antietam 25,542. Cumberland Gap, Ky., evacuated by the Unionists under Gen. Morgan. 4,600 Union troops captured at Munfords- ville, Ky. — Sept. 22. President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation issued, declaring the slaves in any State in rebellion on Jan. 1, 1863, forever free. — Sept. 24. Conven- tion of Loyal Governors at Altoona, Penn. October 4. — Battle at Corinth, Miss. Confederates under Price and Von Dorn defeated. Union loss 2,359. Confed- erates 9,363. — Oct. 5. Galveston, Texas, occupied by Union troops. — Oct. 8. Battle of Perryville ; the Confederates un- der Bragg, Polk, Cheatham, Buckner and Anderson, re- pulsed, loss 2,500 Union Gens. Jackson and Terrell kill- ed. — Oct. 22. At Maysville, Arkansas, Union forces under Gen. Blunt, routed the Confederates ; supposed to be 5000 to 7000 strong. — Oct. 24. Gen. Buell removed, and Gen. Rosecrans succeeded to the command of the army in Ken- tucky. — Oct. 30. Gen. O. M. Mitchell, commander of the Department of the South, died of yellow fever at Beaufort, South Carolina. November 7. — Gen. McGlellan removed from the com- mand of the Army of the Potomac— succeeded by Gen. Burnside. — Nov. 10. Gen. Rosecrans arrived at Nashville, Tenn. Nov. 15. A. J. Hamilton appointed Military Gov- ernor of Texas. — Nov. 25. Confederate troops 4000 strong under Gen. Martin, make an unsuccessful attempt to take Newbern, N. C. — Nov. 27. Most of the political prisoners released from the forts and prisons of the Government. December 3. — Gen. Hovey, with 20,000 men left Helena, Ark., and took possession of Grenada, Miss. — Dec. 4. Win- chester, Va. surrendered to Gen. Geary. — Dec. 7. The Con- federates under Gens. Hindman, Marmaduke, unsuccessfully 189 attacked Gen. Blunt's Union forces under Gen. Herron at Crawford Prairie, near Fayetteville, Ark. Union loss 1000; Confederate over 2000. Dec. 10. Bill for the admission of the new State of West Virginia, passed. Dec. 11. Bom- bardment of Fredericksburg, Va. Dec. 13. Battle of Fred- ericksburg. Union army repulsed with the loss of 8,850 killed, wounded and missing. Gen. Bayard killed. Rail Road at Goldsboro, N. C. broken up by Gen. Foster. Con federates defeated with a loss of 400 men. — Dec. 15. Frede- ricksburg evacuated by the Union army. — Dec. 16. Com- mand of the Department of the Gulf, transferred from Gen. Butler to Gen. Banks. — Dec. 23. President Jeff". Davis is- sues a retaliatory proclamation against Gen. Butler and others. — D«c. 29. Gen. Sherman repulsed in an attack on Vicksburg — Dec. 31. The Monitor foundered off Cape Hat- teras. 1863. January 1. — All persons held as slaves in North Caroli- na, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkan- sas, Texas, and parts of Virginia and Louisiana, declared free, by the President of the United States — number of slaves declared free about 3,120,000 : number excepted by it, about 830,000. Galveston, Texas, re-captured ; the Har- riet Lane taken — Jan. 2. Battle of Murfreesboro ; after a conflict of three days, Gen. Rosecrans defeats the Confede- rates under Gen. Bragg, forcing him to retreat. Union loss about 1000 killed, 5,500 wounded and 4000 prisoners. Confederate loss in killed, wounded and missing, 15,500. Gen. Carter, with 1000 cavalry, penetrated to East Tennes- see and broke up a portion of the East Tennessee and Vir- ginia Rail Road. — Jan. 8. The Confederates under General Marmaduke defeated in an attack on Springfield, Mo. — Jan. U. Arkansas Post, Ark., with about 5000 men captured. — Jan. 24. Gen. Burnside relieved from the command of the Army of the Potomac; he is succeeded by Gen. Hooker. — Jan. 31. Several Confederate iron clad gun-boats and steam- ers at Charleston, make an unsuccessful attempt to raise the blockade ; the Princess Royal, a prize vessel, captured. February 2. — The Ram " Queen of the West," ran by Vicksburg. — Feb. 3. The Confederates make an unsuccess- 190 ful attack on Fort Donelson. — Feb. 20. The Monitor gun- boat Indianola runs by the Confederate batteries at Vicks- burg ; the " Ram Queen of the West," soon afterwards cap- tured up the Red River. — Feb. 24. The Indianola captured by the Confederates. — Feb. 28. The Confederate steamer. Nashville destroyed at Fort McAlister, near Savannah, by the Union Monitor gun-boat Montauk. March 5. — Col. Coburn, with 1,300 men, captured by a superior Confederate force under Gen. Forest, near Frank- lin, Tenn. — March 14. Admiral Farragut with the Hartford and Albatross, passed Port Hudson batteries. Attack on Fort Sumter, April 7, 1863. April 7. — Admiral Dupont with 7 Monitors, 2 guns each, and two other iron-clads, carrying in all 30 guns, made an attack on Fort Sumter. This fortification, with four others having about 300 guns fired 3,500 rounds at the boats, which at the distance from 300 to 600 yards re- turned but 150 rounds. By obstructions placed in the channel, the boats were prevented from reaching Charles- ton, and after sustaining a fire from five forts and batte- ries, the most terrific on record, for half an hour, the Mon- itors retired from the conflict. The boats were but little injured, excepting the Keokuk which sunk the morning after the action. Loss on the fleet, 1 killed and 11 i wounded. April 14. — Gen. Foster in a steamer passes the Confed- erate batteries between Washington, N. C, and Newbern. 193 April 16. — Six Union gun : boats and three transports ran by the Confederate batteries at Vicksburg. April 17. — Expedition of Col.. 'Grierson commenced in Tennessee, arrived in Baton Rouge May 2, 800 miles distant. He captured 1,000 men, 1,200 horses and destroyed railroads and stores valued at four millions of dollars. May 1. — Gen. Grant routs 11,000 Confederates at Port Gibson. — May 3. Great battle at Chancellor smile between Gen. Hooker and Gen. Lee. Union loss about 14,000 ; Confederate loss estimated at 18,000. Gen. (Stonewall) Jackson mortally wounded. — May 6. Gen. Hooker re-cross- ed the Rappahannock. Cavalry expedition, 2,700 strong, under Gen. Stoneman, around the rear of the enemy's forces. Col. Killpatrick advanced within two miles of Richmond ; 300 men captured, stores, &c, waggon trains destroyed. — May 14. Gen. J. E. Johnston defeated, and Jackson, the capital of Mississippi, taken. — May 16. The Confederates, under Gen. Pemberton, defeated by Gen. Grant with the loss of 4,000 men and 29 pieces of artillery. June 27. — The main body of Confederates crossed the Po- tomac into Maryland at Williamsport. Gen. Lee took Ha- gerstown. Gen. Hooker at Frederick City ; was relieved of his command, and G. G. Meade appointed in his place. July 1, 2, 3. — Battle of Gettysburg, Pa. Gen. Meade victorious. The Confederate army, under Gen. Lee, lost 33,000 men in killed, wounded and prisoners Union loss about 18,000. July 4. Capture of Vicksburg by Gen. Grant, after a seige of 47 days ; 31,277 prisoners taken. Confede- rates defeated at Helena, Ark. with a loss of 2,700 men. — July 8. Port Hudson surrendered to Gen. Banks; 7,000 prisoners taken. — July 10. Confederate batteries on Morris Island, at Charleston harbor, taken. July 13. Great riot in New York ; continued for four days ; upwards of 160 persons killed ; colored persons mur- dered and their Orphan Asylum destroyed. The mob burnt many buildings and committed many robberies before they were overcome by the military. — July 18. John H. Morgan looses 1,000 of his guerrilla band, near Buffington, Ohio; he afterwards surrendered. — During the month, twenty-eight successful contests, with a loss to the enemy of more than 800 guns and 80,000 prisoners. Gen. Lee driven back to Virginia; the Mississippi opened to the Gulf, the Confedc .192 rates expened from nearly all Tennessee and Mississippi, and the territory under their military control reduced to the states of Alabama, Georgia, North and South Carolina and parts of Virginia and Tennessee. August 6. — Day of Thanksgiving, appointed by President Lincoln for recent victories. — Aug. 21. Jefferson Davis ap- pointed a day of fasting on account of reverses. — Aug. 17 1 Gen. Hurlburt's force destroyed at Grenada 57 locomotives, j upwards of 400 cars, machine shops — Aug. 21. Quantrell, ' a noted guerrilla, with about 200 men, made a raid into Lawrence, Kansas, murdered about 150 persons robbed the ptores and laid the place in ashes. — Aug. 23. After several days cannonade, Fort Sumpter nearly battered down. — Aug. 24. — Bomb-shells from Gen. Gilmore's batteries reached Charleston, a distance of five miles. September 1. — Knoxville, Tenn. captured by Gen. Foster. — Sept. 6. Forts Wagner and Gregg, at Charleston, taken. — Sept. 9. Gen. Crittenden takes Chattanooga. — Sept. 10. Little Rock, capital of Arkansas, occupied by the Union troops. Gen. Burnside captured Cumberland Gap and 2,000 prisoners. — Sept. 19, 20, 21. Battle of CMckamauga. Heavy loss on both sides. Union troops fell back to Chata- nooga. Gen. Thomas' corps displayed great bravery and saved the Union army from great disaster. October 8. British authorities stop the building of Con- federate ships near Liverpool. — Oct 17. The President calls for 300,000 volunteers to be raised before the 5th of Janua- ry, 1864. — Oct. 18. Gen. Grant takes the command of the departments of the Ohio, Cumberland and Tennessee. — Oct. 28. Battle near Lookout Mountain ; communications with the Union army established. November 2. Gen. Banks' army reaches Texas in trans- ports. — Nov. 4. Brownsville, Texas, captured. — Nov. 17. Seige of Knoxville, Tenn., by a Confederate army under Longstreet. — Nov. 19. The Gettysburg battle-field conse- crated as a National Cemetery. — Nov. 23, 24, 25. Battle of Chattanooga. Gen. Hooker carried the northern slope of Lookout Mountain. Gen. Sherman carried the northern ex- tremity of Missionary Ridge. Confederates driven off. Grant announced a complete victory over Bragg. — Nov. 29. The Confederates in front of Knoxville repulsed with heavy 193 -^^fc= Battle on Lookout Mountain, Tenn. December 8. — Proclamation of amnesty issued by Presi- dent Lincoln. 1864r. January 10. — A heavy fight near Strawberry Plains, E. Tennessee ; Confederates defeated. — Jan. 30, The Confed- erates make an attempt to retake Cumberland Gap. February 1. — President Lincoln orders a draft for 500.000 men to serve for three years, or during the war. — Feb. 5, Expedition under Gen. Seymour left Port Royal, S. C, for Jacksonville, Fla. — Feb. 20, Battle of Olustee; Gen. Sey- mour's force met 15,000 Confederate troops 55 miles from Jacksonville, after a desperate battle of three hours, the Union troops, overpowered, retired to Sanderson. March 1. — Kilpatrick's expedition reached the outer for- tifications of Richmond. — March 3, Kilpatrick arrived with- in the lines of Gen. Butler's army. — March 9, President Lincoln presents Gen. Grant with a Lieut. General's com- mission. — March 14, Fort De Russey, on Red River, La., captured by the Union forces under Gen. Smith — March 26, Gen. Franklin's forces (Union) reached Alexandria. La. April 4. — Opening of the Great Sanitary Fair in New York. — April 12, Fort Pillow, Tenn., taken by the Confed- erate soldiers by storm ; colored troops massacred. — April 20, The Confederates took Fort Williams by storm, cap- tured Plymouth, N. C, Gen. Wessels and 2,500 men. May 3. — Admiral Wilkes sentenced to be reprimanded, and suspended from United States service for three years. May 5-6. Battle of the Wilderness. Va., between the Union troops under Gen. Grant and the Confederates under Gen. li)4 Lee; Generals Hays and Waasworth Ki.iea; Confederates* fell back. —May 9, Battle of Spotsylvania commenced; it was continued for several days, each of the armies opposed, consisted of 100.000; Lee finally fell back to Richmond. — May 13, Gen. Butler's army advanced towards Richmond. June 8. — Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson nomi- nated by the Union Convention — June 11, Gen. Grant's ar- my commence moving to the south side of Richmond. — June 19, Naval conflict off the harbor of Cherbourg, France, between the Alabama, Capt. Semmes, and the U. States steamer Kearsarge, Capt. Winslow; the Alabama sunk, Capt. Semmes saved by an English yatch. July 18. — President Lincoln orders a draft for 500,000 men for one year's service. — July 22, Great Battle before Atlanta, Ga. ; Union loss 3,521; Confederate loss estimated at 10,000; Gen. McPherson killed. — July 30, Explosion ol an immense mine before Petersburg; attack of the Union troops repulsed. Confederate troops entered and burn* Chambersburgh, Penn. August 5. — Great battle at the entrance of Mobile Bay; Confederate ram Tennessee captured ; Union monitor Te- cumseh blown up by a torpedo. — Aug. 8, Fort Gaines, Mo- bile, surrendered to Admiral Farragut. Gen. Sheridan as- signed to the command of the Union troops in the Shenan- doah Valley, Va. — Aug. 23, Fort Morgan, Mobile Bay, surrendered. September 2. — Atlanta, Ga., occupied by Gen. Sherman's army. — Sept. 4, Gen. Gillam surprised Morgan's band at Greenville, Tenn. ; Morgan killed. — Sept. 8. Brownville, Texas, attacked by the Mexicans under Cortinas ; Confed- erates driven out.— Sept. 11, National thanksgiving. October 19. — Battle of Cedar Creek, Va. ; Union troops driven in confusion with the loss of 20 pieces of artillery; Gen. Sheridan arriving on the battle-field, rallied his troops, drove back the Confederate force, captured 48 pieces of ar- tillery and many prisoners, gaining a great victory. November 13. — Gen. Sherman's right wing under Gen. Howard, left Atlanta and began its march through Georgia. Atlanta burnt. — Nod. 21, Milledgeville, the capital of Geor- gia, captured. — Nov. 26, Gen. Howard's column reached Sandersville, Ga., and cut the railroad. December 10. — Gen. Sherman's army, of about 70,000 195 Sherman's army entering Savannah. men arrived within five miles from Savannah without the loss of a wagon. — Dec. 13. Fort McAllister, near Savannah, taken by storm. — Dec. 15-16, Battle of Nashville ; Gen, Thomas defeats the Confederate army under Gen. Hood, and compels it to flee, after a loss estimated at 17,000 men and 52 cannon. — Dec 19, The President issued a procla- mation, calling for 300,000 men. — Dec. 21, Capture of Sa- vannah by Gen. Sherman, with upwards of 30,000 bales of cotton, and a large amount of stores and 150 cannon. — Dec. 24-25, Fort Fisher, near Wilmington, N. C, furiously bom- barded by the fleet under Admiral Porter. 1865. January 15. — Fort Fisher, near Wilmington, taken after a desperate conflict, by the land and naval forces under Gen. A. H. Terry and Admiral Porter :— of the garrison of 2.300 men, 1,900 surrendered, 400 being killed and wounded; Union loss 1,021. February 21. — Charleston, S. C, taken by the Union Columbia, S. C, surrendered to the Union troops. March 18 troops under Gen. Sherman ; many buildings burnt. — March 21, Goldsboro taken by Gen. Schofield.— March 22, Wilmington taken. April 3. — Richmond evacuated by the Confederates, and taken by the Union troops after a bloody contest of three days. — April 9, Gen. Lee, with his army surren dered to Lieut. Gen. Grant. — April 14. Pres. Lincoln as- assinated. 196 THE STAR SPANGLED BANNER. This celebrated production, now considered with its tune of the same name, a national song, or anthem, was written by Francis Key, a lawyer of Baltimore, at the time of the bombardment of Fort McHenry, in the war of 1812. Mr. Key was sent with a flag of truce to the British fleet, to obtain the release of some prisoners. He was detained until after the attack on the fort. He watched its flag with great anxiety during the day. While the bombardment continued, it was sufficient proof that the fort had not surrendered. It having ceased during the night, Mr. Key was full of painful appre- hensions till the morning light disclosed that the " star spangled banner" was still waving over its defenders. [The sight of the star spangled banner when far from home, among strangers, gives an American emotions which are better felt than described ; it speaks of home and all that the human heart holds dear. In 1815, Capt. James Riley, with all his crew, were wrecked on the African coast, and were captured by the Arabs. They were held in bondage for some time, and by 197 hard usage were reduced to almost skeletons. They were bought of their Arab masters by Mr. "Willshire, the British consul at Mogadore. As Capt. Riley and his companions came in sight of Mogadore, the captain says, " I discovered the Amer- ican flag floating over a part of the distant city. At this blessed and transporting sight, the little blood remaining in my veins gushed through my glowing heart with wild impetuosity, and seemed to pour a flood of new life through every part of my exhausted framo."] 1 say can you see by the dawn's early light, "What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming, Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight, O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming ; And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air, G-ave proof through the night that our flag was still there ? ! say, does that star spangled banner yet wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave ? On the shore, dimly seen through the mist of the deep, "Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes, What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep, As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses ; Now it catches the gleam of its morning's first beam, In full glory reflected, now shines on the stream : 'Tis the star spangled banner ! 0, long may it wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave. And where is that band who so vauntingly swore That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion A home and a country shall leave us no more ? Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps' pollution : No refuge could save the hireling and slave From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave, And the star spangled banner in triumph doth wave J er the land of the free, and the home of the brave. ! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand Between their loved home and the war's desolation ; Blest with victory and peace, may the heaven-rescued land Praise the power that hath made and preserved us a nation ; Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just, And thus be our motto — " In God is our trust I" And the star spangled banner in triumph shall wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave ? 198 Bombardment of Charlcstownfrom Copp's Bill, Boston. THE AMERICAN HERO. When the British troops advanced from Boston to drive the Americans from their entrenchments on Bunker's Hill, thousands of persons of both sexes collected on the church steeples, Beacon Hill, house- tops, and every place in its neighborhood, where a view of the battle-ground could be obtained, view- ing with painful anxiety the movements of the combatants — wondering, yet admiring the bold stand taken by their countrymen, and trembling at the thought of the formidable arm} arrayed against them. Almost every family had a relative in the conflict, and in an agony of suspense, mothers, wives, sisters and daughters gazed upon the s.cene. When the British troops moved the second time against the Americans, they fired a carcass (a kind of bomb shell) from Copp's Hill, in Boston, into Charlestown, and set the town, which consisted ot 199 five hundred wooden houses, on fire. This was done to cover their movements and distract the attention of the Americans. The roar of the flames, the shrieks of the dying and wounded, the crash of fall- ing timber, and the pyramid of fire formed by the burning of the tall steeple of the church, presented a scene of awful sublimity. The sapphic ode entitled " The American Hero," was written on the very night the news of the battle reached Norwich, Conn., under the excitement or inspiration produced by these fearful scenes. It was one of the most popular productions of the Revolutionary war, and was sung by our fathers with patriotic fervor. The author, Nathaniel Niles, was a licensed preacher, who occasionally exercised his vocation. He estab- lished in Norwich during the war a wire factory, but afterwards removed to Vermont, where he became a civil magistrate, a farmer, and a judge of one of the courts. He died in 1828, at the age of 88. Why should vain mortals tremble at the sight of Death and destruction in the field of battle, Where blood and carnage clothe the ground in crimson, Sounding in death-groans? Death will invade us by the means appointed, And we must all bow to the king of terrors • Nor am I anxious, if I am prepared, What shape he comes in. Infinite Goodness teaches us submission, Bids us be quiet under all his dealings ; Never repining, but forever praising God, our Creator. Well may we praise him ! all his ways are perfect Though a resplendence, infinitely glowing, Dazzles in glory on the sight of mortals, Struck blind by luster. Good is Jehovah in bestowing sunshine, Nor less his goodness in the storm and thunder, Mercies and judgment both proceed from kindness, Infinite kindness. 200 0, then, exult that Grod forever reigneth ; Clouds which, around him, hinder our perception, Bind us the stronger to exalt his name, and Shout louder praises 1 Then to the wisdom of my Lord and Master, I will commit all I have or wish for ; Sweetly as babes' sleep will I give my life up, When call'd to yield it. Now, Mars, I dare thee, clad in smoky pillars, Bursting from bomb-shells, roaring from the cannon, Battling in grape-shot like a storm of hailstones, Torturing ether ! Up the bleak heavens let the spreading flames rise, Breaking, like ^Etna, through the smoky columns, Lowering, like Egypt, o'er the falling city, Wantonly burn'd down. While all their hearts quick palpitate for havoc, Let slip your blood-hounds, nam'd the British lions ; Dauntless as death stares, nimble as the whirlwind, Dreadful as demons 1 Let oceans waft on all your floating castles, Fraught with destruction, horrible to nature ; Then, with your sails fill'd by a storm of vengeance, Bear down to battle. From the dire cavern, made by ghostly miners, Let the explosion, dreadful as volcanoes, Heave the broad town, with all its wealth and people, Quick to destruction. Still shall the banner of the King of Heaven Never advance where I am afraid to follow ; While that precedes me, with an open bosom, War, I defy thee. Fame and dear freedom lure me on to battle, While a fell despot, grimmer than a death's-head, Stings me with serpents, fiercer than Medusa's, To the encounter. Life, for my country and the cause of freedom, Is but a trifle for a worm to part with ; And, if preserved in so great a contest, Life is redoubled. 201 Patrick Henry in the Virginia Assembly. PATRICK HENRY. Patrick Henry, the celebrated orator of the Revolution, was born May 28th, 1736, at the family- seat called Sudley, Hanover Co., Va. He was rather averse to study, but was passionately fond of being alone hunting in the forest or in fishing. He was married at the age of eighteen years to Miss Shelton, and was engaged in cultivating a small farm, but abandoned this pursuit in two years and embarked in the mercantile business, in which he was equally unsuccessful. All other means failing, he determined to try the law. With only six week's study lie obtained license to practice at the age of twenty-four. For several years his practice was limited and his family suffered from poverty. In 1763, he was 202 brought into notice by what was popularly known as the u 2^cirso?i's cause" In this Mr. Henry oppo- sed the claim of the clergy to their tobacco stipend. The array before which Mr. H. made his first regu- lar attempt at public speaking, was indeed appalling. On the bench sat more than seventy clergymen, and the most learned and critical men in the colony. The house was filled with an overwhelming multi- tude, and his own father was the presiding magis- trate. Mr. Henry rose very awkwardly, and faltered much in his exordium. The people hung their heads, and his father almost sunk in confusion in his seat. But this was of short duration, for soon those won- derful faculties which he possessed, began to make their appearance. As his mind rolled along and be- gan to glow from its own action, he seemed literally transformed in his appearance. His attitude by de- grees became erect and lofty. The spirit of his gen- ius awakened all his features, which shone with a nobleness which they never before exhibited. It is said by those who witnessed this remarkable scene, that the people whose countenances had fallen at the time Mr. Henry arose, had heard but a very few sentences before they began to look as if doubt- ing the evidences of their own senses ; then attract- ed by some strong gesture, struck by some majestic attitude, fascinated by the spell of his eye, the charm of his emphasis, and the varied and commanding expression of his countenance, they could look away no more. Every part of the house was hushed into death like silence. In the language of those who heard him, " He made their blood to run cold, and their hair to rise on an end." The mockery of his opposers was soon turned into alarm, their triumph into confusion and despair, and at one burst of his rapid and overwhelming invec- tive, fled from the house in precipitation and terror. " As for the father, such was his surprise, such his 203 amazement, such his rapture, that, forgetting where he was, and the character he was filling, tears of ec- stacy streamed down his cheeks, without the power or inclination to suppress them." The cause of the people was gained. The jury seemed bewildered, and appeared to have lost sight of the admitted rights of the plaintiffs ; they had scarcely left the bar, when they returned a verdict of one penny damages. In 1774, Mr. Henry was elected a member of the House of Burgesses, and introduced his celebrated resolutions on the Stamp Act. In the midst of the debate that followed, he exclaimed " Cesar had his Brutus, Charles the First, his Cromwell, and George the Third"— " Treason I" cried the Speaker—" Trea- son, treason!" echoed from every part of the house. Henry faltered not for an instant, but taking a loftier stand, and fixing on the Speaker an eye of fire, he added — " may profit by their example. If this be treason make the most of it." In 1774, Mr. Henry was elected Governor of Vir- ginia: the following is his language in 1775 : "It is in vain, Sir, to extenuate the matter ; gentlemen may cry peace, fieace, — but there is no peace. The war is actually begun. The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resound- ing arms ! Our brethren are already in the field ! "Why stand we here idle Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the expense of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God ! — I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death !" At the close of the Revolutionary war, Mr. Henry was eneame animated in the cause, and soon had com- plete conrol over tho ras-ions of his audience ; when he excited their indijj- 204 nation against Hook, vengeance waa visible in every countenance; again," when he chose tc ridicule him, the whole audience was in a roar of laughter. He painted the distresses of the American soldiers, almost naked, exposed to the rigors of a wintry sky, marking the frozen ground over which they march- ed with the blood of their unshod feet. " Where is the man" sa id Mr. Henry. ** with an American heart, but would have relieved the famished patriots V" He then carried the jury to the plains around Yorktown ; he depicted the sur- render in the most glowing colors. His audience sawthe humiliation of their haughty i"o >s,— the triumph which lighted up every patriotic face,— heard the shouts of victory, the cry of Washington and Liberiy, as it rung and re-echo- ed through the American ranks but, hark ! what rotes ofdiscord are these which disturb the general joy, and silence the acclamaitons of victory I— they are the notes of John Hook, hoarsely bawling through the American camp, beef {beef ! beef!— The whole audience were convulsed, the Clerk ofthe Court, unwilling to commit any breach of decorum in his place, was obliged to rush out of the Court House, ihrow himself upon the grass, in a paroxism of laugh- ter. The cause was almost decided by acclamation; the jury retired, for form's sake, and instantly returned a verdict for the defendant. The last occasion in which Mr, Henry spoke to a public assembly, was in 1 799, to the citizens of Char- lotte county, in which he opposed the prevailing spirit of opposition to the laws of Congress. He denied the right of any State to decide upon the Con- stitutionality of the laws of the Federal govern- ment. "If the administration have done wrong, let us not destroy that Union upon which our existence hangs. Before you overturn the government, wait till some infringement is made upon your rights, which cannot otherwise be redressed." This was his last effort ; at the conclusion of which he utterly sunk into the tumultuous and weej)ing throng which surrounded him. Mr. Henry died June 6th, 1799, at Red Hill, Char- lotte Co. " In private life, he was amiable as he was brilliant in his public career. He was an exem- plary Christian, and his illustrious life was greatly ornamented by the religion which he professed. In his will, he left the following testimony respecting the Christian religion. ' I have now disposed of all my property to my family. There is one thing more which I wish I could give them, and that is the Christian religion. If they have that, and I had not given one shilling, they would be rich ; and if they have not that, and had I given them the whole world, they would he poor?" 205 PRAYER-MEETING AMONG THE SLAVES. During the great contest between the Union and Slave States for the mastery, the slaves have looked upon it as the dawning of better days, and that the day of Jubilee wonld soon be proclaimed among all their people. Many among them had been praying for a long time for the time of their deliverance to come. Many times have they retired to the woods, and other secret places, away from the observation of the whites, and there earnestly prayed that God would open the door for their freedom. As the Un- ion troops approached, they exclaimed with thank- fulness and joy, "Bless God! the Yankees are com- ing and we shall be free." In 1863, Col. De Costa, of the second Arkansas (colored) regiment, came upon one of the above na- med meetings in Mississippi, on Sundav, where a 18 206 large number of blacks were assembled for divine worship. The Colonel, with his small party, linger- ed on the outskirts of the meeting for a while, and listened to the prayer of the black preacher. He was praying, with all the fervor and direct earnest- ness for which these preachers are so much distin- guished, for God to hasten the coming of the Yan- kees, to drive off, or crush down into the dust their white oppressors, so that they, their wives and little ones, might be free, that the year of Jubilee might come, so that they might no more be parted and sold like cattle. This was a sufficient introduction for Col. De Cos- ta, with his small party, to make a sudden appear- ance among them. Like ' an angel visitant, he in- formed them that their prayers were heard and an- swered, and he had come for their deliverance. With shouts of joy, these poor people, raising their hands to heaven, called on God to bless their deliv- ers. The Colonel instructed them to come to the river, where the transport boats were lying, and bring with them all the horses, mules, and cotton, on which they could lay their hands. In a short time, the whole assembly of worshippers was trans- formed into a great caravan, pursuing its way to the river bank. The scene was novel, grotesque, and interesting, — men and women on foot, and mounted on mules and horses ; children, cotton, household goods and subsistence stores in carts. It was a mixed assemblage; the old and young, the lame, the halt and blind were also there. However they might differ as to age or circumstances, they all seemed animated by the same desire, — the desire to be free, — all singing " the year of Jubilee is cum." Our American poet, John G. Whittier, ever on the side of God and humanity, has given a most vivid description, in poetic language, of a kindred scene 207 to the foregoing. The following is extracted from his composition, entitled "At Port Royal, . . 1861." Although some of it is in " broken Saxon," yet it is all inspired with the " soul of Poetry." " The tent-lights glimmer on the land, The ship-lights on the sea ; The night-wind smooths with drifting sand Our track on lone Tybee. At last our grating keels outside, Our good boats forward swing ; And while we ride the land-locked tide, Our negroes row and sing. "With oar-strokes timing to their song, They weave in simple lays The pathos of remembered wrong, The hope of better days, — The triumph-note that Miriam sung, The joy of uncaged birds : Softening with Afric's mellow tongue Their broken Saxon words. SONG OP THE NEGRO BOATMAN. 0, praise an'tanks ! De Lord has come To set de people free ; And massa tink it day ob doom, An 1 we of jubilee. De Lord, dat heap de Red Sea waves, He jus as 'trong as den ; He say de word ; we last night slaves ; To day the Lord's free men ; De yam will grow, de cotton blow, . We'll hab de rice an'corn ; 0, nebber you fear, if nebber you hear De driver blow his horn ! Ole massa on he trabbels gone ; He leab de land behind I De Lord's breff blow him furder on, Like corn shuck in de wind. 208' We own de hoe, we own de plow, We own de hands dat hold ; We sell de pig, we sell de cow, But nebber childe be sold. • De yam will grow, &c. We pray de Lord; He gib us signs Dat some day we be free ; De north wind tell it to the pines, De wild duck to de sea ; We tink it when de church bell ring, We dream it in dream ; De rice-bird mean it when he sing, De eagle when he scream. De yam will grow, &c. We know de promise nebber fail, An' nebber lie de word ; So like de 'postles in de jail, We waited for de Lord: An' now he open ebery door, And throw away de key ; We tink we lub him so before, We lub him better free. De yam will grow, &c. So sing our dusky gondo^ers ; And with a secret pain, And smiles that seem akin to pain, We hear the wild refrain. We dare not share the negro's trust, Nor yet his hope deny ; We only know that God is just, And every wrong shall die. Kude seems the song ; eaeh swarthy face Flame-lighted, ruder still ; We start to think that hapless race Must shape our good or ill ; That laws of changeless justice bind Oppressor with opprossed ; And, close as sin and suffering joined, We march to Fate abreast. 209 Col. Davenport speaking in the Legislative Council. DARK DAY, IN MAT, 1780. The 19th of May, IV 80, was distinguished by the phenomenon of a remarkable darkness over all the Northern States, and is still called the dark day. "The darkness," says Dr. Webster, "commenced between the hours of 10 and 11, A. M., and contin- ued till the middle of the next night. It was occa- sioned by a thick vapor or cloud, tinged with a yel- low color, or faint red, and a thin coat of dust was deposited on white substances." " The wind was in the southwest; and the darkness appeared to come on with clouds in that direction. Its extent was from Falmouth, (Maine,) to New Jersey. The darkness appears to have been the greatest in the county of Essex, (Mass.) in the lower part of New Hampshire, and Maine ; it was also great in Rhode Island and Connecticut. In most parts of the country where the darkness prevailed, it was so great, that persons were unable to read common print, determine the time of day by their 18* 210 clocks or watches, dine, or manage their domestic business, with- out additional light ; ' candles were lighted up in their houses ; the birds having sung their evening songs, disappeared and be- came silent ; the fowls retired to roost ; the cocks were crowing all around as at break of day ; objects could be distinguished but a very little distance ; and everything bore the appearance and gloom of night.' " The following is extracted from the account given by Dr. Tenny, in a letter to the Massachusetts Hist. Society, dated Dec, 1785. " Although the uncommon darkness Avhich attract- ed the attention of all ranks of people in this part of the country on the 19th of May, 1780, was a phe- nomenon which several gentlemen of considerable literary ability have endeavored to solve, yet I be- lieve you will agree with me, that no satisfactory solution has yet appeared." " You will readily recollect that, previously to the commence- ment of the darkness, the sky was overcast with the common kind of clouds, from which there was, in some places, a light sprinkling of rain. Between these and the earth there inter- vened another stratum, to appearance, of very great thickness. As this stratum advanced, the darkness commenced and increas- ed with its progress, till it came to its height ; which did not take place till the hemisphere was a second time overspread. The uncommon thickness of this second stratum was probably occasioned by two strong currents of wind from the southward and westward, condensing the vapours and drawing them in a north-easterly direction. I remember this observation was made by an anonymous writer in one of the public papers soon after the event. As I set out on the next day, from my father's, at Rowley, to join my regiment in New Jersey, I had an opportunity to inform myself what were the appearances in different parts of the country between here and Pennsylvania. The result of my en- quiries, on that journey, and after my return, was that the dark- ness was most gross in the county of Essex, the lower part of the State of New Hampshire, and the old Province of Maine. In Rhode-Island and Connecticut it was not so great, and still legs in New York. In New Jersey, the second stratum of clouds was observed, but not of any great thickness ; nor was the darkness very uncommon. In the lower part of Pennsylva- 211 nia, if my recollection does not fail me, no extraordinary appear- ance was noticed. Through this whole extent the lower strat- um had an uncommon brassy hue, while the earth and trees were adorned with so enchanting a verdure as could not escape notice, were amidst the unusual gloom that surrounded the spec- tator. This gradual increase of the darkness from southwest to northeast, which was nearly the course of the clouds, affords a pretty good argument in favor of the supposition that they were condensed by two strong currents of wind blowing in different directions. To these two strata of clouds we may, without hes- itation, impute the extraordinary darkness of the day." " The darkness of the following evening," says one account, " was probably as gross as has ever been observed, since the Almighty first gave birth to light. It wanted palpability, to render it as extra- ordinary as that which overspread the land of Egypt in the time of Moses. ... A sheet of white paper held within a few inches of the eyes was equally in- visible with the blackest velvet." "At this time," says Dr. Dwight, "the Legislature of Con- necticut was in session in Hartford. A very general opinion prevailed, that the day of judgment was at hand. The house of Representatives, being unable to transact any business, adjourn- ed. A proposal to adjourn the Council was under consideration. When the opinion of Col. Davenport was asked, he answered, ' I am against an adjournment. The day of judgment is ei- ther approaching, or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for an adjournment ; if it is, I choose to be found doing my duty I wish, therefore, that candles may be brought." 212 The Embarkation for New Orleans. THE MINISTRY SUSTAINED. Soon after the Revolutionary War, many com- panies of emigrants from the northern Atlantic states located themselves on the banks of the Ohio and its branches. Emigrants who go west at the present time, know but little of the hardships and privations endured by the pioneer settlers. Trackless wilder- nesses, and swamps, had to be passed, streams had to be forded by swimming or otherwise, and in ad- dition to this, savages lurked about their encamp- ments ready to fall upon the weak and defenceless. A company of substantial and enterprising emi- grants after enduring many hardships and privations in treading through the wilderness, located themselves on a fertile spot on the banks of the Ohio. By their diligence in the cultivation of their land, the wilder- ness began to bud and blossom as the rose. It was, however, different with their children, who they found growing up under the bad influences to which they 213 were oftentimes subjected. At this period, the prin- cipal visitors to the settlement were boatmen, and the officers and soldiers who were connected with the military posts established in this section of the country. Intemperance, profanity, with a contempt for religion and morality, prevailed at this time to a great extent among them. Having no house of worship in which to assemble on the Lord's day, many of the younger class spent their time in hunting and fishing, or wasted their precions hours in wandering about in the woods and fields. To prevent these growing evils, it seem- ed necessary to the fathers of the colony to establish the institutions of intelligence, morality and religion among the rising generation. The great difficulty seemed to be, how to obtain the means to erect the church and school house, to sustain a minister &c. As they had but little or no money to procure the materials ne- cessary to finish a church, sustain the minister, &c, a plan was adopted to load an ark, or keel-boat, with their products, such as grain, flour, salted meats, &c, to take to New Orleans, a distance of about fifteen hundred miles. In order to furnish a sufficient cargo to load the boat, both young and old exerted themselves. Even the little children were impressed with the public spirit which prevailed, and each brought a little store of berries and nuts with which the wilderness abounded. At length the day to commence the voyage arrived. The Pres- byterian elder, one of the prominent settlers, volunteered his ser- vice as Captain and steersman. All the inhabitants of the settle- ment assembled on the banks of the river, and amid the prayers and tears of the congregation, the elder and his companions em- barked on an enterprise which would take them some three or four months to accomplish After waiting with some anxie- ty for a long time, as the Mississippi was at this time traversed by robbers and other desperate characters, the elder and his com- panions arrived to the great joy of the settlers. The voyage had proved a great success. The means to erect a school, and church, and to sustain a permanent ministry were secured Like the Father of his country, the elder refused any compensation for his valuable services It was a sufficient reward to know that he had materially contributed to the advancement of the great cause of religion and morality, and to the intelligence, pros- perity and well being of those with whom he was connected. 2 1 Earthquake at New Madrid, Mo., 1811. GREAT EARTHQUAKE AT THE WEST, 1811-12. The great earthquake of 1811, which shook the Mississippi valley to its center, was the most violent of which we have any record in the United States. It vibrated along the courses of rivers and villages at the west, and passing the Alleghany mountains, died away along the shores of the Atlantic ocean. The town of New Madrid, in the southern part of Missouri, and the settlement of New Prairie, about thirty miles below it, appeared to be near the centre of the most violent shocks. "The first occurred in the night of 15th Dec, 1811, and they were repeated at intervals for two or three months, being felt from Pittsburgh to New Orleans. By them the Little Prairie settlement, thirty miles below this place, was entirely broken 215 up, and Great Prairie nearly ruined. The grave- yard at New Madrid, with its sleeping tenants, was precipitated into the river, and the town dwindled into insignificance and decay. Thousands of acres in this section of country sunk, and multitudes of ponds and lakes were created in their places. * The earth burst in what are called sand blows. Earth, sand, coal, and water, were thrown up to great heights in the air.' The Mississippi was dammed up and flowed backward ; birds descended from the air, and took refuge in the bosoms of people that were passing. The whole country was inundated. A great number of boats that were passing on the river were sunk, and whole crews perished ; one or two that were fastened to islands, went down with them. The country being but sparsely settled, and the buildings mostly logs, the loss of life was less than it otherwise would have been. Col. John Shaw gives these reminiscences of this event." " While lodging about thirty miles north of New Madrid, on the 14th of December, 1811, about two o'clock in the morning, occurred a heavy shock of an earthquake. The house where I was stopping, was partly of wood and partly of brick structure ; the brick portion all fell, but I and the family all fortunately escaped unhurt. At another shock, about two o'clock in the morning of the 7th of Feb- ruary, 1812, I was in New Madrid, when nearly two thousand people, of all ages, fled in terror from their falling dwellings, in that place and the surrounding couutry, and directed their course about thirty miles north, to Tywappety Hill, on the western bank of the Mississippi, about seven miles back from the river. This was the first high ground above New Madrid, and here the fugitives formed an encamp- ment. It was proposed that all should kneel, and engage in supplicating God's mercy, and all simul- 216 taneously, Catholics and Protestants, knelt, and of- fered solemn prayer to their Creator. In abandoning their homes, on this emergency, the people only stopped long enough to get their teams, and hurry in their families and some provis- ions. It was a matter of doubt among them, wheth- er water or fire would be most likely to burst forth, and cover all the country. The timber land around New Madrid sunk five or six feet, so that the lakes and lagoons, which seemed to have their beds push- ed up, discharged their waters over the sunken lands. Through the fissures caused by the earthquake, were forced up vast quantities of a hard, jet black sub- stance, which appeared very smooth, as though worn by friction. It seemed a very different sub- stance from either anthracite or bituminous coal. This hegira, with all its attendant appalling cir- cumstances, was a most heart-rending scene, and had the effect to constrain the most wicked and profane, earnestly to plead to God in prayer for mercy. In less than three months, most of these people return- ed to their homes, and though the earthquakes con- tinued occasionally, with less destructive effects, they became so accustomed to the recurring vibra- tions, that they paid little or no regard to them, not even interrupting or checking their dances, frolics, and vices. "The earthquake gave Tecumseh, the Shawnee chieftain, the reputation of a prophet among the In- dians of Alabama. A few months previous to this event, he was on his mission to the southern Indians, to unite all the tribes of the south with those of the north, in his grand scheme of exterminating the whole white race from the wide extent of the Mis- sissippi valley — from the lakes of the north to the Gulf of Mexico. Drake, in his memoir of Tecum- seh, gives this anecdote : 217 11 On his arrival from Florida, Tecumseh went among the Creeks in Alabama, urging them to unite with the Seminoles. Arriving at Tuqkhabatchee, a Creek town on the Tallapoosa river, he made his way to the lodge of the chief, called the Big "Warrior. He explained his object, delivered his war talk, pre- sented a bundle of sticks, gave a piece of wampum and a hatch- et ; all which the Big Warrior took. When Tecumseh, reading the intentions and spirit of the Big "Warrior, looked him in the eye, and pointing his finger toward his face, said: 'Your blood is white ; you have taken my talk, and the sticks, and the wam- pum, and the hatchet, but you do not mean to fight; I know the reason ; you do not believe the Great Spirit has sent me ; you shall know ; I leave Tuckhabatchee directly, and shall go straight to Detroit ; when I arrive there, I will stamp on the ground with my foot, and shake down every house in Tuckhabatchee.' So saying, he turned and left the Big "Warrior in utter amazement, at both his manner and his threat, and pursued his journey. The Indians were struck no less with his conduct than was the Big "Warrior, and began to dread the arrival of the day when the threatened calamity would befal them. They met often and talked over this matter, and counted the days carefully, to know the time when Tecumseh would reach Detroit. The morning they had fixed upon, as the period of his arrival, at last came. A mighty rumbling was heard, — the Indians all ran out of their houses, — the earth began to shake ; when, at last, sure enough, every house in Tuckhabatchee was shaken down! The excla- mation was in every mouth, 'Tecumseh has got to Detroit!' The effect was electrical. The message he had delivered to the Big Warrior was believed, and many of the Indians took their rifles and prepared for the war. The reader will not be surpri- sed to learn that an earthquake had produced all this ; but he will be, doubtless, that it should happen on the very day on which Tecumseh arrived at Detroit ; and, in exact fulfillment of his threat. It was the famous earthquake of New Madrid." 19 218 liiiiiiiiiiiiiii* VISIT OF LAFAYETTE. Gen. Lafayette, the bosom friend and compan- ion in arms of Washington in the Revolutionary war, after an absence of forty years, again visited our country, the scene of his youthful toils and suf- ferings. After his purpose became known, the Pres- ident of the United States, in a letter, gave him a cordial invitation to come, and placed a frigate at his disposal, at any time when he should be ready to embark. Respectfully declining the offer of a public vessel, he took passage in the Cadmus, an American merchantman, accompanied only by his son, George Washington, and his Secretary, Mr. Le- vasseur. He sailed from Havre, July 12th, and ar- rived at New York Aug. 15th, 1824. Thousands assembled to meet the "Nation's Guest," who manifested their joy at beholding him by shouts, acclamations and tears. He rode, uncov- ered, from the battery to the City Hall, where he 219 was welcomed by an address from the Mayor. He then met with a few gray-headed veterans of the revolution, his old companions in arms. As he pass- ed through the several States, he was every where received with the warmest enthusiasm, with military displays, and with many tokens of " Welcome," and gratitude and affection. From New York, Lafayette proceeded by land to Boston, passing through New Haven and Provi- dence. From Boston he proceeded to Portsmouth, N. H., from whence he returned to Boston and New York, passing through Worcester, Hartford, and Middletown. From New York he went up the Hudson, visiting Albany, and other places on the river. Returning to New York, he proceeded on to Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington. He was received by the House of Representatives and the Senate of the United States, who voted him $200,000 and a township of land in Florida, for the important services rendered by him during the Revolutionary war. Gen. Lafayette commenced his tour from Wash- ington through the southern and western states, and returned to Albany by the way of Buffalo and the Erie canal. From Albany, he went through Spring- field to Boston, where he arrived on June 15th, and was received by the Legislature of Massachusetts, then in session. On the 17th, the corner-stone of the Bunker Hill monument was laid, with imposing ceremonies. Fifty years had elapsed since the first battle of the Revolution. The magnitude and per- fection of the arrangements, the vast numbers, the presence of Lafayette, with many of his companions in arms, the eloquence of Webster, gave peculiar grandeur and sublimity to the scene. Having, by rapid journeyings, visited New Hamp- shire, Maine, and Vermont, he returned to New York 220 in time to participate in the fiftieth anniversary of American Independence. He took his final leave of New York July 14th, visited the ex-Presidents in Virginia, and having at Washington received from the President, John Qnincy Adams, a national fare- well and benediction, he embarked, September 8th, 1825, onboard the frigate Brandy wine, sailed down the Potomac, and from the capes of Virginia, bade a final adieu to the shores of America, followed with the benediction of twelve millions of grateful hearts. The orator at the Bunker Hill celebration, after an eloquent eulogy to names of the honored dead, and of congratulation to the surviving heroes of the Revolution, turning to Lafayette, "Sir," said he, " we are assembled to commemorate the establish- ment of the great principles of liberty, and to do hon- or to the distinguished dead. The occasion is too se- vere for eulogy to the living ; but your interesting relation to this country, the peculiar circumstances which surround you and surround us, call on me to express the happiness which we derive from your presence and aid in this solemn commemoration. "Fortunate, fortunate man! with what measure of devotion will you not thank God, for the circum- stances of your extraordinary life ! You are con- nected with both hemispheres, and with two gene- rations. Heaven saw fit to ordain, that the electric spark of liberty should be conducted, through you, from the new world to the old ; and we, who are now here to perform this duty of patriotism, have all of us long ago received it in charge from our fathers, to cherish your name and your virtues. You now behold the field, the renown of which reached you in the heart of France, and caused a thrill in your ardent bosom. You see the lines of the little redoubt, thrown up by the incredible diligence of Prescott, defended, to the last extremity, by his lion- 221 hearted valor, and within which the corner-stone of our monument has now taken its position. You see where Warren fell, and where Parker, Gardner, M'Cleary, Moore, and other early patriots, fell with him. Those who survived that day, and whose lives have been prolonged to the present hour, are now around you. Some of them you have known in the trying scenes of war. Behold ! they now stretch forth their feeble arms to embrace you. Be- hold! they raise their trembling voices to invoke the blessing of God on you and yours for ever ! " Sir, you have assisted us in laying the founda- tion of this edifice. • You have heard us rehearse, with our feeble commendation, the names of depart- ed patriots. Sir, monuments and eulogy belong to the dead. We give them, this day, to Warren and his associates. On other occasions, they have been given to your more immediate companions-in-arms — to Washington, to Greene, to Gates, to Sullivan, and to Lincoln. Sir, we have become reluctant to grant these, our highest and last honors, further. We would gladly hold them yet back from the little remnant of that immortal band. Serus in cwlitm redeas. Illustrious as are your merits, yet far, oh ! very far distant, be the day when any inscription shall bear your name, or any tongue pronounce its eulogy." 19* 222 View of Bunker Hill Monument, from Copp's Hill, Boston. BUNKER HILL. Bunker Hill, so celebrated in American history, is in Charlestown, on the north side of Charles' river, opposite Boston. The monument stands in the cen- ter of a square, on the summit of a hill, on the spot where a redoubt, or breast-work, was thrown up on the 17th of June, 1775, in order to compel the Brit- ish troops to evacuate Boston. On the night of the 16th of June, 1775, a detach- ment was ordered to throw up a breast-work on Bunker's Hill, near Charlestown. By some mistake, they entrenched on Breed's Hlil, nearer to Boston, and before daylight they had nearly completed a strong redoubt, without being discovered by the enemy. As soon as they were discovered, the Brit- ish commander ordered a severe cannonade from the 223 ships in the river, upon the American works. This proving of no avail, a body of about 3,000 men, un- der Gen. Howe, landed, under protection of the shipping, and advanced to attack the works. The British troops were permitted, by the Americans, to approach within 10 or 12 rods, and then discharg- ed such a shower of musket shot upon them, that they were obliged to fall back in disorder. Being rallied, they advanced a second time ; a second lire did such execution, that the British retreated to the river, leaving the field strewed with the dead and wounded. After much difficulty, the officers suc- ceeded in bringing their men to charge the entrench- ments with fixed bayonets, and the Americans, who had no bayonets, and having expended their ammu- nition, were forced to abandon their works. This first battle of the Revolution continued about two hours. The British loss, in killed and wounded, was nearly 1,100 ; while that of the Americans was 450; among their killed was Gen. Warren, distinguished for his bravery and patriotism. The corner-stone of the monument was laid June 17th, 1825, by Lafayette, when an address was de- livered by Daniel Webster. The monument is con- structed of hewn granite, in obelisk from 30 feet square at the base and 15 at the top, and 221 feet high. On the anniversary of June, 1843, the com- pletion of the monument was celebrated ; the Hon. Daniel Webster addressed an immense audience, among whom were the President of the United States and the Heads of Departments. When the Hungarian patriot, Louis Kossuth, was in our country, the authorities of Charlestown gave him a public reception in Monument Square. The following is his address on that occasion : " My voice shrinks from the task to mingle with the awful pathos of that majestic orator ! Silent 224 like the grave, and yet melodious, like the song of immortality upon the lips of a cherubim : — a sense- less, cold granite, and yet warm with inspiration, like a patriot's heart ; — immovable like the past, and yet stirring like the future, which never stops; — it looks like a prophet, and speaks like an oracle. And thus it speaks : "'The day I commemorate is the rod with which the hand of the Lord has opened the well of liberty. Its waters will flow. Every new drop of martyr blood will increase the tide. Despots may dam its flood, but never stop it. The higher its dam, the higher the tide. It will overflow or break through. Bow, and adore, and hope !*■ " Such are the words that come to my ears ; and I bow, — I adore, — I hope ! In bowing, my eyes meet the soil of Bunker Hill, — that awful opening scene of the eventful drama, to which Lexington and Concord had been the preface. The spirits of the past rise before my eyes All the spirits of that most eventful victory, under the name of defeat, — I see them all. The eyes of my soul are familiar with the spirits of the martyrs of liberty. But those I see around me have no sad, ghastly look ; they bear no gushing wounds crying for revenge to the Almighty God ; the smile of eternal bliss is playing around their lips, and, though dwellers of heaven, they like to visit the place where their blood was spilt. It was not spilt in vain. Their father- land is free; and there is a joy in that thought, ad- ding ever a new charm even to the happiness of blessed souls. As the fabulous divinities of ancient Greece like to rest from the charms of heaven on Mount Olympus, so must the spirit of Warren like to rest on the top of this monument here. " Martyrs of my country I how long will it yet be till a like joy will thrill through your departed souls ? When will the 225 smile of that joy play around your lips ? How long will yet the gush of your wounds cry for revenge— your fatherland still bleeding, down-trodden, oppressed? Almighty Father of man- kind, let the day of thy mercy be not too far!" The following hymn, written by John Pierpont, was sung on laying the corner-stone of the Bunker Hill monument. 0, is not'this a holy spot ? 'Tis the high place of freedom's birth ! God of our fathers ! is it not The holiest spot of all the "earth? Quench'd is thy flame on Horeb's side ; The robber roams o'er Sinai now ; And those old men, thy seers, abide No more on Zion's mournful brow. But on this hill thou, Lord, hast dwelt, Since round its head the war-cloud curl'd, And wrapp'd our fathers, where they knelt In prayer and battle for a world. Here sleeps their dust: 'tis holy ground: And we, the children of the brave, From" the four winds are gather'd round, To lay our offering on their grave. Free as the'winds around us blow, Free as the waves below us spread, We rear a pile, that long shall throw Its shadow on their sacred bed. But on their deeds no shade shall fall, "While o'er their couch thy sun shall flame : Thine ear was bow'd to hear their call, And thy right hand shall guard their fame. 226 ^^^^^^y^^^^^ : Franklin Oak, South Windsor, Conn. During the Revolutionary war, many prisoners were sent to South Windsor, six miles above Hart- ford, Conn., for safe keeping. Among these was William Franklin, the Royal Governor of New Jer- sey. Although a prisoner, he was well provided with servants, and was indulged with many privi- leges, having two young men of the place as a guard. He had a favorite place of resort, about 100 rods back from the main street, by a spring of spark- ling water, near an oak tree, which has since been called by his name. The following inscription was made by him on this oak, which remained legible many years after he left the town. To The Woodman. "Woodman ! stay your hand ! Let not the ax's stroke Deprive this lovely land, Of this monumental oak! Signed, William Franklin. 227 The governor's request has thus far been granted. Many years afterwards, Gen. G. P. Morris, co-editor of the " Home Journal," penned the following touch- ing and beautiful lines, embodying a similar senti- ment. Woodman Spaee that Tree. Woodman, spare that tree ! Touch not a single bough ! In youth it shelter'd me, And I'll protect it now. 'Twas my forefather's hand That placed it near his cot ; There, woodman, let it stand, Thy ax shall harm it not ! That old familiar tree, Whose glory and renown Are spread o'er land and sea, And would'st thou hew it down ? Woodman, forbear thy stroke ! Cut not its earth-bound ties ; spare that aged oak, Now towering to the skies I When but an idle boy I sought its grateful shade ; In all their gushing joy Here too my sisters play'd. My mother kiss'd me here ; My father pressed my hand — Forgive this foolish tear, But let that old oak stand I My heart-strings round thee cling, Close as thy bark, old friend! Here shall the wild-bird sing, And still thy branches bend. Old tree ! the storm still brave ! And, woodman, leave the spot; While I've a hand to save, Thy ax shall harm it not ! 228 Roanoke, the seat of John Randolph. [Roanoke, the place of the residence of John Randolph, is in the southern part of Charlotte Co. Va., near the Staunton river. The*buildings are in a dense forest. The two houses in front were occupied by Mr. Randolph. The one on the right, which was clapboarded, was his summer residence, andjwhere he kept his large library : the building on the left, a log structure, was his res- idence in the winter, and the one in which he usually took his meals. His servants occupied the small buildings in the rear.] JOHN RANDOLPH OF ROANOKE. John Randolph, who figured so larely in our National affairs more than half a century since, was born June 2d, 17*73, at Cawson's, Prince George Co., the family seat of his mother. He was descended, in the seventh generation, from Pocahontas, the In- dian Princess. His mother was an exemplary mem- ber of the Episcopal Church, and a lady of spright- liness and talent. She early taught her son on her bended knees the prayers and collects used in the Episcopal form of worship, which were never effaced 229 from his memory. " Years," said he, " have since passed away : I have been a professed skeptic, a pro- fessed scoffer, glorying in my infidelity, and vain of the ingenuity with which I could defend it. ... I am now conscious that the lessons above mentioned, taught me by my dear and revered mother, are of more value than all I have learned from my precep- tors and compeers." Randolph, in the course of his early education, passed a short time at three Colleges: Princeton, Columbia, and William and Mary ; but he used to say, that he acquired all his knowledge from his Li- brary at Roanoke, and by intercourse with the world. Mr. Randolph's political course commenced in 1799, when he presented himself as a candidate for Con- gress. His first speech was one in opposition to one of Patrick Henry, the celebrated orator, — who, in a masterly manner, advocated the duty of sustaining the National government. When Mr. Henry left the stand, Randolph, then about 26 years of age, rose in reply. " His singular person," says one, " his novel, shrill, vibrating intonations ; his solemn, slow, marching and swelling periods ; his caustic crimina- tion of the prevailing political party ; his cutting satire, soon inclined all to listen to the strange ora- tor, while he replied at length to the sentiments of their old favorite. When he had concluded, loud huzzas rang through the welkin." Though a disciple of the Jeffersonian school, he opposed the embargo and non-intercourse acts, and the gun-boat system of Mr. Jefferson. In Madison's administration, he opposed the war with Great Britain, and in the administration of Monroe, he opposed the internal improvement sys- tem of the general government. During the admin- istration ofJ. Q. Adams, Mr. Randolph was elected to the U. S. Senate, where he was arrayed in oppo- 20 230 sition to the friends of the President. It was then that he used those violent remarks which occasioned the duel between himself and Mr. Clay. The par- ties having met, on the word being given, Mr. Clay fired without effect ; Mr. Randolph discharged his pistol in the air. Both parties collected on this oc- casion were deeply affected by this magnanimity, and none more so than was Mr. Clay. Early in the administration of President Jackson, he was appointed a Minister-plenipotentiary to Rus- sia. He suddenly returned from his mission, came into Charlotte, and raised his standard in opposition to the executive. Death however, terminated his labors. He died at Philadelphia, May 24, 1833, whither he had gone to embark for his health. Mr. Randolph was quite eccentric in his personal appearance, and in his habits of living in solitude in a forest-like spot, attended by his faithful servants. His attachments and hatreds were alike strong. His affection for his servants was great ; and his treat- ment, kind and generous, excited that gratitude which is a marked feature in the African race. He was charitable to the poor in his neighborhood, and beloved by them. He was wealthy, having 318 slaves, and 180 horses. In the former part of his life, Mr. Randolph be- came, it is supposed, by the perusal of the numerous skeptical publications of the day, rather of an infidel in sentiment. As he advanced to maturer years, these opinions were discarded, and it is believed by many that he became a genuine convert to the Christ- ian religion. About the year 1800, after a season of unusual gloom and depression, he experienced a remarkable change in his feelings, cordially embra- cing the evangelical doctrines, in his heart and life. " Mr. Randolph," says one, " had a great venera- tion for religion, and a most intimate knowledge of 231 the Bible. His strongest illustrations were often from Sacred writ, and he could converse upon it in the most interesting manner. He was peculiarly a being of impulse, often reminding one, by his eccen- tricities, of the saying of Cicero, ' that there was but a hair's-breadth between a great genius and a mad- man.' When excited, he sometimes, inadvertently, used the name of the Almighty irreverently ; upon Avhich, instantly checking his impetuosity, he would, with deep humility, asking forgiveness exclaim, "God forgive." Towards the latter part of his life, he was accustomed to call his servants together on Sun- days, when he would preach to them with the most surpassing eloquence." Like Washington, the Father of his country, Mr. Randolph, for a long period before his death, be- came impressed with the evil of slavery in this country, and took measures, so far as he was person- ally concerned, to abolish it. In 1 8 1 9, Mr. R. made a will to the following effect, and afterwards estab- lished it in several forms : — "I give to my slaves their freedom, to which my conscience tells me they are entitled. It has a long time been a matter of deep regret to me, that the circumstances under which I inher- ited them, and the obstacles thrown in the way by the laws of the land, have prevented my emancipating them in my lifetime, which it is my full intention to do, in case I can accomplish it." In the heat of political debate, and at other times, Mr. Randolph sometimes gave way to words and feelings inconsistent with the spirit of Christianity. To his sensitive nature, it Avas the remembrance of this, probably, that embittered his last moments. As he lay perfectly quiet, with his eyes closed, he suddenly roused up and exclaimed, " Remorse, re- morse /" It was thrice repeated — the last time, at the top of his voice, with great agitation. He cried out, " Get a Dictionary, and let me see the word." 232 " There is none in the room, Sir." " Write it down, then — let me see the word." The Doctor picked up one of his cards, " Randolph of Roanoke." — Shall I write it on this card ?" " Yes, nothing more proper." The word, remorse, was then written in pencil. He took the card, and fastened his eyes on it with great intensity. He then exclaimed, "Write it on the back ;" — it was so done and handed him again. He was extremely agitated. Remorse! you have no idea what it is : — it has contributed to bring me to my present situation — but I have looked to the Lord Jesus Christ, and hope I have obtained pardon." Having called witnesses around his dying bed, he roused his expiring energies to this last effort. Point- ing, with his long index finger towards them, he said, "I confirm all the directions in my Will re- specting my slaves, and direct them to be enforced, particularly in regard to a provision for their sup- port." And then, raising his arm, he brought down his hand on the shoulder of his favorite servant, John, and added these words, — " especially for this man." Having disposed of this subject, so deeply impressed upon him, his powerful mind gave way, and began to wander amid scenes and friends that he had left behind, and soon expired " His remains," says his biographer, " were taken to Vir- ginia, and buried at Roanoke, not far from the man- sion in which he lived, and in the midst of that "boundless contiguity of shade," where he spent so many hours of anguish and of solitude. He sleeps quietly now ; the squirrel may gambol in the boughs above, the partridge may whistle in the long grass that waves over that solitary grave, and none shall disturb or make afraid." 0;">3 Kossuth addressing the people, 18o.i. KOSSUTH, THE HUNGARIAN GOVERNOR. Louis Kossuth was born in the northern part of Hungary, April 27th, 1806. His family was ancient and honorable, but impoverished. His father served in the Austrian army, against Napoleon. Kossuth, when just entering manhood, made his way to Pesth, the capitol, to study the legal profession. Here he made himself known by his liberal opinions, and the fervid eloquence with which he set forth and main- tained them. About this time, after an interval of thirteen years, the Hungarian diet assembled, and demanded certain reforms from the Austrian gov- ernment. In the political struggles that ensued, Kossuth made himself known, as a debater, and gradually rose to be the first leader among his coun- trymen. 20* 234 Kossuth undertook to publish a report of the de- bates and proceedings of the diet. The Austrian government forbade the printing of these reports. He, for a while, evaded the law, by having his sheet lithographed. The lithographic press was seized; he then circulated his journal by having each copy Written out by scribes. The government, at length, seized Kossuth himself, and confined him in the for- tress of Buda, in May, 1837, for three years. After his liberation, in 1840, Kossuth became the principal editor of the "Pesth Gazette." The French Revo- lution of 1848, produced great excitement through- out Europe, and in 1849, the people of Hungary, wearied with Austrian despotism, declared their in- dependence, and elected Kossuth as their governor. The Hungarians nobly sustained their cause for several months, till the advance of a large army of Russians, and the treason of Georgey, forced them to give up the contest. When all hope was lost, Kossuth, his wife, and children, and a few faithful followers, fled to Turkey. The Turkish Sultan re- fused to give up the fugitives to t^e demands of Austria, or Russia ; but, as a sort of compromise, agreed to keep them within his own territory for a year. At the end of this term, the United States government tendered Kossuth and his companions, a national vessel, to bring them to the United States. They embarked on board the Steam-frigate Missis- sippi, in Sept., 1851. Instead of proceeding directly to the United States, Kossuth and his friends visited England, where they were enthusiastically received, and their progress through that country was one continued triumph. Kossuth landed on Staten Island, N. Y., Dec. 5th, 1851. His journey through the greater part of the States, was like a continued ovation. The number of speeches, great and small, during his six months 235 lour through our country, has been reckoned up- wards of five hundred. He was welcomed by seve- ral of the State governments, by deputations from various classes and organizations, and many thou- sands of dollars were raised in aid of Hungary by voluntary contributions. His noble advocacy of the rights of the people and universal brotherhood, his unwearied labors to promote the welfare of his coun- try, and his devotion to the cause of human freedom in general, endeared him to the great majority of the people of the United States. The policy of our government forbade its giving material aid: but Kossuth received an expression of its warmest sym- pathies. One of the most remarkable political speeches of the age, was that given by Kossuth at Broadway Tabernacle, New York, by the request of a large number of ladies and gentlemen, to devise the means of sustaining the exiled family of Kossuth, consist- ing of his mother, his sisters, and their children. The following are some extracts from that speech : — " I certainly have an unwavering faith in the des- tinies of humanity ; and though the mournful exam- ple of so many fallen nations, instructs us that nei- ther the diffusion of knowledge, nor the progress of industry, neither prosperity, nor power, nay, not even freedom itself, can secure a future to nations, still I say there is one thing that can secure it ; there is one law, the obedience to which would prove a rock upon which the freedom and happiness of na- tions may rest secure to the end of their days. And that law, ladies and gentlemen, is the law proclaim- ed by our Savior ; that rock is the unperverted re- ligion of Christ I humbly claim your for- bearance ; I proclaim it in the name of the Almighty Lord, to hear from my lips a mournful truth. It may displease you ; it may offend ; but still, truth 236 is truth Let come what may, I say with Luther : God help me, I cannot say otherwise. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the law of our Savior, the re- ligion of Christ, can secure a happy future to na- tions. But alas ! there is yet no Christian people on earth, — not a single one among all. I have spoken the word. It is harsh, but true. Nearly two thou- sand years have passed since Christ proclaimed the eternal decree of God, to which the happiness of mankind is bound, and has sanctified it with his own blood, and still there is not one single nation on earth, which would have enacted into its law- book that eternal decree. Men believe in the mysteries of religion according to the creed of their church, they pray and give alms to the poor, and believe they are Christians. No I some few there may be, but their na- tion is not, — their country is not ; the era of Christianity has yet to come, and when it comes, then, only then, will be the fu- ture of nations sure. Far be it from me to misapprehend the immense benefit which the Christian religion, such as it already is, has operated in mankind's history But though the beneficial influence of Christianity, yet it is not to be disputed, that the law of Christ does yet nowhere rule the Christian world. .... Here every man is free to worship God as he chooses to do It is a fact which entitles to the hope that your nation will revive the law of Christ even on earth. However, the guarantee which your Constitution affords to religious lib- erty here, is precisely the infinite merit of the Christian religion ; it desires us to do good. The doctrine of Jesus Christ is sub- lime in its majestic simplicity, "Thou shalt love God above all, and love thy neighbor as thou lovest thyself." This sublime doctrine is the religion of love. It is the religion of charity Thou art oppressed, my fatherland! be- cause the principles of Christianity have not been executed in practice, . . . because the law of Christianity does not control the policy of nations Thou art fallen, my country, because Christianity has yet to come. ... Oh Charity ! thou fairest gift of heaven ! thou family link among nations ; thou rock of their security ; thou deliverer of the oppressed ; whence comes thy realm ? . . . . Which is the nation to achieve that triumph of Christianity by protecting justice out of charity? Which shall do it if not yours ? .... ye, ye missionaries, — re- mind those whom you leave, that the example of a nation exer- cising right and justice on earth by charity, would be the might- iest propagandism of Christian religion." 23' THE OLD OAKEN BUCKET. Samuel Woodworth, the author of " The Old Oaken Bucket" a piece so well known and admired, was born in Scituate, Mass., Jan. 13th, 1785. He was the son of a farmer of small means, and was una- ble to give his children anything more than a scanty tuition. At the age of fourteen, he attracted the notice of the minister of the parish, by some of his poetical attempts, and was taken by him under his own roof. An unsuccessful attempt was made to collect a subscription to send him to College, and he was therefore obliged to enter into some business in which he could obtain a maintenance. He chose that of a printer, and accordingly put himself as an apprentice in the office of the " Columbian Sentinel," in Boston. In 1806, he found employment, for a short time, in New Haven, Conn., as printer and editor. He afterwards went to Baltimore and New York. He died in 1842. 23S Mr. "Wood-worth was a writer for several public journals, besides serving as editor to a number of literary works. The short piece entitled the " Old Oaken Bucket," is the most esteemed. It is distin- guished for simplicity of thought and expression, and the musical sweetness of its numbers. It is inded a " life drawn picture," as most can testify, who have worked on a farm in the rural districts during the hot season of the year. The Old Oaken Bucket. How dear to this heart are the scenes of my childhoo d, When fond recollection presents them to view ! The orchard, the meadow, the deep-tangled wildwood, And every loved spot which my infancy knew ! The wide-speading pond, and the mill that stood by it, The bridge, and the rock where the cataract fell, The cot of my father, and the dairy-house nigh it, And e'en the rude bucket that hung in the well — The old oaken bucket, the iron-bound bucket, The moss-covered bucket which hung in the well. That moss-covered vessel I hail'd as a treasure, For often at noon, when returned from the field, I found it the source of an exqusite pleasure, The purest and sweetest that Nature can yield. How ardent I seized it, with hands that were glowing, And quick to the white-pebbled bottom it fell; Then soon with the emblem of truth overflowing, And dripping with coolness, it rose from the well — The old oaken bucket, the iron-bound bucket, The moss-cover'd bucket arose from the well. How sweet from the green mossy brim to receive it, A s poised on the curb it inclined to my lips ! Not a full blushing goblet could tempt me to leave it, The brightest that beauty or revelry sips. And now, far removed from the loved habitation, The tear of regret will intrusively swell, As fancy reverts to my father's plantation, And sighs for the bucket that hangs in the well — The old oaken bucket, the iron-bound bucket. The moss-cover'd bucket that hangs in the well ! 230 Children's Temperance Procession. TEMPERANCE REFORMATION. In the early settlement of our country, great care was taken to prevent the sale and use of intoxica- ting drinks, except in very small quantities, for medicinal and other purposes. In most places, for the first century after its settlement, the popula- tion of the country may be considered as temperate, and, of course, free- from the attending vices of drunkenness. But as the political importance of the country increased, commerce was much increased with older countries, the importation and use of ar- dent spirits was much extended. The military wars in which the Colonists were en- gaged, particularly that of the Revolution, however glorious in some respects, was disastrous to the mor- 240 als of the army. The spirit rations dealt out each day to every man, (as was the custom of the times,) brought many a patriot soldier to a drunkard's grave. From this period, intemperance, with all its deadly evils, marched through the length and breadth of the land, growing with the unparalleled increase of the population, and increased in the same ratio with the cheapness of intoxicating drinks. It is true that some religious and other societies, with some individuals, endeavored to make a stand against the growing evil. " Moral Societies" were formed to stop the excessive use of intoxicating liquors; afterwards, societies were formed to sup- press the drinking of ardent, or the stronger kinds of spirits, while wine, cordials, ale, General DANIEL MORGAN departed this life On July the 6th, 1802, In the 67th year of his age. Patriotism and valor were the prominent features of his character, And the honorable services he rendered to his country during the Revolutionary war, crowned him with Glory, and will remain in the Hearts of his Countrymen a Perpetual Monument to his Memory. 22 254 Burial of Mr. Owens at sea, between New\York and Liverpool. THE BURIAL AT SEA. The introduction of the following scene, though not properly belonging to this, or any other coun- try, it is hoped will be pardoned by the reader. It was witnessed by the authors of this work, while on board the Royal Mail Steamer, Asia, in 1833, on her voyage from New York to Liverpool. Similar scenes have, undoubtedly, been witnessed by others, while going to, or returning from, our American shores. Mr. Owens, our fellow-passenger, was a native of "Wales, and had, for several years, followed the business of a gardener, near Boston. His health failing, he embarked for his native country, and sunk rapidly, but had a strong desire to see his mother and sister before he died. His hopes were frustrated, and he expired Aug. 18th, after having accomplished two-thirds of the voyage across the Atlantic. His remains were " committed to the deep" early the next morning, in a heavy, rolling and foaming sea, during a driving storm of wind and rain. 255 The following lines, entitled " The Funeral at Sea," were written, many years since, by Henry J. Finn, a native of Vir- ginia, but for some time a resident of Boston: — Deep mists hung over the Mariner's grave When the holy funeral rite was read ; And every breath on the dark blue wave Seem'd hush'd, to hallow the friendless dead. And heavily heaved on the gloomy sea, The ship that shelter'd that homeless one — As though his funeral hour should be, When the waves were still, and the winds were gone. And there he lay, in his coarse, cold shroud — And strangers were round the coffinless : Not a kinsman was seen among that crowd, Not an eye to weep, nor a lip to bless. No sound from the church's passing-bell Was echoed along the pathless deep, The hearts that were far away, to tell Where the Mariner lies, in his lasting sleep. Not a whisper then linger'd upon the air — O'er his body, one moment, his messmates bent: But the plunging sound of the dead was there — And the ocean is now his monument 1 But many a sigh, and many a tear, Shall be breathed, and shed, in the hours to come — When the widow and the fatherless shall hear How he died, far, far from his happy home ! 256 Daniel Webster's residence, Harshfield, Mass. DANIEL WEBSTER, THE ORATOR. Daniel Webster, the orator from Massachusetts, sometimes called the " Expounder of the Constitu- tion," is generally considered the first Congressional orator of the present century. He was born at Salisbury, New Hampshire, Jan. 1 8th, 1782. He was educated at Dartmouth College, N. H., and after having been a member of Congress from his native State, he removed to Boston, and was elected Sena- tor from Massachusetts, and afterwards became Sec- retary of State. While a member of Congress, in 1830, he made what is generally called his master speech, in reply to Col. Hayne, of South Carolina. Col. H. had commented, with some severity, upon the political course of the New England States, and advanced what are called " nullification doctrines." Mr. W. was called upon to vindicate New England, and point out the fallacies of nullification, before 257 one of the greatest audiences which ever assembled to hear a Congressional debate. It was in the course of this speech he said : — " Mr. President, I shall enter on no encomium upon Massa- chusetts, — she needs none. There she is, — behold her and judge for yourselves. There is her history, — the world knows it by heart. The past, at least, is secure. There is Boston, and Concord, and Lexington, and Bunker Hill ; and there they will remain forever. The bones of her sons, fallen in the great struggle for independence, now lie mingled with the soil of ev- ery State, from New England to Georgia ; and there they will lie forever. And, sir, where American liberty raised its first voice, and where its youth was nurtured and sustained, there it still lives, in the strength of its manhood, and full of its ori- ginal spirit. If discord and disunion shall wound it, — if party strife and blind ambition shall hawk at and tear it ; if folly and madness, if uneasiness, under salutary and necessary restraint, shall succeed to separate it from that Union by which alone its existence is made sure, it will stand, in the end, by the side of that cradle in which its infancy was rocked ; it will stretch forth its arm, with whatever of vigor it may still retain, over the friends who gather round it ; and it will fall at last, if fall it must, amidst the proudest monuments of its own glory, and on the very spot of its origin." While showing forth New England's sufferings and triumphs in the Revolutionary struggle, there was scarcely a dry eye in the Senate. A group of Massachusetts men were at this time clustered to- gether in the gallery, and when the orator, conclu- ding his encomium of the land of their birth, turned, intentionally or otherwise, his burning eye full upon them, "they shed tears like girls." Meeting Mr. ILiyne upon every issue with powerful arguments, he finally came to his remarks upon disunion. Ele- vated to the highest pitch of moral grandeur, his chest heaving with the emotions of his soul, with a voice that penetrated every recess or corner of the Senate, — even the ante-rooms and stairways, as he pronounced, in deepest tones of pathos, these words of solemn significance : — 258 "I profess, sir, in my career hitherto,, to have kept steadily in view the prosperity and honor of the whole country, and the preservation of our federal union. It is to that union we owe our safety at home, and our consideration and dignity abroad. It is to that union that we are chietiy indebted for whatever makes us most proud of our country. That union we reached only by the discipline of our virtues, in the severe school of ad- versity. It had its origin in the necessities of disordered finance, prostrate commerce, and ruined credit. Under its benign influ- ences, these great interests immediately awoke, as from the dead, and sprang forth with newness of life. Every year of its duration has teemed with fresh proof of its utility and its bles- sings ; and although our territory has stretched out wider and wider, and our population spread further and further, they have not outrun its protection, or its benefits. It has been to us all a copious fountain of national, social, and personal happiness. I have not allowed myself, sir, to look beyond the union, to see what might lie hidden in the dark recess behind. I have not coolly weighed the chances of preserving liberty, when the bonds that unite us together shall be broken asunder. I have not accustomed myself to hang over the precipice of disunion, to see whether, with my short sight, I can fathom the depth of the abyss below : nor could I regard him as a safe counselor in the affairs of this government, whose thoughts should be mainly bent on considering, not how the union should be best preserved, but how tolerable might be the condition of the people when it shall be broken up and destroyed. "While the union lasts, we have high, exciting, gratifying prospects spread out before us, for us and our children. Beyond that I seek not to penetrate the veil. God grant that, in my day, at least, that curtain may not rise. God grant that on my vision never may be opened what lies behind. When my eyes shall be turned to behold, for the last time, the sun in heaven, may I not see him shining on the broken and dishonored frag- ments of a once glorious union ; on States dissevered, discord- ant, belligerent ; on a land rent with civil feuds, or drenched, it may be, in fraternal blood ! Let their last feeble and lingering glance rather behold the gorgeous ensign of the republic, now known aud honored throughout the earth, still full high advan- ced, its arms and trophies streaming in their original luster, not a stripe erased or polluted, nor a single star obscured, — bearing for its motto no such miserable interrogatory as, What is all this worth ? Nor those other words of delusion and folly — Liberty first, and Union afterward — but everywhere, spread all over in characters of living light, blazing on all its ample folds, as they 259 float over the sea and over the land, and in every wind under the whole he&vens, that other sentiment dear to every true American heart — Liberty and Union now and fovever, one and insep- arable I" Such was the close of what is, doubtless, Web- ster's master-piece. Its delivery produced an effect upon his listeners never surpassed in the history of parliamentary debate. It is said, when u the speech was over, the tones of the orator still lingered upon the ear, and the audience, unconscious of the close, retained their positions. The agitated countenance, the heaving breast, the suffused eye, attested the continued influence of the spell upon them. Hands that, in the excitement of the moment, had sought each other, still remained closed in an unconscious grasp. Eye still turned to eye to receive and repay mutual sympathy, and seemed forgetful of all but the orator's presence and words." Speaking of his feelings toward his antagonist during the delivery of this splendid oration, Web- ster himself said: " I felt as if everything I had ever seen, or read, or heard, was floating before me in one grand panorama, and I had little else to do than to reach up and cull a thunderbolt and hurlit at him." Mr. Webster died at Marshfield, Mass., in 1852, and was buried in the old Winslow burying-ground, north-west of his house, one of the most ancient in New England. The following is the inscription on his monument, written by himself: — DANIEL WEBSTER; Born January 18, 1782. Died October 24, 1852. " Lord I believe, help thou mine unbelief." Philosophical argument, especially that drawn from the vastness of the Universe, in comparison with the apparent insignificance of this globe, has sometimps shaken my reason for the faith which is in me, but my heart has always assured and re-assured me, that the Gospel of Jesus Christ must be a Divine Reality. The Sermon on the Mount can- not be a merely human production. This belief enters into the very depth of my conscience. The whole history of man proves it. DANIEL WEBSTER. 260 JV. W. View of Harper's Ferry. JOHN BROWN, THE ABOLITIONIST. The attempt of John Brown to free the slaves in Virginia, which has been commonly termed the " raid of John Brown" took place at Harper's Fer- ry, Oct.* 16, 1859. This attempt, with the great and unexpected events which have since followed, will make his name memorable in our country's history, in all succeeding time. John Brown was a native of New England, and emigrated, with his seven sons, to Kansas, as agri- culturalists, and was peaceable and quiet in his dis- position. The pro-slavery party soon commenced a series of outrages on the anti-slavery emigrants, and the " Border Ruffian Warfare" soon followed. John Brown and his sons were engaged on the anti-slavery side. Two of his sons lost their wives in the con- test, and the remainder of the family, from that 261 time, appear to have been actuated by an intense hatred against slavery and its institutions. Brown visited various parts of the country to organize plans for the escape of fugitive slaves. In May, 1858, John Brown, with a number of confederates, visited a slave settlement in Canada, where a plan for a provisional Government of the United States was formed, and was appointed Com- mander-in-Chief. Soon afterwards, Brown, with two of his sons, hired a small farm in Maryland, near Harper's Ferry. Here a considerable quantity of arms and ammunition were collected, and a body of twenty-two men, of whom IV were whites and 5 colored, joined him from various parts of the coun- try. With these, on the night of Oct. 16th, he made a descent on the town of Harper's Ferry, in which was situated a U. S. Arsenal, in which more than 100,000 stand of arms were usually stored. Being unguarded, the buildings were taken without oppo- sition. The first act of hostility was the seizure of the watchman, on the Potomac bridge, who was carried prisoner to the Armory buildings, of which they had possession. It was not till early the next morning, (Monday,) that the inhabitants of Harper's Ferry began to suspect the impending danger. Several of the principal citizens, with several employees of the Government works, were captured and taken into the building occupied by the insurgents. Messen- gers were dispatched to all the neighboring towns for military assistance. In the mean time, a kind of isolated conflict took place between the insurgent sentinels and the citizens, and several were killed on both sides ; among the latter was Mr. Peckham, the Mayor of the place. Reinforcements arrived during the day, and at 1 1 o'clock in the evening, the U. S. marines, under Col. 262 Lee, arrived, and invested the engine-house in which Brown and his associates, together with the prison- ers he had secured, were assembled. The next morn- ing, the doors were broken in, the insurgents were seized, and all except two, were either killed or wounded. The mid-day train brought Gov. Wise, and several hundred men, from Richmond, Alexan- dria, Baltimore and elsewhere. Much astonishment was expressed, that such a mere handful of insur- gents could make such an excitement. Ultimately, only two of their number escaped death. As John Brown was severely wounded, his trial did not take place till Oct. 26th, and continued for three days. He was found guilty of the charges against him. When the Clerk asked him whether he had anything to say why sentence should not be pronounced against him, he rose from the mattress on which' he lay, and in a clear, distinct voice, said : "I have, may it please the Court, a few words to say. In the first place, I deny everything but what I have all along ad- mitted, of a design on my part to free slaves. I intended, cer- tainly, to have made a clean thing of the matter, as I did last winter, when I went into Missouri, and there took slaves with- out the snapping of a gun on either side, moving them through the country, and finally leaving them in Canada. I designed to have done the same thing again on a larger scale. That was all I intended. I never did intend murder or treason, or the de- struction of property, or to excite or incite slaves to rebellion, or to make insurrection. I have another objection, and that is, that it is unjust that I should suffer such a penalty. Had I in- terfered in the manner in which I admit, and which I admit had been fully proved, — for I admire the truthfulness and candor of the greater portion of the witnesses who have testified in this case, — had I so interfered in behalf of the rich, the powerful, the intelligent, the so-called great, or in behalf of any of their friends, either father, mother, brother, sister, wife or children, or any of that class, and suffered and sacrificed what I have in this interference, it would have been all right ; every man in this Court would have deemed it an act worthy of reward, rather than punishment. 263 "This Court acknowledges, too, as I suppose, the validity of the law of G-od. I see a book kissed, which I suppose to be the Bible, or at least the New Testament, which teaches me, that all things whatsoever I would that men should do to me, I should do even so to them. It teaches me, further, to remem- ber them who are in bonds, as bound with them. I endeavored to act up to that instruction. I say I am yet too young to un- derstand that God is any respecter of persons. I believe that to have interfered as I have done, as I have always freely admit- ted 1 have done, in behalf of his despised poor, is no wrong, but right. Now, if it is necessary that I should forfeit my life, for the furtherance of the ends of justice, and mingle my blood further with the blood of my children, and with the blood of millions in this slave country, whose rights are disregarded by wicked, cruel, and unjust enactments, I say let it be done. Let me say one word further. I feel entirely satisfied with the treatment I have received on my trial. Considering all the cir- cumstances, it has been more generous than I expected ; but I feel no consciousness of guilt. I have stated, from the first, what was my intention and what was not. I never had any de- sign against the liberty of any person, nor any disposition to commit treason or incite slaves to rebel or make any general in- surrection. I never encouraged any man to do so, but always discouraged any idea of that kind. Let me say, also, in regard to the statements made by some of those who-were connected with me ; I fear it has been stated by some of them, that I have induced them to join me, but the contrary is true. I do not say this to injure them, but as regretting their weakness. Not one joined me but of his own accord, and the greatest part at their expense. A number of them I never saw and never had a word of conversation with, till the day they came to me, and that was for the purpose I have stated. Now I have done." John Brown was executed Dec. 2d. His body- was delivered to his wife, and carried to Essex Co., N". Y., and buried near the place of their residence. His name is fast becoming a rallying cry for free- dom, and the " John Brown Song'''' is sung, not only by the freedmen at the south, but by many others in various parts of the world. It consists of six stanzas. John Brown's body lies a mouldering in the grave, John Brown's body lies a mouldering in the grave, John Brown's body lies a mouldering in the grave, His soul's marching on! 264 Chorus. Glory Halle, Hallelujah ! Glory Halle, Hallelujah ! Glory Halle, Hallelujah 1 His soul's marching on! He's gone to be a soldier in the army of our Lord, He's gone to be a soldier in the army of our Lord, He's gone to be a soldier in the army of our Lord. His soul's marching on ! Chorus. Glory Halle, Hallelujah ! Glory Halle, Hallelujah ! Glory Halle, Hallelujah! His soul's marching on ! John Brown's knapsack is strapped upon his back, John Brown's knapsack is strapped upon his back. John Brown's knapsack is strapped upon his back. His soul's marching on ! Chorus. His pet lambs will meet him on the way, — His pet lambs will meet^him on the way, — His pet lambs will meet him on the way, — They go marching on ! Chorus. Now, three rousing cheers for the Union I Now, three rousing cheers for the Union ! Now, three rousing cheers for the Union I As we're marching on ! Chorus. The following remarkable lines respecting John Brown were first published in 1859, in the Boston Monthly Religious Magazine. They call thee hot-brained, crazed, and mad, But every word that falls Goes straight and true, and hits the mark — More sure than cannon-balls ; Through specter-forms of bogus law It cuts its way complete, And judge and jury too are tried At God's great judgment-seat. 265 Old man, farewell, they'll take thy life ; For dangerous enough, In these our sweetly piping times, Are men of hero stuff. "We should tread soft above the fires That underneath us lie ; You'll crack the crust of compromise, And set them spouting high! Where Henry's cry for " Liberty " Once sent its shivering thrill, There's only room six feet by two For heroes now to fill. And o'er the spot the years will roll, As spring its verdure weaves, And autumn, o'er the felon's grave Shake down its yellow leaves. But not the spot six feet by two Will hold a man like thee ; — John Brown will tramp the shaking earth From Blue Ridge to the sea, Till the strong angel comes at last, And opes each dungeon door, And God's Great Charter holds and waves O'er all His humble poor. And then the humble poor will come, In that far distant day, And from the felon's nameless grave They'll brush the leaves away ; And gray old men will point the spot Beneath the pine tree shade, As children ask, with streaming eyes, "Where old John was laid. 23 vm T/ie Prince at Washington's Tomb. VISIT OF THE PRINCE OF WALES. In 1860, Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of Queen Victoria, of Great Britain, heir apparent to her throne, visited the United States, accompanied by the Duke of Newcastle, the Earl of St. Germans, and several military officers in high standing. The high regard and universal respect which the American people have for the Queen, his mother, as a sovereign and as a mother, endears her to all classes. This feeling was manifested by the respect and attention which they paid to her son, the Prince of Wales, as her representative. The Prince landed at St. John's, Newfoundland, on the 23d of July. From thence he proceeded to Quebec, Montreal, and most of the other places in Canada, East and West. He was received every- where with the greatest demonstrations of respect and loyalty. The Prince, after completing his tour 267 through the British Provinces, arrived at Detroit on the 21st of September, and thence proceeded by the way of Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati, and Bal- timore, to Washington, where he arrived, Oct. 3d. He remained the guest of the President till the 7th. In the interval, he visited Mount Vernon. On their arrival, the Prince and his party carefully inspected the house ; the Prince stood reverently uncovered in the room in which Washington died, looked at the piano presented to Mrs. Lewis, examined the key of the Bastile and other curiosities, and then proceeded to the tomb of Washington. " The Marine band had arrived before them, and, concealed by a neighboring thicket, began playing a dirge composed by the leader. The scene was most impressive. The party, with uncovered heads, ranged themselves in front of the tomb, so simple, and yet so grand in its associations, and looked in, through the iron grated door, at the sarcophagus, which contains the remains of the Father of his country. Then retiring a few paces, the Prince, the President, and the royal party, grouped in front, si- lently contemplated the Tomb of Washington. " The occasion will become historical. A sad cloud softened the sunlight ; the sweet solemn strains of the beautiful dirge, floated around ; bringing un- conscious tears to eyes unused to weep. Without royal state, royalty contemplated the abode of one, though once pronounced a rebel and a traitor, by the very ancestors of the Prince, who now ranks above all kings, — the Father of his country, second to none. "Around were the representatives of that aris- tocracy, which once proclaimed every republican a traitor, now doing homage to the great representa- tive republican. Beside the President, were those who, in the last battles between England and this 2t>8 country, had taken a prominent part ; while he him- self had once borne arms against the very country whose future ruler, in all probability, was now his honored guest. What lessons all must have learned from this visit, — what thoughts must have occurred to each, — how all must have felt, that above all, and over all, God reigns supreme, ordering events, for his own wise purposes, and working miracles, not, as once, by his instantaneous word, but by the slow- er process of time. "At the request of the Mount Vernon Associa- tion, the Prince planted, with but little formality, a young horse-chestnut tree, to commemorate his visit to the place. The tree was planted upon a beautiful mound, not far from the tomb. This ceremony be- ing over, the party again stood for a few moments before the tomb, and then, turning away in thought- ful silence, slowly and silently retraced their way to the Harriet Lane, which, during their absence, had been transformed, by means of canvas and gay flags, into a beautiful dining saloon, with covers laid for the entire party. The Prince, having visited Richmond and Philadelphia, reach- ed New York, Oct. 11th, and was welcomed by a grand military and civic display. On the following evening he attended a grand ball given in his honor, by a Committee of 400 prominent persons, each of which contributed $100, to defray the expense. On the evening of the 13th, a torch-light procession of firemen paraded in his honor. On Monday, the ] 5th, he visited the mil- itary academy at West Point, thence proceeded to Albany, where he was entertained by the Governor of the State. From Alba- ny, he went to Boston, where he was welcomed by a procession and a ball. He then traveled to Portland, Me., where he arri- ved on Oct. 20th. After a brief interview with the city officials, he proceeded on board the vessel which was awaiting him, and set out on his homeward voyage. As the royal barge left the wharf, the British squadron all fired a salute of twenty-one guns, and similar salutes were fired from the city and from Fort Preble. The harbor was full of steamers, sail-boats, barges, &c, which accompanied the royal barge from the wharf." 2on THE ELLEN SAVING- THE PASSENGERS OF THE CEN- TRAL AMERICA. In September, 1857, the steamer Central America, Capt. William L. Hernden, sailed from Aspinwall, via Havanna, for New York, having on board 467 passengers, a crew of 105 men, and about two mill- ions of dollars worth of gold. When off the east- ern coast of our Southern States, near the Gulf Stream, on the 11th of Sept., the steamer encountered a violent gale from the north-east, which, with a heavy sea, caused the boat to spring a leak. On the 12th, the storm somewhat abated, signals of distress were made. The American brig Marine, being in the vicinity, came to their assistance. The women and children were, by much exertion, saved by boats : the English brig Mary, also came to the assistance of the drowning passengers. The steamer went down at 8 o'clock in the evening, carrying down 23* 270 with it her brave Captain, and many of the passen- gers and crew, whom it was not in his power to save. A part of the crew of the steamer were saved by a most remarkable circumstance. The Norwegian bark Ellen, Capt. A. Johnson, weathered the storm, but at the time of the disaster to the steamer, was sailing in a contrary direction. A small bird having flown against his face, once or twice, was, according to an ancient tradition, or superstition of his coun- trymen, a token that he was sailing in a wrong di- rection, he therefore altered his course. In whatever light we may look upon this occurrence, it is true that, in all human probability, the lives of quite a number of human beings were saved by the turning of the course of this vessel. The bark Ellen, before she arrived at the place where the passengers and crew of the steamer were perishing, had stove all her boats in the gale, and every individual saved by her, upwards of forty in number, it is said, were drawn on board by lines thrown them, as she sailed through the drifting mas- ses of drowning men. The night was unusually dark : but flashes of lightning discovered pieces of the wreck floating, with men upon them ; this, with the light on board of the vessel, the cries of the drowning men, with the superior seamanship of the Captain of the bark, was the means of saving so larore a number. Old ocean rolls in foam, and its maddening billows break o'er the steam-driven bark. The boiling surge puts out her life-giving fire, and she floats an unwieldy wreck over the mighty waters. Vain is the mariner's skill, or force, for soon the gallant ship sinks into her watery 271 grave, and many, in her dying struggle, go with her to the depths below. The lone survivors on that dreadful night float round, on frail supports, in wild dismay. They mount upward, and sink in the dark roll- ing waters. They cry unto Him who is higher than the heights, and deeper than the depths. They look to Him who rules the stormy seas, and notes the sparrow's fall. The thunder of Niagara's cataract, and the gentle murmur of the rustling pine, the stormy blast, the gentle zephyr, and the bright sunshine, are equal be- fore him. He hears the cry of the feeble, and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities, and knows how to deliver, when hope has departed. O then let us trust in His power, and hope in His mercy. He controls the mighty whirlwind, di- rects the flight of the lonely bird, and the tiny insect that floats in the sun-beam. He can save by a bird, an insect, or by a spider's web, as ea- sily as by a legion of angels. Russian fleet in New York Harbor. VISIT OF THE RUSSIAN FLEET, 1863. The visit of the Russian fleet to the United States in 1863, with the cordial reception given to its offi- cers by all classes of persons in this country, is deemed by many to be one of no small political im- portance, in strengthening the bonds of amity and friendship, which have for a long period subsisted between the two most powerful nations of the east- ern and western continents. The Russian squadron consisted of five vessels. The first that reached New York was the screw frig- ate, Osliaba, Boutakoff, on Sept. 11th, 1863. On the 24th and 25th, the steam sloops Vitiaz and Yariag, with the screw frigates Alexander Nevski and Peres- viet, anchored in the North river. The flag-ship of Admiral Lisovski was the Alexander Nevski, a fine modern built 51 gun screw frigate, 271 feet long, and of about 4,500 tons ; she was named in honor of St. Alexander, the saint and hero of Russia, surnamed 273 Nevski, from a signal victory won on the banks of the Neva. On the 19th of Oct. the Russian officers were en- tertained by the municipal authorities of New York, at a grand banquet given in their honor at the Astor House, where covers were laid for over three hund- red persons. The white flag, with the blue cross of St. v iadimir, hung all day over the vestibule of the hotel, and waved from the flag-staff on the roof, and and from the City Hall. Most of the foreign Con- suls were present, and the American Navy was rep- resented by Admirals Farragut and Paulding, and Commodore Meade. After the cloth was removed, the sentimental part of the proceedings was intro- duced by a short speech from Mayor Opdyke. When "The Emperor of Russia" was named, among the toasts on this occasion, the Russian Ambassador, Baron de Stoel, in response, said : — " It will be my duty, gentlemen, to report this occasion to my august Master, and I can assure you, that it will be fully ap- preciated by his Majesty, and by the whole Russian nation, . . . and I can assure you, that there is not one of the seventy mill- ions of my countrymen who does not join me from the very bot- tom of my heart." When the "Russian Navy" was named, Admiral Lisovski, in his response, said : — " Your Navy officers, gentlemen, are your most noble repre- sentatives abroad. It has been my fortune once in trying cir- cumstances, after the loss of my ship, when we were left desti- tute of every article, .... an American man-of-war came along to our assistance. I shall never forget the way the Cap- tain and his officers treated us. Each American officer took one of the officers of corresponding standing in the service, and brought him to his cabin, and spoke to him these words : — 4 Now, Sir, everything you see in this cabin, the half of ii belongs to you;' and I feel most happy in having an opportunity of ex- pressing my everlasting gratitude for the kindness we then re- ceived, before such a numerous and distinguished assemblage of that Captain's countrymen." 274 When "Russia" was named as being brought close to our affections by the noble act of his Impe- rial Majesty, the Czar, in his illustrious and unpre- cedented decree, dictating the emancipation of mill- ions of serfs, the Rev. Wm. Boole responded, saying : " That no act of any crowned head compares in wisdom, in political and moral importance, in magnanimity, and in its bene- ficial influence upon the destiny of a nation, with the decree of his Imperial Majesty Alexander II, declaring the speedy en- franchisement of twenty millions of serfs, or bondmen Committed to the hearts and hands of such a people, the safety of the sovereign, the interests and destiny of the nation are se- cured Disturbances may shake thrones, and dismember governments ; anarchy and rampant rebellion may, as we wit- ness to-day, sack, sink, burn, and sweep like a tempest of desolation, over the fair fields of an earthly paradise, and leave it stereotyped in all the revolting features of a burning Gehen- na ; but there is an eternal force that holds all events in subjec- tion to its will, and compels humanity, by whatever phrase, or title, or arbitrary distinction known among men, to the harmony and center of its gravitation, — and that force is the spirit of hu- man liberty. The emancipation decree of the Emperor Alexan- der, is the sweep of a nation towards this magnetic center. We hail, with unfeigned delight, the presence of the many-winged fleet from the Russian seas, and take their coming among us as an omen of good. The union in which we participate to-day, is a very natural and proper one. ' Birds of a feather flock together ; ' the Eagle of the East has come to mate with the Eagle of the West ; a permanent incompatibility forbids her alliance with the un winged creature of the field, on the other side of the ocean, and in the bird of America she finds her actual partner. And who shall stand up to show "any just cause or impediment why they should not be joined " in one nest ? May the Union be speedily consummated, and their brood of eagles whiten with their wings the waters of every sea, and hold the weapons of protection from the Ural mountains west- ward to the rocky range of the Pacific coast." 275 Death dance of the Dacotah Indians, 1862. THE DACOTAH OR SIOUX INDIANS. The Sioux or Dacotah Indians inhabit a large tract of land now in the limits of the State of Minnesota. They are one of the most warlike tribes within the limits of the United States. In a recent treaty, they ceded a large tract of these lands to the U. S. Gov- ernment, for which they were in the habit of receiv- ing annuities. In 1862, it appears that these annui- ties, for some cause, were delayed for upwards of three months. This was the cause of much ill-feel- ing among the Indians, many of whom cherished an ill-will against the whites, notwithstanding the efforts of the Government, and Christian mission- aries, to introduce among them civilization and Christianity. 276 The outbreak commenced in August, 1862, when three white men were shot down, tomahawked and scalped by the road-side, by several Indians, who were under the influence of spirituous liquor, sold them by white traders, who carried on their detesta- ble traffic in defiance of the laws of the United States. Blood having been shed, it was determined, in an Indian council, rather than give up the perpe- trators of the murder, they all would unite in an effort to drive out white men wholly from their bor- ders. Little Crow, a crafty, cunning, and ambitious Indian, who had adopted a civilized mode of life, and who at first made serious objections against com- mencing hostilities, was finally induced to become their leader. The massacre began at a settlement on the Min- nesota river, called the " Lower Indian Agency," be- ing a collection of Agency buildings, a small framed church, traders' houses, stores, &c. The Indians, having distributed themselves over the village, at a concerted signal, on the dawn of the morning, a thousand savage war-whoops rent the air. Many were hewn down by the tomahawk before they had scarcely left their beds ; others were shot while leap- ing from the windows, or endeavoring to escape. Horrid atrocities were committed ; the stores and houses, &c, after being rifled of their contents, were set on fire, and the bodies of the dead, dying and wounded, were consumed in the flames. Those that escaped, gave the alarm. The Indians followed through a line of settlements over a frontier of hundreds of miles. They overtook several parties, killed all the men and children, and led away the young women and girls, for fates worse than death. As soon as the tidings reached Fort Ridgely, Capt. Marsh, with about 60 men, was sent towards the scene of the massacre. The Captain, with about 40 277 of his men, were shot down in crossing the river on a raft. The others fled back to the fort, where about five hundred refugees, consisting of women and children, and men unarmed, had collected. About forty soldiers, with arms, with one twenty-five and another six pound howitzer, were their only defence. For five days, this little band successfully repelled the enemy, who made strong efforts to set the main buildings of the fort on fire, by shooting blazing ar- rows into the roof. At one time it would seem that they would have been destroyed, had not Providence interposed in their behalf, by a powerful storm of rain, which drove the Indians, for a short time, to seek a shelter in the woods, giving time for the gar- rison to renew their defences. At this time, other parties of Indians were rava- ging the settlements, and burning and slaughtering the inhabitants, without mercy. In addition to their own peculiar atrocities, these Indians added those of the most depraved wretches among the whites, crimes which heretofore do not seem to have been perpe- trated by these savages. The fate of the younger women, the indignities and cruelties to which they were reserved, are too shocking to be recorded On the 23d day of August, the Indians left FortRidgely, and transferred their main attack to New Ulm, which they laid waste in fire and blood, and would have totally destroyed, had not Judge Flandrau arrived from St. Peter with a reinforcement. At the " Nor- wegian Grove," the inhabitants were all massacred, and the whole country, from Fort Ridgely almost to St. Paul, was completely panic stricken. " Over a frontier of five hundred miles, from Fort Abercrom- bie on the Red River, to Mankato on the Blue Earth, the Indians carried the torch and hatchet," and it is estimated that one thousand men, women and chil- dren, were murdered or tortured to death. 278 Gov. Ramsey, as soon as he heard of the massa- cre at the Lower Agency, hastened from St. Paul to Fort Snelling, and ordered a force under Col. Sibley to proceed against the Indians. After making some opposition, they fled in several directions. A con- siderable number, however, were captured and im- prisoned. The prisoners were confined in a jail, built for the purpose, at the Lower Agency, or Mankato. The military Commission appointed to try the pris- oners, (400 in number,) held its meetings in a small log-house, which had escaped the Indian torch. The Commission condemned 303 of the Indians to be hung, and 18 to be imprisoned for life. Of the num- ber condemned, President Lincoln signed the death- warrant for thirty-eight only, and the day appointed was Friday the 27tbTof Dec, 1862. On Monday, previous to their execution, Col. Mil- ler read to the culprits the death-warrant of the President. The occasion was one of much solem- nity to the persons present, though but little emo- tion was manifested by the Indians. On Wednesday evening, the Indians performed a War Dance, or a Dance of Death, with as much freedom as their chains Avould permit, .chaunting, at the same time, a Dakota song. Their wild faces barred with paint, their savage and uncouth costumes, and their wild and grotesque postures, exhibited a most singular and impressive scene. On Friday morning, an immense crowd of men, women, and children, were assembled at the place of execution, not far from the jail in which they were confined. The scaffold, in the form of a diamond, was encircled by soldiers, through a double file of whom the condemned prisoners were conducted. Their hands were tied, and their heads were covered with muslin caps, hav- ing on, otherwise, their native dress. Upon reaching the scaf- fold, the Indians began singing their mournful death-song, clasp- ing each other's hands till the last. "When all was ready, Maj. Brown, signal officer, beat three distinct raps on the drum ; at the the third stroke, W. J. Duly cut the rope, the drop fell, and the souls of the murderers were ushered into the presence of the Great Spirit!" 279 The N. Y. Police attacking the mob before the Tribune office ANTI-DRAFT AND PRO-SLAVERY RIOT IN NEW YORK. Monday, July 13th, 1863, and two or three days following, occurred one of the most alarming riots, and the most destructive to property and life, which has ever taken place in this country. It had its ori- gin from depraved politicians, of whom there are too many in all political parties. These men, in order to accomplish their own purposes, take advantage of the ignorance of many foreigners, who have emigrated to this country, and have become voters. In too many instances, these men succeeded in inflaming the minds of many against the government, denouncing their acts as tyrannical and oppressive, denouncing the war, the draft, and the emancipation Proclamation of the President. These base politicians also appear to have succeeded in getting the less informed part 280 of the Irish population to oppose the abolition of Slavery, and join in their acts of cruel oppression against a comparatively helpless and unfortunate race. About 9 o'clock, on Monday, A. M., some fifty or sixty Irish laborers, having been inflamed by design- ing leaders, who furnished them with liquor, formed in procession in the twenty-second ward, and visited the different work-shops in the upper wards, and compelled the workmen, by threats, to cease their work. As they proceeded, their numbers were rap- idly augmented from the wharves, workshops, and other places ; their numbers became formidable, and their shouts and disorderly conduct excited dismay. Having arrived at the Provost-Marshal's office, where the draft was proceeding, at a given signal, (the fir- ing of a pistol,) instantly a shower of brick-bats, stones, and missiles of every kind, was hurled at the building. The office was entered, all the papers, &c, were thrown into the street, and the officers of the draft had to flee to save their lives. Cars were stopped, telegraph poles were cut down, a detachment of the Provost Guard, forty or fifty in number, were routed by the mob, the firemen were prevented from using their engines, the Superintend- ent of the Police was dragged from his carriage, and treated in the most brutal manner. Infuriated women of the lower class now joined in the affray, and at once arson, robbery and murder, were let loose upon an unprotected city. The rioters tore up the New Haven Railroad for several blocks, attacked and burnt the Armory building, sacked and laid in ashes several mansions and other buildings. About 4 o'clock, the Orphan Asylum for colored children, a large four-story building containing, usually, from 600 to 800 homeless children, was attacked by hund- reds, perhaps thousands, of rioters, the majority of 281 whom were women and children, who entered the building, ransacked and plundered it, from the cellar to the garret. It was finally burnt to ashes, not- withstanding every effort and appeal was made, by the Principal of the Institution, to stay the progress of the flames. On Monday evening, the mob attacked the ln- bune building. An entrance was effected on the first floor, and the work of destruction was begun, when a body of Police, with their clubs, made a brave and energetic attack upon the rioters, said to have been several thousand in number. They drove them from the building, and in ten minutes cleared the square of the great crowd there assembled. The value of property destroyed during the day was es- timated at $300,000. On Tuesday morning, the mob commenced their operations in the 7th and 13th wards. As they passed down Pitt street, about 2,000 strong, they were opposed by Lieut. Wood, with 150 regulars, who fired upon them, killing twelve, wounding a large number, and put the rest Cof O'Brien, who had exerted himself to quell the rioters, had his residence, in the 2d Avenue, sacked, and while endeavoring to remove his family to a safe place, was murdered, in a shocking manner. They burnt the houses of several prominent < men. Gov Seymour having arrived in the city, he m the afternoon, bj proclamation, declared the city in a state of insurrection. In the course of the day, about 400 to 500 rioters broke in the Union Steam Works where a large number of carbines had been deposited, and they attempted to hold the factory as a fortification against the police. They were fired upon, and a bayonet charge drove them from the P On Wednesday, there were several conflicts be- 24* 282 tween the military and rioters, in various places. In the evening, a terrible encounter took place in 19th street. The soldiers were assailed on all sides by stones and brick-bats, and shots from revolvers, from the windows and tops of the houses. While this was going on, other bodies of rioters roamed the streets, robbing and plundering. On Thursday, the Seventh N. Y. Regiment arrived from Annapolis, Md., and order was soon after restored. It is esti- mated that nearly 500 lives were lost during the riot, besides a great number wounded. Throughout these tearful days, the mob was actu- ated by a ferocious spirit against the colored popu- lation. Several black men were hung by the infuri- ated mob. Wherever a negro was seen, he was set upon, and only saved his life by flight. Those that were able, fled from the city. The colored Orphan Asylum, a purely benevolent Institution, was sacked and destroyed ; foul-looking boys and men scoured up and down in pursuit of the hated race ; their hab- itations were sacked, and no mercy was shown to age or sex. Whatever other objects the instigators of the mob had in view, that vile one of crushing down an unfortunate, and comparatively inoffensive people, was most signally disappointed. The au- thorities of the city came forward and sustained the cause of the poor and needy, their injuries were re- dressed, their rights protected, and the merchants and others contributed $40,000 for their relief. The patient manner in which the colored people have en- dured the indignities and sufferings laid ivpon them, their loyalty to the national government, and their bravery when in arms, have all tended to remove the prejudices against their race, and it is believed that the time is close at hand, when they will enjoy the civil rights of the citizens of a free country. 283 Inauguration of Gov. llahn, in New Orleans, March 4M, 1861. LOUISIANA FREE STATE INAUGURATION. The Inauguration of Michael Hahn, the first Free State Governor of Louisiana, on the 4th of March, 1864, was one of the greatest and most impressive scenes ever exhibited in this country. The place se- lected for that purpose was Lafayette Square, oppo- site the City Hall. The day of the inauguration ceremonies was ushered in by a salute of 100 guns, and the ringing of the bells of the city. At an early hour, the streets leading to the square were thronged with all classes of people, and by 10 o'clock, all "the available space for spectators and performers, was filled with a greater crowd than ever before appeared in the city. In the middle of the square was a circular plat- form, which served as a base for a tall flag-staff, 284 bearing the national standard. From this point, as a center, swej)t a circular amphitheater of seats, which, in height, accommodations, and magnitude, was never exceeded on this continent. On these seats were comfortably seated, from six to ten thou- sand boys and girls from the public schools, together with ample room for five thousand invited guests. At the base of this immense amphitheater was a platform for Gilmore's 500 musicians, and 40 anvils, with their "beaters." From a ring suspended around the flag-staff at the central platform, were stretched, in a circular form, ropes entirely covered with ever- greens, which were fastened, at the other extremity, to the surrounding trees. To these ropes were sus- pended numerous flags, of all descriptions, from the shipping. Behind all this were stationed, by Gen. Arnold, fifty pieces of artillery. At 11 o'clock, when all the school-children and ladies had taken possession of their allotted seats, two regiments, the 1st Regulars, and the 30th Mas- sachusetts veterans, entered the square. Next, the procession of civil and military officers, with the Governor elect, entered, and took their assigned posi- tion. After prayers by the Rev. Mr. Chubbuck, "Hail Columbia " was performed in the following manner : First verse, full band, 500 performers ; second verse, full band, grand chorus by upwards of 5,000 chil- dren, and a chime of all the bells of the city ; fourth verse, full band, grand chorus, the chiming of the bells, and a great gun accompaniment of 50 pieces of artillery discharged at the same moment ! FIRST VERSE. Hail Columbia! happy land, Hail ye heroes, heaven born band, Who fought and bled in freedom's cause, Who fought and bled in freedom's cause, And when the storm of war was gone, Enjoy'd the peace your valor won. . 285 Let independence be your boast ; Ever mindful what it cost ; Ever grateful for the prize, Let its altar reach the skies. Chorus — Firm, united, let us be, Rallying round our liberty ; As a band of brothers joined, Peace or safety we shall find. Immortal patriots, rise once more ; Defend your rights, defend your shore ; Let no rude foe with impious hand, Let no rude foe, with impious hand, Invade the shrine where sacred lies, Of toil and blood the well-earn'd prize. While offering peace sincere and just, In heaven we place a manly trust That truth and justice will prevail, And every scheme of bondage fail. Chorus — Firm, united, &c. Sound, sound, the trump of fame ! Let Washington's great name Eing through the world with loud applause, Ring through the world with loud applause, Let every clime to freedom dear, Listen with a joyful ear. With equal skill, and godlike power, He govern'd in the fearful hour Of horrid war ; or guides, with ease, The happier times of honest peace. Chorus — Firm, united, &c. After the enthusiasm and repeated shouts from the immense multitude at this novel, sublime, and overpowering effort had somewhat subsided, the Governor elect stepped forward amid profound si- lence, and took the oath of office, administered by- Judge Durrell, under circumstances of extraordinary interest, not only as the first loyal Governor of a State once identified with the Confederacy, but also the first Free State Governor of the South Western 286 States. After the other State officers were sworn, the " Star- Spangled Banner " was sung : Oh ! say can you see by the dawn's early light, &c. This national air was perhaps never performed in a more splendid manner : First time, full band ; sec- ond time, full band, grand chorus ; third time, full band, grand chorus, and a chime of all the bells of the city ; fourth time, full band, grand chorus, chime of the bells of the city, and a great gun accompani- ment by 50 pieces of artillery. The Chairman, Judge Howell, then introduced Gov. Hahn, who made his Inaugural Address to his vast audience. He denounced the institution of Slavery as a great moral, social, and political evil, inconsistent with a free government, and regarded its immediate extinction as a public and private bles- sing. He declared, also, that it was the duty of all to endeavor to extend the blessings of education to the black, as well as to the white race. After the address of the Governor, the " Anvil Chorus " was performed by the full band, accompanied by 40 time- beaters upon anvils, and 50 pieces of artillery. The novelty of this new musical treat took the audience by surprise, and the repeated shouts which burst from the immense assembly, testified to its complete success. A beautiful wreath of evergreens and flow- ers was now presented to the Governor by the girls of the Barrack street school, as representatives of the Goddess of Liberty. Maj. Gen. Banks, after being introduced to the audience, made a thrilling and patriotic address, in which he stated, that among the truest spirits in the hour of trial, were the sons and daughters of Louis- iana, and among the bravest and truest upon the field of battle were her volunteers. Louisiana was the first in this great revolution of ideas to organize 28' her public schools upon a war-footing, infusing into the hearts of its pupils a new sentiment of nation- ality, by the daily repetition, with the morning prayers, of the magnificent anthems of American liberty. Louisiana was the first to institute the sys- tem of conpensated labor, that makes the restoration of the institution of Slavery on this continent impos- sible ; that compels us to prepare for the elevation of the oppressed races, and the recognition of all their rights. After the General had retired, the band struck up the well-known air, with the accom- paniments, — " Our flag is there, our flag is there, We'll hail it, &c. A prayer was then offered by the Rev. Mr. Hor- ton ; this was succeeded by a grand musical melange of the national and popular airs, including " Red, White and Blue," " Marseilles Hymn," with a "Pot Pouri," representing the chaos of a battle, in which all the military, with their drums and trumpets, and all the Artillery, took part. After the effect of this terrifically grand scene had subsided, the Rev. Mr. Chubbuck invoked the benediction of the Almighty upon the officers just elected, and the people. The formal ceremonies, — the grandest perhaps ever at- tempted on this continent, — were concluded by the performance of the American Anthem, in the same manner as the preceding pieces, in which the entire audience were invited to join : — " My country 'tis of thee, Sec. 288 American Anti-Slavery Documents. On June 7th, 1776, a motion was made in the American Congress, then assembled in Philadelphia, by Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia, and seconded by John Adams, of Massachusetts, for declaring the colonies free and independent. A committee, con- sisting of Jefferson, Adams, Franklin, Sherman, and Livingston, were appointed to prepare a Declaration of Independence. The Declaration, written by Mr. Jefferson, was adopted by Congress by an almost unanimous vote, on the 4th of July, 1776, by which the thirteen United States of America were declared free and independent. DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE. When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have con- nected them with another, and to assume, among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of na- ture and of nature's (lod entitle them, a decent respect to the 289 opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the caus- es which impel them to the separation. "We hold these truths to be self-evident : that all men are cre- ated equal ; that they are endowed, by their Creator, with cer- tain inalienable rights ; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, govern- ments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed ; that whenever any form of gov- ernment becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new govern- ment, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate, that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and, accordingly, all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposed to suffer while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these colonies ; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of the present king of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these States. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms : our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose char- acter is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people. Nor have we been wanting in attentions to our British breth- ren. We have warned them, from time to time, of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred, to disavow these usurpations, which would in- evitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind — 'enemies in war. in peace, friends. 290 We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in general Congress assembled, appealing to the Su- preme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name and by the authority of the good people of these colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colo- nies are, and of right ought to be, Free and Independent States ; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British crown, and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved ; and that, as Free and Independent States, they have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutu- ally pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor. President Lincoln, by a Proclamation dated Sept. 22, 1862, gave notice, that all persons held as slaves in those States which continued in rebellion against the United States on the 1st of Jan. 1863, "shall be then, thenceforward and forever free." This Procla- mation having failed of producing its desired effect, the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, in which are the following words : — "Now, Therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the Uni- ted States, by virtue of the power in me vested as commander- in-chief of the army and navy of the United States, in time of actual armed rebellion against the authority and government of the United States, and as a fit and necessary war measure for suppressing said rebellion, do, on this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty -three, and in accordance with my purpose so to do, publicly proclaimed for the full period of one hundred days from the day of the first above-mentioned order, and designate as the States and parts of States wherein the people thereof respectively are this day in rebellion against the United States, the following, to wit : Ar- kansas, Texas, Louisiana — except the parishes of St. Bernard, Placquemines, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. James, Ascen- sion, Assumption, Terre Bonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, St. Martin, and Orleans, including the city of New Orleans — Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia — except the forty-eight counties designated as West 291 Virginia, and also the counties of Berkeley, Accomac, North- ampton, Elizabeth City, York, Princess Anne, and Norfolk, in- cluding the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth, and which ex- cepted parts are, for the present, left precisely as if this procla- mation was not issued. " And by virtue of the power and for the purposes aforesaid, I do order and declare, that all persons held as slaves within said designated States and parts of States, are and henceforward shall be free ; and that the Executive Government of the United States, including the military and naval authorities thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons. " And I hereby enjoin upon the people so declared to be free, to abstain from all violence, unless in necessary self-defence ; and I recommend to them, that in all cases when allowed, they labor faithfully for reasonable wages. " And I further declare and make known, that such persons, of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States, to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service. "And upon this, sincerely believed to be an act of justice, warranted by the Constitution, upon military necessity, I invoke the considerate judgment of mankind and the gracious favor of Almighty God. " In witness whereof,. I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed. "Done at the City of "Washington, this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty- three, and of the independence of the United States of America the eighty-seventh. By the President: " Abraham Lincoln. "William H. Seward, Sec'ry of State." 29^ Washington as President, with t7ie Emblems of the durability of right Principles, Union and Liberty. WASHINGTON'S FAREWELL ADDRESS. Washington's "Farewell Address" to the people of the United States, is one of the most precious legacies which he has left to his countrymen. The following extracts are from that document, showing his views respecting several important subjects which agitate the public mind. The immense value op the Union. " The unity of government, which constitutes you one people, is also dear to you. It is justly so; for it is the main pillar in the edifice of your real inde- pendence; the support of your tranquility at home, your peace abroad ; of your safety ; of your prosper- ity ; of that very liberty which you so highly prize. 293 .... As this is the point in your political for- tress against which the batteries of internal and ex- ternal enemies will be most constantly and actively (though often covertly and insidiously) directed; it is of infinite moment, that you should properly es- timate the immense value of your National Union, to your collective and individual happiness; that you should cherish a cordial, habitual, and immov- able attachment to it; accustoming yourselves to think and speak of it, as the palladium of your po- litical safety and prosperity; watching for its pres- ervation with jealous anxiety; discountenancing whatever may suggest even a suspicion that it can in any event be abandoned ; and indignantly frown- ing upon the first dawning of every attempt to alien- ate any portion of our country from the rest, or to enfeeble the sacred ties which now link together the various parts." Union a preventative op Wars and Despotism. " All the parties combined cannot fail to find in the united mass of means and efforts, greater re- sources, proportionally greater security from exter- nal danger, .... and what is of inestimable value, an exemption from those broils and wars between themselves, which so frequently afflict neighboring countries not tied together by the same government. Hence, likewise, they will avoid the neces- sity of those overgrown military establishments, which, under any form of government, are inauspi- cious to liberty; and which are to be regarded as particularly hostile to republican liberty. In this sense it is, that your Union ought to be considered as a main prop to your liberty." Beware of Geographical parties. " In contemplating the causes which may disturb 294 our union, it occurs as a matter of serious concern, that any ground should have been furnished for characterizing parties by geographical discrimina- tions, — Northern and Southern, Atlantic and West- ern ; whence designing men may endeavor to excite a belief, that there is a real difference of local inter- est and views. One of the expedients of party to acquire influence, within particular districts, is to misrepresent the opinions and aims of other districts. You cannot shield yourselves too much against the jealousies and heart-burnings which spring from these misrepresentations. They tend to render alien to each other, those who ought to be bound together by fraternal affection." A National Government indispensable. " To the efficacy and permanency of your Union, a government for the whole is indispensable. No alliances, however strict, between the parts, can be an adequate substitute. They must inevitably expe- rience infractions and interruptions, which all alli- ances in all times have experienced The ba- sis of our political systems is, the right of the people to make and alter their constitutions of government. But the constitution which at any time exists, till changed by an explicit and authentic act of the whole people, is sacredly obligatory upon all All obstructions to the execution of the laws .... serve to organize faction, .... to put in the place of the delegated will of the nation, the will of a party, often a small, but artful and enterprizing mi- nority of the people. Importance of Religion and Morality. " Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indis- pensable supports. In vain would that man claim % 95 the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to sub- vert these great pillars of human happiness. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity 'Tis substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular govern- ment." Education. — Public Credit. " Promote, then, as an object of primary import- ance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowl- edge. In proportion as the structure of a govern- ment gives force to public opinion, it is essential that public opinion should be enlightened. " As a very important source of strength and se- curity, cherish public credit. One method of pre- serving it is, to use it as sparingly as possible ; avoid- ing occasions of expense by cultivating peace ; but remembering also, that timely disbursements to pre- pare for danger, frequently prevent much greater disbursements to repel it ; avoiding, likewise, the accumulations of debt, not only by shunning occa- sions of expense, but by vigorous exertions in time of peace, to discharge the debts which unavoidable wars may have occasioned ; not ungenerously throw- ing upon posterity the burden which we ourselves ought to bear." General Directions. " Observe good faith and justice towards all na- tions ; cultivate peace and harmony with all. Reli- gion and morality enjoin this conduct, and can it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it ? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and at no distant period a great nation, to give mankind the magnan- 206 imous and too novel example of a people always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence. . . . In the execution of such a plan, nothing is more es- sential, than that permanent inveterate antipathies against particular nations, and passionate attach- ments, should be excluded; and that in place of them, just and amicable feelings towards all should be excluded Harmony, and a liberal inter- course with all nations, are recommended by policy, humanity and interest." " In offering to you, my countrymen, these coun- sels of an old and affectionate friend, I dare not hope they will make the strong and lasting impression I could wish But if I may even flatter myself that they may be productive of some partial benefit, some occasional good ; that they may now and then recur to moderate the fury of party spirit, to warn against the mischiefs of foreign intrigues, and guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism; this hope will be a full recompense for the solicitude for your welfare, by which they have been dictated. .... Though in reviewing the incidents of my administration, I am unconscious of intentional er- ror; I am, nevertheless, too sensible of my defects, not to think it probable, that I may have committed many errors. Whatever they may be, I fervently beseech the Almighty to avert, or mitigate the evils to which they may tend G. Washington." 297 THE AMERICAN FARMER THROUGH THE SEASONS OF THE TEAR, IN THE MORE NORTHERN STATES. JANUARY. January, first coming month, with brow severe, Appears with snow and ice, to lead the infant year; The merry, jingling sleigh-ride take, old friends to meet; "With "Happy New Year" wish, all now each other greet. " Cold cometh out of the north," the earth is stiff with ice, and the watery floods become a pavement strong. By-and-by the air becomes less keen, and falling snow-flakes shut out the vision round. The soft, silent shower descends, casting a snowy mantle o'er hill and dale. The gentle rain descends, and is congealed to ice. The morn, ing sun shines forth, and fairy scenes appear. All, all is silvered o'er. The tall tree, that lifts its head on high, and the humble sapling, appear in coated splendor bright, in the bewildering, glis- tening, wilderness around. The shrubs, and smaller trees, with their silvery load, bend to the earth, while the monarch oak, re- fusing to yield, its crackling branches fall to the ground. The true farmer " is merciful to his beast." From his laid- up stores, he daily deals out to each their portion. "While the wintery north wind blows, and icy, chilling storms prevail, he gives a shelter to all his subjects round. ooq FEBRUARY. Tour work plan out, and be prepared, for Spring draws nigh ; Now cut and sled, and pile your wood, to keep it dry : Now o'er the frozen flood, the youth, with lengthened strides, The gleeful skater, o'er the icy pavement glides. The farmer with hope looks forward to the approaching spring, and plans out his labors for the coming year. "With repeated blows with ax in hand, he lays the monarch of the forest low. Far to the west, since creation's dawn where solitude has reigned unbroken, and untraversed, save by savage beasts, or man more savage still, the woodman's ax lets in the light of day, and smiling fields and villages arise. The forest falls; huge trunks lie scattered round, furnishing the fuel for the year, or wrought by skillful hands, forms the stately structure, dwellings for high and low, and shelter from summer's heat, and winter's cold. Navies are furnished, too, and the tall ship that floats to distant seas and climes, must come from thee. Full of youthful life and glee, the lad and his companions haste to the frozen lakes and ponds, and whirl their circuits round on their swift-gliding skates, while all around is mirth and joy. The sun mounts upward ; winter, stern, relents, — its heart is broken, for the sun-beam melts to tears earth's snowy mantle, and here and there a spot of living green appears. 20.1 MARCH. Now snow, then mud, now high winds blow. Feed well your sheep; Care for your lambs ; your cattle give enough to eat ; With a kind heart now look around, and all that need, Assistance freely give, and all the hungry feed. Spring commences : — the earth, fast bound by wintery frosts, softens beneath the genial rays of the noon-tide sun. — High winds prevail, drying the moist earth, and scattering the rising vapors. Sweet is the voice of the early bird, who visits our Northern World once more. The wintery blast had driven him away to genial regions, far down the sunny south. The great Creator taught him when to take his distant journey, and when to bend his flight, to reach his northern home at the appointed time. The farmer now prepares his fences, to guard his fields from harm; and sees that his utensils are ready for his summer's toils. His vines and trees are pruned, and the swelling buds appear. He looks well to the state of his flocks and herds, and deals out daily, to each class its proper food. The farmer is monarch on the soil on which he labors. He provides for all entrusted to his care, and when the fields afford no sustenance, he opens his laid up stores and all are fed. So the Great Monarch and Father of us all, teaches us, His needy creatures, to call on Him, daily, for what we need. He gives the rain and sunshine, he causes the herb to grow ; the eyes of all wait upon Him, and He gives them their meat in due season. :;0ii APRIL. Your furrows long, your fences strong ; your trees plant well, Fruit you will have, enough to eat, and some to sell : Keep up your fields, manure them well ; put clover in, Plough deep, and do it well, a full good crop to win. The showery month has come, and the frozen earth has yield- ed to the sunshine of the early Spring. O'er hill and dale, new life is springing up in living green. The tender lamb skips by its mother's side or gambols in the sunny fields. Birds of vari- ous hues, returning from sunny climes, warble their notes of joy; the buds are swelling, and the leaves are bursting forth from every shrub and tree. The breath of Spring has wakened the insect tribes from their long wintery sleep, and when the evening shades appear, myri- ads of peeping voices rise from the low earth, and watery places round, lulling the dwellers near, to sweet repose. The farmer now, with hopeful heart, prepares the ground to receive the sower's seed, confiding in the promise of Him who is Lord of all, that while the earth remaineth, seed-time and harvest shall not fail. The prudent husbandman provides, as far as he can, against future danger. To guard his fields from unruly beasts, he makes his fences strong and high. 'Tis God alone that gives the rain and sunshine, but man must guard whate'er the Great Creator gives to his charge. 301 MAY. Fair May hath come ; shake drowsy sloth from off your eyes ; To sow and plant your fields, you now must early rise ; Now plant potatoes, and, in rows, bright yellow Indian corn : Scare off the scratching crow, that would your fields deform. This is an important month, for, by the labors of the farmer all are sustained. There is a time to sow and plant, which, if neglected, there can be no harvest; though the early and the latter rains descend, and the summer sun may glow. The far- mer plows his fields with the patient and laborious ox, or the more sprightly horse. He harrows his fields, he sows his grain and plants his potatoes and his corn, so that all who look up to him may in the coming time be fed. The garden, near the dwelling, receives the close attention of all its inmates. The farmer, his wife, his daughters and his sons, all look with interest on this cherished spot, which is laid out with care. Its little walks are fringed with beauteous shrubs, and plants, and flowers. The choicest fruit-trees here appear, and are gay with early blossoms, and the creeping vines below will soon bestow their valued fruit. The fields are now covered with a carpet of the freshest green. The orchards are covered with showers of blossoms, and one general blush of beauty glows around. The young gosling, covered with yellow down, and the duckling, seek the pond or stream, while the patient hen sits on her nest the ap- pointed time, till from the broken shell her brood issue forth, and cluster beneath her covering wings. 26 302 JUNE. Tis blooming June, earth smiles around. Now hoe your corn, Now shear your sheep. Let not weeds your fields deform ; Now range the fields and gardens round, mid lovely bowers, How, Eden-like, the garden blooms with beauteous flowers. This is the gay month of beauteous flowers. All o'er the fields and woods, on mountain-tops, and in valleys deep, creation smiles around. On to the West, on prairies, wide as the eye can reach, where not one tree or shrub are seen, stands a vast sea of grass and flowers. The trees are in full foliage. The flowery shrubs and plants, standing in thick array on garden plots, in secluded nooks and fields, and forests wild, now bloom in beauty, sending delicious fragrance round. The waving grain is fast ripening, and bows down its head, with milky kernels full. The corn springs upward; its green stalks in long ranks ap- pear, and needs the farmer's hand to hoe out the noxious weeds. The busy bee is early on the wing, extracting sweets from flow- ers ; with wondrous skill, they treasure up their honeyed stores for future use. The browsing herd, now in rich pastures, feed to the full, and repay their owner by copious streams of whole- some milk. The flocks are gathered, and meekly endure the shearing of their snowy fleece, which goes to clothe the monarch man. 308 JULY. In hot July, the sun pours down his melting ray. The farmer strong, mows down the grass and makes his hay: With sickle, or with some machine, he reaps his grain; Binds up in bundles, and in shocks, secures from rain. This is, usually, the warmest month in the year, and, for the farmer, the busiest and most laborious. He now truly earns his bread by the sweat of his brow. The fields of grass are now mown down, and the hot rays of the sun soon make the fra- grant hay; it is stored away in barns, or piled in stacks for win ter's use. The fervid sun has ripened into a yellow hue the grain. Harvest begins. The wide fields are now swept o'er by cradles, or by wide machines ; the crops are gathered and the barns are full. 'Tis noon ; the sun o'erhead, pours down direct his melting, conquering rays. O'er-powered with heat, both man and beast seek shelter from the burning sun, under the shade of some wide-spreading tree. — Dark heavy clouds rise in the western sky. As they ad- vance, they grow more dark and threatening. The thunder at a distance growls. Nearer, the storm approaches, the fearful, blinding flash gleams all around, and the quick following thun- der bursts in one tumultuous, crashing roar. Down pours the rain, and the roaring wind goes sweeping by. — The storm is past: the sun shines forth, and the glorious rainbow in the east appears. :04 AUGUST. Your later grains secure ; summer will soon be past ; The luscious fruits are coming on, and ripening fast ; Cut down all standing, ripening weeds ; prepare manure To dress your wasted fields, and crops to come, secure. The intense heat of summer has somewhat abated, but the air, during "dog-days," is often close, muggy, and oppressive. Some of the later grains are now harvested. The thick growing oats, the favorite food for the noble horse, have now come to maturity. Flax, from which the beautiful white linen is made, is pulled up by the roots, and its seed contains the oil so much used by the painter, in the colors which adorn our habitations. This is a busy and laborious mouth for the farmer. Now is the time to cut down the noxious weeds, before their seeds ma- ture. The refuse from the yards and fields is collected, to de- cay and form the manure to enrich the exhausted fields. The long green rows of the luxuriant corn and creeping vines adorn the hills and vales, and give bright promise to reward the labor- er's toil. The first fruits of the farmer's labors now grace his board. The green and milky Indian corn, with the tender bean, together form a favorite dish. The early orchard fruits appear, and on the creeping vines the large melon ripens, giving a ready, tempt- ing, and grateful repast for all. aoo SEPTEMBER. The frost comes on; leaves trembling fall in colors bright ; Now harrow well your fallow ground, and till it right; Looking for crops the coming year, now sow your gram Now di°- jour ditches, and your swampy low lands dram. The Fall or the Autumnal months, now commence, and though it is a season of decay, yet it possesses many charms. Many of the grain fields intended for the succeeding year, are re-plowed, the wheat and rye are sown, their roots strike into the earth, so as to endure the coming winter, and start anew with the earliest arowth of the coming spring. How beauteous is the forest hill-side, after the autumnal frosts have touched its summer foliage. Here is bright scarlet, there the golden-tinted leaf, and amid the faded green, how ma- nv brilliant tints appear, shade softening into shade. But look again the bright leaves are falling, scattered to the ground, their brilliant hues soon disappear, and moulder back again to earth. Towards the close of the month, it may be, that the equinox- ial gales may sweep o'er land and sea. The mariner, with his fragile bark, may be dashed upon the rugged, pointed rocks, and perish amid the foaming waters. On land, the tall tree is pros- trated, and the earth torn up by its wide-circling ; roots; the laded fruit-trees are rudely shaken by the winds, and fruits fall- ing untimely, are scattered around. 26* 306 OCTOBER. Your teeming orchard fruit, ground in the crushing mill, Will make a wholesome drink ; use moderation still ; Use nature's beverage, the sparkling water clear. Mild Indian summer, — now the golden fruits appear. The autumnal fruits have now arrived at full perfection ; and the plants and flowers that remain have matured their seeds. On every hand, fruits of various forms and tints appear. The Indian corn begins to burst its covering, and its golden kernels, in thick set rows, bright in autumn's sun, show that the latter harvest now hath come. The bounteous Father of us all, crown- eth the year with goodness, His paths drop fatness, and He spreads a feast for all that lives. Receive the Creator's gifts with a thankful heart, and use all things well. Look at thy brother's good ; if thy meat or drink cause him to err, or stumble, then refrain, nor wound thy weaker brother more. The early frosts are come, making the insect tribes to disap- pear. The birds that sweetly warbled in the fields, taught by Him that made them, now begin their flight to warmer climes. The Indian summer comes, and the hazy, smoke-like air prevails around. The leaves are falling fast, covering the pathway through the forest shades. The trees and fields are, in the morning, whitened o'er with frost. The hardened shuck and the prickly burr now open, and the nut within falls to the ground, so that the smaller animals may gather winter stores and live. 30' NOVEMBER. The corn brought in, the barns are full and running o'er; Thanksgiving's come, be grateful all, and feed the poor ; Treasures laid up secure, riches laid up above, You thus shall have, with God's approving, changeless love. In this month, the few remaining fruits are gathered in, secure from frosts, and from the snows which cover the ground in the more northern parts. The bright and yellow corn is secured in bins. Potatoes and turnips, the latest crop of all, are dug and pulled from the earth, placed in the warm cellars, or buried in the earth, beneath the winter's frost. The farmer's barns and store-houses are full and running o'er. The foliage of the trees o'er hill and dale, and in the forest wide, is nearly gone ; and the brown, seared leaves, rustle be- neath our feet. The tall trees extend their giant arms towards heaven, naked and bare, to meet the coming wintery blast. When this, the last autumnal month is closing, the appointed festal time takes place. Though scattered wide, families now meet beneath the paternal roof once more. The thanksgiving feast is now prepared, and the festal board, in rich profusion, full. give thanks unto God, both young men and maidens, who giveth food to all flesh, for His mercy endureth forever. They that are merciful, seek out the poor and needy. They feed the hungry, and the naked clothe. 308 DECEMBER. Thresh out your grain ; and be prepared for wintery snows ; Live as you ought ; the lingering year draws to a close ; Our worldly cares and fears and hopes, in Life's short day, Quickly they fly apace, and dream-like pass away. The days grow short, the cold grows more intense, and ice and snow soon follow. The cattle can no longer browse in the fields, but must be brought into farm-yards, and housed from the inclement storms. There is no time to be idle; the farmer threshes out his grain. He looks well to the brute creation un- der his charge, not forgetting the fowls who look-up to him as their protector and provider. Amid the desolations of the expiring year, the pines and hem- locks remain unchanged, in living green, though wintry blasts and storms may rage around. Fit emblem or type of him who in conscious virtue holds fast his integrity, throughout the chang- ing scenes of life. "Whether the summer sun of prosperity shines, or the wintery blasts of adversity prevail, he remains unchanged still. As the year draws to a close, review thy past life, and if du- ties have been neglected, or offences committed, ask forgiveness, and resolve, by divine help, to amend thy life, and live better for the coming year. 309 NATIONAL HYMN, Written br Kev.S. F. Sm^h * D-, ^^^ AMERICA. My Country, 'tis of thee Sweet land of Liberty Of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died ; Land of the Pilgrim's pride ; From every mountain side Let Freedom ring. ["Freedom to worship God!" was the Pilgrim's cry; their ashes remain among us, and their spirit still lives.— In later time" oT Fathers raised the battle-cry of Freedom and Liberty. Revoiutionary heroes perished in the contest but the victory was rained, and we became a nation in the earth. In our last struggle, the chains of the last slave fell off, and American Freedom was sustained ;-therefore let the antiien i of Freedom be sounded from the North, from the sunny South, and from the mighty West.] 10 My native country, thee, Land of the noble free, — Thy name I love ; I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills, My heart with rapture thrills, Like that above. [Our fathers came from a distant land, from whence they were driven by persecution. America, where we dwell, is our native country, and the name of America we love, and we trust it will be a watch- word for freedom among the nations of the earth. — We love her rocky shores and sparkling waters, — her vales and hills, with their temples of worship, feeling that the God of our fathers made them all. When we think of His mercies and love, our hearts swell with rapturous joy, like the heavenly hosts above.] 31 i. Let music swell the breeze, And ring from fill the trees Sweet freedom's song ; Let mortal tongues awake, And all that breathe partake ; Let rocks their silence break, The sound prolong. [We feel the glow of thanksgiving, and would, like the sweet singer of Israel, call upon all creation, animate and inanimate, to praise our God. Let music be wafted by the breeze, and ech- oed by every grove and forest wild. Let the tongues of young men and maidens, old men and children, sound forth sweet freedom's song. Let all that breathe, join in the anthem, and let the echoing rocks prolong the sound.] 312 Our fathers God to Thee Author of Liberty, To Thee we sing ; Long may our land be bright With Freedom's holy light, Potect us by Thy might Great God our King. [While we utter notes of gladness for the Freedom we enjoy ; never let us forget our Father's God, the Author of all true Freedom or Liberty. Let us raise our hearts and voices ; let us praise and adore our G-od and King, entreating him to continue our civil and religious liberties. May He protect us by His Al- mighty power throughout all succeeding ages.] 3 : a OUTLINE HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES Good evidence exists that the North-eastern coast of the United States was visited by Europeans a few centuries before the discoveries of Columbus. It is believed by respectable historians, that a col- ony of Norwegians, or Northmen, visited the coast of New England about A. D. 1000. The original Icelandic account of the voyages of these men still remains. The fame which Columbus had acquired by his discoveries in the Western hemisphere, spread throughout Europe, and inspired many with the spirit of enterprize. The first discovery of Colum- bus was made in 1492, and on his fourth voyage, in 1498, he discovered the Continent at the mouth of the Orinoco, in South America. 27 314 In 1497, John Cabot, a Venetian, under the pat- ronage of Henry VII, of England, commenced a voyage of discovery. He was accompanied by his son Sebastian, and three hundred men, with two caravels, freighted by the merchants of London and Bristol. On the 24th of June they discovered land. Cabot called it Prima Vista, which, in Italian, his native tongue, signifies, first sight. This is supposed to have been some part of the island of Newfound- land. A few days afterward they discovered a smaller island, which they named St. Johns, on ac- count of the discovery being made on the day of John the Baptist. They continued westerly till they reached the Continent, and then sailed along northerly, to the latitude of sixty-seven and a half degrees. Despairing of finding " a passage to India" in that quarter, they turned back and sailed along the coast southward, to Florida, and then from thence returned to England. Upon the discoveries made in this voyage, the English founded their claim to the eastern portion of North America. In 1539, the Spaniards, under Ferdinand de Soto, landed in Florida, and lured by the hope of finding gold, attempted the conquest of that and the ad- joining countries. Soto died at the mouth of Red river, on the Mississippi, and the enterprize was abandoned. In 1562, during the civil war in France, between the Protestants and Catholics, Admiral Co- ligny formed a project of establishing a colony of Protestants, or Huguenots, as they were called, in America. Two ships were fitted out, under the command of John Ribault, who landed a party at a place supposed to be within the limits of South Carolina, The company afterwards mutined, and abandoned the settlement. In 1564, Laudoniere, another Frenchman, carried a colony to Florida, and built a fortification, called 315 Fort Caroline. The next year, Ribault arrived in Florida with seven vessels, and took most of the men in Fort Caroline for an expedition against the Spaniards. At this time Melendez, in the service of Spain, was on his way to Florida, with a fleet and army, for the purpose of driving the Huguenots out of Florida, and to settle it with good Catholics. Arriving in Florida, he killed Ribault, and all his company, except a few who made their escape to France. Melendez now built three forts on the river of Mao, and garrisoned them with Spaniards. He also proceeded to the South, and discovered the har- bor of St. Augustine, and laid the foundations of the city of that name, the oldest, by more than forty years, of any within the limits of the United States, east of the Mississippi river. In 1568, Chevalier Gourgues, of France, hearing of the massacre of his countrymen in Florida, determined to avenge their death. . . . He according fitted out, at his own ex- pense, three frigates, with one hundred and fifty soldiers, and eighty chosen mariners, and sailed to Florida. Although the Spaniards were four hundred in number, Gourgues succeeded in destroying all their fortifications, and killing most of the Spaniards. Not being in a situation to keep possession, the French returned to France. The first attempt at colonization in America, by the English, was made by Sir Humphrey Gilbert, in 1576, under the patronage of Queen Elizabeth. Af- ter he had put to sea on his first voyage, he was obliged to return. In the second, he reached St. Johns, in Newfoundland, where he took possession of the country for his sovereign, by raising a pillar inscribed with the British arms. He also took meas- ures to secure to the English the fisheries on the banks, which have since proved so valuable. From thence he sailed south-westerly, to the latitude of the mouth of the Kennebec. There, the largest of his three vessels struck, and all of her crew perished. Gilbert then set his face toward England, personally, in the smallest of his remaining vessels, a barge of only ten tuns ; for he ever generously refused to put any man to a peril he was himself unwilling to share. The passage was stormy, but his noble and pious mind undoubtedly found comfort in the reflection he uttered to his companions in a time of danger. " We are as near heaven at sea as on land." During the night, the lights of his little bark suddenly vanished, and he was heard of no more. In 1584, Queen Elizabeth, by patent, granted to Sir Walter Raleigh, authority to discover, occupy, and govern, "remote, heathen, and barbarous coun- tries," not previously possessed by any Christian prince or people. Under this commission, two ships, commanded by Amidas and Barlow, sailed for Amer- ica, where they arrived in July, 1584. They landed at Roanoke, took possession of the country for the crown of England, and in honor of the virgin queen, named it Virginia. On their return, they gave such a flattering account of their discoveries, that Sir Richard Grenville was sent the next year, to be- gin a settlement. The adventurers under Grenville, to the number of one hundred and seven, fixed their residence on the island of Roanoke, on the coast of what is now North Carolina, where they were left in charge of Mr. Lane. These persons rambled into the country, without due caution, or provoked the Indians by their lawless conduct, so that many were cut off by them ; while others perished from want. The survi- vors were taken to England by Sir Francis Drake, after his successful expedition against the Spaniards. Within a fortnight after the first colony had left Roanoke, Sir Richard Grenville arrived with pro- 317 visions and an additional number of settlers. Xot finding the former colony, lie left fifteen of his crew to retain possession of the island, and returned to England. In 1588, Sir Walter Raleigh equipped three vessels, and sent another company of one hundred and fifty adventurers to Virginia. He con- stituted John White governor, who, remaining about one month, returned to England, to solicit supplies for the colony. Before he departed, his daughter, Mrs. Dare, gave birth to a female infant, the first child of English parents born in America. The in- fant was baptized by the name of Virginia. Ow- ing to the war with Spain, no supplies were sent to the colony for three years. In 1590, when Governor White returned, no Englishmen were to be found, and it was evident that they had perished through want, or had been killed by savages. The last ad- venturers, therefore, returned, and all further at- tempts to establish a colony in Virginia were post- poned. These successive misfortunes withdrew, for several years, the attention of the English from this distant country. In 1602, Bartholomew Gosnold made a voyage to America. Instead of taking the circuit- ous, but usual, route by the West India Islands, he steered directly west from England, shortening the voyage about one-third, and arrived in May on the coast of Massachusetts. Taking a large number of codfish, near a cape which extended for into the sea, he gave to it the name of Cape Cod. Proceeding southerly, he passed Gay Head, entered Buzzard's Bay, and, upon an island, he erected a small fort ; then, after trading with the Indians, he returned home. The report of this voyage revived the spirit of adventure. In 1603, and 1605, two voyages were made. Penobscot and Massachusetts, and the rivers 27* $18 between them, were discovered. An extensive scheme of colonization was adopted, of which Mr. Richard Hakluyt was the most active promoter. An association was formed, for the purpose of sending colonies to America. Upon application to King James, he, by letters patent, in 1606, divided the country of Virginia, extending from South Carolina to the northern boundary of Maine, into two dis- tricts, and constituted two companies for planting colonies within them. The southern district, called South Virginia, was granted to Sir Thomas Gates, and his associates, mostly residents of London, and, therefore, styled the London Company. The north- ern section, called North Virginia, was granted to Thomas Hanham and his associates, who were sty- led the Plymouth Company. The members of these companies were principally merchants, whose objects were, the extension of commerce and the discovery of the precious metals. In 1614, Capt. John Smith, so distinguished in the history of Virginia, was sent with two ships from England to North Vir- ginia, with instructions to remain in the country, and to keep possession. In April, he reached the Island of Monahigon, in latitude 43° 4'. After building seven boats, he, in one of them, with eight men, ranged the coast east and west, from Penobscot to Cape Cod, and bartered with the natives for beaver and other furs. On his return to England, he drew a map of the country from the observations he had made, and presented it to King Charles, who was so well pleased with it, that he directed that it should be called New England. Capt. Smith left one of his vessels under the command of Captain Hunt, with orders to complete her lading on the coast, and then proceed to Malaga, in Spain. Hunt, under the pretense of trade, enticed upward of twenty of the natives on board of his ship, put them under hatches, and carried them to Spain, where he sold them as slaves. This perfidious act disposed the natives in that part of the country to revenge the injury on the countrymen of the offender ; and the English were obliged to suspend their trade and projected settlements. Nearly all the States of the American Union have suffered more or less from the ravages of the Indian Avars. They commenced, at the first settlement in the country, and have been continued down to the present time. In the year 1622, the settlers in Vir- ginia lost three hundred and forty-nine of their num- bers, by a sudden massacre. The Indians, for some- time before, lived on very familiar terms with the English ; but, in the spring of that year, they se- cretly plotted to exterminate the colony. It ap- pears that a young Indian chief had murdered an Englishman by the name of Morgan, for some toys which he was carrying to sell his people. The Eng- lish attempted to save him, but he, making an ob- stinate resistance, was killed. To revenge his death, a conspiracy was formed, when the Indians fell upon the inhabitants, who were unprepared, and killed all they found. Most of the plantations had to be abandoned, and the settlers retired to Jamestown for safety. A furious war ensued, in which the In- dians were slain without mercy. The settlers at Plymouth and Massachusetts had no trouble with the Indians for many years. But, westward of Narragansett Bay, in Rhode Island, lived several powerful tribes, who had not been re- duced by the mortal sickness which had, previous to the arrival of the Plymouth settlers, swept off so large a portion of the more eastern Indians. The Pequots, the most warlike tribe, commenced hostili- ties against the first settlers of Connecticut, but in May, 1637, they were totally defeated and ruined by Capfc Mason and others. *In 1675, Philip, sachem of the Wampanoags, who lived at Mount Hope, in Rhode Island, began the most general and destructive war ever sustained by the infant colonies. Philip, a proud and high-mind- ed chieftain, undertook the war, in hopes of exter- 320 minating the English, who were extending their set- tlements on every side. By his influence he suc- ceeded in drawing into the conflict most of the tribes in New England. The war having commenced, Philip and his allies hovered around the exposed settlements, burnt sev- eral frontier towns, killed numbers of the inhabit- ants, and slew several parties of soldiers, who went to their defense. The Narragansets, with whom the English had formed a treaty in July, 1675, were found secretly aiding the hostile Indians. To pun- ish this perfidious tribe, it was determined to reduce them by a winter expedition. For this purpose, about one thousand men, under Governor Winslow, marched, late in December, wading in a deep snow, and attacked their fort, which was situated in a swamp. The Narragansets, being furnished with fire-arms, made great havoc among the officers who first entered the fort. Six captains and eighty men were killed, one hundred and fifty were wounded, and all suffered greatly from frozen limbs and other hardships. Their success, however, was complete. The fort was taken, five or six hundred wigwams were burnt and destroyed, and about one thousand Indians are supposed to have perished. Notwithstanding the severe blow to the Indians by the destruction at the Narraganset fort, King Philip, as he was called, refused to listen to any terms of peace with the English. He still continued to at- tack and burn the settlements of the whites, and to kill the inhabitants ; but soon the tide of war began to turn against him. Many of his faithful followers were either killed or captured, and he himself was hunted like a wild beast from place to place. He was finally shot through the heart by a friendly In- dian under the command of Captain Church, near Mount Hope, as he was endeavoring to make his es- 321 cape from his pursuers, on the 12th of August, 1676. This event put an end to the war, and extin- guished the Indian power in this part of New Eng- land. Thus closed a most distressing era, during which about six hundred of the inhabitants of New England, composing the flower of her strength, were either killed in battle, or were murdered by the en- emy ; twelve or thirteen towns swept away, about six hundred buildings, mostly dwelling houses, de- stroyed, and a heavy debt incurred. On the accession of William, Prince of Orange, to the throne of England, war ensued between Eng- land and France, and as Canada then belonged to France, the French instigated the Indians to hostil- ities against the colonies. On the night of Febru- ary 8, 1690, a party of French and Indians from Montreal, finding the inhabitants of Schenectady asleep and unguarded, broke in upon them, murder- ed sixty-three, and took twenty-seven prisoners. They also burnt the houses, killed most of the cat- tle and horses, and marched oft* with the remainder of the horses, laden with plunder. Those of the people who escaped, fled nearly naked toward Al- bany, about fifteen miles distant, amid the snow, in a severe night, twenty-five of whom lost their limbs by the frost. The inhabitants in the eastern part of New Eng- land suffered much from the Indians, from the year 1690, to 1698. The brave and venerable Major Waldron, and twenty-two others, were taken by surprise, and slain, at Dover, in New Hampshire. The plantation at Salmon Falls was surprised by a party of French and Indians, under Hertel, a French- man. Thirty men Were killed, and fifty-four women and children captured. Such was the distress of the times, from the incursions of the enemy, that the in- habitants had to abandon the defenseless parts of S^2 the country, and retire to the garrisoned towns. These calamities were continued till the peace be- tween England and France, in 1698, when Fronte- nac, the French commander in Canada, ceased to instigate the savages. In 1702, during Queen Anne's reign, Avar was again proclaimed between England and France, and the American colonies were again exposed to all the horrors of Indian warfare. In February, 1704, Deer- field, in Massachusetts, was surprised and burnt by a party of two hundred Frenchmen, and one hun- dred and forty-two Indians. About forty-seven of the inhabitants were killed, and one hundred and twelve were made prisoners, among whom were the Rev. John Williams and his family. New Hamp- shire, and especially Maine, was exposed to the mur- derous inroads of these ferocious savages. In Au- gust, 1708, a party of Indians, headed by French- men, assaulted Haverhill, on the Merrimac, burnt some of the houses, and slew thirty or forty of the in- habitants, among whom was Mr. Rolfe, their min- ister. From the earliest settlement of the Colonies to the treaty of Paris, in 1763, they were often haras- sed by frequent wars with the Indians, French, Spaniards and Dutch. During the Indian wars, the savages were often instigated by the French and Dutch, to fall on the English settlements, in order to exterminate the colonists, or drive them from the country. These Avars were by far the most distress- ing ; the first settlers lived in continual fear and anxiety, for fear their Indian foes would fill upon them in some unguarded moment, and oftentimes they had to struggle to prevent their entire exter- mination. After the colonies had subdued the In- dians in their immediate vicinity, they were assailed by the French and Indians. The French possessed 323 Canada, and had made a number of settlements m Florida, and claimed the country on both sides ot the Mississippi. To secure and extend their claims they established a line of forts, back of the English settlements, from Canada to Florida They used much art and persuasion to gain over the Indians to their interest, in which they were generally success- ful Encroachments were accordingly made on the English possessions, and mutual injuries succeeded, which soon broke out into open war. In order to put a stop to the depredations ot the French and Indians, it was contemplated to conquer Canada. In 1690, the Commissioners of the Colo- nies projected an expedition against Quebec. Ine land forces ordered for this invasion consisted oi 850 men, raised from the Colonies of New England and New York, and commanded by Gen. Wmthrop. At the same time, a fleet of armed ships and trans- ports, with 1,800 men, under Sir William Phipps, was ordered to sail up the St. Lawrence, and co- operate with the land forces in the reduction of Que- bec But owing to the delay of the fleet, and the want of boats and provisions among the land forces, the expedition was unsuccessful. The next expedi- tion against Canada, took place in 1709, m Queen Anne'! reign. The Colonies of New England and New York, raised about 2,500 men, who were placed under the command of Gen. Nicholson, who pro- ceeded to Wood Creek, south of Lake George Here they waited to hear of the arrival of the fleet which was to co-operate with them The fleet did not arrive, and the army at Wood Creek were at- tacked with a malignant disease which occasioned a great mortality, which compelled them to with- draw, and the expedition was abandoned. In 1/11, another attempt, under Gen Nicholson with the land forces, and a fleet under Admiral Walker, was made 324 for the conquest of Canada. But this failed by the loss of eight or nine transports, with about 1,000 men, by shipwreck. The peace of Utrecht, signed March 3d, 1713, put an end to hostilities, and con- tinued till 1739. In 1744, Great Britain declared war against France, and the next year Louisburg, a strong for- tress on Cape Breton, was taken from the French. The French government soon fitted out a large fleet, with a large body of land forces, for the purpose of recovering Louisburg, and attacked the English Col- onies. But this expedition, by means of storms, sickness among the troops, &c., failed of accomplish- ing anything, and the colonies were relieved from consternation and dismay. This war closed by a treaty of peace, signed at Alx la Chapelle, in 1748. In 1755, hostilities again commenced between Great Britain and France, and in 1756, four expedi- tions were undertaken against the French. One was conducted by Col. Monckton and Gen. Winslow, against Nova Scotia. This expedition was attended with success. The country was subdued, and the inhabitants, about 2,000 in number, were transported to New England, and dispersed and incorporated with their conquerors. Gen. Johnson was ordered, with a body of troops, to take possession of Crown Point, but he did not succeed. Gen. Shirley com- manded an expedition against the fort at Niagara, but lost the season by delay. Gen. Braddock was sent against Fort du Quesne, but in penetrating through the wilderness, fell into an ambuscade of French and Indians, where he was killed, and his troops suffered an entire defeat. In 1758, great efforts were made to subdue the French in America. Three armies were employed — one, commanded by Gen. Amherst, to take posses- sion of Cape Breton — one, under Gen. Abercrombie, &3 325 destined against Crown Point — and third, under Gen. Forbes, to drive the French from the Ohio. Gen. Amherst was successful in taking Louisburg after a warm siege. The inhabitants of Cape Bre ton were sent to France, and the fortifications of Louisburg reduced to a heap of ruins. Gen. Abercrombie, who was sent against Crown Point and Ticonderoga, attacked the French at the latter place, and was defeated, with a terrible slaugh- ter of his troops. Gen. Forbes was successful" in taking possession of Fort du Quesne, which the French thought proper to abandon. — The next year, the efforts of the British and Americans to reduce the French were more successful. Gen. Prideaux and Sir William Johnson, began the operations of the campaign, by taking possession of the French fort near Niagara. Gen. Amherst took possession of the forts at Crown Point and Ticonderoga, which the French had abandoned. But the decisive blow which proved the destruc- tion of the French power in America, was the taking of Quebec by Gen. Wolfe. The loss of Quebec was soon followed by the capture of Montreal by Gen. Amherst, and Canada became a province of the British Empire. " Thus, after a century of wars, massacres, and destruction, committed by the French and savages, the colonies were secured from fero- cious invaders, and Canada, with a valuable trade in furs, came under the British dominion." The conquests of Canada, and the expulsion of the French from the Ohio, put an end to all important military operations in the American Colonies. In Europe, however, the war con- tinued to rage ; and in the West Indies, the British, aided by the Americans, took Havana from the Spaniards. But in 1762, "a definitive treaty of peace was signed at Paris, by which the French king ceded Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, and Canada, to the British king ; and the middle of the Mississippi, from its source to the river Iberville, and the middle of that riv- 28 326 er, to the sea, was made the boundary between the British and French dominions in America. Spain ceded to Great Britain, Florida, and all her possessions to the east of the Mississippi. Such was the state of the European possessions in America, at the commencement of the Revolution." The first attempt of the British government to raise a revenue in America, appeared in the memorable Stamp Act; but such was the opposition of the colonies to this act, that it was shortly after repealed. The Parliament, however, persisted in their right to raise a revenue from the colonies, and accordingly pass- ed an act, laying a certain duty on glass, tea, paper, and paint- er's colors — articles which were much wanted, and not manu- factured in America. This act was so obnoxious to the Amer- icans, that the Parliament thought proper, in 1770, to takeoff these duties, except three pence a pound on tea. But this duty, however trifling, kept alive the jealousies of the colonies, and their opposition continued and increased. It was not the incon- venience of paying the duty which raised their opposition, but it was the principle, which, once admitted, would have subjected the colonies to unlimited parliamentry taxation, without the privilege of being represented. After a series of oppressive acts on the part of the British government, and of opposition on the part of the colonies, Gen. Gage was sent over with an armed force to Boston, in 1774, to overawe and reduce the rebellious colonies to submission. But these measures did not intimidate the Americans. The people generally concurred in a proposition for holding a Congress by deputation from the several colonies, in order to concert meas- ures for the preservation of their rights. Deputies were accord- ingly appointed, and the first Congress met at Philadelphia, in October, 1774. The proceedings of the American Congress had a tendency to confirm the people in a spirited and unanimous determination to resist the oppressive acts of the mother coun- try and to defend their just and constitutional rights. On the other hand, the British parliament declared that a rebellion actu- ally existed, and besought his Britanic Majesty to take the most effectual measures to enforce due obedience to the laws and au- thority of his government ; and assured him that they were de- termined to support him in maintaining the just rights of the crown. " From this moment, an appeal to arms became una- voidable, and both parties prepared for the conflict." The first scene of this sanguinary conflict opened at Lexington, on the morning of the 19th of April, 1775. Here was spilt the first blood in a war of seven years duration, a war which sev- ered these United States from the British empire, and ended in the establishment of their independence. EVENTS IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR 1775. [The first year of the Revolution.] The principal operations of the war during this year, took place in the northern States. As the province of Massachusetts had been foremost in opposition, the British government sent their forces to Boston, the capital, and held it in possession du- ring the year. Soon after the battle of Lexington and Bunkers Hill, Gen. "Washington, who was appointed commander-in-chief of the American forces, arrived at Cambridge, and took the com- mand of the Army in July. The army investing Boston amount- ed to about 15,000 men. They were mostly destitute of good arms, ammunition, clothing, and experienced officers. "Wash- ington's first and most difficult task was, to organize and disci- pline the troops. Owing to his uncommon exertions and influ- ence, he succeeded in bringing high-minded freemen to know their respective places, and to have the mechanism as well as movements of a regular army. In the autumn of this year, a body of troops under the com- mand of GTen. Montgomery, besieged and took the garrison at St. John's, which commanded the entrance into Canada. Gen. Montgomery pursued his success, and took Montreal. At Que- bec, being joined by Gen. Arnold, who had marched a body of men through the wilderness to his assistance, Montgomery made 328 an assault on Quebec, on the last day of the year. In this at- tack he was killed, his troops defeated, and the American army was finally compelled to evacuate Canada. During this year, nearly all the old governments of the colo- nies were dissolved ; and the royal governors and the crown officers adhering to British measures, were obliged to leave the country, or suspend their functions. From that time, temporary conventions were held, for the purpose of administering the laws and making regulations to meet the public exigencies. In some of the colonies, however, the British adherents (who were called tories) were numerous and powerful ; which weakened the opposition to the British arms. 1776. This year was opened by the burning of the large and flour- ishing town of Norfolk, in Virginia, by order of Lord Dunmore, the royal governor of that province. The British king entered into treaties with some of the Ger- man States for about 17,000 men, who were to be sent to Amer- ica this year, to assist in subduing the Colonies. These troops were generally called Hessians, from the circumstance of many of them being raised in Hesse Cassel in Germany. Gen. "Wash- ington, who still continued before Boston, in the opening of the spring, planted his batteries so judiciously before that town, that the British general, Howe, on the 17th of March, abandoned the place, and Gen. "Washington marched into the place in triumph. During the summer, a squadron of ships commanded by Sir Peter Parker, and a body of troops under generals Clinton and Cornwallis, attempted to take Charleston, the capital of South Carolina. The fort on Sullivan's Island, near Charleston, was attacked with great fury by the ships of the squadron, but the British were repulsed with great loss, and the expedition was abandoned. On the 4th of July, Congress published the Declaration of In- dependence. Soon after the declaration, Gen. Howe, with a pow- erful force, arrived near New York, and landed the troops on Staten Island. Gen. "Washington, at this time, was in New York, with about 13,000 men, who were encamped either in the city, or the neighboring fortifications. The operations of the British began by attacking the Americans on Long Island. The Americans were defeated with severe loss, and Gen. Washing- ton probably saved the remainder of his troops, by ordering them to retreat on the night after the battle. In September, New York was abandoned by the Americans, S29 and taken by the British, and in November, fort Washington on York Island was taken, and more than 2,000 men made prison- ers ; about the same time, Gen. Clinton took possession of Rhode Island. The American army being greatly diminished by the loss of men taken prisoners, and the departure of large bodies of oth- ers, whose term of enlistment had expired, Gen. Washington was obliged, with the remnant of his army, which had been re- duced from 25,000, to scarcely 3,000, to retreat towards Phila- delphia, pursued by their victorious enemies. This was the most gloomy period of the Revolution. Washington saw the necessity of striking some successful blow, to reanimate the ex- piring hopes of his countrymen. The battles of Trenton and Princeton revived the hopes of America, and confounded their enemies. Congress also made great exertions to rouse the spir- its of the people, and sent agents to solicit the friendship and aid of foreign powers. 1777. The plan of the British Ministry during this year was, to sep- arate the Northern from the Southern States, by sending an ar- my under Gen. Burgoyne from Canada, to penetrate into the Northern States, and endeavor to effect a communication with the British at New York. If this plan had been successful, it would probably have had a fatal effect on the American cause. But the defeat of Burgoyne at Bennington and Saratoga, and the surrender of his army at the latter place, produced important results in favor of the Americans. At the South, the Brit- ish were more successful. Gen. Howe embarked his forces at New York, sailed up the Chesapeake, landed at the head of Elk river, and began his march to Philadelphia. Gen. Wash- ington endeavored to stop his progress, and a battle was fought near Brandyicine Creek, but the Americans were overpowered by superior numbers and discipline, and Gen. Howe took pos- session of Philadelphia. The American Congress now retired to Yorktown, in Virginia. 1778. The beginning of this year was distinguished by a Treaty of Alliance with France, whereby the Americans obtained a power- ful ally. When the British ministry were informed that this treaty was in agitation, they dispatched commissioners to Amer- ica, to attempt a reconciliation. — But the Americans had now gone too far to accept their offers. The British evacuated Phil- 28* 830 adelphia in June, and marched for New York ; on their march, they were annoyed by the Americans, and at Monmouth an action took place, in which, had Gen. Lee obeyed his orders, a signal victory would have been obtained. In July, Count D'Estaing arrived at Newport, E. I., with a French fleet, for the assistance of the Americans. In August, Gen. Sullivan, with a large body of troops, attempted to take possession of Rhode Island, but did not succeed. In December, Savannah, the capital of Georgia, was taken by the British, un- der the command of Col. Campbell. About this time an insur- rection of the Royalists in North Carolina was crushed, by the spirited exertions of the militia. During this year, a more reg- ular discipline was introduced into the American army by Baron Steuben, a German officer. 1779. The campaign of 1779 was distinguished for nothing decisive on the part of the Americans or British. " The British seemed to have aimed at little more than to distress, plunder, and con- sume — it having been, early in the year, adopted as a principle upon which to proceed, to render the Colonies of as little avail as possible to their new connections." In accordance with these views, an expedition was sent from New York to Virginia, for the purpose of distressing the Americans. They landed at Portsmouth, and destroyed the shipping and valuable stores in that vicinity. After enriching themselves with various kinds of booty, and burning several places, they returned to New York. Soon after this expedition, a similar one, under the command of Gov. Tryon, was sent against Connecticut. New Haven and East Haven were plundered; Fairfield, Norwalk, and Green's Farms, were wantonly burned. About this time Stony Point was taken by Gen. Wayne. In October, Gen. Lincoln, (who commanded the southern American army) and Count D'Estaing, made an assault on Savannah, but they were repulsed with con- siderable loss. During the summer, Gen. Sullivan was sent against the Six Nations, and laid waste their country ; — these Indians had been induced, by the British, to take up arms against the Americans. Forty villages were consumed, and 100,000 bushels of corn were destroyed. 1780. On the opening of the campaign of this year, the British troops left Rhode Island, and Sir Henry Clinton, finding it more easy to make an impression on the southern States, which were 331 less populous than the northern, determined to make them the seat of war. Clinton, with Lord Cornwallis, undertook an ex- pedition against Charleston, South Carolina, where Gen. Lincoln commanded. This place, after a close siege of. about six weeks, surrendered to the British commander ; and Gen. Lincoln, and the whole garrison, were made prisoners on the 12th of May. Gen. Gates was now appointed to the command of the south- ern American army. In August, Lord Cornwallis (who was left in the command of the British forces at the South) attacked Gen. Gates, and entirely routed his army. He afterwards marched through the southern States, and supposed them entirely sub- dued. During the summer, the British troops made frequent in- cursions into New Jersey, ravaging and plundering the country. This year was also distinguished for the infamous treason of Gen. Arnold, which stamped his name with lasting infamy. 1781. The beginning of this year was distinguished by a mutiny in the American army ; this was occasioned by their severe suffer- ings and privations, and the depreciation of the Continental Money with which they were paid. But the punishment of the ring-leaders, and the exhortation of the officers, prevailed to bring them back to their duty. After the defeat of Gen. Gates in Carolina, Gen. Greene was appointed to the command of the American troops in that quar- ter. From this period, the aspect of the war was more favorable. On the 17th of January, at the Cowpens, Gen. Morgan, the in- trepid commander of riflemen, signally defeated Col. Tarleton, the active commander of the British Legion. After a variety of movements, the main armies met at Guilford, in Carolina, on the 15th of March. Gen. Greene and Lord Cornwallis exerted them- selves at the head of their respective armies ; and although the Americans were obliged to retire from the field of battle, yet the British army suffered a severe loss, and could not pursue the victory. After the battle of Guilford, Gen. Greene moved tow- ards South Carolina, to drive the British from their posts in that State, and by a brilliant action at Eutaw Springs, forced Lord Cornwallis to withdraw his forces and fortify himself in York- town, in Virginia. In the spring of this year, Arnold, the traitor, with a number of British troops, sailed to Virginia, and plundered the country, and at the time Cornwallis was at Yorktown, made an incursion into Connecticut, burnt New London, took fort Griswold by storm, and put the garrison to the sword. About the last of August, Count de Grasse, with a large French 332 fleet, arrived in the Chesapeake, and blocked up the British troops at Yorktown. Gen. Washington, previous to this, had moved the main body of his army to the southward, and when he heard of the arrival of the French fleet, made rapid marches to the head of Elk river, where embarking, his army soon arri- ved at Yorktown. A vigorous siege now commenced, and was carried on with such effect by the combined forces of America and France, that Cornwallis was forced to surrender. This im- portant event took place on the 19th of October, 1781, and de- cided the Revolutionary war. On the 30th of November, 1782, the provisional articles of peace were signed at Paris; by which Great Britain acknowl- edged the Independence and sovereignty of the United States of America, and these articles were afterwards ratified by a defi- nitive treaty. After several fruitless efforts to establish a National Govern- ment, a Convention of State Delegates, in May, 1787, met in Philadelphia, and agreed to a frame of Government, which was finally adopted by all the States. On the 30th of April, 1789, George Washington was inaugurated the First President of the United States. Washington's Administration. This period continued for eight'years. Washing- ton, the leader of the armies of the United States, who conducted them through the perilous and successful struggle for Independence, was now called on by his countrymen to administer their national govern- ment. " His administration, partaking of his char- acter, Avas mild and firm at home, noble and pru- dent abroad." The principal events in this period were, the Indian war on our Western frontiers — the Whiskey Insurrection in Pennsylvania — Jay's treaty with Great Britain, — and the establishment of a National Bank and Mint. " During this period, the arts and manufactures attracted the attention of Government. Mr. Ham- ilton, Secretary of the Treasury, made a report to Congress on the subject, on which he set forth their importance to the country, and urged the policy of 333 aiding them. Since that time, the revenue laws have been framed, with a view to the encouragement oi manufactures, and their promotion has been consid- ered as a part of the policy of the United States. The United States, at the close of this period, con- tained about 5,000,000 inhabitants. Adams' Administration. In 1796 Mr. Adams was elected President, and continued 'in the office four years. The principal events during this time, were-the difficulties^ the French Government— the Death of Washing- ton, and the transfer of the seat of the national gov- ernment to Washington. The greater part of Mr. Adams' administration, was the subject of much popular clamor, owing to several imprudent laws which were passed during his Presidency. Such were the " Alien" and " Sedition Laics," the act for raising a standing army, and the act for imposing a direct tax, and internal duties. These causes, with some others, caused so much opposition to Mr. Ad- ams, that it prevented his re-election to the Presi- dency. Jefferson's Administration. Mr Jefferson's administration commenced in 1801, and continued for eight years. The most prominent events during this period were-the purchase of Louisiana-the War with Tripoli-Burr's Conspir- acy, the outrage upon the Chesapeake, and the lay- ing: of an Embargo. .",'■'. ,, • .- The bitterness of party spirit during this time ra- ffed with some violence, and it interrupted, in some degree, that general harmony which it is always im- portant to the welfare of our union to cultivate. Trade and commerce progressed with great rapidity. The European nations, being, at war with each other, 334 and the United States, remaining neutral, our ves- sels carried to Europe the produce of our own coun- try, and the produce of other countries. This is commonly called the carrying trade, and was very profitable to our citizens. After the year 1807, the commercial restraints laid by France by her Berlin and Milan decrees, and by Great Britain by her Or- ders in Council, began to curtail our trade, and the Embargo, laid by our Government at the close of the year, interrupted it still more. — The Arts and Manufactures still progressed, and the population of the United States, at the close of Mr. Jefferson's ad- ministration, amounted to about 7,000,000. Madison's Administration. On the 4th of March, 1809, Mr. Madison was elected President, and continued in the office eight years. This period was distinguished for the Second War with Great Britain, When Mr. Madison en- tered upon his office, the state of the country was, in some respects, gloomy and critical. France and England were at war, and they issued against each other the most violent commercial edicts, in viola- tion of the laws of nations, and injurious to those nations who wished to remain neutral. After a se- ries of injurious and insulting acts on the part of the Government of Great Britain and its agents, the Government of the United States declared war against that power, June 18th, 1812, which contin- ued about three years. The seat of war on the land, was principally on the frontiers of Canada, of which province it was the object of the Americans to take possession. The war at that point continued with various success on the part of the Americans and British. The Amer- icans, however, were able to effect but little towards accomplishing the design of their Government. The 335 situation of the contending parties at the close of the war was nearly the same as it. was at the com- mencement ; on the ocean, however, it was different. The splendid success of the American navy in vari- ous engagements, raised it to a high elevation, and taught her proud rival a lesson which will not be forgotten. During Mr. Madison's Presidency, in 1816, a National Bank was established, with a cap- ital of- thirty-five millions of dollars. Monroe's Administration. Mr. Monroe commenced his administration in 1817, under many favorable circumstances, — the country was fast recovering from the depression of commerce and a three years' war. The political feuds which had, since the revolution, occasioned so much ani- mosity, were now gradually subsiding, and there ap- peared in the administration a desire to remove old party prejudices, and to promote union among the people. A spirit of improvement was spreading throughout the country ; roads and canals were con- structed in various parts of the Union. The princi- pal events, which took place in Mr. Monroe's admin- istration, were — the war with the Seminole Indians — the passage of an act by Congress granting a pen- sion to the indigent officers and soldiers of the rev- olution — the cession of Florida to the United States by the Spanish Government, and the visit of Gen. Lafayette to the United States. John Q. Adams' Administration. Mr. Adams was elected President in 1825, and continued in office four years. The principal events during this period were — the Treaty with Columbia — the Panama Mission, and the death of the two venerable Patriarchs of the Revolution — John Ad- ams and Thomas Jefferson, on the fiftieth Anniver- 336 sary of Independence. During this period, the peo- ple of the United States were divided into two par- ties in reference to the Presidential election; one party desirous of retaining Mr. Adams during anoth- er term of office, the other upholding Gen. Andrew Jackson as a suitable candidate for the office of Pres- ident. Party spirit now raged with violence, each party upholding their favorite candidate and tradu- cing the other. Upon counting the votes, it appeared that a large majority were in favor of Andrew Jack- son; and on the 4th of March, 1829, he was induct- ed into the office of President of the United States, according to the form prescribed by the Constitution. Jackson's Administration. Gen. Jackson continued in the office of President for eight years. The leading measures of his adminis- tration were carried out with an uncommon degree of energy and determination. In 1832, both houses of Congress having passed a bill to re-charter the United States Bank, it was vetoed by the President, and not being re-passed by a majority of two-thirds, the bank ceased to be a national institution in 1836. In 1832, Congress passed a new tariff, imposing ad- ditional duties on foreign goods. This was consid- ered such a grievance by South Carolina, that a Con- vention was assembled, who published an "ordi- nance" nullifying^ or forbidding the operation of the tariff laws within the limits of that State. This act called forth a Proclamation from President Jack- son, stating that " such opposition must be repelled." Hostile preparations being made on both sides, the gathering storm was allayed by the passage of the " Compromise Act" introduced by Henry Clay, a warm friend of the tariff, which provided for a grad- ual reduction of the obnoxious duties. In 1835 there were serious apprehensions of a war witl 337 France. A claim of twenty-five millions of francs having been acknowledged by France for spoliations on American commerce, but, for some reason, pay- ment was long delayed; measures were now pro- posed to enforce payment, which, it was feared, would cause a war between the two nations. Hap- pily, all difficulties were amicably settled. In 1835, the national debt was extinguished, and, in 1836, several millions of surplus revenue remained in the treasury. Van Bueen's Administeation. Martin Van Buren, the eighth President of the United States, was inaugurated March 4th, 1837, and continued President for four years. The remo- val of the deposits from the United States Bank, by President Jackson, who caused them to be deposited in the State banks, gave these institutions great fa- cilities for lending money. Speculations were en- couraged. This soon brought on a revulsion in bu- siness, and in 1837 all the banks suspended specie payments. In the years 1837 and 1838, difficulties occurred on the Canada border, known as the Cana- da rebellion. Considerable bodies of Americans and Canadians assembled at different points on the fron- tiers, to aid the Canadians to achieve their indepen- dence. A party invaded Canada at Prescott ; they were soon surrounded by superior numbers, and for- ced to surrender ; their leaders were hung, and oth- ers were transported. The Florida war with the Seminoles prevailed at this time, and in 1837 it was estimated that nearly nine thousand men were en- gaged in the contest with the Indians, which contin- ued till 1845. The Sub-treasury bill, designed for the safe-keeping of the public money, was regarded as the great financial measure of Mr. Van Buren's administration. 29 338 Harrison's Administration. Oi/the 4th of March, 1841, William Henry Har- rison was inaugurated President, in the presence of an unusually large assemblage at the Capitol in Washington. The preceding political contest, by which Gen. Harrison was elevated to the Presidency, was one of the most exciting which has taken place in this country. The trying scenes of financial diffi- culties through which the country was then passing, and the " experiments on the currency," furnished the opponents of the Government a theme by which their measures were denounced. Gen. Harrison re- ceived two hundred and thirty-four votes, while Mr. Van Buren received only sixty. John Tyler was elected Vice President. President Harrison died on the 4th of April, 1841, just one month after he had taken the oath of office. Tyler's Administration. On the death of Gen. Harrison, John Tyler, the Vice President, became acting President of the Uni- ted States. During the first year of his administra- tion, the Sub-treasury bill was repealed, and a gen- eral bankrupt law was passed. In 1842, an import- ant treaty, adjusting the dispute in relation to the north-eastern boundary of the United States, was negociated at Washington between Mr. Webster, on the part of the United States, and Lord Ashburton, on the part of Great Britain. The most important political event which took place during Mr. Tyler's administration, was that which related to the sub- ject of the annexation of Texas, formerly a province of Mexico. In the year 1844, the first electric tele- graph, the invention of Professor Morse, was com- pleted in the United States. It extended from Wash- ington to Baltimore. 339 Polk's Administration. James K. Polk, the tenth President of the United States, was inaugurated March 4th, 1845. The Tex- an government having approved, by Resolution, on July 4th, 1845, the Joint resolution of the Ameri- can Congress in favor of annexation, Texas became that day one of the States of the American Union. The vast territory between the Rocky mountains and the Pacific, was for some time a subject of dis- pute between the United States and Great Britain. In 1818, it was agreed that each nation should enjoy equal privileges for ten years. This agreement was renewed in 1827, for an indefinite time, with the stip- ulation, that either party might rescind it, by giving twelve months notice. This notice was given in by the United States in 1846. Great Britain claimed a part of the territory. The boundary was finally set- tled at the parallel of 49° North latitude, and in 1848, a territorial government was established. The annexation of Texas, as had been predicted, caused an immediate rupture with Mexico. In July, 1845, Gen. Taylor was sent to the frontiers of Texas, to repel the hostile movements of the Mexicans. While marching towards Matamoras, he was attack- ed by a large body of Mexicans, and the battles of Palo Alto, and Resaca de la Palma, ensued, which proved victorious. On Sept. 21, 1846, Gen. Taylor attacked Monterey, which, on the 24th surrendered. About the same time, divisions under Wool, Kear- ney, Fremont, and others, penetrated into New Mex- ico, and California, and took possession of some of the principal towns. On Feb. 2 2d, Gen. Taylor gained a decisive victory at Buena Vista over the Mexicans under Santa Anna. In March, 1847, Gen. Winfield Scott, who was ap- pointed to the chief command of the U. S. forces in 340 Mexico, invested Vera Cruz by sea and land, and on March 29th, the city and Castle of San Juan d'Ul- loa, were captured, with 5,000 prisoners, and 500 pieces of cannon. Scott now marched for the Capi- tal, and after several severe but victorious contests with the Mexicans, he, on Sept. 16th, entered the city of Mexico in triumph. On Feb. 2d, 1848, the Mexican Congress concluded a treaty of peace with the Commissioners of the United States, in which the United States agreed to pay Mexico fifteen mill- ions of dollars for the territory acquired by con- quest. By this treaty, New Mexico and California, with its gold mines, became territories of the Uni- ted States. Taylor's Administration. On the 5th of March, 1849, (the 4th being Sunday,) Zachary Taylor was inaugurated President, in which office he remained but sixteen months, being removed by death July 9, 1850, after an illness of four days. At the time President Taylor entered upon the du- ties of his office, thousands of adventurers were flock- ing into California in search of gold, which had been discovered at Capt. Sutter's mill, on a branch of Sa- cramento river, in 1847. The inhabitants being de- sirous of forming a State government, adopted a Constitution which excluded slavery forever from its limits. This article caused violent debates in Con- gress, and created bitter feeling between the people of the North and South. In Jan. 1850, Henry Clay, as peace maker, offered in the Senate, a plan of com- promise, to meet the difficulty. A bill for this pur- pose was discussed for four months, and in Septem- ber, the famous " Compromise Act" of 1850, became a law. The most important stipulations were, — 1. That California should be admitted as a free State. 2 and 3. That the vast country east of California, 341 with Utah, JVeic Mexico, &c., should be made terri- tories or States, without any stipulations with regard to slavery, and that ten millions of dollars should be paid Texas for the purchase of her claims. 4. That the slave-trade in the District of Columbia should be abolished. 5. A law providing for the arrest and return of all slaves escaping to the northern or free States. Fillmore's Administration. Millard Fillmore, the Vice President, according to the Constitution, succeeded Gen. Taylor in the Presidency, and on July 10th, 1850, took the oath of office. In the Spring of 1851, Congress changed the Post Office laws, so that by paying three cents post- age, a letter not weighing more than half an ounce, was carried to any part of the United States, not exceeding three thousand miles. During the summer of 1851, considerable excite- ment was produced by the movements for the pur- pose of revolutionizing and seizing the island of Cuba. In Aug., 1851, General Lopez, a native of Cuba, sailed from New Orleans, and landed on the northern coast of Cuba, with nearly five hundred men. Lopez proceeded towards the interior. Col. Crittenden and his party were captured, carried to Havana, and shot. Lopez was attacked, and his men dispersed. He was arrested, taken to Havana, and executed by the garote, Sept. 1st, 1851. In December, 1851, Louis Kossuth, the exiled Governor of Hungary, arrived in New York, from England, on a mission to the United States in quest of aid for his native country. His great efforts in behalf of freedom, and his extraordinary talents as a writer and orator, secured for him the greatest at- tention and respect, both in Great Britain and Amer- ica. 29* 342 Pierce's Administration. Franklin Pierce, the fourteenth President of the United States, was inaugurated March 4th, 1853, and continued in office for four years. In 1853 and 1854, an expedition under Commodore Perry was sent to Japan, for the purpose of opening a trade with that populous country. A previous attempt, in 1846, had been made by the U. S. Government, which proved unsuccessful ; but at this time a treaty was effected, which opened the ports of Japan to the commerce of the civilized world. In Jan., 1854, Senator Douglass introduced into Congress a bill, called the " Kansas-Nebraska-bill" which occasioned great agitation on the subject of slavery. A petition against the measure was pre- sented to the Senate, signed by three thousand cler- gymen, principally of New England. Much discus- sion was had upon it, but Congress finally passed the bill in May, 1854. Its passage evidently ren- dered the Missouri Compromise Act of no avail, as it opened the territories to the introduction of sla- very. A most desperate struggle between the pro- slavery and anti-slavery parties for the political as- cendency, now ensued. The Massachusetts Legisla- ture incorporated an Emigrant Aid Society. This movement excited the friends of slavery to action, and in Missouri, combinations under the name of " Blue Lodges " " Sons of the South," were formed, to extend their institutions. These parties soon came in contact, civil war raged, and a " reign of terror" prevailed. These troubles continued for several years, till the free State party gained the as- cendancy. Buchanan's Administration. James Buchanan, the fifteenth President of the United States, was inaugurated March 4, 1857. The 343 political contest which preceded Mr Butarfs election was hitter; the ™«\ o{ r th °^t™s r>artv who had nominated John C. Fremont, was, S a No y 'mme slave territory." TMs -"sed the oppos, tion of the Slave States, who wished to extend their Institutions. At one time the result seemed doubt «,i onrl r>renarations were made in several States, S«rXlS», to take immediate steps fo y r orecipftating the secession of their States, in the event ofFremSnt's election Notwithstanding the election of Mr. Buchanan , the ^ of the South beo-an to discover, that all ttieir scnem^ cE^were stthtmmcn, devoted.to the seces- ^on causJ Taking advantage of their position as officeTof the U. I Government, they sent great asfiwass , saE?S5 ^ Ld After the announcement of his success, t conspira^rrwent eagerly to work, to consum- mate their designs against the Union. 344 Lincoln's Administration. Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth President of the United States, was inaugurated March 4th, 1861. He left his home at Springfield, Illinois, on the 11th of February, by special trains, stopping at all the principal cities on the route to Washington. Threats had been made, at the south and elsewhere, that the new President would never be inaugurated. When the President elect arrived at Harrisburg, Pa., he received such information, that an attempt would be made on his life when he arrived at Baltimore, that he passed through that place in disguise, in advance of the time expected, and by this means, probably, saved his life. The most important events in the history of this country, took place during the ad- ministration of Mr. Lincoln. The Secession War, which cost the lives of half a million of men, is the prominent event of the century, and the Emancipa- tion Act will, eventually, break the chains of slavery throughout the world, and transmit the name of Lincoln to future generations. Mr. Lincoln was re-elected to the Presidency by an overwhelm- ing majority of votes, and was inaugurated' March 4th, 1865. On April 1 4th, he fell by a pistol shot, by the hand of Booth, the assassin. On April 15th, 1865, Andrew Johnson, the Vice President, was inducted into the Presidential office, by taking the oath prescribed by the Constitution. 345 [/ Guide.] MAINE, The morning sun-beams earliest light on thee ; Far eastward lies thy cold and rugged shore : Thy wealth lies in the forest, and the sea ; Thy sons they range the ocean o'er. Maine was originally granted by James I. to the Plymouth Company, in 1606, by whom it was transfer- red to Mason and Gorges in 1624. This territory was afterwards purchased by Massachusetts, and became connected with that State in all its political relations, till it became an independent State in 1820. While belonging to Massachusetts it was called the " Province," or " District of Maine." It received its name as early as 1633, in compliment to Henrietta Maria of France, wife of Charles I. king of England, who was a possessor of Maine, a district, or department in France. The celebrated Capt. John Smith, so well known in the annals of Virginia, made an unsuccessful attempt to settle this part of the country as early as 1614. The first permanent lodgment of the whites within the State, was made at York, by the Plymouth Colony, in 1630. The first settlers were men of energy and perseverance. 10 346 By them, and their sons, the stately forest trees are con- verted into an article of commerce, and their fisheries have created a hardy race of seamen. Maine, at the period of its first settlement, was greatly harrassed by the hostile Indians. In 1692, York and Wells were attacked by the French and Indians. From (his time till about 1702, was one continued scene of bloodshed, burning and destroying. The inhabitants suffered much for several years before and after the year 1724. As late as 1744, and 1748. persons were cap- tured and killed by the Indians. During these wars, the Indians in the French interest, were encouraged by the Catholic missionaries from Can- ada, to make aggressions upon the English, whom they considered as intruders upon the country. One of these was Father Sebastian Ralle, a French Jesuit, a man of learning and address, much endeared to the Indians by his religious labors among them for a space of thirty- seven years. He resided at Norridgewock, with a tribe of that name, who had a church at this place. He was killed in an expedition of the English against the Indians in this place, in 1724. After the English had retired, the Indians found the mangled body of their beloved pastor near the cross erected in the village. A monu- ment was erected to his memory in 1833, by Bishop Fenwick, of Boston. Maine comprises about one-half of the area of New- England. Its northern boundary extends some distance northward of Quebec. It was through the vast wilder- ness in the north-western section of this State, that Gen. Arnold, with 1,100 men, made his celebrated expedition against Quebec in 1775. By a partial construction of the treaty of 1783, nearly a third part of Maine was claimed by Great Britain. In 1842, a treaty was estab- lished, by which the British claims were much restricted. :m NEW HAMPSHIRE. Old " Granite State," thy snowy mountains stand, And make of thee a Western Switzerland : Thy sons are hardy, brave ; firm for the right ; Thy Sun is clear, and shines both fair and bright. The early history of New Hampshire is closely con- nected with that of Massachusetts. John Mason, Fer- dinand Gorges, and others, having obtained of the Ply- mouth Company several grants of land north of Massa- chusetts, in 1623, sent from England a few persons to begin a settlement. A part landed at Little Harbor, on the west side of Piscataqua river, and built the first house, which was called "Mason's Hall." The remainder proceeded up the river and began the settlement of Do- ver. The first settlers followed fishing and commerce, as their trading business, and their settlements increased but slowly. The first towns, for a period, remained dis- tinct and independent communities. In 1641, these little republics, distrusting their abilities to protect themselves, formed a coalition with Massachusetts, and long remained a part of that Colony. In 1679, a decree was passed, that New Hampshire should be a separate Province, to be ruled by a President 348 and Council, who were to be appointed by the king. The first assembly, consisting of eleven members, met at Portsmouth, in 1680. The peace of the colony was long disturbed by the heirs of Mason, who claimed the soil as their property. New Hampshire suffered much from the Indian wars. Dover was surprised in 1689. Maj. Waldron, and twenty-three others, were murdered. From this period to the close of the French wars, the inhabitants were often harrassed by the incursions of the savages. Many were killed, and others carried into captivity. In 1719, one hundred families, mostly Presbyterians from the north of Ireland, settled the town of London- derry. They introduced the foot spinning-wheel, the manufacture of linen, and the culture of potatoes. In 1740, a long and tedious controversy between Massa- chusetts and New Hampshire, respecting their divisional line, was decided in England, by the Lords in council. New Hampshire declared her independence of Massa- chusetts in June, 1776, and the same year formed a tem- porary government. Its present Constitution was adop- ted in 1792. New Hampshire is frequently called the Granite State, from the vast quantities of that rock found within its ter- ritory. The granite is of a superior quality, and much of it is quarried and transported to other States. The State is also called the Switzerland of America, on ac- count of the salubrity of its climate ; its wild and pictu- resque landscapes, and particularly its celebrated White Mountains, the highest elevation in New England, and covered with snow for ten months in the year. The scenery, as viewed from Mount Washington, one of the highest of these elevations, is sublime and beautiful. 349 VERMONT. " Green Mountain State," thy nardy sons are free, For " Freedom, Independence," honor bright : Changeless as Evergreen, thy fame shall be — Strong to defend ; firm to sustain the right. Vermont derives its name from the Green Mountains, which extend through it. Its territory was first explored by the French, from Canada. The name is derived from the Green Mountains : verd, in the French language, signifies green, and mont, mountain. They are so called on account of the numerous evergreens with which they are covered. The first settlement in this State was commenced at Fort Dummer, in the south-eastern part, in 1724. On the other side of the State, a fort was built, at Crown Point, in 1731. This part of the country became the seat of war, and was constantly exposed to the incursions of the French and Indians, which of course prevented its early settlement. After the reduction of Canada, Vermont was rapidly settled, by emigrants principally from Connecticut, who, following the course of the river, located themselves on its banks in the limit* of Vermont and New Hampshire. 30 350 So rapid was the progress, that during the year 1761, not less than sixty townships, of six miles square, were granted on the west of Connecticut River. When Gen. Burgoyne lay at Fort Edward, in 1777, he learnt that a quantity of stores had been collected at Bennington by the Americans. To destroy these, as well as to intimidate the patriots and animate the royal- ists, he sent forward Col. Baum, with 500 men and 100 Indians. Col. Breyman was sent to reinforce him, but did not arrive in time. On the 16th of August, Gen. Stark, of New Hampshire, with about 800 militia men. most of whom were denominated " Green Mountair Boys," attacked Baum in his entrenched camp, and kill- ed or took prisoners nearly the whole of his men. At the close of the action, Col. Breyman arrived; he con- tinued the contest till sunset, and under cover of night was able to effect his retreat. New York and New Hampshire both laid claim to Vermont till 1764, when New- York obtained a grant from the British Parliament, which put an end to the claims of New Hampshire. New York now attempted to enforce her jurisdiction, but this was resisted by the inhabitants. They claimed to be independent both of New York and New Hampshire, and organized them- selves in armed bands, having Colonels Ethan Allen and Seth Warner, both brave and resolute men, as their leaders. This controversy continued till the breaking out of the Revolutionary war, when the attention of all parties was turned to a more important object than that which rela- ted to titles of lands. In 1777, the people of Vermont declared themselves independent, and organized a gov- ernment for themselves. In 1790, all controversy with New York was amicably adjusted, and in 1791, Vermont was admitted in the Union. Her present Constitution was adopted in 1793. 351 [By the sword he seeks peace under Liberty.] MASSACHUSETTS. Old Massachusetts, where the Pilgrim band First found a home, and where their ashes lie ; Foremost in Freedom's ranks thy children stand, On History's page thy fame shall never die. The first settlement in Massachusetts, was commenced by the Colony at Plymouth, in Dec, 1620. The Colo- nists were originally from the north of England, and were called Puritans, for their uncommon zeal in endeavoring to preserve the purity of Divine worship. Being perse- cuted by their enemies, they fled to Holland, and from thence, after a few years, they sailed for America. Be- fore they landed, they formed themselves into " a body police," and chose Mr. John Carver their first Governor. The whole company who landed, consisted of 101 souls, forty-six of which number died before the ensuing spring. The territory of Massachusetts, for many years com- prised two distinct colonies, "Plymouth Colony," and the " Colony of Massachusetts Bay." In 1692, theso colonies were united under one charter, and received the name of Massachusetts, from an Indian tribe so called, who lived around the vicinity of Massachusetts Bay. The word Massachusetts, signifies, it is said, in the Indi- an language, Blue Hills. In 1675, commenced " &liig Philip's war," the most destructive Indian war, ever waged upon the Infant Col- onies. It was terminated by the death of Philip, Aug., 1676. Massachusetts was the greatest sufferer. In the French War, her frontiers were ravaged by the French and Indians from Canada. In 1704, Deerfield was burnt, and in 1708, Haverhill was surprised. In 1692, a great excitement took place, on account of the sup- posed prevalence of witchcraft in Salem and its vicinity. In 1745, by the exertions of Massachusetts, a force was raised which captured from the French the strong for- tress of Louisburg, on Cape Breton. The great drama of the American Revolution, first opened in Massachusetts : the first blood was shed at Lexington, April 19th, 1775. The battle of Bunker Hill took place, June 17th following. On May 17th, 1776, the British troops evacuated Boston. Massachu- setts furnished more men and money, than any of the other colonies, in carrying forward the war of the Rev- olution. In 1780, the Constitution of the government of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts went into operation. In 1786, an insurrection took place, generally known as " Shays Insurrection." It appears to have arisen from a number of causes, the most prominent of which were, a decay of trade, scarcity of money, inability of individuals to pay their debts, a relaxation of manners ever attendant on war, and heavy taxes. The leader of the malcontents, was Daniel Shays ; who, collecting a force, endeavored to stop the proceedings of the civil courts. On Jan. 25th, Shays appeared at Springfield, at the head of 1100 men, evidently for the purpose of seiz- ing the Arsenal at that place. Gen. Shepherd, who was appointed with a sufficient force to guard this place, warned Shays of his danger, should he attempt to ap- proach. This was unheeded. Gen. Shepherd then or- dered his men to fire. Three of the insurgents were killed. The remainder fled, and the rebellion was effec- tually crushed. 303 RHODE ISLAND. Though small in size, thy soul is large in thee ; All " sorts of consciences" find liberty : Williams, thy founder, in thy wilds first trod, And gave to all " freedom to worship God." Rhode Island is the least, in extent of territory, of any State in the Union ; but in proportion to its number of inhabitants, its resources are greater. It owes its first settlement to Roger Williams, who was banished from Massachusetts on account of his religious senti- ments. Mr. Williams commenced his settlement at Providence in 1636. The State embraces what were once called the " Rhode Island and Providence Planta- tions." The island of Rhode Island, from which the State derives its name, was so called from its fancied resemblance to the ancient Grecian Island of Rhodes. The Narragansett Indians, one of the powerful tribes in New England, had their seat in Rhode Island. In King Philip War, this tribe was totally ruined by the destruction of their strong hold in Dec. 19th, 1675. Gov. Winslow, with a force of 1000 men from the col- onies of Massachusetts, Plymouth and Connecticut, after wading through the snow attacked their fort, and after a 354 desperate resistance, it was fired and consumed. In this celebrated swamp jight, about one thousand Indian war- riors perished. The finishing blow was given to the Indian power in New England, by the death of Philip, who was killed near Mount Hope, by a friendly Indian, August, 1676. When the New England colonies formed their mem- orable confederacy, Rhode Island applied to be admitted a member. Plymouth objected, asserting that her settle- ments were within her boundaries. The commissioners decided she might enjoy all the advantages of the con- federacy, if she would submit to the jurisdiction of Ply- mouth. This she declined, preferring independence to the benefits of a dependent union. In 1644, Mr. Williams obtained a patent for the territory, and permission for the inhabitants to institute a government for them- elves. In 1663, a new charter was granted, which formed the basis of government till 1842, when the present government was adopted. During the Revolutionary war, Rhode Island rendered efficient aid. She gave liberty to a number of hundreds of slaves, on condition they would enter the Revolutionary army. About 300 of them, under the command of Col. Chistopher Greene, de- feated the British in their attack on Mud Island, in the Delaware, in 1777. The original Charter of Rhode Island, confined the right of suffrage, or voting, principally to the landholders. When it be- came a manufacturing State, this was considered a grievance. In January, 1841, the Legislature, upon the petition of the " Suffrage" party, consented to have a convention called to form a new State Constitution. This, however, did not satisfy the Suffrage party, who issued a call for a convention a month previous to that author- ized by the State. The different conventions met ; each foruied a Constitution, which they submitted to the people. The one sub- mitted by the Charter party was rejected, while the Suffrage party declared theirs adopted and established as the supreme law of the State. Both parties chose their State officers, Gov. King at the head of the Charter party, and T. W. Dorr at the head of the other. After a considerable display of military force by both par- ties, most of the officers chosen by the Suffrage party resigned their situations, and this threatening storm passed over without bloodshed. Dorr was tried for treason, and condemned to hard labor for life, but was liberated in 1844, by the Legislature, aiW he remained in prison for about one year. 355 [He who transplanted still sustains.] CONNECTICUT. « He who transplanted thee, will still sustain ;" Thy patriot shoots are spreading far and wide : Fair Science, Freedom, follow in thy train ; For Liberty thy sons have bled and died. At the first period of its history, Connecticut consisted of two colonies, that of Connecticut, and that of New Haven. Connecticut Colony was first settled by a com- pany of emigrants from Massachusetts, who, in lo3o, psssed through the wilderness, with Messrs. Hooker and Stone, their ministers, at their head. New Haven Col- onv was settled by Rev. Mr. Davenport, Mr. Eaton and others, in 1638. These two Colonies were united under one government in 1662, by a Charter from Charles It. This Charter conferred unusual privileges. It was obtained by Gov. Winthrop, of Connecticut, who arrived in England at an auspicious period for the colony, as a number of its friends were in high office at court. Mr. Winthrop had " an extraordinary ring,' which had been given his grandfather by King Charles I., which he pre- sented to the king. This, it is said, exceedingly pleased his majesty, as it had been once the property of a father most dear to him. The New Haven Colony was, at the 55r> first, much dissatisfied with their union with Connecticut, as they feared it would mar the" order and purity of their churches, and have a bad effect on the civil administra tion. In New Haven Colony, no person could vote at the freemen's meetings, unless he was a member of the church ; but in Connecticut, all orderly persons, possess ing a freehold to a certain amount, could have this priv ilege. This Charter was suspended in 1686. Sir Edmund Andross, called the " Tyrant of New England" endeav- ored to take it away, but it was secreted in a large hoi low oak, still standing in Hartford, known by the name of " Charter Oak." While the other colonies were suf- fering under the domination of Royal Governors, Connec- ticut remained a free and independent community, being ever governed by rulers of her own choice. At the time of the first settlement of Connecticut, the Colony be- came involved in war with the Pequots ; one of the most terrible and warlike tribes in New England. By a most daring attack, led on by Capt. Mason, these Indians were utterly defeated and ruined. In the Revolutionary war, Connecticut was one of the foremost in the struggle, and was lavish of her blood and treasure in the cause. Fairfield, Norwalk, and New London, were laid in ashes, and Hale, Ledyard, Wooster and others, sacrificed their lives for Amer- ican freedom. Connecticut, by her Charter limits, extended from Narraganset river on the east, to the South Sea on the west. In 1774, a settle- ment at Wyoming in Pennsylvania, was formed into a town called Westmoreland, which sent representations to the Assembly of Connecticut. After the Revolution, it was decided that Connec- ticut must relinquish her claims to any territory lying within the limits of Pennsylvania. She however claimed the lands west, within the range of her northern and southern boundaries. In 1786, Connecticut ceded to Congress all her claims to western territory, except a tract 120 miles in length, now in the limits of Ohio, still called the Connecticut, or Western Reserve. The pro- ceeds from the sale of these lands constitutes the School Fund of Connecticut. Though now small in extent and population, is sec- ond to none of her sister states, in the virtue, genius and enterprise of her sons. She has furnished many distinguished men, and some of the most powerful states in this Union, are largely indebted to her, for the elements of their greatness and prosperity. 357 [More Elevated.] NEW YORK. " Excelsior," " higher still " thy course shall be, The motto on thy shield foretells thy fame ; In commerce, wealth, and heaven born Liberty, " The Empire State " thyself, thou dost proclaim. The first settlement of New York was made by the Dutch in 1614, on the present sites of the cities of New York and Albany. New York was then named New Amsterdam, and Albany Fort Orange. The Dutch, in 1629, established a colonial government for this part of the country, calling it New Netherlands. In 1664, Charles II. granted to his brother, the Duke of York, afterwards James II., a patent of a tract of country com- prising the present states of New York and New Jersey. The same year it was taken from the Dutch and named " New York." In 1673, the territory was re-taken by the Dutch, but soon restored to the English by treaty. During the French and Indian and Revolutionary wars, the territory of New York became the theatre of many important military trensactions. In 1690, the French and Indians from Canada, in the depth of winter burnt Schenectady and massacred the inhabitants. The battles of Lake George and Ticonderoga, the capitula- lation of Fort William Henry, the operations at Os- S58 wego, Niagara, and other posts on the frontiers, are no- ted events in American history. The celebrated confed- eracy of the " Six Nations," consisting at first office, then of six Indian tribes, was located within the limits of New York.* In the Revolutionary period, the Americans were forced to abandon the city of New York, which was ta- ken possession of by the British troops, in Sept., 1776, and occupied by them till the " evacuation," Nov. 25th, 1783, when Gen. Washington marched in with the American troops. The battles on Long Island, at White Plains, capture of Fort Washington, treason of Arnold, storming of Stony Point, and the surrender of Burgoyne, all within the limits of the State, are prominent events in the Revolution. The first constitution of state government was adopt- ed in 1777, the second in 1822, the present one in 1846. New York was the seat of the Federal Government du- ring the first year of its existence. During the last war with Great Britain, her territory again became the the- atre of important military operations. She has pursued a wise policy in sustaining objects of public utility, and now ranks as the " Empire State" being the first in wealth, resources, commerce and population. * The Iroquois, or the confederated tribe called the Five Na- tions, were in possession of most of the territory within the limits of New York, at the time of its first settlement by the Dutch. The confederacy consisted originally of five nations, the Mohawks, (the leading tribe,) the Oneidas, the Onondagas, the Cayugas, and the Senecas. In 1712, they were joined by the Tuscaroras, a tribe driven by the Carolinians from the frontiers of Virginia. After this, the confederacy of the Iroquois was called the " Six Na- tions." At the time of the first European settlements, they were estimated in number, from twenty to twenty-five thousand. At the time of the Revolutionary war, all these tribes, with the excep- tion of the Oneidas, took up the hatchet against the Americans. Their principal leader was Col. Joseph Brandt, a chief of the Mo- hawk tribe, who was educated under the care of Dr. Wheelock, first President of Dartmouth College. He held a commission un- der the British government, and died in Canada in 1807. 359 NEW JERSEY. Thine are the battle-fields for Freedom won ; Thine is the soil that patriot blood hath stained ; The Storm of War that swept o'er thee has gone, And left thy noble sons the victory gained. It is believed that the first settlement in the limits cf New Jersey, was commenced at Bergen, about the year 1628, by a number of Danes, or Norwegians, who ac- companied the Dutch colonists who came over to New Netherlands. In 1623, the Dutch West India Company dispatched Capt. Mey, with a company of settlers, to the Delaware. Mey entered Delaware Bay, and gave his name to its northern cape, [Cape May,] and built a forti- fication a few miles below Camden, calling it Fort Nassau. In 1637, a colony of Swedes purchased lands on both sides of the Delaware, and began settlements. The first English settlement in New Jersey, appears to have been made at Salem, in 1641, by persons from New Haven, Conn. In 1664, the Duke of York made a grant of New- Jersey to Lord Berkley and Sir George Carteret. It was granted to these proprietors for ten shillings, and an annual rent of " one pepper corn," to " be paid on the day of the nativity of St. John the Baptist, if legally demanded." These two proprietors formed a constitu- 360 tion, gave liberty of conscience, and appointed Carteret Governor. It is said that the territory was named New Jersey in compliment to Carteret, who defended the Island of Jersey against the Long Parliament during the civil wars. The Province was divided into two parts, East and West Jer- sey. In 1677, Lord Berkley, who owned West Jersey, becoming dissatisfied, sold his right or interest to John Fenwick and Edward Byllings, of the Society of Friends, or Quakers. Many persons of this religious faith emigrated to this part of New Jersey soon afterwards. In 1702, the proprietors surrendered their right of government to the English Crown, and Queen Anne established a royal government, which continued till the Revolution. New Jersey was the seat of war during the bloody struggle be- tween Great Britain and the Colonies. Some of the most impor- tant battles were fought within her limits. Her proportionate losses in men and property, was greater than any of her sister States, and her sufferings in the cause of American freedom entitle her to the gratitude of her sister States. New Jersey was originally settled by the Lenni Lenape, or Dclaioare Indians, as they are usually called. In 1832, a grant of $2000 was obtained from the Legislature of New Jersey, by B. S. Calvin, an aged Indian representing the Delaware tribe, for some claims they had against the State. Their claim was nobly advocated by Mr. Southard, and at the close of his speech he re- marked : " That it was a proud fact in the history of New Jersey, that every foot of her soil had been obtained from the Indians by fair and voluntary purchase ; a fact that no other State in the Union can boast of." The sum that Calvin received was not large, but it was all he asked for, and considering the nature of the claim, it mast be regarded as an act of beneficence as much as of justice. The councils of Barclay and of Penn, (the former a Governor, and the latter a proprietor of the colony,) seemed to have influenced their successors, and it is with feelings of honest pride that a Jerseyman may advert to the fact, that the soil of his State is unstained by a battle with the Indians, and that every acre has been fairly purchased. 861 PENNSYLVANIA. Land of immortal Penn, of Love and Peace, Amid thy sister States thy fame is bright, And still with coming centuries, shall increase, While firm and true thy sona maintain the Right. The Dutch appear to have been the first who endeav. ored to explore, and colonize the country, lying on both sides of Delaware Bay and River. In 1631, the Swedes laid out the present town of Newcastle on the Delaware, and at the same time, it is believed they constructed a number of small forts, or block houses, within the present limits of Pennsylvania. One of the forts was on Ten- cum Island, in Delaware river. This they called New Gottemburg, and Printz, the Sweedish governor, had a plantation on the island. In 1655, Gov. Stuyvesant, the Dutch Governor at New Amsterdam, [New York,] sent a force of 700 men against the Swedes on the Delaware, who, being unpre- pared for resistance, surrendered. The English con- quest was in 1664. In 1681, King Charles II. granted Pennsylvania to William Penn, in consideration of services rendered the crown by Admiral Penn, his father. The name com- pounded of Penn, and sylva, a grove of wood, was given by the king, and signifies literally Penn's Woods. 31 HG2 In 1682, William Penn, with his colony of Friends or Quakers, landed on the shores of the Delaware, purchased the land of the natives, and laid the foundation of Phila- delphia, his capital. The colony was governed by depu ties, appointed by the Proprietors, till the commencement of the Revolutionary war. Penn died in 1718, leaving his interests in Pennsylvania, as an inheritance to his children. Their claim was eventually purchased by the Commonwealth, for £130,000 sterling. In 1767, Mason's and Dixon's line was drawn to mark the boundary between this state and Maryland ; and in 1784, the north-western portion of this State, not being included in the former purchase, was bought of the Indi- ans. The first constitution was adopted in 1776, the second in 1790, and the present one in 1838. During the Revolutionary war, Philadelphia was the seat of the General Government, and it continued here till it was removed to Washington, in 1800. The old State House in which Congress sat when Independence was declared, is still remaining. The original bill, cast many years before the Revolution, still hangs in the town, having a remarkable inscription, "Proclaim liberty throughout the land, to all the inhabitants thereof. 17 Lev. xxv, 10. After the battle of Brandywine, Sept. 11th, 1777, the British took possession of Philadelphia, which they retained till the following June. In July, 1778, the settlements of Wyoming, were visited by a band of tories, and Indians. A large portion of the men in the settle- ments were killed in battle ; others massacred ; the settlements were laid waste, and the women and children fled through the wilder- ness for safety. In 1794, occurred the " Whiskey Insurrection.'* This took place in the four western counties of Pennsylvania, on account of duties laid by Congress on spirits distilled in the United States, and upon Stills. This law bore hard upon the western counties, as whiskey at that period was almost their only article of export. An armed body of insurgents having committed some outrages, President Washington ordered Gov. Lee, of Mary- land, with a body of 1500 men, to the scene of disturbances. On the approach of this force, the insurgents laid down their arms, and promised obedience to the lawe. 363 DELAWARE. Smallest in number of the old thirteen, Thy soul is large for truth and freedom famed : The Swedes and Fins first sought thy vallies green, Thy southern cape, Point Paradise they named. Delaware is the smallest in population, and, excep Rhode Island, the least in extent of any State in the Un- ion. It was first settled by a company of Swedes and Fins, under the patronage of King Gustavus Adolphus. This company came over in 1627, and landing at Cape Henlopen, were so much charmed with its appearance, that they named it Paradise Point. It was however af- terwards called Cape Henlopen, from a Dutch navigator of that name. The Swedes purchased lands on both sides of the Delaware from the Indians. They called the country New Sweden, and the river New Swedeland Stream. They seated themselves at the mouth of Chris- tian Creek, near Wilmington. The name of Delaware was derived from Sir Thomas West, Lord Delaware, Gov- ernor of Virginia, who died on his voyage near the mouth of the bay. The Swedes being molested by the Dutch, built forts at Christiana, Chester and Tinicum. This latter place, now in the limits of Pennsylvania, was their seat of gov- 36'4 •rnrnent, and their Governer Printz, erected a strong fort of hemlock logs, and a splendid mansion for himself, called "Printz Hall." In 1651, the Dutch built a fort at New- Castle. Printz considering this to be within the Swe- dish territories, protested against it, and Risingh his suc- cessor, took the fort by stratagem, when enjoying the Dutch hospitality. Stuyvesant, the Dutch Governor of New York, in 1664, sailed to the Delaware, reduced all the Swedish settle- ments, and all the inhabitants who would not take the oath of allegiance to Holland, were sent to Europe. The wife of Pappegoia and daughter of Gov. Printz, who, not- withstanding all the advantages of living in her father's mansion, was so poor from the want of laborers, that the Dutch government granted her a small aid, which was for some time an ox and some hogs both fatted, and grain for bread yearly. After the conquest of the Dutch by the English, Wil- liam Penn, in 1682, purchased of the Duke of York, the town of New Castle, and twelve miles around it ; and by another purchased the land from New Castle to Cape Henlopen. These tracts, which constitute the present State of Delaware, were called the " Territories," and were for twenty years, governed as a part of Pennsylva- nia. Its first constitution was adopted in 1776, its pres- ent one in 1831. In the Revolutionary war, the Dela- ware Regiment was considered the most efficient in the Continental army. 365 MARYLAND. Justice, with scales and sword, is type of thee, And firm for Freedom mayst thou ever stand ; Thy founder, Baltimore, sent o'er the sea, And freedom kindly gave in Maryland. In 1632, George Calvert, a distinguished Calholic, (usually called Lord Baltimore,) applied to Charles I. for a territory for the purpose of establishing a colony. He was of Flemish descent, but born in England, and was created Baron of Baltimore, in Ireland, in 1625. Be- fore the grant had passed the royal seal, he died, and the territory was granted to Cecil Calvert, his oldest son, about two months aftewards. The country was named Maryland, in honor of Henrietta Maria, the queen con- sort of Charles I. In 1634, Leonard Calvert, first Governor of Maryland^ and brother of Cecil, the proprietor, with about 200 Catholic emigrants, arrived at Point Comfort in Virginia. He then proceeded up Chesapeake Bay, entered the Po- tomac, which he sailed up twelve leagues, and came to an anchor under an island, which he named St. Cle- ment's. Here he fired his cannon, erected a cross, and took possession "in the name of the Savior of the world, and the King of England." 31 366 Having peaceably purchased the land of the Indians, Gov. Calvert located himself at St. Mary's. By grant ing free toleration, and giving equal protection to all re- ligious denominations, Maryland became a prosperous colony, and an asylum for those who were persecuted for religious opinions in the other colonies. The first assembly was composed of the freemen in the colony. In 1639, there was a change — the House of Assembly was made up of representatives chosen by the people. In 1650, there was another change, by which the Legislature was divided into two houses — the proprietors choosing one body, the people the other. During the civil wars in England, the name of papist became so obnoxious, that the Parliament assumed the government of the province, and appointed a new Gov- ernor. Many changes took place in the government till the Revolution- ary war, when the authority fell into the hands of the people. In 1776, they adopted the Constitution, which has been frequently amended. During the Revolutionary struggle, Maryland bore her full share of the sufferings, dangers, and privations of the contest. In the second war with Great Britain, after the enemy had made a successful attempt against Washington, they were emboldened to undertake an expedition against Baltimore. On the 12th of Sept., 1814, Gen. Ross, with 5000 men, landed at North Point, about fourteen miles from the city. The militia were called into the field; the aged and the rich voluntarily entered the ranks; and Gen. Striker, with 3000 men, was ordered to retard the advance o* the enemy. The advanced parties met about eight miles from the eity. In the skirmish which ensued, Gen. Ross was killed. The enemy, however, continued to advance, and the Americans fell back to their entrenchment, about two miles from the city. After the enemy had landed at North Point, the British fleet sailed up the Petapsco, and bombarded Fort McHenry and Fort Covington. These were bravely defended, the fleet was repulsed, and the com- mander of the troops finding the naval force could render no as- sistance, retreated to North Point, and re-embarked his forces. The loss of the Americans, in killed and wounded, amounted to one hundred and sixty-three, among whom were some of the most respectable citizens of Baltimore. 367 [Thvs always with tyrants.] VIRGINIA. " Mother of States and Statesmen," still thy fame, Rich with the glowing history of the past, Shall find amid thy country's lists a name, And round thy sons a fadeless halo cast. Virginia is distinguished as the largest, and the ear- liest settled of the original thirteen States. It was named Virginia, by Sir Walter Raleigh, in honor of Elizabeth, the virgin Queen of England. It is often called the " Old Dominion." This name appears to have been giv- en for her loyalty to Charles II., during the civil wars in England. Chesapeake, the name of the bay forming the eastern boundary, is an Indian word, signifying " Mother of Waters. 1 ' The " London Company," having received a grant of Virginia, fitted out three ships with one hundred and five men, to begin a settlement. They landed at Jamestown, May 13th, 1607, and began the first permanent English settlement in North America. Among these adventu- rers, were but four carpenters, and twelve laborers, to fifty four gentlemen. The colonists suffered much for want of provisions, and in four months from the time of their landing, fifty of the company had perished. By the 368 exertions and address of Capt John Smith, they wer« probably saved from destruction. In 1608, Capt. Newport brought over 120 persons to ioin the colony, with supplies of provisions. In 1609, five hundred men, women, and children were sent over, who finding the colony so much reduced by sickness and want, they resolved to abandon the country, and actually sailed for England. But the next day, meeting Lord Del- aware, with fresh supplies, they all returned and prose- cuted the planting of the country. In 1619, the first legislative body in this country met at Jamestown. As many had become dissatisfied, and contemplated returning to England, the London Com- pany, in 1620, sent over more than ninety young women, to be disposed of as wives to the young planters. At first, the price was 100 lbs. of tobacco each, but the de- mand was so great, that it was increased to 160 lbs. In 1620, a Dutch ship from the coast of Guinea, entered James River, and sold twenty slaves to the colonists, be- ing the first introduced into the country.* In 1624, King James dissolved the London company, assumed the government, and appointed a Governor. For a long period, Virginia experienced much trouble and difficulties with their vari- ous governors. The State adopted its first Constitution in 1776, and its present one in 1830. Virginia is distinguished for being the birth-place of many illustrious men, and was one of the leading States that distinguished themselves in the Revolutionary war. In 1781, the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, at York town, in this State, decided the Revolutionary contest. While the name of Washington appears on the page of American history, Virginia will be honored and revered among her sister States. * Virginia, having an extensive territory and many slaves, has ever been sensitive in regard to this class of her population. About the year 1800, a well organized insurrection of slaves in the imme- diate vicinity of Richmond, was mercifully prevented by the timely discovery of a young slave, and the sudden rise in the river render- ing it impassible. In 1831, Nat Turner, a fanatical slave in South- ampton county, moved, as he said, by certain appearances in the sun, in August, collected a body of 60 or 70 slaves, and commenced the work of indiscriminate massacre. Fifty-five men, women and children, were murdered before the Insurrectiou could be suppressed. 36» NORTH CAROLINA. The old " North State," for Freedom's holy laws, For Liberty thy noble sons declared ; First to defend thy Country's injured cause, The glorious boon of Independence shared. In 1630, Charles I. granted to Sir Robert Heath, a territory south of Virginia, extending from the Atlantic Ocean, to the South Sea, by the name of Carolina. Between 1640 and 1650, persons suffering from religious persecution in Virginia, fled beyond her limits, and with- out license from any source, occupied that portion of North Carolina, north of Albemarle Sound. Their num- ber annually augmented, and were enabled by the fertil- ity of the soil, with little labor, to live in abundance, " They acknowledged no superior on earth, and obeyed no laws, but those of God and nature." As Sir Robert Heath had not complied with the con- ditions of his patent, the king, in 1633, granted the same territory to Lord Clarendon and seven others, and gave them the powers of government. To encourage emigra- tion, religious liberty was granted. At the request of the proprietors, a constitution of government was pre- pared by the celebrated John Locke. This instrument provided that the Governor or Palatine, should hoid his 370 office during life, and that the office should be hereditary. It also provided, that a hereditary nobility should b# cre- ated, to be called land-graves and caziques. and that, once in two years, representatives should be chosen by the free-holders. All these, with the proprietors or their deputies, were to meet in one assembly, which was to be called the Parliament, and over which the Palatine was to preside. This Constitution caused great disorder in the colony, and it was abolished in 1693. In 1729, the Crown purchased from the proprietors, the Carolinas, for £17,500 sterling, and established two separate Gov- ernments, called North and South Carolina. In 1707, a Company of French Protestants, arrived and seated themselves on the river Trent. In 1710, they were joined by a large number of Palatines, who fled from Germany on account of religious persecution. In 1712, the Tuscarora, and other Indians, formed a plot to murder all these settlers. In one night, twelve hundred of these savages, in separate parties, broke in upon their settlements, and murdered men, women, and children. Gov. Cra- ven, of South Carolina, dispatched nearly a thousand men, under Col. Barnwell, who followed the savages into a hideous wilderness, defeated them, and compelled them to sue for peace. The Tusca- roras soon after went to the north, and joined the Five nations ; this making the sixth tribe of that confederacy. About the year 1730, the soil in the interior of North Carolina, was found to be more fertile than that on the coast. Many emi- grants from the northern colonies, particularly from Pennsylvania, now settled in this section. In May, 1775, the "Committee of Safety " met in Mecklenburg County, and by a series of resolutions, declared themselves "free and independent" of the British Crown. In 1796, the State adopted its Constitution, which with some mod- ifications continues to the present time. 371 SOUTH CAROLINA Palmetto like, she towers above the rest, While with her sister States she takes her stand ; With chivalry inspired, with fearless breast, Firm in their rights, her sons together stand. The first settlement of this State was made by Gov. Sayle, at Port Royal, in 1670. The next year he found- ed old Charleston, on the banks of the Ashley river. In 1684, all the freemen meeting at this place elected rep- resentatives to sit in Colonial Parliament, according to the Constitution prepared by Mr. Locke. The situation of Charleston being found inconvenient, the inhabitants, in 1680, removed to the site of the present city of Charleston. The first Constitution of State government was formed in 1775; the present one in 1790. Several circumstances, at this period, tended to pro- mote the growth of the colony. The Puritans, from England, came over, to avoid the licentiousness which disgraced the Court of Charles II. ; the Cavaliers also came to restore their fortunes, exhausted by the civil wars. The conquest of New York induced many of the Dutch to resort to it. The arbitrary measures of the French King drove many of his Protestant subjects into exile, some of whom came to Carolina. Many of these exiles were rich, industrious, and of exemplary lives. 372 ' Many of the prominent settlers being Episcopalians, they procured the passage of a law establishing the Episcopal religion, and excluded dissenters from the Assembly. This illiberal proceeding made much trou- ble in the colony, till it was made void by Queen Anne. In 1702, Gov. Moore, of Carolina, made an unsuccess- ful expedition against St. Augustine, then a Spanish settlement. In 1706, the Spaniards from Florida, inva- ded Carolina ; but Gov. Johnson was so well prepared for them at Charleston, that they retired without doing much injury. In 1715, a distressing Indian war broke out. All the tribes from Florida to Cape Fear, engaged in a conspir- acy to extirpate the whites. Having massacred many of the inhabitants, Gov. Craven, at the head of 1200 men, marched against the savages, and defeated them at their camp at Saltcatchers. In 1738, occurred an alarming insurrection among the blacks, but it was speedily put down. In 1780, the British troops took possession of Charleston. South Carolina was the theatre of some of the fiercest struggles of the Revolution, at the Cowpens, King's Mountain, and Eutaw Springs. Gen. Francis Marion, one of the ablest and one of the most successful partizan officers in the Revolution, was born near Charleston. At the commencement of the conflict, he was a captain in Col. Moultrie's regiment. He was entrusted with a small force employed in harassing the British and Tories, and gained a number of important advantages, which procured him, in 1780, the commission of a brigadier general. He continually sur- prised and captured parties of the British, and their friends, by the secrecy and rapidity of his movements. In 1781, he captured a number of forts, and forced the Briitsh to retire to Charleston. He received the thanks of Congress for his intrepid conduct at the battle of Eutaw Springs. " He seldom failed of capturing his enemy, and almost always did it by surprise. His courage was the boldest, his movements the most rapiil, his discipline severe, and his humanity most exemplary." 373 GEORGIA. Form George, the Sovereign, was derived thy name: In ihe far South thy sunny bowers of green: A refuge for God's poor, of old, thy fame ; Youngest thou art, of all the old thirteen. Georgia was the last settled of the thirteen original States. Its territory was included within the limits of the Carolina charter, but no settlement was made till after that charter was forfeited. In the reign of George II., several benevolent persons in England, formed a plan of planting a colony in this region. Their principal ob- ject was to seek a place for the poor people of Great Britain and Ireland ; also a place of refuge for the per- secuted Protestants of all nations. In 1732, a patent was obtained, conveying to twenty- one trustees, the territory now constituting the State of Georgia. These trustees having first set an example themselves, by largely contributing to the scheme, under- took also to solicit benefactions from others, and to apply the money towards clothing, arming, purchasing utensils for cultivation, and transporting such poor people as would consent to go over and begin a settlement. The Trustees managed the concerns of the colony. One of 32 374 their regulations were, that the lands should not be sold by the owners, but should descend to their male children only. They also forbade the use of rum in the colony, and strictly prohibited the impoitation of slaves. But none of these regulations remained long in force. In Feb., 1733, James Oglethorpe, with 116 emigrants commenced a settlement at Savannah. Many persons afterwards arrived, and to each a portion of the wil derness was assigned. But it was soon found, that these emigrants, who were the refuse of cities, had been rendered poor by idleness, and irresolute by pov- erty, were not fitted to fell the forests of Georgia. The trustees therefore made liberal offers to all who would come over and settle in the colony. In consequence of this, more than 400 persons from Germany, Scotland, and Switzerland, arrived in the year 1736. The Ger mans settled at Ebenezer, and the Scotch at New Inver ness, now Darien. In 1736, the celebrated John Wesley, made a missionary visit to Georgia, and two years after, George Whitfield, another celebrated Methodist preacher, arrived in the colony for the purpose of estab- lishing an Orphan House, where poor children might be fed, clothed, and educated in the knowledge of Christianity. War having been declared against Spain, Gen. Oglethorpe, at the head of about 2000 men, partly from Virginia and Carolinas, undertook an expedition against Florida. He took two Spanish forts, besieged St. Augus- tine, but was obliged to abandon the siege and return. Two years afterwards, in 1742, the Spaniards invaded Georgia, and the colony was in imminent danger. By an artful stratagem of Gen. Ogle- thorpe, in which he made the Spaniards believe a large force was coming to his assistance, they fled with such precipitation, that they left several cannon, and a quantity of provisions behind them. During the Revolutionary war, Georgia was overrun by the British troops, and many of the inhabitants were obliged to flee into the neighboring States for safety. Ijhe sufferings and losses of her citizens, was as great in proportiou to her numbers and wealth, as in her sister States. In Dec, 1778, Savannah was taken by the British, and in October following, Count Pulaski, a Polish officer in the American service, was killed in an unsuccessful assault on this place. The first State Constitution was formed in 1777, the second in 1785, and the present in 1798, and amended in 1839. 375 FLORID A. Far to the sunny South, sweet land of flowers, De Soto trod thy shores in olden time ; The Creek and Seminole have roamed thy bowers, Who now have vanished from thy sunny clime. Florida was discovered by Sebastian Cabot, sailing under the flag and patronage of England, in 1497. In 15^2 and 1516, Ponce de Leon, one of the companions of Columbus on his second voyage, explored this part of the country. It was called Florida, from the circum- stance of its being discovered on Palm Sunday ; or, as some say, from the numerous floivering shrubs which every where gave the country a beautiful aspect. •In 1539, Ferdinand de Soto, who had been an officer under Pizarro, sailed from the island of Cuba, of which he was Governor, with about 1000 men, and landed on the western shore of Florida. From the Gulf of Mexico, he penetrated into the country northward and westward, in search of gold. The Spaniards wandered about in the wilderness for four years ; De Soto and about half his men perished before they got back to the Spanish settlements. In 1553, the French attempted to estab- lish a colony, which occasioned a contest between them and the Spaniards, in which the latter were finally victo- 3*6 rious. In 1763, Florida was ceded to Great Britain by Spain, in exchange for Havana. The Spaniards recon- quered it in 1781. In 1819, the Spaniards ceded it to the United States as a compensation for their spoliations on the commerce of the United States. In 1822, East and West Florida were formed into one territory. In 1845, Florida was admitted into the Union as a State. Its Constitution was adopted in 1838. The Seminole Indians occupied, until lately, the Ever- glades, a flat, marshy district, in the central and southern part of Florida. As early as 1821, the National Gov- ernment were urged to remove the Creeks, who had fled into this territory, and incorporated themselves with the Seminoles. Difficulties continuing with the Indians, a Treaty was made in 1832, at Payne's Landing, in which they agreed to remove west of the Mississippi. This treaty being considered by many of the Seminoles as unfair, they refused to remove. In 1835, Gen. Thomp- son having a dispute with Osceola, a favorite chief of the Indians, caused him to be arrested, and put him into irons for a day. Osceola was exasperated, and deter- mined upon revenge. On Dec. 28th, 1835, Major Dade, with 117 men, fell into an ambuscade of the Indians, and were all killed but three'men, one or two of whom afterwards died of their wounds. Gen. Thomp- son and some of his companions were waylaid the same day, and killed, in sight of Fort King, by a party of Indians headed by Osceola. After a variety of conflicts, Osceola, in Oct. 1837, with about 70 warriors, under the protection of a flag, came into the camp of Gen. Jessup, who caused him to be forcibly detained. He was taken to St. Augustine, thence to Fort Moultrie, at Charleston, where he died, Jan. 1838. This harassing warfare Was brought to a close by Col. Worth, in 1842, after millions of money had been expended, and hundreds of valuable lives sacri- ficed. Great numbers of soldiers perished by disease contracted by traversing through swamps, morasses, and waters of stagnant akes, in pursuing the Indians from place to place. 377 ALABAMA. Thy snowy wealth o'er all thy fields is spread, Makes wings for commerce, on the ocean wide : On shivering want, its fleecy gifts are shed, That freight the barks, which o'er thy rivers glide. Most of the territory of Alabama, was included in the original patent of Georgia. In 1802, Georgia ceded all her territory west of Chattahoochee river, to the United States ; and extending to the Mississippi river, it was erected into the Mississippi Territory in 1817. ; It con- tinued a part of the Mississippi Territory until 1819, when a State constitution was formed, and in 1820, it was admitted into the Union, as an independent State. Since the termination of the Creek war in 1814, Ala- bama has grown rapidly in population and wealth, by her agricultural productions, of which cotton is the prin- cipal. De Soto, a Spanish officer, appears to have been the first European who traversed the soil of Alabama. This was in 1540. In 1701, D'Iberville, a distinguished French naval officer, erected a fort at Mobile, which, for a number of years, appears to have been the principal seat of the French power in its southern settlements. In 32 378 1704, Louis XIV., the French king, sent over twenty viituous young women,* in order, as he stated, " to be married to the Canadians, and to the other inhabitants of Mobile, in o^'er to consolidate the colony." They proved to be an important and valuable addition to the colony, though it appears that a kind of insurrection took place, in which they threatened to leave the country the first opportunity, for being enticed from home, (most of them being from Paris,) to live on corn, when they were promised "the milk and honey of a land of promise." At the period of the second war with Great Britain, Alabama was a theatre of Indian warfare, as a great part of the State at that time was inhabited by a number of tribes of Indians, of whom the Creeks were the principal. These Indians received their name, from the fact of the country which they inhabited, having numerous reeks or streams of water. In 1812, the Creeks having been stirred up to war by Tecumseh, the celebrated Shawnee warrior, commenced hostile operations. In Aug., they fell on Fort Mimms : the garrison made a desperate resistance, but out of three hundred men, women, and children, only seventeen survived the massacre. The adjoining States were now roused to action. In Nov., Gen. Jackson, as. isted by Generals Coffee, Floyd, and Claiborne, en- tered the Indian country. Gen. Jackson defeated the Indians at Talladega, where two hundred and ninety of their warriors were left dead upon the field. On Nov. 29, Gen. Floyd attacked the Creeks on their sacred ground at Autossee. The Indians fought bravely in its defense, but were overcome. Four hundred of their houses were burned, and 200 of their bravest warriors killed, among whom were the kings of Autossee and Tallahassee. The last stand of the Creeks was at Tohopeka, a fortified place at the bend of the Tallapoosa, called by the whites the " Horse-shoe- bend" The Indians had erected a breast-work, from five to eight feet high across the peninsula, where a thonsand of their warriors had collected. These fought desperately, but were entirely de- feated. Five hundred and fifty of their number were killed on the peninsula, and many were drowned or shot in attempting to cross the river. The victory ended in the submission of the remaining warriors, and in 1814, a treaty of peace was concluded, and the Creeks now have removed westward of the Mississippi. 379 MISSISSIPPI Father of Waters ! like a smiling child, Thy namesake State upon thy border lies ; Where roamed the Chickasaw and Choctaw wild, Amid thy woods, now smiling fields arise. In 1716, Bienville, one of the Governors of Louisiana, sailed up the Mississippi as far as Natchez, erected and garrisoned a fortification which he called " Fort Rosalie. 11 This spot had been marked down by Iberville, in 1700 as an eligible spot for a town, of which he drew a plan, and which he called Rosalie, the maiden name of the Countess Pontchartrain, of France. In 1729, the Natchez nation of Indians, feeling them- selves aggrieved by the French, laid a plot for their de- struction. On the 28th of Nov., they appeared in great numbers about the French houses, telling the inhabitants they were going a hunting. They sang after the calumet, in honor of the French commander, and his company. Each having returned to his post, a signal was given, and instantly the massacre began. Two hundred French- men were killed. " Of all the people at Natchez, not more than twenty French, and five or six negroes es- caped. One hundred and fifty children, and eighty wo- men, with nearly as many negroes, were made prisoners 380 The Frei ch governor of Louisiana, M. Perier, resolved on avenging the massacre, sent to the Choctaws, who furnished a hody of 15 or 1600 warriors, to assist the French against the Natchez. The Natchez being be- sieged in their fort by the French, had the address during the night, to make their escape. Learning afterwards, that they had fortified themselves west of the Mississippi, the French followed them thither. Here they were be- sieged, and compelled to surrender themselves as cap- tives. They were taken to New Orleans, where they were confined in separate prisons ; and afterwards were transported as slaves to St. Domingo. Thus perished the Natchez nation, " the most illustrious in Louisiana." The Chickasaws were the dread of the French colonists, as they had incited the Natchez against them. They occupied a large and beantiful tract east of the Mississippi, at the head of the Tombec- bee. This they would not allow the French to occupy, but main- tained their own independence. In 1736, a force from New Or- leans, under Bienville, and another body from the region of the Illinois, made an unsuccessful attempt against the Chickasaws. Bienville was obliged to throw his artillery into the Tombecbee, and retire down the river. The brave young officer, d'Artaguette, who commanded the party from the Illinois, was compelled to wit- ness the torture and death of his companions, and then dismissed, to go and relate to the whites the deeds of the Chickasaws. In 1763, the country was ceded to the British. North of the 31st degree of north latitude, this territory was within the char- tered limits of Georgia. In 1795, the Legislature of Georgia, sold 22,000,000 acres of land in this State, called the Yazoo purchase, to four companies, for $500,000, who afterwards sold it at advanced prices, to various persons, mostly in the eastern and middle states. The iiext year the legislature declared the sale unconstitutional, and ordered the records of it to be burnt, without refunding the money. The southern section of the State was within the limits of Florida, and was purchased of Spain in 1821. In 1798, this State, together with Alabama, were constituted Mississippi Terri- tory. In 1817, Mississippi, 1 'ving formed a constitution of State government, was admitted in ' the Union. 381 LOUISIANA. . Louis of sunny France, bestowed thy name, The gay and generous Frenchman roams beneath thy skiee, And rivalling old Orleans, in wealth and fame, Its namesake on thy soil in beauty lies. Louisiana appears to have been first visited by the Spaniards under De Soto, who died at the mouth of Red River, in May, 1542, at the age of forty-two. This cel- ebrated adventurer, finding that the hour of death was come, appointed a successor, and with his dying breath, exhorted his desponding followers to " union and confi- dence" words now emblazoned on the 4rms of Louis- iana. The Spaniards, to conceal the (ka'Ji of (heir leader from the Indians, put his body into an oak hollowed out for the purpose, and sunk it in the river. De Soto, it is said, expended 100,000 ducats in this expedition, like the fabled Pelican of old, gave his own blood for the nourish- ment of his brood of followers. In 1682, M. La Salle, a French naval officer, discov. ered the three passages by which the Mississippi dis- charges its waters into the Gulf. La Salle having pre- pared a column with the arms of France affixed, and a cross, ascended the river to a dry spot above inundation, where, having erected the c#1"*nn, he took possession of 382 the country. " In the name of the Most High, mighty, invTncible, and victorious Prince, Louis the Great, by the grace of God, King of France and Navarre, fourteenth of that name." After the Te Deum was chaunted, a salute of fire-arms, and cries of vive le Roi, La Salle said, his Majesty, as eldest son of the Chu/ch, would an- nex no country to his crown, without making it his chief care to establish the Christian religion therein : its sym- bol must now be planted ; which was accordingly done at once, by erecting a cross, before which, religious ser- vices. were performed. The country was named Louis- iana in honor of the French King, La Salle attempted a settlement, but it failed. In 1699, a more successful attempt was made by Iberville, who entered the Missis- sippi and founded a colony. His efforts were followed up by Cro- zat, a man of wealth, who held the exclusive trade of the country for a number of years. About the year 1717, he transferred his in- terest to a chartered company, at the head of which was the cele- brated John Law, whose national bank and Mississippi speculation, involved the ruin of half the French nobility. The stock of this company at one time, advanced to upwards of two thousand per cent., and the notes of the bank in circulation, exceeded two hun- dred millions of dollars. In 1731, the Company resigned the con- cern to the crown, who in 1762, ceded the whole of Louisiana to Spain. In 1800, Spain re-conveyed the province to the French, of whom it was purchased by the United States in 1803, for fifteen millions of dollars. This purchase included the territory west of the Mississippi. In 1812, the present State of Louisiana formed a Constitution and was admitted into the Union. On the 8th of January, 1815, a body of about 8000 British troops, under Gen. Packingham, made an attempt to obtain possession of New Orleans. This place was defended by about 6000 militia lien under Gen. Jackson. The Americans, behind their breast- works of cotton bales, and other materials which no balls could pen- etrate, poured such a fire on the advancing troops of the enemy, that whole ranks were literally swept away. Gen. Packenham, and Gen. Gibbs, the second in command, were mortally wounded. The enemy retreated with the loss of 2600 men, in killed, wound- ed, and captured. The American loss amounted to only six killed and seven wounded. 383 OHIO. Ohio ! " Beauteous River," on thy shore, Peace, plenty, with their choicest blessings rest, And dotting with her boats thy waters o'er, There lies thy city fair, " Queen of the West." Ohio receives its name from the river, which forms its southern boundary. The word Ohio, in the Wyandot language, signifies fair, or " Beautiful River" which was the name given to it by the French, the first Euro- peans which explored this part of the country. In Au- gust, 1679, La Salle launched upon Lake Erie, the Grif- fin, a bark of about 60 tons, with which he proceeded through the lakes to the Straits at Mackinaw. In 1750, a French post had been fortified at the mouth of the Wa- bash, and a communication was established through that river and the Maumee, with Canada. The French, at this period, had a chain of fortifications back of the Eng- lish settlements, and the territory north-west of Ohio, was included within the limits of Louisiana. About this time, the Ohio Company was formed, and for the purpose of checking the progress of the French, made attempts to establish trading houses among the In- dians. The first English settlement in the Ohio valley, appears to have been made on the Great M£> r 0^ * * * o ,. r • .<6 Q ^ °~ -. V^-o,V ' * * s V dS- O. ^°- % .# \P ^ ^1. a0 v