iasii(^i^^ OF GENERAL LAFAYETTE, WITH AN ACCOUNT OE HIS VISIT TO AMERICA, AND OF HIS RECEPTION BY THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES; FROM HIS ARRIVAL, AUGUST 1 5tH, TO THE CELEBRATION AT YORKTOWN, OCTOBER 19th, 1824. BOSTO.^: PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY E. G. HOUSE, JYb. 13, Merchants-Hall. !-- V DIST.IICT OF MASSACHUSETTS^To mt ,- Dutrici Chrk's OJicBo BE it remembered, that on 'he 2d day of ISuveaiber, A.D, l}i24, in (he forty-niuth ve^r rfthe ,-n'!€pfndtn..t: of the U- Bited States of America, E G. House, of the Rajd d;s;rict, has deposited in (bis office th^^ (.tie of a book, the right whereof he cl iiiis as proprietor, in the worrls foJlowng, to wit — Meuioirs of Gent"^a] LafivjtUe, with a'i ?;coount of his visit to Anj«-rica; and of hi? lecpptitii by the people of the United States, from his arri- val, All-. 15, to the celebration ut ¥ork(own, Oct. 19, 1824. In conformity to the act of the Congress of the Uniif i States, entitled, " aa sx t for the encouragenieDt of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts and books, to the authors and propri- etors of SM -h cnpie«, during the times therein mentioned :'' and also to an act entitled " an act enppleraentary to an act,eDti(]ed an act for i\.e fcucouragement of learning", by secnring the copies of maps, charts ond books, t© the authors and proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned ; and extending the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, engraving and etching historical, and other prints." JNO. W. DAVIS, Clerk of th^DisU of Mass, ADVERTISEMENT, BY THE EDITOR. IT is a poor apology to offer for any defect ov omission in a work intended for tiie infor- niaiion of the publle, ti^at it was prepared hi haste. Yet in tlie presciit case it can be of- fered with tnith. The Editor of this volume knew ijotliing of the plan, until it had been some time proposed, and many subscribers ob< tained. The gentleman by whom it was first intendeil to have been prepared, was sudden- ly taken away^ without writing, or even col- leeiing any thing for the volume. It was un- dertaken with reluctance, as it was known the public would be impatient for the Avork, and as the publisher was also desirous it should be prepared in a few weeks. It is only fifty days since the task was begun. It is believ- ed, however, thot several documents, not yes published^ will be found in this volume ; anil ADVERTISEMENT. that many events and incidents are preserved, which would otherwise have been lost to the public. Every thing relating to the life and charac- ter of this extraordinary man, is certainly wor- thy of remembrance bj? the benevolent and in- telligent through the civilized world, and es- pecially by Americans, to whom he has ren- dered the most essential services. The en- deavour has been to avoid panegyric ; though in this case, a plain statement of facts may be construed, by those ignorant of the life of La Fayette, into a disposition to bestov/ extrava- gant praise. It luis been a source of much satisfaction to ilie Editor, to find so many proofs of consist- ency and of principle, as well as of zeal in the cause of rational liberty, which the life of this heroic and disinterested personage aiTords, And if he shall appear in this hasty memoir, as the ardent, undeviating and sincere friend of civil freedom and of the rights of man, it will be because he justly merits such a high eharacter. In the account of his reception by the peo- ple of this country, in various places, during his present visit, it may be thought that we ADVERTISEMENf. V have been too parlicular. It was promisedj however, in the proposals for the volume, that such relation would he given. It is believ- ed that it will be found to be interesting, and that it will be a satisfaction hereafter, to recur to it. This account embraces the time which elapsed after he landed at New York, August 15, 1824, to the celebration of the cap- ture of the Brittish army at Yorktovvn, Octo- ber 19. These statements were copied prin- cipally from the pjblic nevv^^papers ; and it was thought to be unnecess?iry to give credit for tliem, or to insert the usual marks of quo- tation. Boston, A^ov. 1, 1824. a2 TABLE OF CONTENTS. PAGE Introductory remarks, - - 13, 14 Birth and education of La Fayette, - 15 His purpose to visit Am^-rica in 1777, - , '^ / His arrival and early service in America, - 17 Battle of 5'randy wine, - - • 17 Washington's attachment to him, - - 18 Commands in northern department, - - 18 Escape from British near Philadelphia, - 19 Battle of Monmouth, . - - - J9 Brave conduct of La Fayette, - - 19 A volunteer to R. Island, - - 20 Journey to Boston, - - - 20 Proposal to visit France, - - - 21 Resentment of the conduct of British Commissioner, 22 Visit to Boston, - - - - 23 Fmbarks there for France, - - 25 R solve of Congress honorable to La Fayette, 27 Letter of Franklin, - - . 28 Return to America in 1780, - - 29 Sfjrvices in France in behalf of America^ - 30 Letter of Gen. Washington, - - 31 Commands in Virginia in 1781, - - 33 His services and bravery in that department, ^ S CONTEND*; Escapes from Cornwallis, - - ^4 His troops deserting;, - - - 34 Critical situation, - - 36 His conduct approved by Washington, - - 36, He applaud"^ Gen. \Aayne, - - 36 Propo*<-s to visit Fance again, - - 39 Kesoives oi(^on^ress approving his conduct, - 40 Letter to Congress, - - - 41 His letter to S. Adams, . - - 42 Mr Adam's reply, - - - 45 Doings of Massachusetts, * - - 4r Details of service at Yorktown, - - 48, 49 Events on his return to France, - - 54 Letter to "^ir H. Clinton, - - - 54 <:^ Visit to America in 1784, - - 55, 56 Arrives in Boston, - - - 57 His reception, - - - 58 Honorable notice of his services, by Congress, 60 His public conduct in 1786, - - - 63 Meeting of States' General, 1787, - 64 In favor of reform, - - • 64 New ('onstitu 74' Commands part of the French army, ^- 74 CONTENTS. 9 Letter to the national assembly, June 1792, 75 Letter to the King, - - - ^1 Letter to the assembly, - - - - 82 Opposed and denounced by the Jacobins, - 84 His firmness and patriotism, - - 85 His address to the soldiers, - - 86 Leaves France, - - - - 87 Arrested and confined, - - - 88 Removed to prison at Oimutz, - - 88 His letter, - - - , - 88 Washington seeks for his release, - 90 Fox and others intercede for his release, - 92 Bollman and Huger attempt his deliverence, - 93 Failure, and subsequent confinement, - 94 Madame de La Fayette, - - - 95, 96 Her imprisonment, - - - 96 La Fayette released, - - - 97 Reply to Emperor of Austria, - - 98 Proceeds to Holland, - - - 98 Return to France 1800, - - - 99 Offered a seat in the Senate by Bonaparte, - 100 His income ari e«fr.ies, - - - 100 His letter (o the First Consul, - - 101 Not a supporter of Bonaparte, - - 103 Neglected by Napoleon, - - 103 G. W. La Fayette, - - -103 Death of Madame de La Fayette, - 104 Her character, - - - - 104 Retirement of La Fayette, - - 105 Louis XVlil restored, - - - 106 La Fayette desirous of constitutional lib' rty, - 107 His conduct after the battle of Waterloo and abdica- tion of Napoleon. , . - 107 10 CONTENTS. Retirement to private life, - - 110 Correspondence with A. Hamilton, - - 112 His fomilj, - - - - 112 Madame de StaePs opinion of him, - 113 Elected a member of assembly 1819, - 115 His efforts for constitutional liberty, - 116 His mode of life, and employment, - 118 His Benevolence, - - - 119 Gen. Washington's kindness to his son, - 120 Visit of Mr. Fox to La Fayette, - - 121 Manners of Madame La Fayette, - - 123 Religion of La Fayette, - - 125 Charity among christians, - - 126 His character and opinions, - - 126, 1^ His decision and consi^itency, - - 129 Invitation of Congress, - - . ISO do. from Boston, &c. - . - 131 His replies, - - - - 132 His arrival at Ne'vV-York, - - 133 Hi3 reception in New- York, - - 134 Journey to Boston, - - - . 141 His arrival in Boston, - ^ - 145 Address of the Mayor, - • - 147 His answer, - - - - 149 Address of Governor of Massachusetts, - 153 Address of Cincinnati, - - 155 Answer to do. - - - 157 Commancement, - - - 159 Visited by Rostonians, , . . 162 Phi Beta Knpp^, . . . .163 Visit to Char estown and Bunker Hill, . 166 Bunk'-r Hill Monument, . . 169 Visit tif G©v. Brooks, . . . 170 CONTENTS. 1 1 Evenino; Parties, . . ' .172 Braltle Street Church, ... 172 ViSit to President Adams, . . 173 Military parade, . • • . ^ 173 Apology for great rejoicings, . . 175 Mihiia, . . ■ • .175 Visit to SaUm, . • - .176 Add.e's of J'«d-e Story, . • 1'79 Visit to Ipsvv.Lii, and Nevvburyport, . 183 To Portsmovah, . • • "^^^ Return to i^^ost-'n, . . - 1S9 Visit to Lexiiiorto'.' and Concord, . 191, 102 Bolton, Lancdaiter, . • • 193 Visit to Worcester, . • • 195 Judge Ltncola's address, . . • 196 Journey to Connecticut, . . 198 Reception t Hirtford, . . 198 Return to New-York, . . • 201 La Fayette's toasts, . . . 202 Visit to the schools, . • • 203 Grand ball at Casile Garden, . . 204 Visit to West-Poiat, ... 20G Visit to Newburgh, . • .207 His visit to Hudson, ;. • • 208 Arrival at Albany, . • • ^^9 Kindness to soldier?, in I777y • • 210 Returns to New York, . • .211 Journey through New-Jersey, • • 212 Princeton, . . • • . >ti^ Trenton, . . • • .213 Philadelphia, . . . • 214, 216 Governor's address, . . • • 214 Reply to the sarae, • • • '^^* 12 OONTENTS. Address of Mayor, . * » 220 The answer, . . . . 221 Uiumination ... . . 222 Vindication of Quakers, . . . 222 Reply to Frenchmen, . . ' . 2:24 Cnpt. Barron's address, . ". . 225 Answer to same, .... 2'26 Journey through Delaware, . . 226 Visit to Baltimore, . . . 227, 230 Address of Cincinnati, . • . 231 Address of Gov. Maryland, . . 232 Answer, • . . . . 233 Governor Sprigg-, . . . .234 Visit to Washington, ... 236 Reception by the President, . .. 259 Address of Mayor of Washington, . 240 Visit to Alexandria, . . ' . 243 To the tomb of Washington, . . 243 Arrival in Yorktown, . . . 244 Jefferson's letter, . . , 245 Address of Committee of Virginia, . 246 Answer of La Fayette, . . . 248 Address of Governor of Virginia, . . 249 Reply of La Fayette, ... 249 His reception at Yorktown, . . 250, 251 Address of Col. Lewis, . . . 252 Answer to same, . , . 253 Parade and ceremonies, on 19th Oct. . 255 Custis' address, • . . 259 Departure for Norfolk, , . 261 Conclusion, . . - 263 OF Among the many great men who have distinguished theifiselves in the present age, for their attachment and devotion to the cause of civil Uberty, general La Fayette is one of the most eminent. During the last fifty years, great changes have been made or attempted in human governments, highly favourable to political freedom and the rights of mankind. In some cases, indeed, revolutions have not been conducted upon just principles nor by prudent councils ; and the immediate results have been disasterous rather than beneficial. Changes have taken place without direct and visible improvement ; and efforts to meliorate the condition of man have produced a reaction in the adherents to antient arbitrary systems, which have given occasion to much suifeiing and great excesses. The struggle for freedom by the patriotic citizens of America, towards the close of the last ceiUury, was successful ; and has proved most auspicious to human happiness. We have reason to hope, that its blessings will not be confinedto this western centinent. A spirit of enquiry, indeed, has gone abroad in th^ world. It B i4 MEMOIRS eP LA FAYETTE. is Spreading in Europe : and though we devoutly wish it may not prove the occasion of bloody contests, we shall rejoice to trace its fruits in the gradual destruc- ;tion of old despotic systems, and in the general diffu- sion of knowledge among the people, and the enjoy- ment of those equal and just rights, which mild gov- ernments are calculated to secure. In our own beloved country, we can host of many sincere patriots and heroes besides our ^ paternal chief,' the revered Washington, '' who was first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen ;" others will be recollected, who devoted themselves to the cause of liberty and their country, with a sincerity and zeal almost without a parallel in the annals of history. Their memories will not cease to be revered while Americans are distinguished for a love of civil freedom. It must be acknowledged, however, that there was a peculiar disinterestedness in the services and sacrifi- ces of the Marquis La Fayette in defence of American independence. It was from a noble and enthusiastic love of liberty, that he was induced to cherish and advocate our cause. It was for strangers and in a for- eign land, that he went forth to defend the rights of man, assailed by the hand of arbitrary power. He was not a desperate adventurer, without fortune, or friends, or honors. He .was surrounded with all these in his own country. He belonged to a very antient and noble family^ and inherited a large estate. The original fiimily name was Metier ; but for several gen- orations back had assumed the a'ldition of La Fayeit'e. Some of his male ancestors were distinguished for mil- itary, and some of the females for literary talents. IHs income was 200.000 francs. Hii property and MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE 15 iftfluence were increased by a matrimonial connexioa with a lady of the truly illustrious house of Noailes. He was married at the age of eighteen. Marie-Paul-Joseph-Roch-Yves-Gilbert-Motier de La Fayette was born at the chateau de Chavagnac in the province of Auvergne, September 6th 1757. The rank and aflQuence of his family secured for him the best education : and this, according to the fashion of the times in France, was not only in classical and polite literature, but united also a knowledge of military tactics. At the age of sixteen, he was offered an hon^. orable place at Court, which he declined. His mind was early embued with an ardent love of freedom It is not known, whether his study of English writers who were friendly to civil liberty, or an eager curiosity to learn the merits of the dispute between Great Britain and the American colonies, lead him first thus to take a deep interest in favour of our indepen- dence. That controversy excited the attention of statesmen on the continent of Europe as well as in England. It has been said that he was acquainted with some distinguished English characters in 1776, from whom he learnt the situation of America, and the object of our revolution. In the latter part of this year, he applied to Silas Deane, our agent then at Paris, for information, and encouragement in his plan, already adopted, of rendering his personal service to the cause of America. While he was at Paris, (Dec. 1776) with these views, Dr. Franklin arrived. The intelligence, received from him respecting our situa- tion and prospects at that period, was of a nature to discourage any one, who had not cherished the most enthusiastic and resolute purpose to engage in our be- \& MEMOIRS OF LA ITAYETTE. half. Our almost desperate condition seems only to have increased his zeal and devotion to the interests of America. " Hitherto, said he, I have only cherished your cause ; I now go to serve it personally " He be" lieved our cause to be just. He considered it the cause of civil liberty; and gloomy as was the prospect' hazardous as was the enterprize, he was determined to support it at the risk of life itself In his situation, the privations and sacrifices to be made and endured were incalculably great. It is indeed a singular in- stance of an heroic enterprize for the good of man- kind. We cannot more justly describe his sentiments and views, than by quoting his own language used at a sub- sequent period, in a letter to the President of the Con- tinental Congress — "The moment I heard of America, 1 loved her ; the moment 1 knew she was fighting for liberty, I burnt with a desire to bleed for her." The sacrifices he made cannot be so well otherwise esti- mated as by reflecting that he left an aiTectionate wife, in whom he was most happy; and who, he was obliged to assure, that he would speedily return, before she would consent to the enterprize. When La Fayette made known his purpose to em- bark for America, under all theappalini^' circumstances of our country, our Envoys were stiil unable to furnish a passage for him. Thev had no vcsse's at comaiand j and they were not then in a situation to purchase one. Loans were the object of their mission ; but as yet they had not succeeded in obtaining' them. And as the French court had not acknowledged our indepen- dence, or openly espoused our cause, it would have been improper for them to furnish a vessel for MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 17 such purpose. Wh^t was then done for America must be effected in secret ; and at most, only connived at by the French government. But the ardour of young La Fayette was not to be checked by any such con- siderations. He took council rather of his feehngs, than of that prudence by which ordinary minds are governed. He therefore immediately engaged a ves- sel at his own charges, and sailed for the United States, where he arrived in the month of January- He landed at Charleston, S. C. and soon entered, as a volunteer, in the American army. Soon after his ar- rival, he purchased clothing and arms for the troops under General Moultrie in that quarter. He also early made an advance to General Washington of 60,000 francs, for the public service. For several months, he continued to serve in this = capacity. His zeal and services were early appreciat- ed by Congress; and in July, 1777, he was created a Major-General. But he did hot, at once, act under that commission. In the battle of B'randywine, in Septem- ber of the same year, although he distinguished him- self by his activity and undaunted bravery, it does not appear that he acted as Major-General. He received a wound in hi3 leg, in this engagement, and his ser- vices were highl}^ applauded. He remained in the field till the close of the battle, inspiring the men by his presence and active courage. The wound was severe atid required attention ; but before it was en- tirely healed, he joined the army again xmder Wash- ington. In November, at the head of some Jersey mihtia, he attacked a body of 300 Hessians and defeat- ed them. General Greene was engaged in the same affair, a part of the time ; and said of young La Fayettft^ 1^ MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. " that he seemed to search for danger." Soon after this period, he had command of a division in the Con- tinental army ; and frequently was appointed the chief officer in separate departments of great impor- tance and resporisibillity. General Washington became greatly attached to him. He WaS an intelligent judge of character; and was never known to bestow his contidence upon those who were not worthy of it. He ivas so distinguished by the regard of the Commander In Chief, that it be- came usual to call him " his adopted son." Washing- ton loved him for his goodness, and honored him for his bravery and military talents. In the early part of 1778, when it was proposed to make an attack upon Canada, and to endeavor to connect it with the thirteen United States, Gen. La Fayette was appointed to com- mand the troops collecting for that purpose at Al- bany. This plan originated in Congress, and was said to be much favored by the French Ambassador ; but Washington ever doubted the propriety, or the f e'^i- sibility of the scheme, and eventually gave his opinion decidedly against it ; and it was not prosecuted. It was at this time, probably, that Brigadier General Stark took the oath of fidelity to the American Con- gress and of renunciation to the king and government of Great Britain, which had then been recently re- quired, before General La Fayette ; and which was administered by the commanding officer in each separate Department. The original certificate of this oath is said now to be in existence, l/t is a singular fact, that a native American took this oath before a foreigner : or perhaps even then. General La Fayette had been declared by Congress to be entitled to ail the rights of a citizen of the United States, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. A9' In May 1778, while the British main army was in PLili.Ielphia, and the American troops at Valley Forge, he was detached with about two thousand five hun- dred men under his cotomand, to a position in advance of the continental camp and near the city, for the pur- pose of watching the motions of the enemy. The British eniieavored to surround and surprise him : but he h.td timely notice of their plan, and retired in safety to the vicinity of Washington's head-quarters. Had he been surprised in this situation, the result would probably proved fatal to our cause. For the conti- nental troops under Washington were few in number and poorly clothed and armed. But the Commander* in Chief, doubtless, was fully aware of the important and critical nature of the service, and entrusted it to one, in whose judgment as well tis bravery he had perfect confidence. Soon after this, in the month of June, the Brilish army left Philadelphia, to return to New-York. It consisted of as large a number of well disciplined troops, as they had in America at any one time ; and though they chose not to make a direct attack upon Washington, they seem to have had no apprehensions of an attack from him. But he was resolved to avail of the occasion of their march through the State of New-Jersey, to attack and annoy them. This he did on the memorable 28th of June, near Monmouth Court-house ; and had his judicious plan been faith- fully executed, or his own personal activity and brave- ry been seconded by (Greneral Lee, who had the com- mand of the troops more immediately engaged on that day, a great and decisive victory would in all probability have attended the daring enterprize. Gen- so MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETll?. feral La Fayette had a distinguished command on thai critical day. Lee, indeed, at first declined the com- mand of the advanced corps, detached by Washington to hari-ass the rear of the enemy while on their march ; and it was given to the former : though, afterwards, when it was found, that the enemy was preparing for a general engagement, a reinforcement was ordered, and the whole placed under the command of General Lee. In this whole affair. General La Fayette con- ducted with remarkable intelligence and bravery ; and received the entire approbation of the Commander in Chief In August of the same year (1778) when the enemy had a large force on Rhode Island, and were supposed to be meditating an attack on someplace in the vicinity. La Fayette (with General Greene) offered his services as a volunteer. The expedition was not attended with success : the British troops then were more numerous than w^ could collect against them ; and what were mus-. tered were principally militia. The continental regi- ments were then all needed near New York. But Gene- ral La Fayette assisted in conducting the retreat of owr men, with much skill and effect ; and his behaviour on the occasion received the particular notice and appro- bation of Congress. About this time, with the knowledge and consent of Congress, La Fayette made a visit to Boston. The par- ticular object of this journey is not known. It is evi- dent, however, from the resolve of Congress on the oc- casion, that it was not from merely personal or private view?. It was, no doubt, for some purpose of a public nature, and for the welfare of the nation. The follow- ing is the resolve alluded to ; and is proof, that his vi^it Memoirs op la layette. ki at the time, was designed for the promotion of some plan calculated for the prosperity of the country. "In Congress, Sept. 9th, 1778. Resolved, That the President be requested to inform the Marquis de la Fay- ette, that Congress have a due sense of the sacrifice he made of his personal feelings, in undertaking a journey- to Boston with a view of promoting the interests of these States, at a time when an occasion was daily ex- pected of his acquiring glory in the field ; and that his gallantry in going a volunteer on Rhode Island, when the greatest part of the army had retreated, and his good conduct in bringing ofT the pickets and out sentries, de- serves particular approbation.*' This resolve was com- municated to La Fayette by the President of Congress, with a polite note j to which the Marquis replied as fol- lows: " Sm, 1 have received your favour of the 13th instant, acquainting me of the honor Congress has been pleased to confer on me by their most gracious resolve. What- ever pride such approbation maj justly give me, I am not less affected by the feeliixg of gratitude, and that satisfaction of thinking my eadeavours were' ever look- ed upon as useful to a cause in which my heart is so deeply interested. Be so good, Sir, as to present to Congress my plain and hearty thanks, with a frank as- surance of a candid attachment, the only one worth be- ing oifered to the representatives of a free people. The momeat 1 heard of America, I loVv^d her: The moment I knew she was fighting for liberty, I burrit with tha de- sire of bleeding for her: and the moment I shall be able of serving her, in any time, or in any part of the world, will be the happiest of my life. 1 never so much 2S^ MEMOIRS OF LA PAYETTE. wished for occasions of deserving those obliging senti- ments i am honored with by these States and their re- presentatives-, and that so flattering confidence they have been pleased to put in me ; which have filled my heart with the warmest ackaowledgments and most eternal affection. I praj you to accept my thanks for the polite man- »er in which you have communicated the resolve of Congress j and I have the honor to be, &c. LA FAYETTE.". During the year 1778, some propositions were made to Congress from the British ministry, through three com- missioners, who were sent over to America. The object was to bring about a cessation of hostilities, and peace, without acknowledging our Independence. They were, therefore, immediately rejected In the address of the commissioners to Congress, the French King and minis- ters were mentioned with great disrespect, and repre- sented as secret enemies to America ; and therefore, not to be believed in their engagements and promises in our favour. The Marquis de La Fayette highly re- sented this heavy charge against his king and govern- ment ; and wrote a very spirited letter on the subject, to Lord Carlisle, the principal commissioner. He seemed ready to appear as the champion of his abused Prince and country, in the chivalrous manner such at- tacks were met in former ages, when disputes were set- tled between nations by single combat. The indigna- tion he expressed was honorable to his patriotic feelings ; but, probably, his maturer years and judgment would have chastened and moderated it. Early in the year 1779, after an absence from his be- loved family and country of more than two years, La MEMOIRS CF Ui FAYETTE. .^3 Tayctte Tisited France : not, however, without the con- sent of Congress and also of General Washingt^^n, and ti determination to return to Annerica at a future daj. He embarked at Boston. In waiting for a passage to France, the Marquis was several weeks in Boston ; and here became acquainted with John Hancock, Dr. Coop- er, S. Breck, Esq. and others, to whose families he be- came particularly attached. The hospitable attention of the Bostonians, was not lost upon him. With warm feelings and elegant manners, he was well qualified to appreciate their patriotism and politeness ; and impres- sions were made upon his generous mind, favourable to their characters, which he has not forgotten to the pre* sent day. In noplace in America, perhaps, did he find the citizens more congenial to his ardour of affection and devoted love for civil liberty. — It cannot be doubted, tlut to a man of hU amiable and tender feelings, the conside- ration of meeting with his family and friends influx enced him to this visit. But it appears also, from his letters at that time, that he considered his duty to hi^ King and country required him to go to France. War was now declared between France and England ; and he believed himself bound to give his personal ser- vices for the defence of his own nation. With all his zeal in favour of liberty and of America, which he con- sidered engaged in its sacred cause against an arbitrary power, he acknowledged his obligations to assist in pro- tecting his native country. If his King should consent, he engaged to return to America, and devote himself agnin in support of her rights. The following letters will justify this statement of bis views, at the time of which we are speaking. The. iirsl is from General Washington, to the President of Congress. 24 MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. " Head Quarters, Oct. 13ih^ 1778. Sir, This will be delivered to you by Major General, the Marquis de La Fayette. The generous motives which tirst induced hini to cross the Atlantic, and enter the army of the United States, are well known to Con- gress. Reasons equally laudable now engage him to return to France, who, in her present circumstances, claims his services. His e^igerness to ofifer his duty to his Prince and country, however great, could not influence him to quit the continent in any stage of an unfinished campaign ; he resolved to remain at least till the close of the pre- sent ; and embraces this moment of suspense, to com- municate his wishes to Congress, with a view of having the necessary arrangements made in time ; and of be- ing sliU within reach, should any occasion oifer of dis- tinguishing himself in the field. The Marquis, at the same time, from a desire of preserving a relation with us, and a hope of having it yet in his power to be useful as an American officer, so- licits only a furlough, sufficient for the purposes above mentioned. A reluctance to part with an officer, who unites to all the military fire of youth, an uncommon maturity of judgment, would lead me to prefer his be- ing absent on this footing, if it depended solely on me. I shall always be happy to give such a testimony of his services, as his bravery and good conduct on all occa- sions entitle him to ; and I have no doubt that Congress will add suitable expressions of their sense of his mer- its, and their regret on account of his departure, I have the honor to be, &c. GEO. WASHINGTON'* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 2i From the Marquis to Congre?s. » Philadelphia Oct. Sth^ 1778. *' Whatever care I should take not to employ the pre- cious instants of Congress in private considerations, I beg leave to lay before them my present circumstances, with that confidence which naturally springs from affec- tion and gratitude. The sentiments which bind me to my country, can never be more properly spoken of, than in presence of men who have done so much for their own. As long as I thought I could dispose of my- self, I made it my pride and pleasure to fight under A- merican colours, in defence of a cause which I dare more particularly call ours^ because I had the good for- tune of bleeding for her. Now that France is involved in a war, I am led by a sense of duty as well as by patri- otic love to present myself before my king, and know in what manner he judges proper to employ my services. The most agreeable of all will always be such as to serve the common cause among those, whose friendship I had the happiness to obtain, and whose fortune 1 had the honor to follow in less smiling times. That reason, and others, which I leave to the feelings of Congress, engage me to beg from them, the liberty of going home for the next winter. >' As long as there were any hopes of an active cam- paign, I did not think of leaving the field. Now that I see a very peaceable and undisturbed moment, I take this opportunity of waiting on Congress. In case ray request is granted, I shall so manage my departure, as to be certain before going, the campaign is really over. Inclosed you will receive a letter from his Excellency, General Washington, wherein he expresses his assent to my obtaining leave of absence. I dare flatter myself, S6 MEMOIRS OF LA rAYETTE. that I shall be considered as a soldier on furlough, who most heartily wants to join again his colours, and his most esteemed and beloved fellow soldiers. Should it be thought I can be any way useful to America, when 1 shall find myself among my countrymen, I hope I shall always be considered as one most interested in the welfare of these United States, and one who has the most perfect affection, regard and confidence for their representatives. Wilh the highest regard, &c. LA FAYETTE." " In Congress, Oct. 21, 1778. Hesolved^ That the Marquis La Fayette, Major Gene- ral in the services of the United States, have leave to go to France ; and that he return at such time as shall be most convenient to him. — Resolved, That the Pres- ident write a letter to the Marquis La Fayette, return- ing him the thanks of Congress for that disinterested zeal which led him to America, and for the services he hath rendered to the United States, by the exertion of his courage and abilities on many signal occasions. " Resolved^ That the Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, at the Court of Versailles, be directed to cause an elegant sword, with proper devices to be made and presented in the name of the United States, to the Marquis La Fayette." \ The foregoing resolves were communicated to -the i»larquis in the following letter: " Philadelphia, Oct. 24, 1778. Sir, I had the honor of presenting to Congress, your fetter, solleitinsf leave of absence : I am directed by MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETrE. 21 them, to express their thanks for your zeal in promot- ing thatu st cause in which they are engaged, and for the disinterested services you have rendered to the U- Dited States of America. " In testimony of the high esteem and affection in which you are held by the good people of these States, as well as an acknowledgment of your gallantry and military talents displayed on many signal occasions, their Representatives, in Congress assembled, have or- dered an elegant sword to be presented to you, by the American ]^Iinister, at the Court of Versailles. Inclosed within the present cover, will be found an act of Con- gress of the 21st instant, authorizing these declarations, and granting a furlough for your return to France, to be extended at your own pleasure. I pray God to bless and protect you ; to conduct you in safety to the pres- ence of your Prince, and to the re-enjoyment of your noble family and friends. I have the honor to be, &c. H.LAURENS." To this note the Marquis made the following reply : ''' Philadelphia^ Oct. 26, 1778. SiR^ I have received your excellency's obliging letter, enclosing the several resolutions Congress have honor- ed me with, and the leave of absence they haye been pleased to grant. Nothing can make me happier, than the rellection, that my services have met with their approbation. The glorious testimonial of confidence 'and satisfaction respectfully bestowed on me, by the re- presentatives of America, though much superior to my merit, cannot exceed the grateful sentiments they have excited, 1 consider the noble present offered me in 2S MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. the name of the United States, as the most flattering honor. Jt is my most fervent desire, soon to employ that sword in their service, against the common enemy of my country and their faithful and beloved allies. That liberty, safety, wealth and concord may ever ex- tend and bless these United States, is the earnest wish of a heart glowing with a devoted zeal and unbounded love for them, and the highest regard, and most sincere affection for their representatives. " Be pleased, Sir, to present my thanks to them, and to accept yourself the assurance of my respectful at- tachment. LA FAYETTE." Letter of Dr. Franklin, to the Marquis La Fayette. '' Passy, Aug. 24, 1779. Sir, The Congress, sensible of your merit towards the Lnited States, bu-t unable adequately to reward it, de- termined to present you with a sword, as a small mark of their grateful acknowledgments. They directed it to be ornamented with suitable devices. Some of the principal actions of the battles, in which you distin- guished yourself by your bravery and good conduct, are therefore represented upon it. These, with a few em- blematical figures, all admirably well executed, make its principal value. By the help of the exquisite artists France affords, I find it easy to execute every thing, but the sense we have of your worthy and our obligations to you. For this, figures and even words are found insuf- licient. I therefore, only add, that, with the most per- fect esteem, I have the honor to be, kc. B. FRANKLIN.'* MEMOIRS UJf LA FAYE TTE 2$ The Marquis de La Fayette came agaia to the United States in April 1780, and landed at Boston, though the vessel first touched at Marblehead on its way to the former place. In his passage both to and from France, he was in danger of capture from the IJritish. The frigate, in which he returned to this country, was chased by an English man of war ; and when it was supposed, they must come to action, La. Fayette was found at one of the guns, preparing to act his part should they be attacked. In this visit to France, he exerted himself with eifect, to induce the Court of Varsailles to afford the United States more ef- fectual aid ; and especially, to send over a large fleet, which rendered essential service to the American cause. His great devotion to our interests would cer- tainly lead him to advocate any measures with his King, favourable to our wishes : and his influence, con- sidering his high rank and famUy, was undoubtedly at- tended with benefi'cial results. His services in our behalf were particularly noticed by Congress. " When the Marquis de La Fayette obtained per- mission to revisit his native country and off'er his ser- vices to his sovereign, he retained, with his rank in the American army, that ardent zeal for her interests, which the affectionate attentions he had received, the enthusiasm of a soldier in the cause of those f>r whom he had made his first campaigns and by whom he had been highly distinguished, combined with a conscious- ness that he was substantially promolidg the perma- nent interests of France ; were all so well calculated to inspire in a young and generous mind, in favour of an infant people struggling for liberty and ^c If govern- ment, with the hereditary rival of his nation, c2 30 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. "He was received at the Court of Versailles witb every mark of favour and distinction ; and all the in* fluence he had acquired was employed in impressing on the cabinet the importance and policy of granting succours to the United States. " Having succeeded in this favourite object, in which he was aided by the representations of the former and present minister of France at Phihidelphia ; and find- ing no probability of active employment on the conti- nent of Europe, he obtained permission to return to America, with the grateful intelHgence of the service he had rendered while in France, to the country in whose cause his service had been first drawn. He ar- rived at Boston in the month of April 1780, and has- tened to Head Quarters. He then proceeded to Congress with the information that the King of France had consented to employ a large land and naval ar- mament in the United States, for the ensuing cam- paign. He was received by Washington with joy and affection ; and by Congress with those marks of distinction and regard to which his constant and incZe- fatigable zeal in support of the merican cause, as well as his signal service, gave him sucii just preten- tions. The intellig nee which he brought gave new impulse both to ( ongress and to the State Legislatures. The lethargic slumbers into which they seemed to be sinking yielded to resolutions of the most vigorous character." — Marshall. The letters below, with the resolve of Congress, will show the sense Washington had of the services of his " adopted son^'''^ the Marquis La Fayette, and the personal attachment which he cherished for him, as well as the high estimation, in which the disinteit- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETfE. Si ested zeal of that devoted friend of liberty was held by the grand Legislature of America. " Head Quarters^ Morristown^ May 13, 1?80. The Marquis La Fayktte does me the honor to take charge of this note. I am persuaded Congress will participate m the joy 1 feel at the return of a gentle- man who has so signally distinguished hmiself in the service of this country ; who has given so many and so decided proofs of his attachment to its interests; and who ought to be dear to it by every motive. The warm friendship I have for him conspires with consiii- erations of public utility to afford me a double satis- faction in his return. During the time he has been in France he has uniformly manifested the same zeal in our affairs, which animated his conduct while he was among us; and has been, upon all occasions, an essen- tial friend to America. He merits, and I doubt not Congress will give him every mark of consideration and regard in their power. I have ihe honour to be, &c. GEO. WASHINGTON. To His Excellency ike President of Congress^ '' Philadelphia, May 16, 1780. After so many favors, which, on every occasion and particularly at my obtaining leave of absence, Con- gress were pleased mo^t graciously to bestow on me, I dare presume myself entitled to impart to them the private feelings, which 1 now so happily experience. In an early epoch in our n ;ble contest. I gloried in the name of an American soldier ; and heartily enjoy- ed the honor I have of serving the Unites! States ; nay satisfaction is at this long wished-for moment en- 32 MEMOIRS OF LA TATETTE. tirely complete, when putting an end to my furlough, I have been able again to join my colours, under which 1 hope for opportunities of indulging the ardent zeal, the unbounded gratitude, the warm, and I might say, the patriotic love, by which I am forever bound to America. 1 beg you, sir, to present Congress with a new as- surance of my profound respect and my grateful and affectionate sentiments. I have the honour to be, &c. LA FAYETTE." In Congress, May 16, 1780. " Resolved, That Con- gress consider the return of the Marquis La Fayette to America, to resume his command in the army, as a fresh proof of the distinguished zeal and deserving attachment which have justly recommended him to the public confidence and applause ; and that they receive, with pleasure, a tender of further services of so gal- lant and meritorious an officer." ^. " Soon after his return to America the Marquis was entrusted with the command of a select corps of the Light Infantry of the continental army. This afforded him a new opportunity for the display of his munifi- cence. He presented each officer of the corps with an elegant sword ; and the soldiers were clothed in uniform, principally at his expense. He infused into this corps a spirit of pride and emulation ; viewing it as one formed according to his own wishes and worthy of his entire confidence. They were the pride of his heart, and he was the idol of their regard ; constantly panting for an opportunity of performing some signal achievement worthy of his and their own character. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. SS The corps was probably equal for discipline and bra- ^ very, to any in the world." Early in the year 1781, La Fayette was detached with about twelve hundred troops to Virginia ; with a view to co-operate with the French fleet in checking the plundering expedition of General Arnold, who had then recently landed there with a body of British troops from New York. The Marquis performed this long and difficult march with great dispatch. Many of the soldiers under his command were deficient in clothing : and it was by the personal responsibility of General La Fayette that funds were raised in Balti- more and vicinity to remedy this evil. The credit of the continent was very low ; and its means of immediate payment of the public expenses knowa to be entirely inadequate. The generosity of this distinguished friend of liberty was as remarkable as his personal bravery. He was indeed, both as to life and estate, wholly de- voted to the cause of America ; and difficulties and dangers served only to manifest the sincerity and in- tenseness of his zeal in behalf of a people struggling for freedom. Soon after this, in the month of May, 1781, Lord Cornwallis, in his progress from North Carolina into Virginia, f trmed a junction with the British forces un- der Arnohi and Phillips. His ohject was immediately to crush the Americans under La Fayette, then en- camped near Richmond. The experienced British Commander thought it would be an easy matter with his superior numbers to s- cure the •" Young French- man." But the youthful soldier was not wanting in prudence and foresight, though arduur and courage were his predominant qualities. In these traits ef 34 MF.MOIRS OF LA FAYETTE* character, as well as others, he was not unlike the " paternal chief" of the American army. La Fayette made good a retreat; and escaped the net Cornwallis had prepared for him, with such confident hopes of success He directed his course northv^ ard ; and soon effected a junction with General Wayne, who had been ordered to reinforce him with eight hundred men ©f the Pennsylvania line. The Light Infantry under La Fayette were chiefly eastern troops, who had great objecti >ns to a southern climate, and many deserted. In this critical situation, the Marquis adopted the following expedient. He gave out, that an expedition of great difficulty and danger was to be soon undertaken ; and appealing to the gen- erous feelings of his soldiers, he expressed a hope that they would not forsake him. if, however, anv were desirous of returning to their regiments, he said. th«y should have permission. The effect was as he had hop- ed. The troops had too much honor and pride to de- sert their brave commander in such an exigency. About this time, the main army of the British under Cornwallis, had taken the precaution to cut off the di- rect communication between the American troops and their stores, lately removed from Richmond to Alber- marle. The Marquis La Fayette, however, recross- ing the Rappahannock, by forced marches, arrived within a few miles of the British, when they were yet two days march from Albermarle Court-house ; and. opening in the night a nearer road, which had been long disused, appeared the following day, gjeatly to the surprise of Cornwallis, between the British army and the continental stores. Thus disappointed in his plan ff possessing the American stores, the British command- MEMOIRS or LA FAYETTE. 55 «r retired to Williamsburg. The Marquis followed the enemy at a prudent distance ; and was soon so for- tunate as to form a junction with the Baron Steuben, who had been detached int(» that quarter, to protect the public stores, and assist in the general defence of the country. The British forces, many of which consist- ed of cavalry, were then very formidable in Virginia. This was a very critical period in the affairs of Amer- ca. Washington was satisfied that some decisive blow must be struck ; for our finances were low : and many began to despond as to the result of the contest- The British were very powerful and resolute. Thp plan of VVashington finally was, to make it appear to the en- emy than an attack was intended against New York; and at the same time prepare for a general expedition io Virginia, and destroy the British army in that quar- ter. This plan succeeded by the aid of the French ,fleet, though its Admiral came with reluctance into the measure. Cornwallis and his army were captured in October following; and the Brittish ministry soon after consented to listen to honourable terms of peace. Major General La Fayette acted a gallant and distin- guished part in this whole campaign. We have al- ready witnessed his activity, promptitude and bravery in the early part of the season. His eifort* continued, and were conspicuous on various trying occasions. In the affair near Jamestown, he was in great personal danger, and on'e of his horses was shot under him. It was owing to his uncommon vigilance and activity, that the Amer- ican troops under his command were able to keep a large British army in check; and when a detachment under the brieve General Wayne were in danger of be- ing taken, they were rescued by the prompt and skil- 36 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ful manoeuvres of the Marquis. His spirit and firmness were attended with the best effects upon the men un- der his command ; and seemed to inspire them with courage and confidence, at this period of great embar- rassment and gloom. He was distinguished for human- ity as well as courage. The sick and wounded were aiway sure to receive his generous attentions. In the several engagements which took place, previously to the capture of Lord Cornwallis, many of the American soldiers were wounded, and he made immediate provi- sion for their relief and comfort. The military skill and bravery manifested by Gene- ral La Faj^ette, and the officers and men under his com- mand in Virginia, at this period, will be evident from his letters and orders here given. They ^peak partic- ularly of the courage and conduct of General Wayne, arid his detachment; but they also aiford new proofs of the intelligence and activity of the commanding officer. Letter from General La Fayette, to General Greene. " jYear James River, July 8, 1781. Sir, ^ On the 4th5 the enemy evacuated Williamsburgh, where some stores fell into our hands, and retired to this place, under the cannon of their shippin;2:. The next morning we advanced, and a part of our troops took post about nine miles from the British camp. The 6th, I detached an advanced corps under General Wayne, to reconnoitre the enemy's situation. Their light parties being drawn in, the pickets which lay near their encampment, were gallantly attacked by some riflemen, whose skill v/as employed to great ef- fect. MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. 37 Having- learnt that Lord Cornwallis had sent off his heavy haggage under an escort, and posted his army in an open field, fortified by the shipping, I returned to the detachment, which I found generally engaged. A piece of cannon had been attempted by the van-guard, and the whole British army advanced to the wood, oc- cupied by General Wayne His whole corps did not exceed 800, part of which were militia, with three field pieces. — But at sight of the British, the troops ran to the rencontre, notwithstanding the very superior number of the enemy, and a short skirmish ensued, with a warm, close and well directed fire. But, as both the right and left of the enemy greatly out-flanked ours, I sent orders to General Wayne, to retire to about half a mile, where Col. Vose and Barber's light infantry battal- ions had arrived, by a most rapid movement, and where I directed them to form. In this position, they remain- ed till some hours in the night. The mililia uader Gen- eral Lawson also advanced; but during the night, the enemy retired to the south of the river. From all accounts, the enemy's loss is great. We had none killed, but many wounded. Wa}'ne's detach- ment suffered most. Blany horses were killed, which rendered it impossible to move the field pieces. But it is enough for the glory of General Wayne, and the officers and men under his command, to have attacked the whole British army, with only a reconnoitering party, and to have obliged them to retreat over the ri- ver. I have the honor to be, &;c. LA FAYETTE." Under date of July 11th, an ofhcer of rank gives some further account of this affair. " The enemy had 300 men killed and wounded ; and among the latter 38 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. were several officers. Their precipitate retreat the same evening, to Jamestown Island, and thence to the other side of the river, is a tacit acknowledgment, that a general action was not their wish. We hear that the British officers are much mortified at the issue, and confess they were out-generalled. Their numbers were far superior to ours; and they b^d the advantage of a large corps of cavalry. We could not have extri- cated ourselves from the difficulties we were in, but by the manoeuvre we adopted ; which, though it may have the appearance of temerity, to those unacquained with 'fhe circumstances, wms founded upon the truest milita- rv principles; and was a necessary, though a very bold and daring measure.*" Extract from the general orders of the Marquis La Fayette, July 8th, 1781, near James River. " The General is happy to acknowledge the spirit of the detachment under General Wayne, in their engage- ment with the whole of the British army, of which he was an eye witness. He requests General Wayne, and the officers and men under his command, to accept his best thanks. The bravery and destructive fire of the riflemen, rendered essential service. The fire of the light infantry checked the enemy's progress round our right flank. The General was much pleased with the conduct of Captain Savage, of the artillery, and is satis- fied, that nothing but the loss of horses occasioned that of the two field pieces. The zeal of Colonel Mercer's corps, is fully expressed in the number of horses he had killed." His conduct at the seige and capture of Cornwallis, at Yorktown, received the particular approbation of th« MEMOIRS OF LA LAYETTE. 39 commander in chief. Perhaps no officer in the Ameri- can line, contributed more than he did to the success which attended our arms on that memorable occasion. When the British General was confident of seizing him and his little party by stratagem, or of overpowering* them by numbers, he was on his guard, and had the good fortune to elude every effort to destroy him. And, dur- ing the immediate seige ©f Yorktown, he occupied one of the most dangerous posts, and was among the fore- most in the many vigorous assaults made upon the Bri- tish army, before it was compelled to surrender. He had the honor to be ranked with Lincoln, Greene, Knox, Wayne and others, in the glorious exploits, which convinced the enemy of our persevering bravery, and induced them at last to sue for peace. In November following-, the Marquis returned to France, having first obtained (he consent of Congress, and of the commander in chief. The contest between Great Britain and the United States, was drawing to a close. The former became satisfied of the impossibili- ty of subduing America : and the latter was anxious to terminate a war, which had exhausted her finances, and occasioned an oppressive debt. The resolves of Con- gress, with reference to the departure of General La Fayette at this period, exhibits, in a very favorable light, the important services he had rendered the coun- try, in the critical situation in which it had been placed. In Congress, Nov. 1781. " Resolved, That Major Gesaerai La Fayette have permission to go to France, and to return at such time as may be most agreeable to himself — that he be informed, that, on a view of his conduct throughout tlie past campaign, and particularly during the period, in which he had the chief command 40 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTEj in Virginia, the many new proofs which present them- selves of his zealous attachment to the cause he has es- poused, and of his judgment, vigilance, gallantry and ad- dress in its defence, have greatly added to the high opin- ion entertained by Congress of his merits and military talents — that he make known to the oflicers and troops whom he commanded during that period, that the brave and enterprizing services, with which they seconded his zeal and efforts, and which enabled him to defeat the attempts of an enemy, far superior in numbers, have been beheld by Congress, with particular satisfaction and approbation.— That the Secretary of foreign affairs acquaint the Ministers Plenipotentiaries of the United States, that it is the desire of Congress, that they confer with the Marquis La Fayette, and avail of his infor- mation, relative to the situation of public affairs in the United States — That the Secretary for foreign af- fairs, further acquaint the Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of Versailles, that he will conform to the in- tention of Congress, by consulting with, and employing the assistance of the Marquis La Fayette, in accelerat- ing the supplies which may be afforded by his most Christian Majesty for the United States — That the su- perintendant of finance, the Secretary for foreign af- fairs and the boaj'd of war, make such communications to the Marquis, touching the affairs of their respective departments, as will best enable him to fulfil the pur- pose of the preceding resolutions — That the superin- tendant of finance, take order for discharging the en- gagements entered into by the Marquis La Fayette, with the merchants of Baltimore, when he borrowed money of them on his own credit, to supply our troops with necessaries.^' MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 41 At the same time, Congress ordered that a convey- ance be provided for General La Fayette, in a public vessel, whenever he should choose to embark ; and voted to send a letter by him, to the King of France. The following is the reply of the Marquis, to the President of Congress, who forwarded him the re- solves. " Sir, I have been honored with the resolutions which Congress have been pleased to pass in my favor. Tes- timonies of their esteem and their confidence that are so very flattering to me, could not but excite those ex- alted sentiments of g^ratitude, which I am unable suffi- ciently to express, — My attachment to America, the sense of my obligations, and the new favors conferred upon me, are so many everlasting ties that devote me to her. At all times, and in every part of the world, my heart will be panting for opportunities to be employed in her service. With urispeakable pleasure, I shall transmit the resolve of Congress to the brave and vir- tuous troops, whom it has been my happiness to comr^ Biand. I have the honor to be, &.c. LA FAYETTE." When he transmitted the foregoing resolve of Con- gress, to the troops he had lately commanded, he ob- served to them, '^ In the moment the Major General leaves this place, he wishes once more to express his gratitude to the brave corps of light infantry, who, for oine months past, have been the companions of his for- tunes. He can never forget, that, with them alone, of regular troops, he had the good fortune to manoeuvre before an armv, which, after all its reductions, was 42 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. still six times more numerous than the regular force he had under command." The interest taken in favour of our country by Gen- eral La Fayette, and the anxiety he felt upon all occa- sions for the success of our contest with England, are so strongly evinced by his letter to the Hon. Samuel Ad- ams, that we feel bound injustice to the character of this zealous apostle of liberty, to present it to our readers, with the reply of Mr. Adams. It shews, indeed, not only the disposition of La Fayette, in every possible way, to support the cause of America ; but his great knowledge of human nature, and his regard for the hon- orable feelings of soldiers. The letter was written at Morristown, May 30, 1780, soon after the Marquis returned from his visit to France, where he exerted himself with the French Ministers to grant aid and supplies to the United States. Dear Sir, — Had 1 known that I would have the pleas- ure of meeting you at Boston, and holding confidential conversations with you on public and private matters, I should have anticipated the uneasiness I wafc^jy^ut un- der by the obligation of secrecy, or previously d^a^ed the leave of breaking that so strict law in your mv^,. Now, my dear sir, that Congress have set. my tongue at liberty, at least for such men as Mr. Samuel Adams, I will, in referring you to a public letter from the com- mittee of Congress, indulge my private feelings in im- parting to you some confidential ideas of mine on our present situation. As momentary visits did not entirely fulfil the purpose of freeing America, France thought they would render themselves more useful, if a naval and land force were gent for co-operating with our troops, and by a longer MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 4 J stay on the coast of the Contment, would give to the states, a fciir opportunity of employing all their resour- ces. The expectations are very sanguine at Versailles, and ought to be more so, when that letter shall be re- ceived, by which you know Congress engaged to fur- nUh on their part, jive and ("joenty thousand Continental troops, that are to take the field by the beginning of the spring. On the other hand, my dear sir, all Europe have their eyes upon us : They know nothing of us, but by our own reports, and our first exertions which have heightened their esteem, and by the accounts of the en- emy, or those of some dissatisfied persons, which were calculated to give them a quite different opinion : so that, to fix their own minds, all the nations are now looking at us; and the consequence of America, in the eyes of the world,- as well as its liberty and happiness, must depend upon the ensuing campaign. The succour sent b}^ France. I thought to be very important when at Versailles: now that I am on the spot, I know it was necessary ; and if proper measures are taken, I shall more heartily than ever, enjoy the^ happiness I had of being somewhat concerned in the op- eration. But if things stood as they now do, I confess that whether as an American soldier, whether as a pri- vate man that said a great deal, and knows Congress have ordered much more to be said on the future exer- tions of America,-^who took a particular delight in praising the patriotic spirit of the United States, I would feel most unhappy and distressed, were I to tell the people that are coniing overfull of ardour and sanguine hopes, that we have no army to co-operate with them, no profisioas to feed the few soldiers that ar^ left, &c. 44 MEMOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. &c. But I hope, mj dear sir, it will not be the case, and more particularly depending- upon the exertions of your state, / know Mr. Samuel Adams' injluence and popularity will be as heretofore employed, in the sal- vation and glory of America. If proper measures are taken for provisions, if the states do immediately fill up the continental battalions by good drrji'ts, which is by far the best way ; if ail the propor-itions of the commillee are speedily complied with, I have no doubt, but that the present campaii^n will be a glorious, ^lecisive cne, and that we may hope for every thing that is good : if, on the contrary, time be lost, consider what unhappy and dishonorable con- sequences would ensue from our inability to a co-oper- ation. Your state began the noble contest, it may be glori- ously ended by your state's exertions, and the example they will once more set to the whole continent. The reception 1 met with at Boston, binds me to it by the strongest ties of a grateful aifection. The joy of my heart will be to find myself concerned in an expedition, that may afford peculiar advantages to them ; and I earnestly hope it will be the case, in the course of this (if proper measures are taken) glorious campaign. I flatter myself you will be yet in Boston, and upon this expectation, I very much depend for the success of the combined expeditions. Such a crisis is worth your being wholly engaged in it, as it will be glorious, im- portant ; and I may say it now, because necessary for the support of the great cause in which you acted so early and decisive a part. What you mentioned confi- dentially to me at Boston, I have duly noticed, and shall ever remember with the attention of a friend. For fwl- Mfi^MOlRS OF LA PAYETTE. 4ft filling the same purpose, I wish we may be under par- ticular obligations to you on this occasion. Give me leave, my dear sir, to suggest to you an idea which 1 have lately thought of: all the continental offi- cers labor under the most shameful want of clothing. When I say shameful, it is not to them, who have no money to buy — no cloth to be bought. You can con- ceive what may be theirs and our feelings, when they will be with the French general and other officers ; and from a general idea of mankind and human honor it is easily seen how much we should exert ourselves to put the officers of the army in a more decent situation. I beg, my dear sir, you will present my respects t« your family, and beUeve me most affectionately, Yours, LA FAYETTE. Boston^ June^ 1780. Bfy Dear Marquis, Yesterday your very obliging letter oi the 30th May "was brought to me by IMons. Gainard. The succour c-ming from France will be so season- able and important, that if America is not wanting to herself, she will have it in her power by the blessing of heaven, to gratify the utmost of her wishes. His most Christian Majesty's expectations from us must needs be great ; and gratitude to so generous an ally as well as a due attention to our own safety, inter- est and honor, lay us under the strongest obligations to be in readiness to co-operate with the greatest ad- vantage- I have long been fully sensible of your most cordial and zealous attachment to our great cause ; and to your personal representation to his Majesty, in ad- 46 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. difion to the benevolence of his roj^al heart, I will take the liberty to attribute his desig-n to afford us such aid and for so long a time as may put it in our power lo employ all our resources ag-amst the enemy. It fortunately happened that the General Assembly of this state was sitting when the letter and inclosmes from the committee of Congress came to the President of the Council.- — They were immediately laid before the Assembly and 1 have the pleasure to assure you that the filling our battalions by an immediate. ,raf<, furnish- ing the army with provisions, and every other measure for the fulfilling of the just expectations of your sove- reign and of Congress, on this most important occasion, are the objects of their closest attention. I had for several months past been flattering myself with the prospect of this aid. It strongly impressed my mind from one circumstance which took place when you was at Philadelphia the last year. But far from certainty, I could only express to some confidential friends here, a distant hope, though as I conceived, not without some good effect : at least it seemed to enliven our spirits and animate us i"or so great a crisis. If it were possible for one to ])e forgetful of our all important amse for a moment, my particular friendship for you would be a prevailing inducement with me, to make my utmost ieebie exertions to prevent your dis- appointment after the great pains you have taken to serve us. I have endeavored, and shall continue those endeavors wiule I stay here, to brighten the dark side of the picture wh'ch your im:;giiUitioii has painted in one pari oiyour letter betor; me— God torbid that we should be obliged t«) teli oar fneacis when tht-y arrive, that we kave not a suflicient army to co-operate with them, nor MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE A7 provisions to feed the ^^vi soldiers that are left. I think I may venture to predict that this state will comply with the requii . RS OF LA FAYEmE. ^5 isage, and to return it to you, Sir, — ^^ ..u. At the same time permint me to assure you, &c. LA FAYETTE. The reply of Sir H. Clinton. London, May ^9, 1 783. Sir, In consequence of the letter you have done roe the honor to write me, 1 have read over the publica- tion in question ; and I confess the remark alluded to, from the manner in which it is introduced, appears to make a part of your letter. You have, certainly, Sir, a right to tliis acknowledgment, and permit me, at the same time, to add the assurances, &c. IL CLINTON. In the summer of 1784, the Marquis de La Fayette once more visited America. He came to witness the prosperity and improvements of the country ; and to enjoy the society of those brave and honorable men, with whom he had been associated in lighting the bat- tles of liberty. Associates in danger form an attach- ment for each other, which time does not usually de- destroy. And when they have long struggl ed to- gether for just and generous purposes, the attach- ment must be strong and permanent indeed. The he- roic actors in our glorious revolution were linked to- gether by the most disinterested ties. They will nev- er forget each other's services and virtues : And we trust, their children will never cease to venerate their characters, or to acknowledge their exalted merit. When General La Fayette visited the United States in 1784, he was received with an affectionate welcome, little less enthusiastic and splendid, than that with which he has been lately greeted, on landing again on 56 MEMOIRS OF LA FAY our shores, after a lapse of forty ;; arrived at the port of New York ; lowing made a visit to Boston, where he had so many particular friends ready to receive him with the most cordial gTeetings. He was met at Watertown hy the officers of the (then) late continental army, and ad- dressed by his ardent friend, General Knox, in behalf of the whole body, and a public dinner was provided for him on the occasion. The feelings excited by the visit of their beloved fellow officer, will be best descri- bed by giving the address ; which was as follows : "We, the late officers of the Massachusetts line of the continental army, embrace the first moment of your arrival, to web ome you with all the sincerity and ar- dour of fraternal affection : an affection commenced in the dark hour of our conflict, elevated and perfect- ed through the successive vicissitudes of the war. " We beg leave to observe, that we have had re- peated occasions to witness the display of your military talents, and of joining in the approbation and applause which our beloved Commander in Chief so often ex- pressed of your conduct. We are deeply impress- ed, with a sense of the various and important ser- vices you have rendered our country ; and it will be the pride of some patriotic and enhghtened historian to enumerate your actions in the field, and to illustrate your incessant efforts to promote the happiness of the United States. *' We shall ever retain a lively gratitude for the inter- position of your august sovereign and nation, at a time when America was oppressed by a formidable enemy. By hiss influence and the powerful assistance afforded by his land and naval forces, the war has been happily MEMOIUS or LA EATETTEV 5!? terminated, and the independence of the United State* firmly established, at a period much earlier thanosed aii his influence to riots and excesses. He hecame an object of dread to the Jaccbias, and they resolved to d^^Hlroy him. Bat for a long tiine, the majority of the National Assembly sup- ported hini. In attempting to suppress a dangerous ri- ot, by which many of the citizens were alarmed and threatened, when he commanded the military in 1791, he was shot at by one of the mob. The man was ta- ken, and he forgave him — But the National Assembly decreed the death of the culprit, who had attempted the life of "the hero of the day." And the municipality of Paris, also had a gold medal struck off, in honor o{ La Fayette, and presented him with a bust of Washington in approbation of his conduct. He was repeatedly denounced by individuals of th« "violent party, before they succeeded in rendering him ^obnoxious to popular displeasure. And this was finally effected, through misrepresentations and false reports. Letter of La Fayette, Feb. 1791, to M. de Bonille, one of the court, but not then at Paris. "Ptris is divided by factions, and the kingdom op- pressed by anarchy. The violent aristocrats dream of a counter revolution — the clergy concui with them. The impartial monarchists are looking for a part to play,, without the means of doing it. Among the friends of the revolution, you have many honest men, some lose themselves in speculations— -and some Jacobins, whose leaders spread trouble every where. As to the minis- ters, they are merged in the revolution ; and have no rule, hut to yield to the popular voice. The Queen is resigned to the revolution^— hoping that Opinions will MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. 73 soon change. The King wishes the happiness of the people, and the general tranquillity, to begin his own. As to myself, I am attacked by all the party leaders, tvho consider me an obstacle not to be overcome or in- timidated. Add to this, the hatred of the aristocrats and of the Orleans party ; of the Lameths, with whom I was formerly connected ; of Mirabeau, who says I despise him ; the money distributed, the libels, the dissatisfac* lion I give those whom I prevent from pillaging Paris— and you will have the sum of all which is going on a- gainst me. But except a few ardent heads who are mislead, the well meaning, from the highest to the low- est, are for me. "I stand well with the National Assembly, except a few disreputable Jacobins. I have little connexion with the tiourt, for I can derive no use from it to my country; and yet I am aware advantage is taken of m}' neglect to intrigue. Some friends are at work with me, upon a J)lan of conduct, by which the revolution will be con- solidated, the good basis of the constitution es|ablished, and public order restored. The chief talents of the as- sembly, Mirabeau himself, cannot but support this plan. Here then are courts established, and juries are de- creed ; this is the moment to let our voice be heard with force, propriety and utility. 'Tou have accepted the coalition which my heart and Jny patriotism have offered you. You lately said to one of my friends, '' If La Fayette and I understand each other well, we shall establish a constitution.^' ''My first wish is to finish the revolution speedily and well, to secure the constitution on solid foundations, to employ for that purpose, all I possess of national confi- G 74 MEM01RS ©F LA PAI^ETTE. dence and personal means; and then to be nothing more in France, than an active citizen. Adieu, LA FAYETTE." But after he was persecuted by the Petions and Rob- espieres of the day, because of his moderation, loyalty and attachment to the constitution, he was held in high esteem by the friends of rational freedom, and still en- joyed the confidence both of Louis and of the National Assembly. Towards the close of the year 1791, by re- qMest of the King, he was appointed to command the army of the centre, to oppose the foreign troops then invading France. When he accepted the appointment, he assured the National Assembly of bis ^'•determination to support the constitution." The President replied, " the French nation, who have sworn to conquer and to live free, will always, with confidence, present to their foes and to tyrants, the constitution and La Fay- ette." As commander in chief of that department of the French army entrusted to him, he was assiduous to mnintain proper discipline ^and order; a matter of great (liihculty, as a revolutionary spirit pervaded all ranks, ?ind the soldiers were disposed to insubordination, espe- cially under a leader not belonging to the popular par- ty. He had several engagements with the enemy, in which he was successful. But his operations and those of the other generals, who commanded in other de- partments of the northern armies of France, were greatly impeded by the injudicious and variable plans of the assembly, then torn by factions, and disgraced by low intrigues. The evil spirit extended to the milita- a-y ; and each faction had its partizans among the sol- iii(;>.rg. La FnvettG saw and lamented this disastrous MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE, 75 state of things; and he dared to oppose his single ef- forts to avert the impending ruin. It was at this time, that he wrote his celebrated letter to the National As^ sembly, of June 16, 1792, in which he exposed the vi- olence and the cabals of the Jacobins, and conjured the moderates to cling to the constitution, as the only means of safety. This letter is so important, in rleveloping the views and sentiments of La Fayette, and in detecting the causes of the excegses, which eventually disgraced the French revolution of that period, that it will be proper to record it in this connexion. He wrote to tlie King at the same time, expressing great anxiety for his safety, and declaring his wish to maintain the constitu^ tion. La Fayette's letter to the Legislative body. At the entrenched cm Maubeuge^ IQth June At the entrenched camp of } ,1792.51 " Gentlemen, "At the moment, perhaps too long deferred, In which I am about to call your attention to the high- est public interests, and to point out among our dangers, the conduct of a ministry^ whom I have for a long time censured in my correspondence, I learn that, unmasked in consequence of its ow-n divisions, it has fallen a sac- rifice to its own intrigues. [This was the Brissotin minis- try,] It is not enough however, that this branch of the government has been delivered from its disastrous influ- ence. The public welfare is in peril — The fate of France depends principally on its representatives — The nation expects from them its security. But in giving them a constitution^ France has prescribed to them the 9nly means by which she can be saved. " Persuaded, gentlemen, that as the rights of maa 76 MEMOIRS OP LA FAVETTE. are the law of every constituent assembly, a constitu- tion ought to he the law of the legislators, which that constitution shall have established. It is to you that I ought to denounce the too powerful efforts which are making, to induce you to depart from that course which you have promised to pursue. '* Nothing shall deter me from the exercise of this right of a free inon, to fulfil this duty of a citizen; neither the momentary errors of opinion ; for what are opinion^ when they depart from principles : nor my respect for the representatives of the people ; for I respect still more the people^ whose sovereign will it is to have a consti* tution : nor the benevolence and kindness which you have constantly evinced for myself; for I would preserve that as I obtained it, by an inflexible love of liberty. " Your situation is difficult — France is menaced from without, and agitated v/ithin. Whilst foreign powers announce the intolerable (inadmissible) project of at- tacking our national sovereignty, and avow it as a prin- ciple ! at the same time the enemies of France, its in- terior enemies, intoxicated with fanaticism and pride, entertain chimerical hopes, and annoy us with their in- dolent malevolence. You ought, gentlemen, to repress them ; and you will have the power so to do, only when you shall become constiiutional and just. You wish it, 'n.o doubt ; but cast your eyes upon all that passes with- in your own body and around you. Can you dissemble even to yourselves, that a faction, (and to avoid all vague denunciations) the jacobin Jaciion, have caused all these disorders ? It is that which I boldly accuse — or- ganized like a separate empire in the metropolis, and in its affiliated societies, blindly directed by some ambi- tious leaders, this sect forms a corporation entirely dis-^ MEMOTRS OF LA FAYETTE. 77 iinet in the midst of the French people, whose powers it usurps, by tyrannizing over its representatives and constituted authorities. '^ It is in that body, in its public meeting, the love of the laws is denounced as aristocracy, and their breach as patriotism. There the assassins of Dessilles receive their triumphs, the crimes of Jourdan find panegyrists. There, the recital of the massacre which has stained the city of Metz, has also been received with infernal ac- clamations ! Have they become sacred because the em- peror Leopold has pronounced their name ? And be- cause it is our highest duty to combat the foreigners^ who mingle in our domestic quarrels, are we at liberty to refrain from delivering our country from domestic trranny ? " Of what importance is it, as to the fulfilment of this duty, that strangers have their projects, and their conni- vance and concert with our internal foes ? \\h I, who de- nounce to you this sect [the jacobins] ; I, who, without speaking of my past life, can reply to those who suspect my motives — '•'• Approach, in this moment of awful cri- sis, when the character of each man must be known, and see which of us, more inflexible in his principles, more obstinate in his resistance, will more courageous- ly overcome those obstacles, and those dangers, which traitors to their country conceal, and which true citi- zens know how to appreciate, and to brave for her." '•And how could I delay longer to fulfil this duty, whilst every successive day weakens slili more the con- stituted authorities, substitutes tlie spirit of parly U^m the will of the people; whilst the audaciiy of the wg'i^ tators, [the disorganizers] imposes silence on peacea- ble citizens, throws into retirement usei'ul Gien. [ind. G 2- 78 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. whilst devotion to the sect or paj^ty stands in the place oi^ public and private virtues, which, in a free country, ought to be the austere [severe, or strict] and only means of attaining to public office. '' It is, after having opposed to all the obstacles, and to all the snares, which were laid for me, the coura- geous and persevering- patriotism of an army, sacriticed perhaps to conspiracies against its commander, [La Fayette was the commander] that I now oppose to this faction the corrpspondence of a ministry, worthy repre- sentative of its club — a correspondence, the calculations of which are false, its promises vain and illusory — its information deceitful or frivolous — its advice perfidious or contradictory — correspondence, in which after press- ing me to advance without precaution — to attack with- out means — ^they finally began to tell me that resistance was impossible^ when I indignantly repelled the cow- ardly and base assertion. What a remarkable con- formity of language, gentlemen, between the factions whom the aristocracy avow, and those who usurp the name of patriots ! They both wish to overthrow our laws, rejoice in our disorders, array themselves against the constituted authorities, detest the national guards (the militia) — preach insubordination to the army- sow, at one moment, distrust, at another, discourage- ment. *' As to myself, gentlemen, who embraced the American cause at the moment when its embassadors declared to me that it was perilous or desperate — who from that moment have devoted my hfe to a persevering de- fence of liberty and of the sovereignty of the people — - who, on the 14th of July, 1789 (after the taking of the Bastilcj) in presenting to my country a declaration of MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE." ^9 rights dared to say " that in order that a nation should be free, it is only necessary that it should wi// so to be.*' I come, this day, full of confidence in the justice of our cause — of contempt, for the cowjrds who desert it, and of indignation against the traitors who would sul- ly or stain it with crimes ; I am ready to declare that the French nation, if it is not the vilest in the universe, can and ought to resist the conspiracy of kings who have coalesced against it ! '^ It is not in the midst of my brave army that timid counsels should be permitted. — Patriotism, discipline, patience, mutual confidence, all the military and civil virtues I find here. Here the principles of liberty and equality are cherished, the laws respected, property held sacred. Here calumnies and factions are unknown. And when I reflect that France has many millions who can become such soldiers,! ask myself, to what a degree of debasement mu-t such an immense people be reduced, stronger in its natural resources than in its artificial de- fences, opposing to a monstrous and discordant confed- eration, simple and united counsels and combinations, that the cowardly, degrading idea of sacrificing its sov- reignty, of permitting any discussion as to its liberties, of committing to negotiation its rights, could be consid- ered among the possibilities of a rapidly advancing fu- turity ! "But, in order that we, soldiers of liberty, should combat for her with efficacy, or die for her with any fruit or advantage, it is necessary that the number of the defenders of the country should be promptly made in some degree proportionate to that of our opponents; that the supplies of all descriptions should be in- creased so as to facilitate our movements ; that the ^ to MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETtC comfort and conveniences of the troops, their clothes and arms, their pay, the accommodations for the sick, should no longer be subject to fatal delays, or to a miserable and misplaced economy, which defeats its Tery end. 'Mt is above all^ necessary that the citizens ralHed round their constitution, should be assured that the rights which that constitution guarantees shall be respected with a re rigiows fidelity ; which will of itself cause more despair to our enemies than any other measure. " Do not repel this desire — this ardent wish. It is that of all the sincere friends of your legitimate au- thority ; assured that no unjust consequence or effect can flow from a pure principle — that no tyrannical measure can save a cause, which owes its force^ aye^ and its glory, to the sacred principles of liberty and equality. Let criminal jurisprudence resume its con- stitutional power. Let civil equality — let religious freedom enjoy the application of their true principles. In fine, let the reign of the clubs be annihilated hy you ; let them give place to the laws — their usurpations to. the firm and independent exercise of the powers of the constituted authorities — their disorganizing max- ims to the true principles of hberty — their dehrious fury to the calm and constant courage of a nation which knows its rights, and is ready to defend them — in fine, their sectarian combinations to the true interests of the country, of the nation, which in a moment of danger ought to unite ct/Z, except those, to whom its subjec- tion and ruin are the objects of atrocious pleasure and infamous speculation. LA FAYETIE/' MEMOIRS OF EA FAYETTE Bf " Camp of Maubeuge^ June^ 16, 1792. *' Sire — I have the her or to send j^our Majesty the copy of a letter ro the National Assembly, in which, yon will tind expressed the sentiments which have an- imated me all my life. The King knows with what ar- dour and perseverance I have at all times been devot- ed to the cause of liberty and to the principles of hu- manity, equality and justice. He knows, that I have always been the adversary of /acij'on> the enemy of licentiousness, and that no power which I thought il"* legal has ever been acknowledged by me. He is ac- quainted with my devotion to his constitutional author- ity, and with my attachment to his person Such, Sire, were the grounds of my letter to the National Assem* bly ; such shall be those of my conduct to the nation and your Majesty, amidst the storms raised around us by hostile or by factious combinations. " It does not belong to me, Sire,^ to give greater im- port nee to my opinions and actions, than what is due to the individual conduct of a simple citizen. But the expression ot my thoughts was always a right, and on this Occasion becomes a duty ; and though I should have performed it sooner, if, instead of being in a camp, I had remained in that retirement from which I was forced by the dangers of my country ; yet I do not think thai any public employment or private consider- ation exo;in>ts me from exercising this duty of a citi- zen, this r.ght of a freeman. " Persis;, Sire, supported by the authority delegated to you by me national will, in the noble resolution of defending constitutional prin< iples against all their en- mies. Let this resolution, mrdnt. ined by all the actions of your private life, as well as by a firm and complete us MEMOIRS OF LA FAYDTTI^^ exercise of the rc^al power, become the pledge of th6 Larmony, which, particularly, at this critical juncture, eannot fail to be established between the elected rep- resentatives of the people and their hereditary repre- sentative. It is in this resolution, Sire, that glory and safety will be found for the country and for yourself. With this you will find the friends of liberty, all goad Frenchmen ranged around your throne, to defend it against the plots of rebels and the enterprizes of the factious; and I, Sire, who in their honorable hatred have found the reward of my persevering opposition • I will always deserve it, by my zeal in the cause to which my whole Hfe has been devoted, and by my fi- delity to the oath I have taken to the nation, to the law and to the King. Such, Sire, are the unalterable sentiments I present to your Majesty, with my respect. LA FAYETTE." Letter of La Fayette on leaving Paris to join his ar- my, after having appeared at the bar of the National Assembly, and protested against their proceedings, the last of June. *' Gentlemen — In returning to the post where brav6 soldiers are ready to die for the constitution, but ought not and will not lavish their blood except for that, I go with great and deep regret in not being able to inform the array, that the National Assembly have yet deign- ed to come to any determination on my petition, [al- luding to the request in his letter to the assembly a short time before, to suppress the Jacobin clubs.] The voice of all the good citizens of the kmgdom, which some factious clamours strive t® stifle, daily call t® \}te KEMOmS OF LA FAVETBE. 13 elected representatives of the people, that while there exists near them a sect who fetter all the authorities, and menance their independence; and who. after pro- Toking war. are endeavoring, by changing the nature of our cause, to make it impossible to defend it ; that while there is cause to blush at the impunity of an act of treason against the nation, which has raised just and great alarms in the minds of all the French, and uni- versal indignation ; our liberty, laws and honor are in danger. Truths like these, free and generous souls are not afraid of speaking. Hostile to the factious of every kind, indignant at cowards that can sink so low as to look for foreign interposition, and impressed with the principle, which I glory in being the first to declare to France, that all illegal power is oppression^ against which resistance becomes a duty^ we are anxious to make known our fears to the legislative body. We hope that the prudence of the representatives of the people will relieve our minds of them. As for me, gentlemen, who will never alter my principles, sentiments or language, I thought that the National Assembly, considering the urgency and danger of circumstances, would permit me to add my regrets and wishes to my profound re- spect.*' Noble and generous sentiments, worthy of the disci- ple of our great Washington — ' worthy of the philan- throphic hero and firm friend of civil liberty' — worthy of the adopted citizen of free and independent Ameri- ca ! Such were the opinions and s^entiments of Wash- ington and his friends, in 1794, when our republic was assailed by foreign emissaries, and convulsed by secret associations at home, who through ignorance or design, were advocates for measures whirh would have thrown ©ur country into a state of anarchy and misrule^ ^4 MfMOIRS of LAFAYETTfi. There was still a small majority in the National As- sembly who were the friends of constitutional liberty, and advocates of La Fayette. But the Jacobins were every day increasing ; and they felt confident of th6 popular favor. Enraged at his bold and independent conduct, and suspecting, perhaps that he was a secret suporter of all the wishes of the King, they denounced La Fayette as a traitor and an enemy to the republic. In this state of extreme ferment, while he was openly threatened jmd every attempt was making to render him odious to the populace, h6 had the courage (some might say, the rashness) to proceed to Paris, and pre- sent himself to the bar of the National \ssen5bly. Few men, in such a situation, would have thus hazarded their lives ; but he was strong in conscious rectitude. He appeared before his enemies with dignity and firmness. " He intreated the assembly to come forward and save the country from ruin, by dissolving the factious clubs und inflicting exemplary punishment on the authors of the late disgraceful riots'' His friends were numerous 4n the Assembly, and probably the greater number coa- demned the violent transactions, against which he raised his voice in the legislative hall of the nation. The national guards in Paris, also, manifested their attachment to La Fayette. They a*lagdeburg and Olmutz. He then resided some time MEMOIRS OF LA FAYEtTE 99 in the family of a French emigrant, living in that vicin- ity, and who was a distant relative of Madame La Fay- ette. In this situation he studied the. agriculture of Holstein^ and gave particular attention to the raising of merino sheep, an object in which he was also en- gaged after his return to La Grange, his country seat near Paris. In 1800 a new revolution took place in the French government. The Directors were found to be incom- petent to the support of order; cabals and factions still existed, and confusion prevailed through the nation. General Bonaparte, who had led the armies to victory in several campaigns, was ambitious of the sole direc^ tion of public affairs. The executive power, by the new constitution, was to be placed in three Consuls, of whom Napoleon was elected chief. A Conservative Senate, so called, was to constitute a part of the Legis- lature and to be joined with the Consuls also in provid- ing for the public welfare in cases of particular emer- gency. By the constitutionalists and those opposed to the violent factions, by which France had been long agitated and disgraced, this change was considered as auspicious to the cause of rational liberty. They hop- ed that a more stable government would be now form- ed, and that their country would enjoy a season of re- pose. La Fayette seized this favorable moment to re- turn to France, after an absence of nearly eight years. His patriotic feelings had not abated, though he had suffered so long and so intensely from the hatred of those who directed the destinies of his country. His love of liberty was not weakened, though many of his countrymen, with its sacred name on their lips, had committed excesses almost without a parallel in the most despotic governments. The First Consul invited La dOd MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Fayette to take a seat in the Consenrative Senate ; but be declined ; by which he gave new proofs of his dis- interested and sincere attachment to the constitutional liberty and the rights of the people. After several conversations with Bonaparte, he was satisfied of the ambitious views of this military adventurer. He per- ceived that the constitution was to serve as an apology for the exercise of unhmited power in the First Con- sul ; and that representatives and- senators were to be the humble ministers of his will. He saw that the constitution did not emanate from the will of the peo- ple ; and wa?< not calculated to secure and promote their welfare. Bonaparte also had discernment to iearn, that La Fayette was too sincere a friend to civil liberty and to the interests of the people, to support his purposes, or to submit to his plans of personal aggran- dizement. We shall have a more just estimation of the noble Sentiments with which La Fayette was animated, in de- clining t!ie gejierous offers of the First Consul, when it is considered, that, in addition to his self-banishment to private life^ he also refused an honorable salary of 7000 dollars, when the estates which remained in his possession yielded only 2000 dollars. He had a grant of land from the American Congress, in consideration of his important services in the revolution, estimated to be worth 100,000 dollars. Before the revolution, his income was 50,000 dollars : but the most valuable of his patrimonial property, as well as that which accrued to him in consequence of his marriage, had been seiz- ed by the lawless robbers of the revolution. It was in conformity to the principles, which he had long professed and by which he was constantly guided, m«:moirs of la fayette. 101 that he soon after opposed the election of Bonaparte as Consul for life. He would have consented, per- haps, to the claims of the aspiring Napoleon to be the First Magistrate of France, under a conslitution» which expressly defined and restricted his power, and at the same time provided a sufficient guaranty of the liberties of th<> people. On this occasion he wrote thus to the First Consul — '* vv hen a man, who is deeply impressed with a sense of the gratitude he owes you, and who is too ardent a lover of glory to be indifferent to yours, connects his suffrage with conditional restrictions, those restrictions not only secure him from suspicion, but prove amply, that no one will more gladly than himself behold in you the chief magistriite ihv life, of a free and independent republic;. *' The eighteenth Brumaire saved France from de- struction ; and 1 felt myself reassured and recalled by the liberal declarations to which you have connected the sanction of your honor. In your consular au- thority,^ there was afterwards discerned that salutary dictatorial prerogative, which under the auspices of a genius like yours, accomplished such glorious purpo- ses — yet less glorious, let me add. than the restoration of liberty would prove. " It is not possible, general, that you, the first among that order of mankind, which surveys every age and ev- ery country, can desire that a revolution, m^irked by an unexampled series of stupendous victories and unheard of sufferings, shall give notliing to the worhlbut a rcn^ ovated system of arbitrary governinr?nl. The peo pie of this country have been acquainleil with their rights too long, to forget them forever: but perhaps they may recover and enjoy tivcm belter now thaa. I 2- 10® MEMOIRS OF LA. PAYETTE. during" the period of revolutionary effervescence. And you, by the strength af your character and the influ- ence of public contidence, by the superiority of your talents, your power, and your fortunes, in re-establish- ing the liberties of France, can allay all agitations, calm all anxieties and subdue all dangers. " When 1 wish, then, to see the career of your glo- ry crowned by the honors of perpetual magistracy, I but act in correspondence with my own private senti- ments, and am influenced exclusively by patriotic con- siderations. But all my political and moral obligations, the principles which have governed every action of my life, call on me to pause before I bestow on you my suffrage, until I feel assured that your authority shall he erected on a basis worthy of the nation and yourself. " I confidently trust, general, that you will recog- nize here, as you have done on all other occasions, a steady continuance of my political opinions, combined with the sincerest prayers for your welfare, and the deepest sense of all my obligations towards you.'' Here closed all connexion between La Fayette and Bonaparte. The First Consul not only avoided all in- tercourse with one so sincerely devoted to the cause of liberty ; but he treated him with that studied neglect, which was little short of persecution. There was indeed nothing congenial either in the character or principles of these two distinguished men. The one was aiming at power by any means, without regard to the rights or happiness of his fellow men ; the other was anxious for the permanent establishment of a mild government in his native country, for the true welfare and liberty of the people • and was willing to make every sacrifice for the attainment of such great objects.. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETtEL t^^i. The unfriendly feelings of Bonaparte were extended even to the younger La Fayette, This patriotic youth, with much of the public spirit of his noble father,engaged in the service of his country soon after his return from America. He was an aid of the brave Grouchy, gen- eral of division ; an active, intelligent, meritorious officer, and distinguished on various occasions. But he received neither advancement nor distinction from the Emperor. It was, on the contrary, the wish of Napoleon, that young La Fayette would send in his resignation, and retire from the army. When this was made known to him, he observed, " that as long as his country was involved in war, he should not dis- grace himself by a resignation ; and that he should be ashamed to think of it, while his companions were daily exposing themselves to danger. It was true, he was an American citizen, but he was first of all a French- man and a loyal Frenchman." G. VV. La Fayette was much esteemed by the offi- cers who knew him, of all ranks ; and they frequently solicited his promotion ; but the Emperor disregarded alike the merits of the youthful hero and the entreaties of his military friends. He continued in the army un- til the treaty of Tilsit. To a man of his great sensibility and warmth of af- fection, the severest affliction which La Fayette has been called to endure, great and various as have been his sufferings, now awaited him. His amiable, his at- tached and devoted wife was torn from him, in his re- treat, within a few years after his return to France ; when he more than ever, perhaps, needed her company andsolice, to fortify his mind under the multiplied dis- appointments from the world. 10^4 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. She had never enjoyed perfect health after her im- prisonment at Olmutz. ['lUt possessed of uncommon fortitude and imbued with religious sentiments, she was Still instrumental in promoting the happiness of her husband and family. Her patience, her equanimity, her sweetness of temper never forsook her. But her con'^titution was broken, and a sudden paralysis de- prived her of h -r physical strength and almost of speech. At the urgent request of her husband, though'^ with reluctance, she was conveyed to Paris for med- ical assistance ; but it proved Jn vain. She died in December 1807. While Madame de La Fayette was in the prison in Paris, though treated with the greatest severity by Robespierre and his party, she had the consolation of sharing in the sympathetic kindness and assistance of many individuals, who were willing to expose them- selves to the hatred of her cruel persecutors for her relief. A gentleman from Boston, Joseph Ru^sel, Esq. then a resident in Pans, made great efforts for her liberation; although by. this generous interference he hazarded his own life. It was through his friendly assistance, that her son G VV. La Fayette, then about fourteen years of age, was conveyed to the United States, where he remained till tht! discharge of hi^ parents from the dungeons of Oimutz. About this period, and soon after the death of his ami- able wife. General La Fayette received a severe frac- ture in one of his legs, by a fall, which occasioned his confinement for nearly twelve months, and was the cause of his present lameness. He had been transact- ing business with the minister of the marine ; and in going from the ofScs to his carri age, a distance of tw6 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 105^ Hundred paces, late in the evening, after a heavy rain and sleet, which had rendered it dangerous walking, he fell suddenly and broke a bone. For six or seven years, til! 1814, when Louis X' III. returned to France to mount the throne of the Bourbons, La Fayette resided at his chateau of La Grange, an in- active spectator of the political changes which took place. No doubt he had a sufficient apology for this inaction and voiunmry retreat trom public affairs. He was too honest and too candid, too much an enemy to the anarchy of the jacobin factions, and to the despotism of the Emperor, to support either, or to be received into their contidence. He would probably have been satis- fied with the restoration of a Bourbon to the throne, if the throne could be founded in a constitution, admiting the representatives of the people to a share in legisla- tion, and detining the extent and the measure of the ex- ecutive authority. He was animated by the same pi in« ciples and sentiments which governed him in the part he aUedin 1789 and 1792: and although he might ac- quiesce in a different government, either under the First Consul, or under Louis XVIK. he could not, consist- ently, and therefore he chose not to lorward their views by his own personal influence and support. He was still calumniated by some agents of the Bourbons, yet he declared, on the return of Bonaparte from Llba, to gain the throne of France, ''that in ail measures, which should promote or be consistent with the hberties of the people, he would aid the cause of the legitimate heir of the crown." The views of Louis' friends and allies were too arbitrary to lead them to expect his ap- probation and aid. Louis XVill. had not been long in France, hefoje •lX}i^ HEMOmS OF LA PAYETTE. great discontent was manifested among the citizens at the prospect of his being placed on the throne of his "brother. Napoleon and his friends took advantage of this state of things; he left his retreat in the Island of Elba, and returned to Paris. Louis was obliged to re- tire. Bonaparte, through his brother Joseph, the ex* king of Spain, solicited of La Fayette to accept of a peerage. But he promptly declined; but observed', ^^ that if there should bo a convocation of a chamber of representatives," which he strenuously urged,' '^ he would consent to take a part in public affairs, should h6 be elected." His independence and his want of faith in Napoleon, were preserved, notwithstanding the ur- gent advances of the latter ; and he resolutely refused to go nearhim till after his final abdication. Yet even at this time, La Fayette thought he might rely on '• his cordial opposition to all foreign invasion and influence, and to any family or party which should avail itself of such assistance in order to attack the independence and the liberties of France.'' Much as he distrusted the views of Bonaparte, and desirous as he was of some ex- plicit guaranty, from him and his supporters, for the liberty of the French people, he would not unite with the Baurbons, who were resolved to place Louis XVIIL firmly on the throne of his ancestors, by any means in their power, and who had collected an army of one mil- lion two hundred thousand foreigners to accomplish their object, at the risque of a civil war, and a general slaughter, similar to that with which the unprincipled, revolutionary jacobins had before afHicied the nation. La Fayette was now elected a member of the chamber of deputies from his own department, though he had protested against the articles of the constitution of the MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 10^7 empire, and of the adJitioa;i) act which conspired against the sovereignty of the people, and the rights of the citi- zens. This was a strong proof of the sense the peo- ple had of his integrity and his patnoUsra sfter the battle of Waterloo, Napoleon returned to Paris, in con- sternation, and undecided as to the course he ivould pur- sue on this signal reverse of fortune. Some of his friends advised him again to abdicate the office of Emperor, which he held by so precarious a tenure ; others sug- gested decisive and bold measures, with a view to for- tify himself in power, even in opposition to the will and wishes of the deputies. He attempted to prorogue the chamber of representatives, and have himself proclaim- ed perpetual dictator. La Fayette was then present in the chamber ; and witli his usual independence and energy, made the following observations. '' When, for the first time for many years, I raise my Toice, which the old friends of liberty will recognise a- gain, 1 feel constrained to address you, gentlemen, on the imminent danger of the country, which you alone are able to prevent. "Disastrous reports have been circulated and are now unhappily confirmed. Now is the time to rally round the old tri-Goloured standard of 1789, of liberty, of equal- ity, and of public order. It is this alone which we are bound to defend against foreign pretensions and domes- tic factions. Allov*' a veteran in this holy cause, who has always been an enemy to the baneful spirit of dis- sension, to submit the following preliminary resolutions^ of which J hope you will admit the necessity. " First. The Chamber of Representatives declare, that the independence of the nation is endangered. ''^Second. The Chamber declare themselresio con- lbs MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. tinued session — That every attempt to prorogue the Chamber shall be considered high treason — That any one guilty of such an attempt shall be deemed a traitor to his country, and be instantly proceeded SLgainst as such. '' Third. The army of the line and the national guards, who have fought and are still fighting for the independence of France, deserve the gratitude of their country. " Fourth. The minister of the interior is directed to assemble the general staff, the commandants and majors of the legion of the national guard of Paris, to consult on the means of supplying them with arms, and to ren- der complete this citizen-guard; whose zeal and pat- riotism having been proved for twenty-six years, offer a sure guaranty of the liberty, the property and the tranquillity of the capital, and of the inviolability of the 'representatives of the nation. "Fz/iA. The ministers of war, of foreign relations, of the interior and of the police, are invite«l to attend the assembly immediately.'' When the Emperor was informed that La Fayette was in the tribune, and engaged in the discussions on the proposition of constituting him dictator for life, he expressed great alarm and anxiety He knew the sen- timents of" La Fayette too well, not to feel assured of his opposition to such a measure. For this consistent and zealous advocate for the rights of the people had always been hostile to a chief magistrate, under any ti- tle, who should possess absolute power; and contended for a constitution to limit and define the executive au- thority. It was then that Bonaparte exclaimed, " La ^Fayette in the tribune !' and his great agitation betray- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 109 ed the belief, that his power was at an end. In this situation, his armies deieated, and the representatives of the people opposed to his wishes of a perpetual dic- tatorship, he gave t^ormal notice of his purpose to abdi- cate the imperial authority. La Fayette was at the head of the deputation appointed by the chamber of representatives, to wait on the Emperor, to accept and thank him for his abdication. A few days before this, when the deputies were accused of being capricious and ungrateful, by a friend of Napoleon, La Fayette observed, in reply, " go tell him that we can trust him no longer ; we ourselves will undertake the salvation of our country." Although he opposed the ambitious views of Bona- parte, and boldly and decidedly remonstrated a^^ainst his intention of again assuming absolute power, yet he moved in the chamber of Representutives, at this time, that the liberty and person of the late Emperor Na- poleon should be placed under the protection of the French nation ; expecting, probably, that the allied princes of Europe, already in the vicinity of Paris with powerful armies, would take his life, or cause him to be imprisoned. La Fayette was one of the Commissioners appointed by the Chamber o! Deputies to propose to the allie"d powers a suspension of hostilities. His object was to provide for the liberty of the people, and to exact a promise of some limitations and restrictions to the royal authority. But the friends and supporters of the Bour- bon dynasty, the heredit.iry princes of Europe, had a powerful arm}' in the suburbs of Paris, and they re^ fused to make any terms with the most moderate and honorable advocates of popular rights. Though one K 1q1 memoirs of la FAYETTE. tyrant was overthrown ; another was to he forced upon Ihem : not precisely an usurper indeed ; but who, with- out a constitution for his guide, and surrounded by men of arbitrary principles might be instrumental in their oppression and degredation. When he returned to Paris, he found the invading armies in possession of the city. Napoleon escaped, and nominal tranquillity was restored to the capital of France. But it was a tranquillity produced by a military force ; and not that which is the efl'ect of a wise and energetic government founded in the will of the people. The doors of the assembly were closed against the representatives of the people, by the gens cParmes^ the agents who restored the Bourbon dynasty. Many of the deputies then as- sembled at the house of La Fayette ; at whose instance they repaired to the President's to record their testi- mony to this forced and unjust exclusion, and to sign the proces verbal. As he alike disapproved of Louis or Napoleon as- suming the power of King or Emperor, without a bill of rights securing the privileges of the people, and a constitution as the inile and measure of executive acts, it was no longer in his power to render service to his country in a public station : nor did the favorites of Louis XVII I. invite him to take part in the administra- tion of government, which they proposed to establish. It may appear surprising, on the first view of the sub- ject, that the friends of a monarch of the reputed mild character of Louis, who must wish the greatest happi- ness of his subjects, should refuse to such men as La Fayette, all share in the government ; and at the same time, take into their employment and confidence, many of the creatures of Bonaparte, who were.destitute alike MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. IH of principle and patriotism. But it is often found to be the fact, that the sincere and honest, who will not flat- ter, and do not approve all the projects of an ambitious aspirant, or an arbitrary Prince, are less courted, than those who have no settled principles, or one ever ready to support the successful candidate for power. Except the short and occasional engagements in po* litical concerns, just above related. La Fayette, after his return to France in the year 1800, generally re- mained at his estate, about thirty miles from Paris. But though retired from the more active scenes of pub- lic life, he enjoyed the friendship of several eminent characters in his own country ; and was visited by all distinguished Americans, and many Bridsh statesmen and scholars, whose business or amusement led them to travel through France. He was always particularly desirous to learn the affairs of America, his adopted country ; and was careful to procure all the publica- tions from the United States. Besides literary pursuits, he was occasionally occupied in attending to the culti- vation and improvement of his family estate. Such has frequently been the employment and solace of eminent, men, when they have retired from high public stations, in which their services and exertions have met the mistaken censure or the neglect of the world. During several of the first years of this retirement, he was blessed with the society of an amiable and affectionate wife. And after her much lamented death, which has been before noticed, he still enjoyed the pleasure of be- ing surrounded by his children and grand children, in whose education and improvement he always took a truly pateraal interest. At the time the federal constitution was in discussion 1 1 2 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. hy conventions in the several states, and when it first went into operation, Alexander Hamilton, who was its zealous advocate, corresponded with La Fayette on the subject. The letters have not been published ; but it is probable they would be highly interesting to the pol- itician and statesman, and serve fully to develope the views of both these eminent men on the science of civil government. This was about the period of the com- mencement of the Fre^ich revolution. The particular extent of the change in the monarchical government of France, contemplated by La Fayette, may appear by this epistolary discussion. If not wholly confidential, it may be expected, that the letters will be given to the American publick. His second daughter, Virginia, married Monsieur de Lasteyrie, a young gentleman of eminent literary at- tainments ; and who distinguished himself, also, as an officer in the French army, during the reign of Napo- leon; particularly in the campaign of Jena, Eylau, Friedland, &c. But this brave and meritorious officer shared, with his brother-in-law, G. W. Fayette, the con- stant neglect and hatred of Bonaparte. G. W. Fayette was married to a daughter of Count de Tracy, one of the party of moderates, or liberals, as often denominat- ed, and sometime a member of the conservative sen- ale. The son and sons-in-law of General La Fayette, reside at the same chateau with their father.; which is sufficiently spacious, not only for the respectable ac- commodation of the four united families, the father, son and two sons-in-law ; but for the reception and oc- casional residence of family or other particular friends, who often pass much time in this hospitable mansion. Monsieur de Maubourg, an old and intimate friend of MEMOIRS OF LA FAY^TTF, : J General La Fajette, wilh his \^(\^^ usuaily spend the greater part of the year at the chateau of La Grange. The son, and eldest daughter, who married Charles Latour Maubourg, have each several children, who are peculiar objects of affection and interest with their re- spected grandsire. The following remarks of Madame de Stael, whd personally knew much of General La Fayette,* and who was well acquainted with characters and events con- nected with the French revolution, are deemed worthy of being presented to the reader of these hasty me- moirs. " M. de La Fayette, having fought from his early youth for the cause of America, had early become im- bued with the piinciples of hberty, which form the ba- sis of that government. If he made mistakes with re. gard to the French revolution, we are to ascribe them all to his admiration of the American institutions, and of Washington, the hero citizen, who guided the first steps of that nation in the career of Independence. La Fayette, young, affluent, of noble family, and beloved at home, relinquished all these advantages at the age of nineteen, to serve beyond the ocean in the cause of that liberty, the love of which has decided every action of his life. Had he had the happiness to be a native of the United States, his conduct would have been that of Washington : the same disinterestedness, the same en- thusiasm, the same perseverance in their opinions, dis- tinguished each oi these generous friends of humanity. * She was alf-o an intimate friend of Madame de La Fayelte. They were accu^d, \n the days of suspicion and terrofj of beiDjj loo much cnijbged in political affairs. K 2- ii4 . Ba; G-r;-v'^ '^fa'^KfetA.- ' -ou, like the Marquiis de La FajfJli^, c L-mandor of the ^'-ational guard of Paris, he also might have found it impossible to control the course of circumstances; he also might have seen his efforts baffled hy the difficulty of being at once faithful to his engagements to the king, and of establishing at the same time, the liberty of his country. " M. de La Fayette, I must say, has a right to be con- sidered a true republican : none of the vanities of his rank, ever entered his head : power, the effect of which is so great in France, had no ascendency over him : the desire of pleasing in a drawing room conversation, did not with him influence a single phrase : be sacrificed all his fortune to his opinions, with the most generous indifference. When in the prisons of Olmutz, as when at the height of his influence, he was equally firm in his attachment to his principles. His mannerof seeing and acting, is open and direct. Whoever has marked his conduct, may foretel with certainty what he will do on any particular occasion. His political feeling is that of a citizen of the United States; and even his person is more English than French. The hatred, of which M. de La Fayette is the object, has never embittered his temper; and his gentleness of soul is complete: at the same time nothing has ever modified his opinions ; and his confidence in the triumph of liberty, is the same as that of a pious man in a future life. These sentiments, so contrary to the selfish calculations of most of the men who have acted a part in France, may appear pit- iable in the eyes of some persons — "it is so silly" they think, ''to prefer one's country to one's self; not to 'change one's party when that party is worsted j in MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 1 I 3 short, to consider mankind, not as cards vvith which to play a winning game, but as the sacred objects of un- limited sacrifices. " If this is to form the charge of sil- liness, would that it were but once merited by our men of taients ! '• It is a sing-ular phenomenon, that such a character as that of M. de La Fayette, should have appeared in the foremost rank of the French noblesse ; but he can neither be censured nor exculpated with impartialit}^ without being acknowledged to be such as I have de- scribed him. It then becomes easy to understand the different contrasts which naturally arose between his disposition and situation. Supporting monarchy more from duty than attachment, he drew involuntarily to- wards the principles of the democrats, whom he was obliged to resist ; and a certain kindness for the advo- cates of the republican form, was perceptible in him, although his reflection forbade the admission of their System into France. Since the departure of M. de La Fayette for America, now forty years ago, we cannot quote a single action or a single word of his, which was not direct and consistent. Personal interest never blended itself in the least with his public conduct: suc- cess would have displayed such sentiments to advan- tage J- but they claim the attention of the historian in spite of circumstances, and in spite of faults, which may serve as a handle to his opponents." M. La Fayette was returned a member of the cham- ber of deputies from his own department, in 1819, though his election was opposed by the ministerial par- ty. Some members rejoiced to see again among them, the '^ friend and disciple of Washington ;" while others, 1 IG MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTK. the adherents of monarchy, viewed him with distrust and jealousy, as "the veteran general of the revolu- tion.'' He was not a very active member of this le- gislative body ; for he was convinced it would be in vain to attempt restoring the constitution of 1789. He seldom attended the assembly : but on several questions, when he was present, discovered the same political sentiments which directed his conduct in the early days of the revolution. The minister offered a proposition for establishing a censorship over the public journals, and for arresting persons suspected of being inimical to the restoration of the Bourbons. La Fayette spoke a- gainst the proposed law, " as subversive of all order, of all right, and of the natural and just privileges of the citizens." He referred to the evils consequent upon all arbitrary proceedings against persons merely sus- pected of being untViendly to the government, and to the probable mischiefs which would arise from a severe restriction upon the liberty of the press. The minister himself acknowledged, that the proposition was not wholly consistent with the national rights of the citi- zens ; but insisted upon its expediency in the present state of the nation. At this time, also, he reminded the ministers of promises, which hnd been made by the po- litical friends of Louis XVIII. in favor of the liberties of the people. He ''conjured them to maintain the lib- erties of France, within the limits prescribed by the constitution." " To violate it," said he, *' is to dissolve the mutual guarantys of the nation and of the throne ; it is to give ourselves up to a total primitive freedom from all duties and all laws." This discussion was un- usually animated, and La Fayette was very decided in ■I JfEMOlRS OF LA FAYETTE. 1 1<:7 his opposition to the measure. The course pursued by the court was condemned; and some severity of re- mark was indulged in, as to the desig-ns of ministers. The ministerial party obtained but a small majority in favor of the law; and some fermentation was excited in Paris in relation to this subject. The liberals^ or the friends of constitutional freedom, were insulted, and the- life of La Fayette was openly menaced. This year, a society was formed among the friends of constitutional freedom, for the relief of those, who were arrested on mere suspicion, or on a charge of vi- olating the restrictions on the press; but who were be- lieved to be unjustly suspected, and who had been found entirely innocent, even in the eye of the law, rigid a» yvere its provisions. This was a numerous society ;— consisting of tifty four members of the chamber of dep- uties, and many other opulent and literary citizen?; at the head of which we find the name of M. La Fayette. The distinguished Americans and Englishmen who have visited La Fayette, at his family mansion of La Grange, describe his residence and its inmates as most beautiful and interesting. " It is situated in the fertile district of La Brie, thirty miles from Paris, remote from any common road, and far distant from the bustling world. In the midst of a luxuriant wilderness, rising above prolific orchards and antiquated woods, appears the five towers of La Grange, tinged with the golden rays of the declining sun. The deep moat, the draw bridge, the ivied tower and arched portals, opening in- to a large square court, has a feudal and picturesque character; and the associations which occur, on enter- ing the residence of a man so heroic, so disinterested. MB MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETT& ffo celebrated, fill the mind with peculiar admiration, and excite the most lively interest." The family par- ty, partaking more of patriarchal than of courtly man- ners, is composed of individuals mutually attached, and anxious only for mutual improvement and happiness. It represents the younger members, as employed in their studies or engaged in innocent recreations so sal- utary to the youthful temper and constitution : and the older, as occupied in useful and literary pursuits, or de- voted to the more enlivening pleasures of conversation. " The venerable head of this happy family, at the age of sixty seven, is in the full possession of every tal- ent and faculty. His memory has all the tenacity of youthful recollection. On his person, time has yet made little vi.^ible impression. Not a wrinkle furrows the ample brow ; and his unbent and noble figure is still as upright, bold and vigorous, as the mind which in- forms it. Grace, strength and dignity still distinguish the fine person of this extraordinary man; who, thousch more than forty years before the world, engaged in scenes of strange and eventful conflict, does not yet ap- pear to have reached his grand climactric. Active on his farm, graceful and elegant in his salon^ it is dithcult to trace, in one of the most successful agriculturists, and one of the most perfect fine gentlemen of France, a warrior and a legislator. But the patriot is always dis- cernible. His conversation i^ enriched with anecdotes of all that is celebrated in character or event, for the last fifty years. His elegant and well chosen collection of books, occupies the highest apartments in one of the towers of the chateau ; and, like the study of Montaigne, hangs over the farm yard of the philosophical agricul- MEMOIRS Oi' LA FAYETTE. 119 turist. ft frequently happens, said M. La Fayette, io one of his visitors as they were looking from a window on some flocks, which were moving beneath, that my merinos and my hay carts-^spute my attention to Hume or Voltaire." Of the benevolent affections of La Fayette, his whole life affords abundant proofs. He was possessed of the most patriotic and generous feeling. Numerous instan- ces are also related of his kindness to individuals, and of his private benefactioiis. The children of his ten- ants, and neighbours were objects of his generosity and complacency. And those who are unjustly oppressed, or defrauded, were sure to fmd in him, an able advo- cate. The widow of an American otBcer, of French parentage, who was left destitute at the death of her gallant husband, had a claim for patrimonial estates in France. The legal evidence to substantiate her claim was exceedingly difficult to be procured. The case was made known to La Fayette, and he never ceased his exertions until he recovered the greater part of the estate. Soon after the arrival of young La Fayette in Boston, 1795, he wrote to General Washington, then President of the United States, informing him of his situation, and requesting advice and counsel from the friend of his father. y\s the chief magistrate of the nation, it would not have been prudent m Washington, pubhcly to inter- fere in his behalf — La Fayette, at this period, was al- most equally obnoxious to the rulers of France, as any one of the royal family. He had, indeed, been most wn- justly denounced and proscribed by the dominant party; but they pretended he was attached to a monarchj' ; 120 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. and a public official act of patronage in the Presic'c'nf, towards young La Fayette, would have furnished a pr text for complaint against the government. VVash- iiigton had already given proof, that he did not approve of (he conduct of the Frencii Directory, nor of the pro- ceedings of their minister in America. But though a prudent policy- forbid all official attention and aid to the son of La Fayette, the generous &, noble feelings of Wash- ington induced him to give assurances oi personal re- gard, and of a readiness to afford all proper assistance towards the education and support of this youthful sub- ject of political per-^ecution. He wrote to his friend, Hon, GeoriiC Cabot, stating the reasons for declinmgto act officially or publicly in the case ; but requesting Mr. C. to assure young La Fayette that he might con- sider him as a father, a friend and protector. Washington expressed a desire in this letter, that he should become a member of the university in Cambridge, if qualified for admission, where he would be under the inspection and tuition of excellent men; for he was aware that want of employment would lead to dissipation ; and that the season of youth was to be diligently improved for the cultivation of the mind. He desired Mr. C. to call on him to meet any expenses which might accrue in his education and support. The French turt come in a jjublic sLip, aud feel obliged to arrive at Washington. 'ii^2 MK.MOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. the same ep^^erness hasten to Boston, and present its beloved and revered inhabitants, as I have now the ho- nor to offer it to the City Onincil and to yourself, the ho- mage of my affeGtionate g-ratitnde and devoted respect." When this letter of La F>iyette was communicated to tha Common Council of the city, a laro-e and respectable committee was chosen " to make suitable arrangemf.nts for his reception, should he first arrive at the port of Boston; an.l that on his visitin:^ this city, should he dis- embark at som<^ other phice in the United States, the committee provide for his accommodation, during- his residence here; and to adopt all ^'iich rrr^a-ures as they might deora proper, to extend to hhn *he hosjjitality of the city, and to exhibit the fee!]n<^s of oratitude, which tlie whole body of citizens entprtrdn for the «'plendid services, ardent patriotism and private worth of the il- lustrious v' si tor.'' Hon. Mr. Lloyd, Senator from this State in the Con- gress of the United .3t;ites, and particul-irly attached to La Fayette from fmiily alliances, on hearing of his intend- ed visit to America, also addressed a friendly note to him, ut an early day, requ?sting the honor of receiving* bim at his hospitable mansion. But the city authorities were desirous, that General La Fayette, who might be justly considered the guest o{' the people and of the na- tion, should be accommodated by the city in a more public manner : and Mr. Lloyd, with his usual courtesy and regard to public opinion, resigned his particular claims, although he was among the iirst and most emi- nent of the citizens of Boston, to show peculiar and dis- tinguished attention to the favorite of the American people. In his answer to the letter of Mr. Lloyd, he says, "in whatever part of the United States I shall find myself, MEMtlRS OP LA PAYETTE. 133 •n reaching the beloved shore of America, I shall lose no time ia my eagerness to revisit the city of Boston, and answer the flattering invitation I have received. You do justice to the delight I shall feel, at the sight of the felicity and prosperity, which is the reward of a virtuous revolution, founded on the principles of true liberty and self-government." mm ot (SitmViil l^u iFai>rtte TO THE United States — in 18^4. His arrival was anticipated with great interest and impatience! Preparations were in contemplation, par- ticularly in New York and Bo:>ton, several weeks be- fore he arrived, to receive him with such public marks of veneration and joy, as were justly due to one so dis- tinguished by an ardent love of liberty, and by merito- rious exertions for the welfare of our country. General La Fayette arrived in the harbour of New York on the morning of the 15th of August, accompa- nied by his son, George VV. La Fayette, aad his friend, M. Le Vasseur. A steam boat was in waiting, at the en- trance of the harbour, and they were immediately con- -ducted to Staten Island, the residence of the Hon. Mr. Tompkins, Vice President of the United States, where he passed the remainder of the da}^, being Sunday. This is but a short distance from the city of New Yor Is : here many public characters and other diitinguished citizens repaired, on the day of his arrival, to oifer him their M !34 MEMeiRS OF LA FAYETTE. respectful salutations. The next day he entered thk populous city ; and his reception was most splendid and cordial. Perhaps no hero of ancient or modern times, if we except the respectful and universal attention paid to Washington, when he made the tour of the United States in 1789, was ever greeted with such a sincere and enthusiastic welcome. '* At an early hour, the whole city was in motion ; almost every man, woman and child was preparing to witness the landing of their much respected guest. The shops and stores were closed, and all business was sus- pended for the day. The ringing of bells, the roar of cannon, and the display of the national flag, at all pub- lic places and on board the shipping, proclaimed that it was a day of joy, in which all were anxious to partake. Before 12 o'clock, the battery, the adjoining wharves and every place commanding a view of the passage from Staten Island, were crowded to excess. It was suppos- ed there were nearly 50,000 persons upon the battery, including the troops. This elegant promenade, since its enlargenjent, is said to be capable of holding nearly the whole population of the city, (130,000) but a large portion of the front was occupied by the brigade of ar- tillery and other troops. The castle garden, almost contiguous to the battery, audits gallery, were also crowded by the citizens. "Between 10 and 11 o'clock, a large steam ship, manned with about 200 United States seamen, and dec- orated with the flags of every nation, sailed for Staten Island. She was followed by six large steam boats, all crowded with passengers, decorated with flags, and en- livened hy bands of music. In one of the.ee, which ex- hibited only flag's of the United States and of the State MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE 135 of New York, proceeded the committee of arrange- ments of the city, the officers of the United States army and navy, the general officers of the militia, the com- mittee of the Society of Cincinnati, &;c. On hoard this steam boat, General La Fayette embarked at Staten Isl- and, for the cit}'^, at about one o'clock. This was an- nounced by a salute from the largest steam ship, man- ned by the national troops, and from fort La Faj^ette. The procession then moved for the city, and presented to its inhabitants a most beautiful and magniticent scene. About two o'clock the General landed at the battery, where he was received by a salute from the troops, and the hcart}^ and reiterated cheers of the immenoc throng which had assembled to welcome him to our shores. " It is impossible fully to describe the enthusiasm of joy which pervaded and was expressed by the whole multitude. Here the General had a fair specimen of the affection and respect, which is felt for him by eve- ry i'ulividual of this extended country. He seemed much moved by these expressions of attachment, and bovv^ed continually to the people who pressed about him- After resting a few moments at the castle garden, he proCs^eded in an elegant barouche drawn by four hor- ses, escorted by the dragoons and troops, through Broad- way to the City Hall. The windows, balconies, and even the roofs of the houses were filled with ladies, all welcoming the General as he passed, by their smiles and waving of handkerchiefs. '• At about 4 o'clock, the procession arrived at the City Hall, where General La Fayette was received by the Mayor and Common Council, and formally welcomed and congratulated on his safe arrival in the country. After receiving the marching salute of the troops in io^ MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. front of the City Hall, he was conducted to the City Ho-^ teJ, where he dined with the members of the corpora- tion. In the evening, the front of the City Hotel, and many other adjoining buildings, were handsomely illu- minated. The theatres and public gardens displayed transparencies, fire-works and rockets in honor of the occasion. " — The committee of the Cincinnati waited on General La Fayette, at Staten Island ; and were receiv- ed by him with peculiar marks of alTection and friend- ship. The committee consisted of several field ofticers of the revolutionary army, some of whom were upwards of eighty years of age. The following is the addres's of the Mayor of New York, to General La Fayette, when he arrived at the city Hall : '■'■' In the name of the municipal authority of the city, I bid you a sincere welcome to the shores of a country, o[ whcse freedom and happiness you will ever be con- sidered one of the most honored and beloved founders. Your cotcmporaries in arms, of whom indeed but few remain, have not forgot, and their posterity will never .forget the young and gallant Frmc//7nan, who consecrat- ed bis youth, his talents, his fortune and his exertions to their cause; who exposed his life, who shed his blood, that they might be free and haj)py. They will recollect with profound emotions, so long as they re- znain worthy of the liberties they enjoy, and of the ex- ertions you made to obtain them, that you came to them in the darkest period of their struggle ; that you linked your fortune with theirs, when it seemed almost hope- less; that you shared in the dangers, privations and suf- ferings of that bitter struggle; nor quitted them for a a-joment till it v»as consummated on the glorious field of ])IEM0irv3 OF LA FAYETTE, i37 Yorktown. Half a cenlury has elapsed since that great event, and in that time your name has become as dear to the friends, as it is inseparably connected with the cause of freedom, both in the old and in the new world. " The people of the United States look up to you as to one of their most honored parents— the country cher- ishes you as one of the most beloved of her sons. I hope and trust, Sir, that not only the present, but the future conduct of my countrymen, to the latest period of time, will, among other slanders, refute the unjust imputation, that republics are always ungrateful to their benefactors. " In behalf of my fellow citizens of New York, and speaking the warm and universal sentiments of the whole people of the United States, I repeat their wel- come to our common country." To this address, General La Fayette replied as fol- lows : — " Sir, '^ While I am so affectionately received by the cit- izens of New York and their worthy representatives, I feel myself overwhelmed with inexpressible emotions. The sight of the American shore, after so long an ab- sence; ihe recollection of the many respected friends and dear companions, no more to be found on this land ; the pleasure to recognize those who survive ; the im- mense concourse of a free republican population, who so kindly welcome me ; the admirable appearance of the troops; the presence of a corps of the national na- vy ; have excited sentiments, to which no language is adequate. You have been pleased, Sir, to allude to the happiest times, the unalloyed enjoyment of my public- Mfe. It is the pride of my heart to have been one of M 338 MEMOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. the earliest adopted sons of America. I am proud, also, to add, that upwards of forty years ago I was honored with the freedom of this city. I beg you. Sir; I beg you, gentlemen, to accept yourselves, and to transmit to the citizens of New York, the homage of my pro- found and everlasting gratitude, devotion and respect.'* On the two following days after his arrival in New York, General La Fayette received the gratulations of a great number of the citizens ; and on the latter, was addressed by committees of the society of Cincinnati, and of the Historical Society ; and also visited the navy yard of the United States. On board of the ship Wash- ington, of 74 guns, his reception was very splendid, and a sumptuous repast was provided. On Thursday, deputations from the Frenchmen resident in the city, and from the gentlemen of the Bar, waited on him, and presented congratulatory addresses. In his answer to the committee of tlie Historical So-, ciety, he observed, — " The United States are the tirst nation on the records of history, who have founded their constitution upon an honest investigation and clear definition of their natural and social rights. Nor can we doubt, butHli-at, notwithstanding the combinations made elsewhere by despotism against the sacred rights of mankind, immense majorities in other countries will not in vain observe the happiness and prosperity of a free, virtuous and enlightened people." '■ To the gentlemen of the Bar, he replied—" Testi- monies of esteem from so respectable a body as the Bar of New York, are highly flattering. I most deep- ly sympathize, gentlemen, in your regret, for the friend (Hamilton) whose prodigious talents made him as emi- nent in your profession, as he had been in our military, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ' 13^ when he deserved Washington's most intimate confi- dence. The truly republican form of the American constitutions, cannot but endear them to every citizen of the United States. Yet, to any one, who with an Amer- ican heart, has had opportunities of a comparison with other countries, the blessings of these institutions must appear still more conspicuous." The address of the French gentlemen in New York, was very affectionate anu respectful, referring, in high- ly complimentary style, to the services of La Fayette both in France and America. His reply is indicative, at once, of patriotism, of attachment to the cause of ra- tional freedom, and of his regard for the United States, the land of his adoption. *■' It is a great happiness for* me, on my arrival in this land of liberty, to receive the congratulations of my countrymen. At the moment of my departure, the testimonials of afiectionate attach- ment of many of my fellow citizens, the parting accents from the shores of France, left in my heart the most grateful emotions, I delight to participate with you the feelings which I experienced in this happy Ameri- can land, to which 1 am bound by so many ties. We also, patriots of 1789, sought to establish the national dignity, the security of property and the happiness of our beautiful France, upon the sacred foundations of liberty and equality. JSTotwithstandrng our misfortunes, the cotemporaries of that epoch will inform you, that the revolution of 1789, has greatly ameliorated the condition of an immense majority of the people. Do not let us despair of the cause of liberty : It is still dear to the hearts of Frenchmen ,• and we shall one day have the felicity of seeing it established in our beloved country." HO MEMOIRS OF LA FAYEtTE During the four days he remained in Nev»' York, all gentlemen and ladies of the most respectable families were individually introduced to him ; and he manifested great pleasure at the cordial welcome, with which he was universally greeted. Splendid evening parties were given in honor of the '' nation's guest," at which he met many individuals whom he had known more than foity years belore. His interviews with ^' the war-worn ve- terans," with whom he had been associated in times of danger, for the liberties of the country, were peculiar- ly interesting and affecting. He embraced them ; but his feelings were so povi'erful, that he could not give utterance to his sentiments for many minutes. After his arrival at New York, he early announced his intention to visit Boston, where he had been partic- ularly invited by distinguished individuals, and by the city authorities ; especially as the commencement at the University in Cambridge, the literary jubilee of the State, was to be celebrated in a few days. While in New York, he received invitations by committees or letters from Philadelphia, Albany, New Haven and some other cities, to make a visit to those places re- spectively ; but his desire was first to visit Boston, if possible. Accordingly, he left New York, where his reception had been so very gratifying to his feelings, and where the citizens were still eager to show him honorable civilities, on Friday morning, for Boston, through New Haven, New London and Providence. He was attended by a committee of the Common Coun- cil, the Major General of militia and his suite, the Gen- eral and field officers of the artillery and infantry, and by strangers and citizens of distinction on horseback, and escorted by the Huzzars of the 2d and Hth regi- IVlEMOmS OF LA FAyETTE. 14 I ments, to Harlem, whera he was saluted by the 3d re- giment of infantry. On leaving this place, he was sa- luted by the La Fayette <2,uards of the 2d re^^iment. llie principal part of the troops then returned ; and the first regiment of horse artillery continued the es- cort to the line of Connecticut. A salule was fired at a place called Putnam's hill, on account of the memo- rable feat performed there by General Israel Putnam, in the revolutionary war. The suite of La Fayette consisted of his son and M. Le Va-seur, who accompa- nied him in Lis voyage from France, and four of the Aldermen of New York. The city corp(»ration had pro- vided an elegant carriage to accommodate hiin in his journey to Boston, and deputed four of their number to attend him in his route. He travelled with great ra- pidity, passing the distance of thirty miles in three hours. He appeared perfectly capable of enduring fa- tigue, and discovered the activity and sprightliness of vigorous manhood. They reached New Haven about midnight, on his approach to which he was met by the governors guard, and escorted into that city. Most of the buildings on the principal streets were illuminated, and a national salute was fired. " The night was almost turned into day, and the scene was very brilliant and impressive." He was detained at all the villages on the road from New York to New Haven, through the eagerness of the citizens, to see and be introduced to this distinguish- ed hero of the revolution. The public road was throng- ed with multitudes of both sexes and youth, who greet- ed him with reiterated acclamations, and continued " welcome, welcome." They prepared sincere, though simple offerings of respect to the man, " who fought 14'2' fllEMOIRS OF LA FA YET! E. not for honor or for pay ;" but in imitation of his polit- ical, American parent, was devoted, life and property, to the cause of our country's freedom. After a public breakfast, a visit to the college, and calls upon Mrs. Trumbull, the widow of the late governor of the state, Hon. Mr. Daggett, senator in Congress, and some other eminent characters, he left New Haven, for New Lon- don, Saturday morning, attended by the city authorities and escorted by a company of cavalry, a part of the distance, until met by another troop of horse, by which General La Fayette and suite were then attended to Saybrook, on Connecticut river, about forty miles from New Haven. Part of the Sabbath was passed in New London ; and at this place, he attended public worship. He expressed a desire to avoid travelling on that day, as much as possible. At New London, and at most other places on his journey, he met some of his old revolutionary companions, who were delighted to see again in their own free atid happy country, a man who had devoted his earliest days and zealous efforts to se- cure its independence. He reached Providence on Monday, the 23d, at 12 o'clock, having been met at an early hour, on the boun- dary line between Conneciicut and Rhode Island, by the aids of the Governor of the last named state. When he arrived at the limits of the town of Providence, an immense crowd of citizens were assembled to bid him welcome, and to offer him their hearty gratulations. The houses and streets in the western part of the town, where he entered, were filled with citizens, who greet- ed him as he passed with reiterated cheers. " When he arrived in front of the State House, he alighted, and was received in a very interesting manner. The av- MEMOIRS OF LA LAYETTE. 14S eniie leading to the building was lined with female youth, dressed in white, holding in their hands branches of flowers, which they strewed in his path, at the same time waving their white handkerchiefs. La Fayette appeared much gratified and affected by this simple, but touching arrangement. In the senate chamber, he was introduced to the Governor and many other distinguish- ed characters ; among whom were several late officers of the revolutionary army. These he embraced with much affection ; and his emotions were so great, he was unable to address them. He recognized Captain Olney, the moment he saw him, among a crowd of citizens. This gentleman commanded a company under General La Fayette, at the seige of Yorktown, and was the first to force the redoubts thrown up by the British troops, and carried by our light infantry, in a most brilliant manner, when led on to the assault by their comman- der in person. At this interview, so affecting and in- teresting, a thrill ran throu;'hthe whole assembly, and not a dry eye was to be found among the throng of spectators; while the shouts of the multitude, at first suppressed, and then uttered in a manner tempered by the scene, evinced the deep feeling and proud associa- tions it had excited." Another respectable veteran, of €ighty-five years of age, was found am in Washington- street, the largest, and part of the distance, the widest street in the City. — On one of these was very legibly written — " 1776 — Washington and La Fayette. Wel- come La Fayette — A Republic not ungraiefid.^^ On the otiier " Welcome La Fayette." " The Fathers in glory shall sleep, "Who gather'd with thee to the fight ; But the sons will eternally kf>ep The tablet of gratitude bright. We bow not ihe neck And we bend not the knee, But our hearts. La Faye ite, We surrender to thee." The lines were from the pen of a ciHzen of Uoston, ivhose poetic talents had often deligSited the public, and who had received the highest praise from those capable of appreciating the productions of genius. When the possession arrived at the steps of the State House, near the head of Park Street, salutes were fired by a battalion of artillery, on the eminence on the llffiMOIRS OF LA FATETTEf* 15o xfestern part of the Common, and at the Navy Yard at Charlestown. Salutes were also fired by a battalion of artillery, placed on^ the heights of Dorchester, (now South Boston,) when General La Fayette reached the line of the city, at 1 1 o'clock. The President of the United States had caused an order to be issued, on th« first arrival of La Fayette, at New York, requiring, that he be received by the military otficers of the nation, at all public posts, with the salutes and honors due to one of the highest rank in the army. The Governor and Executive Council of the Com- monwealth, were assembled in the spacious Senate Chamber to receive La Fayette in the name of the Re- presentatives of the people, and in pursuance of their resolve of June preceding, as well as in accordance with their own personal feelings and wishes. His Excellen- cy the Governor, here addressed him with great feel- ing,* in the following concise and pertinent speech : " Sir, our friend, — " In the name of the government, and in behalf of the citizens of Massachusetts, I have the honor to greet you with a cordial, an affectionate wel- come. " We thank God, that he has been pleased to pre- serve you through the scenes of peril and of suffering, which have distinguished your patriotic and eventful life, and that we are indulged with this occasion of re- newing to you our grateful acknowledgements for the important services which you have rendered to our common country. " In the last surviving Major General of the Ameri- ♦ Governor Ensti? w^s so affected, th;i and friend.^, it is to me a delightful gsatilication, to recognize r.iV surviving companions of our revoltUionary anuy — MiMt army so brave, so virtuous, so united by nuitu;i! coi;- tidence and afiiection. That we have been the f».ilhfiil soldiers of independence, freedom, and equality, thoic (> 15B MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. three essential requisites of national and personal dig- nity and happiness ; that we have lived to see those sxred principles secured to this vast Republic, and cherished elst where by all generous minds, shall be the pride of our life, the boast of our children, the com- fort of our last moments. — leceive, my dear brother soldiers, the grateful thanks, and constant love of your old companion and friend." On Wednesday was the anniversary of commence- ment in^Harvard University, at Cambridge. The cor- poration had requested the president, to send a partic- ular invitation to General La Fayette, to be present on the occasion. He had expressed a wish, soon after his arrival at New York, to attend that literary anniversa- ry. The corporation heard of his intention with great satisfaction. They were sensible of his love of litera- ture, and of his attachment to this ancient seminary. And they reniembered, that the governors of the col- lege appreciated his merits forty years before, by con- ferring upon him the highest honors they could bestow. At a meeting of the corporation on the 21st of August, it was voted-^ " That the corporation learn with peculiar satisfac» tion, the intention of General La Fayette to visit this part of our country, at the period of the approaching commencement, and regard the event as auspicious to that joyous and interesting anniversary ; and respectful- ly request, that he will favor the university with his company on that occasion; and thereby afford to the members of the university, and to those who are can- didates for its honors, the opportunity of seeing and honoring the distinguished patriot and soldier, whose willing sacrifices and valuable services were devoted to MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 159 the cause which has secured to the successive races of American youth, the blessings of education in a land of freedom ; and whose virtuous and glorious career holds forth to the rising generation, a bright example of the qualities which ought to adorn those, who aspire to aid in the councils, or maintain the rights and inteiests of a free people." General La Fayette was escorted from Boston to Cambridge, on Wednesday morning, by a company of cavalry, and accompanied by the Governor and Su- preme Executive Council of the Commonwealth. In passing through Cambridge Port, he was gratefully cheered by the assembled citizen.^, and eloquently ad- dressed by one of the most dlstingui'^hGd, in the name of the whole. The reply of La Fayette was character- istic and affectionate. He was met by the Corporation and Professors, on his arriving within the precincts of thecollep^e, and thus addressed by the learned President Kirkland— ^' We bid you welcome, General La Fayette, to the most ancient of the seminaries of our land. The Over- seers and Fellows of the Uraversity, the Professors and other officers, the candidates for the academic honors of this day, and the students, tender you their respect- fill, their affecJonate salutations. We greet you with peculiar pleasure, at this literary festival, gratified that you regard the occasion with interest, and espouse the attachment, which as members of a republic, we cannot tail to cherish to the cause of learning and education. *' As a man, sustaining his part through various scenes, prosperous and adverse, of an eventful life, your char- acter and course, marked by moral dignity, have chal- 360 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE, lenged parlic jlar respect and sympathy. As the patroia, the champion and benefactor of America, you have a relation to us, by which we call you our own, and join gratitude and affection to exalted esteem. The early and costly pledges you gave of devotion to the princi- ples and spirit of our institutions, your adoption of our perilous and uncertain contest for national existence, your friendship in the hour of our greatest need, have associated your name in the minds and hearts of Amer- icans, with the dearest and most affecting recollections. The fathers teach their children, and the instructers their pupils, to hold you in love and honor; and the history of these states takes charge of your claims to the grateful remembrance of all future generations. '' It is a pleasing reflection attending the progress of these communities, that it justifies our friends and sup- porters ; and that the predilections and hopes in our fa- vor, which you indulged in the ardor of youth, have lecn followed by good auspices till your advanced age. \\'c are, indeed, happy in presenting you the fruit of your toils and dangers, in the kindly operation of the causes,' which you. did so much to call into action, and we rejoice in every dcraoristration we are able to give, that your care for us has not been vain. Knowing how you feel yourself to have a properly in our welfire, and sensible of the enjoyment accruing lo your gener- ous spirit from Cur prosperit}^ we find in these conside- rations, new motives to maintain liberty with ardor ; and in the exercise of our functions, feel bound to en- deavour to send out from our care, enlightened and virtuous men, employing their influence to secure to their country the advantages, and prevent and remedy the evils attending the wide diffuion among a people of political power. MEMOIRS OF LA LAYETTE. 161 <• Accept our wishes and prRjersfor your health and happiness. May the Invisible Hand which ba'^ hoen your safeguard thus far, continue its protecting care. May the Supreme Disposer, the Witness and J-idt^'J of character and conduct, having appointed you a long and tranquil evening of days, receive you to the final and glorious reward of the faithful in a perfect state." The following is the substance of the General's re- " It is with real pleasure, sir, that I find myself a- gain at this University, which I visited for the first time, more than forty years ago. The great improvements which have been made here during the interval, are striking evidences of the tendency of liberal political institutions, to promote the progress of civilization and learning. I beg you to accept my warmest thanks for your kind expressions of personal civility to myself, and my b§st wishes for the continued prosperity of the val- uable establishment over which you preside." When he entered the place provided for the celebra- tion of commencement, where a numerous company of Indies and gentlemen had assembled, to attend the cer- emonies and literary performances of the day, there was an instantaneous and universal acclamation ; not stunning and boisterous ; but the decorous and chasten- ed greeting of an intelligent audience. When he reach- ed the stage, he bowed repeatedly to the assembly, with great apparent sensibility. Several of the young gentlemen, alluded to him in their orations ; and some dwelt particularly on his early devotion to the cause of America in the struggle for independence, with great effect. These notices, though short and indirect, were «3alculated to excite thegi-ateful recollection'^ of the au- q2 162 MEMOIRS OF LA FAVETTE. <]ience ; who responded to the sentiments with enthu- siastic acclamations. Thursday and Saturday mornings, for several hours, he received the personal compliments and congratula- tions of a great number of the inhabitants of Boston and vicinity, of both sexes. They were presented to him, on the spacious area of the ground tloor of the State House. The house provided for his residence while in the city, though unusually large, was not well adapt- ed for such crowds of visitors as pressed to behold him. Many aged people were presented, who had served with him in the revolutionary war, or recollected e- vents of that period, which they were desirous to re- late. Some were on crutches, and others bared their arms to show the honorable scars occasioned by the bayonet or ball of the enemy, in the "ghirious fight*' for freedom. Some could boast of having fought under his command, or by his side, at Brandy wine and Mon- mouth ; and others, that followed in his path of peril and glory in Virginia, in 1781, and assisted in success- fully storming the redoubt at Yorktown, on the memo- rable evening of the 15th of October, which decided the fate of Cornwaliis. He siezed the hynds of these his old companions in arms, with great eag'^rness and emotion ; and while they, in the honest pr d^ of their snuls related their ^' hair-breadth escapes," which led the sjectators al- most to envy their claims to such honourable boasting, the veteran hero exclaimed, ^' O my brave Light In- fantry ! My gallant troops !" — Severa> aged citizens who were personally engaged in opposing the British forces who marched to Lexington and Concord, for the pur- jjose of destroying the Provincial stores collected at MEMOIRS OF LA FAVETTE. ^GS the latter place, were present at this interview. A gun was also shown to General La Fayette, from which was tired the ball, which killed the first of" the regular troops slain on that memorable occasion. These meet- ings revived recollections important to be preserved, and served to remind the rising gen^^rations oi the prin- ciples and deeds of their fathers. We trust they did not awaken any angry or hostile feelings towards an ancient enemy ; but served only to kindle our grati- tude to Almighty God, for his gracious interpositicfis in our behalf, and to perpetuate our respect for the remains of those who oifered up their lives for our freedom and weliare. On Thursday, by particular request of the literary society of'' Phi Beta Kappa,'^'' so called, in the univer- sity. General La Fayette attended the celebration of their anniversary at Cambridge. It was never known before, that any one, however distinguished either for literature or virtue, was invited to dine with the soci- ety, unless a member of some other branch of the as- sociation. The departure in this case, from the inva- riable usages and rules of the society, is proof of the very high estimation in which La Fayette is held, and of the dispositi'>n, in all classes of citizens, to manifes|- their respect for his character. He proceeded to the university, about 1 o'clock, when he was again greet- ed with the hearty cheers of the citizens, as he passed the high-way. and when he arrived. The public per- formances on this occasion, were an oration and a poem. The latter was prepared at very short notice, and had particular reference to the visit of the illustrious hero and philanthropist, ].a Fayette. It purported to be the vision of the Genius of Liberty. It was a felicitous ef- 164 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE:. fort of the poetic muse. The gradual but certain dis- solution of ancient despotic systems was predicted, as by th6 spirit of inspiration ; and the blessings and joys of well regulated freedom were described with a mas- ^ terly pencil, a!» extending and spreading in all parts of the civilized world. It w is the electrifying voice of genius speaking to Iiearls full of gratitude and swelling with joyous emotions. 'I'he orator was not less happy in his subject, nor less ingenious and eloquent in its illustration. His object was to present, in all its force, the motive to intellec- tual and" literary efFoit. He assumed the progressive nature of the human mind ; referred to the advances al- ready made in science and the arts, and in civil gov- ernments ; noticed the tendencies in society to higher improvements ; and glanced at the facilities for social happiness and intellectual and moral excellence, in this western world, under our mild and republican institu- tions. It was an uncommon display of talent and re- search, and of profound observations on the present improved and improving condition of man. He pointed out the happy destiny which awaited the United States? which a powerful imagination had predicted, but which sober facts also authorize us to expect; and called up- on the literary and patriotic youth of our country to use all honorable eiforts for hastening on this glorious issue. In speaking of the wisdom, firmness and courage of our patriotic fathers, by whom our liberties were secured, and our independence established, he paid a just tribute to the disinterested and heroic services of La Fayette, who cherished and aided our cause in the most gloomy periods of the war. The reference was most appro- ppate ; and the statement of his zeal and efforts in our MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. 165 behalf, produced such a deep conviction of his devotion to America, and of his influence in obtaining" the support of France, which, probably, saved our country from sub- jugation, that a deep and strong emotion was produced in the whole immense concourse; which, subdued as it was for a time, burst forth, at last, in overwhelming; and almost convulsive agitations. Tne orator seemed not to aim at such an extraordinary impression. He re- minjJed his hearers indeed of''' truths surpassing fiction;" he brought to their recollection past scenes of danger endured, the generous and heroic de<^'ds performed — he spake of the " Paternal Chief," who was the guide and support of other brave spirits, now laid low in the silence of death — The effect was wonderful : the whole audience were melted into tears of mingled grat- itude and respect ; gratitude for such patriotic services, and of respect for the memories of men, who had secured the blessings of civil liberty to the immense and increasing; population of this extensive country. La Fayette was very sensibly affected, by this unex- pected expression of gratitude for his early services, and by the strong emotions manifested by the assem- bly, at the name of Washington The hours passed in the dining hall were consecrated to reminisciences of the interesting events which occurred in the revolu- tionary contest, to grateful recollections of the states- man and heroe*, who advocated and defended the cause of freedom, and thus lev! the way in the glorious march of human improvement and happiness, wiiic'.i the present generation is so rapidly pursuing H. re were assembled the judges of the land, the ministers of religi n, the legislator^ of th • state and nation, several of the heroes of the revolution, and numeroi:^ a^ 166 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE, eminent literary characters from various parts of the United States, to unite With the younger sons of Har- vard, in offerings of affectionate gratitude to a man, who had no gifts of jiower or titles of honor to bestow ; but whose useful services and uniform course of honorable and benevolent purpose, in their estimation, claimed * higher tribute than was due to sceptered princes, or the most renowned conquerors of ancient or modern times. On Friday morning, committees from Portsmouth, Portland, Newport, Haverhill, Newburyport,Plymouth, and frotn Bowdoin College, inviting him to visit thvse respective places; where the people were desirous to see mm, and to offer personally their welcome sal- ut.ilions. He was unable to comply with these flatter- ing iuvitations, as he had engaged to return to New- Yo. k at an early day. But he received these lesti_ monies of attachment with great sensibiUty ; and ex- pressed a h.:»pe to visit them bef >re his final departure from the United States. He left his place of residence in Boston at 10 o'clock, accompanied by Governor Eus- tis and ^u:t. Governor Brooks, the deputation from N'v.V'York, th,« Mayor and committee of arrangemeats of Boston, and proceeded to Charlestown, which he pre- viously engaged to visit, at this time. As he passeil. through the streets in the norih part of the city, the people pressed nround him, testitjing their regard, and cheering him on his way with repeated acclamations. Raised arches, wreatlies of evergreen, and vaiiegat- ed colours added to the brilliancy of the scene. He was met at the centre of the biidge, which is the dividing line between Boston and Charlestown, by the Chief Marshal and his aid^, and concfucted to the square, where a committee of the citizeas of that town MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 167 was in wailing to receive him. A procession \^'as then formed, headed by two marslials, and escorted by a re- giment of lii»;ht infantry, and a battalion of artillerj^, with martial music, consisting of the committee of ar- rangements, General La Fayette, his son and friend who accompanied him from France ; the Governor and suite, Governor Rrooks and General Dearborn, Judges of the Courts an ashing- ton and other "patriots, and of their regard for him ; and of his uniform support of regulated liberty in his own country. In his early days, he had risked every thing and had done every thing which an individual could po»«sibly endure or attempt, in our behalf. He had now, m advanced life, lett his own beloved retirement in a distant hi^misphere, to visit this land of liberty, and of his affections ; to behold the prosperity, order, enjoy- ment and felicity of a great p. ople. His character, too, is unstained by bloodshed and crime ; it is conse- crated on the contrary by the prayers, and tears, and benedictions, of all good men in America and Europe. Who then will censure or wonder, that he should be received by the moral and sober people of ^ m'^J'ica, with all that cordilaity and enthusiasm, which were discovered on his arrival among us ? We do not iorget Washington ; our beloved, and almost adored Washing- ton — nor are we insensible to the merits and virtues of other statesmen and heroes of o t own country. But, surely we may be allowed to greet thi- old distinguish- ed iJenefactor, with a cordial welcome, without sub- jecting ourselves to the charge of extravagance or ca- price. The character of the militia in Boston, and !?*eneral- ly through the state, has been much improved within 176 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. the last fifteen years. They have recently adopted a cheap uniform; and great improvements have been made in adopting the modern system of tactics. The independent companies need not decline a comparison with regular trocps ; and, what is very imp/rtant to the respectability of the militia, their officers are intel- ligent and ambitious, and actuated by a patriotic spirit, which is a pledge of fidelity and a stimulus to honora- ble exertion. The high praise bestowed upon the militia at this review, was justly merited. General La Fayette left Boston on Tuesday morning for Portsmouth, in the state of New Hampshire, in- tending to pass through Marblehead, Salem and New- buryport, on his way to the former place. A number of distinguished citizens, and a Committee of the City Council accompanied him to the nothern line of the city; and the governor's aids attended him to the ex- treme part of the state adjoining New Hampshire. On his route, he was greeted by the inhabitants of Chel- sea, Lynn and xMarblehead, with great feeling and re- spect, alike honourable to themselves and gratifying to the friend and gue?^t of the nation. Addr. sses were al- so made to him, in these several towns, expressive of their gratitude for his services, and of the lively sense they had of his present visit to the country. He took "breakfast at Marblehead, where almost the whole pop- ulation of this industrious and patriotic town were pre- sented to him. H- also met here, some gentlemen cel- ebrated for their naval exploits in the war of the rev- olution. His reception at Salem was very distinguished and splendid. At the entrance of the town, he was met bj MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. IT? the selectmen and committee, a numerous cavalcade, and a lari^fe body of citizms in . airiages, and received a salute of artillery ; on advancing a short distance with- in the bounds of the town, the bells commenced ring^ ins;, iind the escort was joined by a battalion of light infantry, and a body of seamen, of about two hundred, in bhie jackets and white trowsers, with ribbons on their hats, stamped with the name of La Fayette. '• W ith the hearty cheers of these hardy sons of Nep* tune, the General appeared to b<^ peculiarly impressed. Over South Salem bridge were tivo tastefully decorat-. ed arches — one bearing the inscription " Welcome Il- lustrious Chief ! Receive the pledges of thy Children to sustaiji zvithjidelity the principles that first, associated La Fayette with the destinies of America .^"^ These arches were surrounded by an immense number of citizens, who made the air rmg with their huzzas and welcomes. The figure of an Indian Chief characteristically dressed, bore labels inscribed ^^ La Fayette and Liberty. Wel- come generous La Fayette.'''' " The procession passed through the principal streets, which were thronged with spectators ; while the win- dows of the houses were crowded with females, all ea- ger to see and welcome the heroic visitor. '^ Civic Arches, historical and patriotic Inscriptions, memorable eras, wreaths of flowers and evergreens, banners and flags, were displayed in many of the streets, enlivening the scene, animating the cheers, and afford- ing grateful recollections. *' Central street was gaily dressed in cr lours, and on an elegant arch were inscribed the names of «]1stiiiguish- ed patriots of the revolution, crowned witl» those of Washington and La Fayette, la North-street a simi- 178 MEMOIRS eP LA FAYETtE. lar arch bore the inscription : — '' Honor to him •mho fought and hied for the peace and happiness we now en," joyP'' On an arch at Buffam's corner, was inscribed, *' La Fayette, the friend of Liberty^ we welcome to the land of liberty. He did not forget us in our adversity — In our prosperity we remember his services with grati- tude.^^ Near the above, another arch bore a likeness •f La Faj^ette, surmounted by an eagle. " Near the avenue leading to the bridge at which, in February, 1775, Col. Leslie, with a detachment of the British 64th regiment, met with a repulse in an attempt to carry off some canon deposited in the vicinity, were banners, with the following inscription:— ^' Leslie^ s Repidse^ 1775. La Fayette^s Retiown^ 1S2V^ " In Winter-street an arch bore the following inscrip- tion on American duck, made at the factory in Salem-IEI.fOinS OF LA FAYETTE. 10^ and patrons of the cause of our country and of liberty, to pay to you our grateful respect for your eminent la- Ijours. " Most of those who acted in, or witnessed the great scenes in which you bore so conspicuous a part, have now descended to the tombs of their fathers. The pre-, sent generation can rehearse only what the}' have heard with their ears, and their fathers have told them^ But the name of La Fayette is not confined to any gen- eration; While the liberties of America shall endure, it will descend from father to son, associated with those of the immortal Wasliington, and oiher heroes and sages of our revolution, as the friend of our country, of liber- ty, and of man. '' Illustrious benefactor — may the blessing- of Heaven ever attend you, and may your remaining days be as happy, as your past have been perilous, useful and hon-,. orable." To which the General made the following reply :— • '' Sir, " The attentions paid me by my American friend?., I receive with inexpressible gratitude. I regret that so many of my friends here, should be exposed on my account to this storm. I have ever considered it my pride and my honor, that I embarked in the cause o^ Independence in this country ; and 1 rejoiced when 1 found myself again landed on the American shored. You, kind sir, the people of this town, and ail who are assembled in this solemn place, will please to accept my thanks for this expression of your attachment, and receive my best wishes for your individual prosperity and happiness." He reached Newburyport a little past ten o'clock, 184 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. where he passed the night. His lodgings were the same which Washington oc€upied, when he made his tour through the northern states, in 1789, the tirst jear of his presidency. The following address was made to kim, by the chairman of a committee of that town : — " Genkral La Fayette, " The citizens of Newbnryport are happy in this ©pportunity of greedng, with the warmest welcome, a distingijished benefactor of their country. " The important service.^, which you rendered this people in the day of their distress ; the devotedness which you manifested in their perilous cause, and the dangers which you sought for their relief, are incorporated in our history, and firmly engraven upon our hearts. "We would lead you to our institutions of learning, charity and religion ; we would point you to our hills and vallics covered with flocks, and smiling in abun- dance, that you may behold the happy effects of those principles of liberty, which you was so instrumental in establishing. " Our children cluster .iLout yen to receive a patii- ofs blessing. Our ciiizens press forward to show their gratitude. Our nation pays you a tribute, which must remove the reproach that republics are ungrateful. ''As the zealous advocate for civil liberty, we bid you welcome ; as the brave defender of an oppressed people, we make you welcome ; as the friend and as- sociate of our immortal W^ashington, we bid you wel- come." General La Fayette replied in his usually courteous and animated manner, and evincing his great sensibility to the kind and friendly greetings with which he had been received. He here also met several veterans of MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ]|i the revolutionary army ; a gratification which he en- joyed in almost every place he visited. Though the number is rapidly lessening, a few remain in most of the populous towns of the Commonwealth. He left Newburyport Wednesday morning for the capital of New- H amp.-? hire. The escort contemplated to have attended on his way to the bounds of the state, was prevented by the heavy rain. It was at his ur- gent request that it was dispensed with. The com- mittee of the town however, accompanied him to Hamp- ton; where he was met by a deputation from Ports- mouth, and conducted on his intended route. When passing through Greenland, a procession of the citizens was formed, by which he was attended through the villages. Here he was welcomed also by salutes from an artillery company, by civic arches and repeated ac- clamations of the assembled people. One of the arches was supported by two young ladies, representing Lib- erty and Peace. One presented him a wreath, adorn- ed with flowers, and said, " Venerable sirp^ condescend to receive this emblem of the hero's glory^ as the token of a natiotPs gratitude and /«f(?." The other presented him the olive branch, saying, " Good and faithful ser- vant^ peace and happiness await you.^'' He received these with complacency, took each young lady by the hand, and made an affectionate reply. He then proceeded toPortsmouth, where he arrived about noon. He was conducted into this town by an escort on horseback, and a procession of carriages, (the whole extending two miles) composed of the civil, judi- cial and legislative authorities ; officers of the United States and of New-Hampshire, &c. kc. The margins of the avenue leading to the centre, ©f the town, wa^ I 86 MEMOIRS OF LA FAVETTE. lined with children, with the inhabitants of both sexeS in the rear ; who greeted him with their cordinl wel- comes and repeated acclamations. Salutes were fired, and the bells rang- a joyous peal ; and the streets through which the procession passed, were crowned with arches, decorated with wreaths of evergreen and garlands of flowers. The procession moved through several streets to Franklin Hall : and here, when Gene- ral La Fayette alighted, the chairman of the selectmea addressed him thus :■ — " Sir, "The selectmen of Portsmouth, in behalf of their fellow citizens, most respectfully and heartily bid you welcome. " Enjoying, as we do, the happiness of a free gov- ernment, we cannot but feel grateful to all, by whose exertions it was obtained. Those intrepid men among ourselves, who in the hour of danger stood forth in de- fence of their country's rights, have a lasting claim up- on our regard. But in contending for the liberty of their country, they were striving to secure their own happiness, and the prosperity of their children. They found a motive for exertion in their own interest; which, while it derogates nothing from the value of their services, places in a strong light, the pure zeal and contempt of private advantage, which led you to our aid, from the shores of a foreign land. Their love of liberty was necessarily the sentiment of patriotism ; yours was an ardent desire for the general welfare of mankind. '' After an absence of forty years from our country, most of which have been passed in scenes of unexam- pled excitement and perplexity, it gives us peculiar MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 187 pleasure rated w ith evergreens and flowers by the ladies of Concord. As he entered the villag-e, he received a salute from ihe artillery corps, and the vocal salutations of the inhab- itant? of both sexes, who had assembled to present h m iheir grateful offerings. Ffae peals of the village bell prolonged the acclamations of the admiring throng. The following inscription was to be seen in a conspi- cuous place in the arbor — '• In 1775, ihe people of Cour cord met the enemies of liberty ; In 1824, they welcome the bold asserter of the rightt ofman^ La Fayftte." A sumptuous repast was provided for the occasion ; an(i the tables were covered with all the delicacies the •season and country could afford. When General La Fayette had entered the arbor^, one of the citizens addressed him by the following speech :— - "The inhabitants of Concord, by this delegation, welcome you, General, to their village. We thank you for affording us an opportunity here to offer our hum- ble tribute of gratitu;le for servic-'S long since render- ed, but still held in lively recollection. You, sir, now behold 'he spot on which the first forcible resistance was made to a system of measures calculated to de- prive the whole pe ;ple of these States of the privile- ges of freemen. You approved this resistance. A 4ust estimate of the v^iue of rational liberty led fo% m2 MEMOIRS Oi' LA J-AYETTE. clisinterestedly, to participate with strangers in the toikj the privations, and the dampers of an ard'iou*; contest. From the 19th day of April, 1775, here noted in blood, to the memorable day in Yorktovvn, your heart and your sword were with us. 'i'en millions of grateful people now enjoy the fruits of this strua^gle. We can but repeat to you, sir, the cordial, affectionate, respect- ful welcome ofFered you at your first arrival on our shores, and which we are assured wi'l be Ft iterated wherever you move on American gfround." The General was, as usual, ex remely happy in his replv, and alluded with sensibility to the memorable scenes of \pril 19, 1775. The ladies of Concord and vicinity were present at this civic and patriotic repast; and it added much to the interest and splendour of the scene. Coffee was served up, as a counter part of the entertainment ; and La Fayette appeared to be highly pleased, with the hearty reception which he met in this hospitable town. Some revolutionary characters called upon him here, who had not before seen him since he arrived; and were received with great cordiality. He spoke of the gun which had been shov/n him in Boston, l»y an in- habitant of Concord or vicinity, and which was first fir- ed against the ministerial troops of Britrun. He said, *' it was the alarm gun to all Kurope and to the world. For it was the signal, which summoned tho civilized world to assert their rights, and to become free." The visit at Concord was necessarily short us he bad engaged to pas-^ the Liight at Bolton, about twent3' miles distant. He b-ft Concord at snn-set ; and was escorted on his route to Ho!* on, by a company of cav^ilry and Several gentlcmun of distinction beiongiijg to tiiat place MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 19S «¥i(I vicinity. He was every where greeted by the peo- ple, who collected in coiipanies at vatioas places, to of- fer him their hearty welcome, i he houses on the roid were illuminated, and bonfires were kindled on the ad- joining hills. The militia of Bolton were assembled to receive him, though it was late in the evening when he arrived. The selectmen offered him their saluta- tions and welcome in the name of the town. He pass- ed the nisjht at the hospitable mansion of Mr. W , where ta^te, variety and elegance contributed to ren- der his reception very distinguished Mr. W had resided much in France, and was particularly acquaint- ed with La Fayette and family. Committees from Lan- caster and V^ orcester w tited ;>n him at Bolton, to learn his plans and the probable hours of his being in those p aces, and to communicate the desires of the people to {>resent him their tribute of affection and regard. Ho visited Lancaster early on Friday morning, where ail class^ps of the inhabitants were assembled to bid him welcome, and to express the affectionate sentiments by which their glowing bosoms were animated, s corps of cavalry still escorted him — a national salute was fir- ed — and the turnpike gate, at the entrance of the vil- la^^e, was ornamented with garlands of flowers and ev- ergreens, and displayv d this inscription, "-^ 'iV FRfis welcome the Brave " He was conducted through iines formed by the citizens of both sexes, to an elevated platform, prepared in the centre of the villare. and near the church ; where he was addressed by the Rev- erend Pastor — " General La Fayette. " In behalf of the inhabitants of Lancaster, I oOfer you their cordial congratulations on your arrival la a a 194 MEM ©IRS dF LA PAYETTE. country, whose wrongs jou felt and resented ; whose liberties you vaUantly defended ; and whose interests and prospects have always been dear to your soul- " We all unite with the few surviving veterans, who were with, loved, and respected you on the high places of the field, in giving you a welcome to this village, once the chosen residence of savages, and the scene of their most boasted triumph ; and rejoice that you visit it under the improvements of civilized hfe. in prosper- ity and peace. " It gladdens us, that we and our children may be- hold the man, whom we have believed, and whom we have taught them to believe, was second only to his and our friend, the immortal Washington. We partici- pate in your joy, on beholding our institutions in vigor, our population extended, so that, since you left us, from a little one we have become millions, and from a small band a strong nation ; that you see our glory rising, our republic placed on an immoveable basis, all of which are in part, under Providence, to be ascribed to your sacrifices, dangers and toiis. " We wish you health and prosperity We assure you that wherever you shall go, you will be greeted by our fellow countrymen, as one of the chief deliver- ers of America, and the fi iend of rational liberty, and of man. It is especially our prayer, that on that day in which the acclamations and applauses of dying men shall cease to reach or affect you, you may receive from the Judge of character and Dispenser of imperish- able honors, as the reward of philanthropy and incor- ruptible integrity, a crown of glory which shall never fade." It is unnecessary to add, that this eloquent and pious MEMOIRS OF LA PAYETTE. If 5 greeting excited strong emotions in the General, and had an impressive effect on the assemblage who heard it. The following is a report of General La Fayette's reply :— " Accept my thanks, sir, for the kind welcome you have offered me in the name of the inhabitants of 1 Lancaster. In returning to this country after so long an absence; in receiving such proofs of gratitude and affection wherever 1 go; in witnes'sing the prosperity of this land,— a prosperity you are pleased to say, I have been instrumental in promoting; — I feel emotions for which no language is adequate. In meeting again m}^ former friends, in seeing the children and grand childreii of those who were my companions in the war of the revolution, I feel a gratification which no words can express. I beg you to accept, sir, and to offer to these people, my grateful, my affectionate acknowledg- ments." In passing through Sterling and Boylston, he was sa- luted by the artillery companies in those respective towns, and hailed by the cordial salutations of the peo- ple, who crowded from the neighbouring country to be- hold the man, whom all delighted to honor. The whole population seemed to be in motion ; and both old and young were eager to offer him their personal greetings. Several arches were thrown across the public road, at short notice ; but indicative of the grate- ful dispositions of the citizens. This motto was observ- ed on one of them — '' JVelcome La Fayette, friend qf AVashington, and adopted son of America.'^'^ His entree and reception at Worcester was highly in- teresting. He remained in this vilhige several hours. iSS MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. The taste and wealth and patriotism of this flourishing shire town were unitedly and spontaneously put in re- quisition to prepare due honors for the " nation's guest." The number and neatness of the military, arches spa- cious and highly ornamented, extensive lines of the cit- izens and of youth expressing their gratitude in frequent and loud acclamations — all conspired to render the scene particularly brilliant. Here, as in other places, the ladies were eager to manifest the high estimation, in which they held the character of this eminent friend of liberty and virtue. He was addressed with great eloquence and feeling, by Judge Lincoln, in behalf of the citizens of the town and county of Worcester. " General La Fayette, " The citizens whom you see assembled around you, have spontaneously thronged together, to offer you the tribute of their affection, their respect, their gratitude. " In the name of the inhabitants of Worcester, the shire of an extensive county of more than 75000 popu^ lation, in behalf of al! who are present, and in anticipa- tion of the commands of those, whom distance and want ef opportunity occasion to be absent from this joyous scene, I repeat to you the salutations, which elsewhere have been so impressively offered upon your arrival in this country, and your visit to this Commonwealth. Welcome, most cordially welcome, to the presence of those who now greet you ! ''^ Your name, sir, is not only associated with the memorable events of the American n volution, with the battle of Brandy wine, the retreat from Valley To ge, the affair near Jamestown, and the triumph at York- town ; but the memorials of your services and our obli* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 197 gations exist, in the Independence of the nation which was accomplished, in the government of the people which is established, in the institutions and laws, the arts, improvements, liberty and happiness which are enjoyed. The sword was beaten into the ploughshare, to cultivate the soil which its temper had previously defended, and the hill-tops shall now echo to the sea shore the gratulations of the independent proprietors of the land, to the common benefactor of all ranks and classes of the people. " Wherever you go, General, the acclamations of Freemen await you— their blessings and prayers will follow you. May you live many years to enjoy the fruits of the services and sacrifices, the gallantry and valor of your earlier days, devoted to the cause of free- dom and the rights of man; and may the bright exam- ples of individual glory and of national happiness, which the history of America exhibits, illustrate to the world, the moral force of personal virtue, and the rich bless- ings of civil liberty in republican governments." The General, in reply, said in substance, '^ That he received with much sensibility, the expressions of kind attention with which he was received by t.e inhabi- tants of the town and county of Worcester ; that he was delighted with the fine country which he had seen, and the excellent improvement n! cultivation which he witne^^s rd; that he saw the best proofs of a great, pros- perous and happy people, in the rapid advancement of Vie polite and useful arts, and in (he stability of our free institutions ; that he v.as especially much gratified in. the great improvements of the fiice of the country, be- eause he was himself a farmer; that he felt happy to observe such decided proofs of industry, sobriety and. ^2 198 MEMeiRs «r la payet'Ee. prosperity. — He begged the citizens to be assured of his affectionate and grateful recollection of their recep- tion of him; he thanked them for all thej had mani- fested towards him, for the kind expressions which had been offered him by the committee, and, in a feeling impressive manner, reciprocated their goed wishes." Speaking to an individual of the attentions he had received, he observed. "It is the homage the people pay to the principles of the government, rather than to myself" The inhabitants of Sturbridge and other places through which General La Fayette passed, on his way to Hartford, in Connecticut, assembled in their respec- tive towns, and presented him the ready homage of af- fectionate and grateful hearts. Companies of artillery fired salutes ; ladies and gentlemen gathered round him to bid him welcome to America, and to express their deep and lively sense of his past services; and mnny veterans of the revolutionnry army pressed upon him, without ceremony or introduction, expecting, as they found, a friendly and cordial reception. General La Fayette was received at Hartford, in Connecticut, where he arrived on Saturday morning, with similar marks o'' affection and esteem to those so cordially bestowed on him in the towns he had already visited. He was expected by the citizens on Friday evening, and arrangements were made for a general illumination. He \\fi^ escorted into the city by the military, and a large procession of the citizens receiv- ed him soon af er he entered within its bounds, and con- ducted him to the State House, where he was addressed by the Mayor of the city, who as^sured him of the affeC' iionate welcome, with which the people received him^ MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE?. 1^9 and reterred to the past services of La Fayette, which were stiil highly appreciated. And he expressed great happiness i»i bthoiding- so many proots of the prosper- ou« state of the country, and in witnessing- the invalua- ble effects of Gur free institntions. The greater part of the inhaljitanis of both sexes were personally pre- sented to him ; and there was an assemblage of chil- dren of about eight hundred, the misses all dressed in white, wearing ba :ir - with the motto, '^ JSUms vous ai- mo)is L\ Fayette." A gold medal was presented him hy one of the children, which was enclosed in a papei containing th< se lines. Welcome thou to freedom's clime, Glorious Hero ! Chief sublime ! Garlands bright for thee are wreath'd, Vows of filial ardour breath'd. Veteran's cheeks wiih tears are wet, '' Aows vous aimon'i La Fayette." Monmouth's ti'^ld is rich Vvilh bloom, Where thy warriors found their tomb. Yorkiown's heights resound no more, Victor's shout or cannrns roar, Yet our hearts record their debt, " We do love you La Fayette.*' Brandy wine, whose current roll'd Proud with blood of heroes bold. That our co ntry's debt shall tell, That our gratitude shal' swell, Infant breasts thy wounds regret, '' We do love you La Fayetie." 5^00 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Sires, who sleep in g-lory's bed, Sires, wiiose blood for us was shed, Taught us, when our knee we bend, With the prayer thy name to blend ; Shall we e*er such charge forget ? No ! — " A''oi(s vous aifuons La Fayette.*' When our blooming cheeks shall fade, Pale with time, or sorrow^s shade, When our clustering tresses fair "" Frosts of wintry age shall wear, E'en till memory's sun he set, " We will love you La Fayktte." In comparison with the population of Hartford, & greater portion of his revolutionary companions were here presented to him. than in any place he had visited The number was nearly one hundred. These marched before him, in the procession, in a connected column and attended by their own music. It is hardly nec'S-a y to say, that their beloved general gave them am^^s* Co dial greeting. By one of the citizens, a sash and pair of epaiiels were produced, which were worn by La Fayette when he entered the American army. 'J'he sash was stained with blood from his wound receiv- ed in the battle of Brandy wme. He left Hartford late in the aTternoon, and proceeded to Middietown, where he embarked in a steam boat for New-York. The citizens of this place regretted, that he could nol pass some time with them ; and receive the attentions, which their grateful f{>elings would induce them to be- stow on a zealous and able friend of American inde- pendence. MBMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 201 HIS RKTURN TO NEW-YORK. General La Fayette reached New-York on the fol- lowing day, about noon; and was conducted to the City Hi.tel by the comoiittee of arfang'ements, who were in waiting to receive him, when he arrived at the wharf. Multitudes assembled, who greeted his return, and re- newed their joyful acclamations on meeting him again as a guest of thei- city. On Monday, the Cincinnati of the State of New-York gave a public dinner, in h«*nof of'' their old companion in arms," at which were also present several other persons of distinction, and the members of the City Council. This was the anniver- sary of the birth of La Fayette ; and the circumstance increased the interesting associations of the interview. The hall of meeting was richly decorated with appro- priate emblems, and portraits of some of the heroes of the revolution, and bearing the hallowed name of Washington. In the toasts given on this occasion, were allusions to the important events which occurred in the war of the revolution, and to many of the distinguished characters, who conducted it to a successful issue — Washington, Greene, Lincoln, Steuben, Knox, Gates, Clinton, Kosciusco. De Kalb, Hamilton and others. The first volunteer toast was by the President of the- Society, and was, " Our distinguished guest ;'' when f^ transparent painting was suddenly illuminated and un- veiled, and displayed a '' Welcome;" and over the head of La Fayette a beautiful wreath of flowers was suspended. He rose and said, — "' with inexpressible delight at our brotherly meeting, with my affection to you all, my very dear friends and companions in arms, I propose the following seotiment; The sacred priaei- 2^02 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. pies for which we have fought and bled — Liberty^ equal" ity and national independence ; may every nation of the earth, in adopting them, dnnii a bumper to the old con- tinental army."* On the next day, he visited the pubUc Schools, the College, the Hospital, and Academy of Fine Arts ; and on Wednesday, embarked in a steam boat to view the fortifications in the harbor of New-YMrk. In the even- ing following, he attended the theatre, and was re- ceived with universal and repeated acclam.itions. Ma- ny eminent persons from distant parts of the United States visited New-York, at this time, for the sole ob- ject of meeting the celebrated Iriend of America. Among these were Mrs. Lewis, a niece oi General ♦ Some of the toasts given by General La Fajette on other occasions ctre here reconled, as they are indicative (,f the opinions and entwnerits which piobahly predominate in his mind. At the pubhc dinuer in BostoM, oi the day of his arrival — ^' The city of Boston!, ihe cr<:-.(ile of nberty; may its proud Faneuii Hah ever stand a moiinaient to teach :he world that resistance to oppression is a duty, and vrili, under true republican institutions, become a hies ing." In the College Hill at the dinner of the Society of Phi Beta Kappa — " The Holy Alliance of virtue, literature and patriotism : it will prove too powerful for any coalition against the rights of man.'" At the military dinner on the Common in Boston, when the brniiant parade took place before mentioned — '' The patriotic troops who have paraded this daj, they excite the adtniratio.i of every bdnolder, and fi 1 the heart with delight." At the dinner given by the citizens of Salem — '« The town of Salem : may her increasing prosperity more and more evince the blessings of popular institutions, founded on the sacred basis of natural and social rights." And at Portsmouth, he gave that town, and added, *' may the blessings of republican inntitntions furnish a refutation of the mistaken aad selfish sophistry of Euro- pean despoiisra." MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. 2 03 Washingfton ; and Mr. Huger of South-Carolina, the brave and generous youth, who attempted the Ubera- tion of La Fayette from the dungeon of Olmutz, at the imminent hazard of his own Wie ; and who suffered a long and severe imprisonment for his disinterested inter- ference. He also visited the widowed ladies of Generals Montgomery and Hamilton. Of the latter general, he was the personal and ardent friend. A public dinner was given to La Fayette by the French gentlemen residt-nt in New-York; many of whom were among the constitutionalists in France in 1789; and who manifested equal respect and veneration for this distinguished confessor of regulated liberty, as the citizens of America. Several of the Aldermen of the city also gave splendid entertainments to the guest of the nation, who could jusUy claim to have acted an important part in the establishujent of our freedom and independence. He consented to attend the examination of several of the free schools — and appeared highly gratified by the evidences given of the improvement of the pupils. At one of the schools, consisting of 400 misses, after the examination, the following lines were chaunted by the pupils : Welcome, Hero, to the West, To the land thy sword hath blest ! To thti country of the Free^ Welcome, Friend of Liberty I Grateful millions guard thy fame, Age and youth revere thy name, Beauty twines the wreath for Iheej Glorious iSow of Liberty ! 204 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Tears shall speak a nation's love, Whereso'er thy footsteps move, B ' [he choral paan met — Welcome, welcome, La Fayette ! The African free school was not overlooked. While on his vi^it here, one of the trustees announced, that General La Fayette had been elected a member of the Manumission Society of New-York The truly vene- rable John Jay is President of this benevolput associa- tion. One of the children stepped forward, and ex- pressed their sense of the h'-nor of the visit, and of ther satisfaction in reflecting, that he was frien lly to the abohton of slavery. But the most splendid scene exhibited in this proud city, was the fete at Castle-garden. 1 his was an even- ing party and ball, at which six thousand ladies and •..en- tiemen were present. It was the most briUiant and magaitict'Dt scene ever witnessed in the United States- Castle-garden lies at a very short distance from Bat- tery-street, which is a spacious and elegant promenadCj on the soufh westerly part of the city. It was former- ly a fort, and is about one hundred and seventy- feet in diameter, of a circular or eliptical form. It has lately become a place of great resort in the warm season of the yeyr, Kvery tbini^ which labor and expence, art and taste could effect was done to render it convenient, showy and elegant. An awning covered the whole area of the garden, suspended at an altitude of seventy- five feet ; the columns which supported the dome were highlv ornamented, and lighted b;y an rm7/ie?i^c cut glass chandelier, with thirteen smaller ones jsppended. The General, made his appearance about 10 o'clock ' MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ftOB when the dance and the song was at an end. The military band stru k up a grand march, and the Guest was conducted through a c "lumn of ladies and gen- tlemen to a splendid! paviUon. Not a word was spoken of gratulation- — so profound, and respectful, and intel- lectual was the interest which his pr<-sence excited. The interior of the pavilion which was composed df white cambrick, ornamented with sky blue festoons, was richly furnished. x\mong other interesting objects was a bust of Hamilton, placed upon a Corinthian pillar, and illuminated with a beautiful lamp. In front of the pavilion was a triumphal arch, of about 90 feet span adorned with laurel, oak, and festoons, based- upon pil- lars of cannon fifteen feet high. — A bust of \> ashirigton, supported by a golden eagle, was placed over the arch as the presiding deity. Within the arch was a symbolic pitinting nearly 25 feet square, exhibiting a scroll in. flcribed to Fayette, with the words :— '-^ Honored by the faithful PatrhtP'' Soon after the General mtered, the painting just al- luded to was slowly raised, which exhibited to the au- dience a beautiful transparency, representing La Grnnge, the mansion of I^a Fayette. The effect was as complete as the view was unexpected and imposing. another iubdued clap of admiration follow d this tasteful and appropriate and highly interesting display Universal harmony and good feeling prevailed ; and about half past one o'clock, the General left the Castle, and embarked on board the steam boat James Kent, in his excursion up the North River, amidst renewed and piolonged acclamiiti'>ns. Eighty sets of cot'ilions wore freqne itly on the floor at the same time. A writer concludes the account of this fete thusj S 206 MEMOIRS OF LA PAYETTE. *' Taking into view the immense space of the area, the gigantic ceiHng of which was lined with the flags of all nations, festooned in a thousand varied shapes, and the whole most brilliantly illuminated, we can safely assert that there was never any thing to equal it i? this country. '' 1 he sea's now erected around the area will accom- modate about 3000 persons. '' There were 200 servants employed on this occa- sion, drf ssed in white under clothe s, and blue coats, with red capes and cuffs. "" He did not arrive at West-Point urtil about noon t having been detained ?r his accommodation, a splendid barouche was provided, drawn b}' hva cream coloured lofty steeds, " The guest of the nation entered its former capitol" about noon, on '1 iiesday, the 2Sth of September. When the Governor met La Fayette, as above men- tioned, he welcomed him to the State in the following address : — " General La Fayette, " The citizens of Pennsylvania behold, with the most intense feeling and exalted regard, the illus- trious friend and companion of Washington. ilEMOlRS OF LA FAYETTE. 215 the highest veneration and gratitude, we receive the early and great benefactor of the United States; the enlightened statesman, philan- ;hropist and patriot of both hemispheres " ' he sincere and univ. rsal joy which your arrival IS diffused over the nation, is no where more deeply :>v enthusiastically felt, than in Pennsylvania ; whose fields and f^treams are rendered memorable by yonr a* chiavemenis; vvhoce citizens were the followers of your standard, and the vvitnes«?es oi your sacrifices and toils, in Xne defence of Xmerican hberty. 1 he evt>nt- ful scenes of your u 'eful life are engraven c^n our hearts. A Da'ion bus n-joiced at your successes, and sj'mpathized wv-Xi your sorrows. '•'• With ardent piea^'ire we have ever observed your strenuous exertions as the friend of man ; and whilst your great services, reniiered in tiie cause of humanity, have commanded our admiration, the purity of your motives has insured the love and affection of Ameri- cans. " With the best feelings of the heart we n<.w ap- 'i proach you, with the assurance that, if any thing could I add to our happiness on this interesting occasion, it I would be the hope of enjoying the distinguished honor \ of your permanent residence amoncj us. and that a long i and splendid life of usefulness may be closed in the State, whose soil has bc-en moistened with your blood, generously shed in the cause of virtue, liberty and in- dependence. Answer of General La Fayette. " On the hfippy mom nt, long anrl eagerly wished for, when I once more tread the soil of Pennsvlvania, I find in her affectionate welcomcj so kindly expressed 216 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. by' er first mas^istrnte, a d»^ar recollection of past ih Tors and a new soHrc of delightful gratifications. Vhe very names of this state and her capitol, recall to the mind those philanthropic and liberal sentiments, which have marked every step of their progress. " Pennsylvania has been the theatre of most impor- tant events ; a partaker in the arduous toils and meri- torious sacrifices, which insured the success of our glo- rious and fruitful revolution I particularly thank you, sir, for your gratifying mention of my personal obliga- tions to the Pennsylvanian line ; nor will I ev^rfo get^ that on Pennsylvania ground, not fiir fr=»m this spot, I enjoyed, for the first Time, the delight to find myself under American tents, and m the family of our beloved commander in chief Nou, sir, Pennsylvania is in full possession, and reaps all the prosperities and happy •onsequences of that great national union, of those spe- cial institutions, which by offering in a •^elf governed [)eo- ple the most perfect example of social order that ever ex -t d have reduced to absurdity and ridicule the anti- popular arguments of pretended statesmen in other Countries. In whatever way I may he disposed of by the duties ami feelings, in which you have been plens m1 to sympathiSp. I shall ever rank this day amonar the most fortunate of n y life ; and, while I beg you. sir, per- sonally to ccept my cordial acknowledgements, I offer through you ;: ivibnte of profound g;Tatitude and resp t- ful devotion to the citizens of Pennsylvania '' His entrance into t'le fair citv, f unded bv the wise and benevolent Pt'nn., is described as most maarnificent in all its accompaniments. I he population poured forth to m^^et him at an e irly hour. CarriaTes, ho.se- m^a and pedestrians filled every avenue for a distance MEMOmS OF LA FAYETTE. 217 ©f five miles ; and the windows and stagings were thronged with ladies eager to welcome him. Just at the entrance of the city, a division of militia, composed ofcavalry, artillery and infantry, was drawn up in a hol- low square, on a piece of land of about forty acres, to receive the P.itriot Hero, whose approach was an- nounc.:d by a salute of 100 rounds of artillery. La Fay- ette, uncovered and standing up in the barouche, was seen by the whole field. The car of Saladin could not have exceeded that of La Fayette. The troops were nearly six thousand. After the review, which the general made on foot, he received the saluting honors in his barouche. The line of march into the city was then taken up. It extended nearly three miles, and pa?sed through Bumerous streets. More than !^ix hours were consum- ed in proceeding from Frankfort to the State House, a distance of about four miles. A full description of the procession, and the decorated arches, &c. under which it passed, would occupy too great a portion of this vol- ume — We can only give the outline of the procession. '• A cavalc?\de of 100 citizens preceded ; followed by 100 general, field and staff officers. Then came a' square of cavalij' ; a band of music, mounted, and a corps of 160 cavalry. Next a brigade of infantry, with flank companies. Committee of arrangements. General La Fayette and Judge Peters, in the splendid barouche. Then followed four other barou: hes, drawn by four horses each, with Governors Shuize and Williamson, and suites,the generaPs family, and distinguished individuals. Then thr^ e cars of large dimensions, containing 120 revolutionary heroes and worthies, each car qIkii'- T 218 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. acteristically decorated; bearing on their front " Washington," on the rear '' La Fayette,' and on the sides, "" defenders of our country f'''^ '' The survivors of 1776." Then advanced 400 young men. After these the pro- cession of trades, led by a car, containing a bod_y of prin- ters at work at case and press — the latter striking off, and distributing, copies of an ode on the occasion — fol- lowed by the typographical society, with a banner, with the inscription: " La Fayette — the friend of universal liberty^ and the rights of the press.'''' Then followed 200 cordwainers (with banneis, bad- ges, emblems, 6oc. The other trades were also dec- orated ;) — 300 weavers; — 150 ropemakers ; — 150 lads, unsformly dressed; — 100 shipbuilders; — 700 mechanics of different professions, not enumerated ; — 15C Coopers, with a car containing a cooper's shop, the workmen fitting staves and driving hoops : — Then came 150 butchers, well mounted and neatly dressed in their frocks ; — then 260 carmen, mounted, with a- prons trimmed with blue ; and a body of 150 riflemen, in frocks, dressed with plaids, leopard skms, &,c. A company of artillery, with two pieces; a brigade of infantry and the New-Jersey cavalry. A body of 300 farmers closed the procession. Besides the above, there were the Red Men of the 5tate, the La Fayette Association, the True Republican Society, the Washington and La Fayette Society ; and the German American Society. The appearance of the whole of this truly grand procession was august and imposing. As it passed, La Fayette ! La Fayette! sprang from the voices of a mjultitude. that rolled on, and on, and on. like wave MEMOIRS or LAFAYETTE. 219 after wave of the ocean, in numbers we shall not pre- sume to name, (but which were estimated at 200,000.) La Fayette beat in every heart — La Fayette hung on every tongue — La Fayette glowed on every cheek — La Fayette gUstened on every swimming eye — La Fay- ette swelled on every gale. The whole city and coun- ^U appeared to have arrayed themselves in all their glory, and beaut}', and strenglh, at once to witness and adorn the majesty of the spectacle ; and the lashionable part of the community seemed determined to exhibit the perfection of taste in the beauty of the decoration of their persons, and the richness of their attire. In Chesnut-strect wreathes were cast into the .barouche, as it passed, and many of them Were from the fair hauiU of the Quakeresses. After the procession had passed through the princi- pal streets,the front halted at the old State-House, which contains the hall in which the Dcciaration of Indepen- dence was signed in \17Q. Here the general alighted, passed under a most mag- nificent triumphal arch, and was conducted to the hall, which is 40 feet square and was decorated in the most splendid manner. Among the decorations was a statue of Washington, and portraits of William Fenn, Franklin, Robert Morris, Francis Hopkinson, Greene, W^iyne, M«*ntgomery, Hamilton, Gates, Rochambeau, Charles Carrol, M'Kean, Jefferson, Hancock, Adams, Madison, Monroe, and Charles Thompson. — The por- trait of Washmgton, by Peale, occupied the first place, and was the most splendidly decorated. Here were as- sembled the city authorities, the society of Cincinnati, the judges, officers of the army and navy, and the com- mittee of arrangements, all seated on superb sofas. 229 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. The Governor of the State having been presented',. General La Fayette, Judge Peters, and George Wash- ington La Fayette were introduced, the company all standing. The Mayor of the city then welcomed the guest, in the following address : — '' General, " The citizens of Philadelphia welcome to their homes, the Patriot who has long been dear to their hearts. '^ Grateful at all times for the enjoyment of a free gov- ernment, they are, on this occasion, peculiarly anxious but unable to express a deep felt sentiment of pure af- fection toward those venerated men whose martial and eivil virtues, under Providence, have conferred upon themselves and their descendents, this mighty blessing. '^ Forty-eight years ago, in this city, and in this hal- lowed hall, which may emphatically be called the birth place of independence, a convention of men, such as the world has rarely seen, pre-eminent for talents and pat- riotism, solemnly declared their determination to assume for themselves the right of self-government ; and that they and their posterity should thenceforth assert their just rank among the nations of the earth. A small, but cherished band of those who breasted the storm and sustained the principles thus promulgated to the world, still remains — In the front rank of these worthies, history will find, and we now delight to honor. General La Fayette, whose whole lifa has been devoted to the cause of freedom and to the support of the unalienable rights of man. ^'General — Many of your co patriots have passed fjway, but the remembrance of their virtues and their i^ervicesj shall never pa^s from the minds of this people ; MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 221 their's is an imperishable fame, the property of ages yet to come. But we turn from the fond recollection of the illustrious dead to hail with heart-felt joy the illustrious living*, and again bid welcome, most kindly and ifTectionately welcome, to the guest of the nation, the patriot La Fayette." The general made the following answer: " My entrance through this fair and great city, amidst the most solemn and affecting recollections, and under all the circumstances of a welcome which no expreBsion could adequately acknowledge, has excited emotions in my heart, in which are mingled the feelings of nearly fifty years. " Here, sir, within these sacred walls, by a council of wise and devoted patriots, and in a style worthy of the deed itself, was boldly declared the independence of these vast United States, which, while it anticipated the independence, and f hope, the repuhlicin inde- pendence, of the whole American hemisphere^ has begun, for the civilized world, the era of a new and of the only true social order founded on the una- lienable rights of man, the practicability and advantages of which are every day admirably demonstrated by the happiness and prosperity of your populous city. '• Mere, sir, wtis planned the formation of our virtuous . brave, revolutionary army, and the providential inspi- ration received, that gave the command of it to our be- loved, matchh'Ss Washington. But these and many other remembrances, are mingled with a deep regret for the numerous coten»poraries, for the great and good men whose loss we have remained to mourn. — It is to their services, sir, to your regard for their memory, to^ your knowledge of the friendsiiips I have enjoyed, that T 2 222 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. I refer the greater part of honors here and elsewhere received, much superior to my individual merit. *'' It is also under the auspices of their venerated names, ss well as under the impulse of mj oWn sentiments, that I beg you Mr. Mayor, you gentlemen of both councils, and all the citizens of Philadelphia, to accept the trib- ute of my affectionate respect and profound gratitude."" General La Fayette remained in Philadelphia a week ; and the repeated and constant attentions shown him by public societies and by distinguished individuals, were such as might have been expected from the cel- ebrated hospitality and civism of that city and such as was not unworthy of their eminent guest. '1 he gov- ernor of the state was attentive and courteous to him during his whole visit ; and other public functionaries, both civil and military, were eager of the honor of man- ifesting their great respect lor his character. '1 hat portion ofthe citizens, who belong to the religious so- ciety of Friends, appeared equally cordial and happy ia an opportunity to assure him of their esteem. It is not consistent with their principles to make a great parade, or to prepare expensive and useless ceremo- nies. 'Ihey did n»jt all approve ofthe plan of illumi- nation. In the wish to have it general, some ardent citizens censured the friends for declining to do it— But this was a mistaken zeal. The religious opinions and conscientious scruples of all classes of people are entitled to respect. It would have been altogether ur^ justifiable, had there been an attempt to force the friends into the measure. They are a very respectable class of citizens; and we trust, that for no purposes of parade or ceremony, they wjU ever be required to vio- late their consciences, or be subjected to insult for anv non-vompliance. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE.- 22fr The following lines were written by one of that re- ligious society, on the occasion, and cannot fail to be acceptable to every liberal mind, TO LA FAYETTE. O I think not our hearts void of gratitude's glow, For the friend of -'ur country, for liberty'' s friend ^ Tho' we do not with others loud praises bestow, The kind hand of friendship we fre* ly extend. We welcome thee back to the land where thy name, In boj^hood we lisp'd. and in manhood revere ; Tho' we bind not thy brows with the chnpiet of famej Accept, beloved guest, a warm tribute — a tear! Yes — a tear of affection which starts to the eye, When tracing thy storm-beaten pathway through life ; That th}^ principles pure could ambition defy, Thy humanity prompt thee to stay the tierce strife. In thee we behold not the chieftain whose sword Delighting in bloodshed is ever unsheath'd ; But the friend of mankind, whose mild actions afford A proof that hi-s lips no hypocrisy breath'd. Then welcome once more to the land where thy name In boyht'Od we lisp'd, and in manhood revere ; Tho' we twine not thy brows with the war-wreath of fame, Accept, beloved guest, a warm tribute — a tear. While iQ Philadelphia, General La Fayette visited I the navy yard. The Governor accompanied him in this 2^4 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. visit, and he was also attended by a large escort and procession. He was addressed by commodore Barron, in a ver}^ appropriate and feeling manner. A great number o!' ladies were presented to him at the commc- dore''s quarters. On his return, he attended a splendid entertainment provided fo him by the Free Masons A ball was also given in honor oi La Fayette, while he was in Philadelphia, the most brilliant and the most numer- ous ever known in the city. The Miss Bollmans, daughters of Dr. Bollman. who generously attempted the rescue of La Fayette from the prison at Olmutz, were present. « n one day, 2000 children assembled at the State House to be presented to him ; and one of them addressed him. The scene was said to be uncom- monly interesting. — I'he foliowing was his reply to the address of the Frs^nchmen in Philadelphia: — " My dfar countrymen, " Amidst the enjoyments with which my heart is filled in this happy country, I experience a very great one in seeing myself surrounded by the testimo- nies of your friendship It was in the Hall in which I now receive you, that the sacred sovereignty of the people was rec gnized by a French Minister, eleven years before it was proclaimed on the 11th of July, 1789, in the bosom of the Constituent Assembly. You are right in thinking that this first impulse of 1789, has, notwithstanding our misfortunes, greatly meliorated the situation of the French people. I participate in your wishes and your hopes for the freedom of our country. This hope is well founded, these wishes will be fulfill- ed. In the mean while I am happy in tendering to you this day the expression of my lively gratitude and tender affection.'^ MEMOIRS OF LA FATETTE. fttSf We give here also the address of Captain Barron t6 La Fayette, when he visited the navy yard near Phiia* deiphia : — ** General La Fayette, '^ Co receive you at this naval station with the highest honors, is not less in obedience to our in^ structions, than to the impulse of our hearts. " We rejoice in the opportunity of testifying to yoxh, and to the world, our gratitude to one distinguished a- mong that band of glorious heroes, to whom we are in- debted for the privilege we now enjoy. ''You, sir, whose whole life has been devoted to the extension of civil liberty, must at this period be en- riched by leeUngs which rarely fall to the lot of man. " Turning from the old world, whose excesses have heen almost fatal to the cause of liberty, to the new, where that cau^e has prospered to an unexampled de- gree, you see a proof, that political liberty is not vi- sionary. " The soldier will here behold the nation for which he has fought, not exhausted by his triumphs, nor sac- liticed to idle ambition, but raised by his valor to liber- ty and independence ; and while enjoying these bless- ings themselves, securing them for the remotest pos- terity. '* The patriot will here see a people, not distracted by faction, nor yet regardless of their political rights, making the most rapid strides to true greatness, and displaying in their happiness and security, the wi*dom and power of institutions engraved on their hearts. '' To you, sir, the soldier and patriot, we offer this cheering picture ; and if ever you can be recompensed for your generous devotion to us in our revolutionary 226 IJIEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. struggle, it must be in the pleasure with which you witneKSS our national happiness. " Permit me then, dear General, to assure you that among the ten milUons that bid you welcome, none do it with more sincerity than those of the navy " Answer of General La Fayette. " The extraorclinary honors of which an American yeteran is now the happy object, I consider as being shared in common with my surviving companions ; and for the greater part, bestowed as an approbation of the principle, and a tribute of regard, to the memory of the illustrious patriots with whom I have served in the cause of merica and mankmd. *' It is with the most lively feelings of an American heart, that 1 have sympathised in all the circumstances relative to the United States' Navy, and proudly glori- ed in the constant superiority of the American flag over an enemy, justly renowned for bravery and maritime skill. " I am happy, my dear Commodore, in your affec- tionate welcome ; but vvhattiver may be my feelings of personal gratitude to the Navy of the United States, I feel mj^self under still greater obligations to them, for the honor they have done to the American name in every part of the globe." The 5th of October, La Fayette left Philadelphia, on this journey to the south, by the way of Wilming- ton, Baltimore and Washington. He passed the Bran- dywine, and entered Wilmington, the capital of Dela- ware, on the 6th about noon. He was received with demonstrations of lively gratitude and joy ; and a sump- tuous repast was provided for him. He then proceed- ed to Newcastle in that state, and was present at the MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ^27 Biarria^e of Colonel V. Dupont, formerly one of his aids in France. From this place he proceeded to Frencht wn, where he was received by the aids of the Governor of Maryland, with a battahon oF h^rse as an escort for their honorable guest. He was waited on, also, by deputations both civil and military, from the city of Baltimore, each of which offered him their cor- dial salutations in the name of those whom th^y repre- sented. General iiarper was at the head of the mili- tary deputation ; a-d having- given him a hearty wel- come, introduced i.is brother officers, amounting to two hundred. Several revolutionary officers and soldiers, whij had repaired to this place for the pleasure of aa early meftin?, were also introduced to him. The joy of the meeting was reciprocal. Among the many for- mer personal friends, he met here with M. Du Bois Martin, who procured the ship in which La Fayette first came to America in 1777. The interview must have been extremely interesting. La Fayette embarked at French town in the steam boat United States, for Baltimore, furnished for his ac- commodation by that city. "On his arrival in the river, columns of smoke in the direction of Baltimore, an- nounced to those on board, the approach of a squadron of steam boats ; and in three quarters of an hour the Virginia, the Maryland, the Philadelphia, ike. swept gallantly by. two on either side, crossed immediately under the stern of the United States, and took their po- sitions en echeUon, The Maryland and Virginia then came close along side, their decks crowded with spec- tatois, who saluted the General with continued shouts. The wuole fleet then proceeded slowly up the river, all elegantly decorated with flags, closed into the cen- 228 MK^a^OIRS «F LAFAYETTE. tre as it passed the narrows opposite Fort M'Henrj, and dropt anchor, forming a semi-circle near the north- ern shore. Just as the anchor \va!« let go a signal gun was fired, and a squ-.idron of eight green and white barges, which had been awaiting the coming of La Fajette, shot a- cross the bows of the United States, and pas«sing round in regular order under the stern, came along side to receive the passengers. The first was handsomely carpetted and cushioned, manned by masters of ves- sel;-, and mteuded for La Fayette. The General embarked in this boat amidst the re- peated cheering of all around, and pushing off made way f r the others, which took on board the commit- tees and proceeded in order to the wharf The General was received on the wuarfbythe com- mander of the garrison, and proceeded to the star fort. The Governor of the State was here introduced to the General, who addressed him, to which the General made a feeling reply. He was afterwards conducted to the tent of Washington by Governor Stevens, within which he was received by the society of Cincinnati. The scene was impressive. As soon as the first emo- tions had sub-iided, the hero of the Cowpens, Colonel Howard, Pitesident of the society, addressed the Gene-, ral, who, in reply, said language could not express his feelings. He then embraced his old companions in arms. The General and invited guests then retired to an adjoinmg marquee, and took refreshments; after which he w.is seated in an elegant barouche, attended by Mr Carroll, and Generals t*mith and Howard, drawn by four black horses, with two postillions in white .-^jlk jacketSj blue sashes and black velvet caps, led by lour MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. S2S grooms similarly dressed. At the outer gate, the proces- sion was received by about 1000 cavalry. On passing Federal Hall, as; lute was fired. Descending the hall, the procession passed under an elegant arch, and an- other at the head of Market-street, where his friends left the carriage, and the General alone proceeded down the military line, in presence of thousands of both sexes. After this he descended at the Exchange, where he wa'* received by the Mayor and Councils, with an ap- propriate address and answer. He thence proceeded in his carriage to Light-street, across which,' at tht« en- trance into Market-street, an elegant pavilion had been erected, and where he was received by a fine military assemblage. Here there wps a truly splendid ceremo- ny, in presentment by the Mayor, to the General, with Pulaski's standard, made during the revolutionary war by a Moravian Nun, at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, which belonged to Pulaski's legion, raised in Baltimore in 1778. In 1779, Count Pulaski was mortally wounded a^ the attack on Savannah ; and these colors, at his de- cease, m 1780, descended to the Major, who was sabred to death in South Carolina. The venerable Paul Ben- , talou, Esq. now marshal of the district of Maryland, and at that time captain of the first troop of light drag- oons, and senior surviving officer, inherited the standard of the legion, which he ha? preserved with great care 'to this day, with ail the fond recollections and attach- ments of the veteran soldier. In the evening, the city was brilliantly illuminated, and many of the public and private buildings exhibited appropriate transpyrencies. On Friday, hundreds of citizens were presented to U 230 11EM©IRS OF LA FAYBTTt;. the General, in the Hall of the Exchange ; and in the afternoon he dined with the Mayor and Corporation. In the evening, he attended the ball and supper given to him by the citizens, which was truly splendid, and occupies many columns in the description. The General wa^ also waited upon, and addressed in the most feeling manner, by the French residents, to whom he replied in the most affectionate manner. At seven o clock in the evening the General was re- ceived at Masonic Hall, by the Grand Lodge of Mary- land, in the presence of eight hundred brethren. The General dined with the Cincinnati on Saturday. On Monday he was presented with a medal from the young men of Baltimore, with inscriptions expressive of their gratitude. He afterwards presented several colors to the fifth regiment, under ( o'onel Stewart, in his be- half, which were received with the highest military honors. The General then reviewed the regiment. — At eleven o'cli>ck he left his lodgings, and proceeded in his barouche to Whetston Point, for the purpose of reviewii)g the third division, under the command of Major General Harper. He partook of a splendid mil- itary banquet. Hc^ honors on leaving thr city were mngnificent as those of his reception. He dt^parted under escort on Monday, over the V\ ashington turnpike. He was to pass the night 30 miles from Baltimore, and enter Washington ci'y f>n Tuesday at noon." In no city which General La Fayette visited, had he met with a more cordiai welcome, ur a more splendid leceptio,., than in l>altimore. \ll were desirous to do him honor and to express their feelings of gratitude and respect for the guest of the nation. Many inlerest- hig- recollccticns must have been brought to his m^ndj MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE, 231 when in this city. It was here he passed some time in 1781, when he commanded the American Hght infantry in that quarter — when the British had a large army in the vicinity and our troops were destitute of clothing, and in a state of great despondence By his own per- sonal influence and responsibility, he obtained a loan here for the use of his troops, which was necessary to their comfort, and served to render them in a measure contented with their situation. The adtlress of his old friend Colonel Howard, in behalf of the ('incinnati of Maryland, who were assembled in the Tent of Wash- ington to receive his adopted son, and their beloved brother soldier, was as follows : — " General, " A few of your brother soldiers of Mar} land, who remain after a lapse of forty years, and the sons of some of them who are now no more, are assembled in the Tent of Washington, to greet you on your visit to the United States; and to assure you of their affection- ate and sincere regard. This Tent will call to your recollection many interesting incidents which occurred when 3'ou associated in arms with Washington, the pa- triot and soldier, saviour of his country, and friend of your youth. *• Accept, General, our cordial sentiments of esteem for you, and of gratitude ibr services rendered by you to ourcountry^ — services which will never be forgotten by the free and happy people of the United :^tates.^' To which General La Fayette replied — " The pleasure to recognize my beloved companions in arms; the sound of names, whose memory is dear to me ; this meeting under the consecrated TciU, where we so often pressed around our paternal commander in ^o2 MFMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. chief; excite emotions which your sympathizing hearts will better feel than 1 can express. This post also no- bly defended in the late war, whiie it brings the affect- ing recollection of a confidential friend in my military family, associates with the remembrance of the illustri- ous defence of another fort, in the war of the revolu- tion, by the friend now near me. [Colonel Smith.] It has been the lot of the Maryland line, to acquire glory in instances of bad as well as of good fortune ; and to whom can I better speak of that glory, than in address- ing Colonel Howard ? My dear brother soldiers, my- feelings are too strong for utterance. I thank you most affectionately." The meeting of this Society was rendered peculiar- ly interesting, — there being present, besides many other worthy veterans of the revolutionary army, Colonel John E. Howard, the celebrated hero of the battle of the Cowpens, January 1781, to whom Congress present- ed two medals, in testimony of his singular bravery — General (formerly Colonel) Samuel Smith, who brave- ly defended Mud-fort, and many years senator in Con- gress ; and Paul Bentalou, Esq. now marshal of Mary- land district, who was the senior captain of light drag- oons, belonging to Pulaski^s legion, in 1778. Here al- so the very venerable Charles Carroll, one of the sign- ers of the declaration of independence, was introduced to La Fayette. We give also an extract from the address of Govern- or Stevens, to the General. " Sir, ''In bidding you a hearty welcome to the state of Maryland, whilst I gratify the feelings of my own heart, I express, though feebly, those of the people. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ^33 whom it is my pride and pleasure, on this occasion to represent. Beneath this venerable canopy, many a time have you grasped the friendly hand of our illus- trious Washington, aided his council with your animat- ing voice, or shared with him the hardy soldier's meal. The incidents which the association so forcibly recalls, however inspiring, it were needless to dwell upon. The recollection of them fills the mind with gratitude; a full measure of which is justly due to you, as the generous companion of our fathers, the gallant and dis- interested soldier of liberty. — You are about to enter the city of Baltimore, which you have kno\yn in other days. In her growth and embellishment, you will be- hold a symbol of our national prosperity, under popu- lar institutions and a purely representative government. — Welcome, thrice welcome, General, to the soil of Maryland. Nothing which we can do, can too strongly express to you the affection and respect which we en- tertain for your person and your principles, or the joy with which we receive you among us, as a long absent father on a visit to his children." To this address La Fayette replied — " While your Excellency is pleased so kindly to welcome me in the name of the citizens of Maryland, the lively gratitude, which this most gratifying recep- tion cannot fail to excite, associates in my heart, with a no less profound sense of my old obligations to this state, both as an American General and a personal friend. I am happy, sir, to have the honor to meet you in this fort, so gallantly defended in the late war, in presence of the brave colonel of the worthy volun- teers, whose glory on that occasion 1 have enjoyed with the proud feelings of an American veteran. It was by u 2 234 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. a Maryland colonel in the year 1777, that the British received, in the gallant defence of an important fort, one of the first lessons of what they were to expect from American valour and patriotism. The Maryland line, sir, in the continental army has been conspicuous, not only in days of victory, but on days either unfortu- nate or dubious. This tent, under which I now answer your affectionate address ; the monument erected to the memory of our great and good commander in chief; the column of a later date, bearing testimonies of a glo- rious event ; my entrance into a city long ago dear to me, and now become so beautiful and prosperous; fill my heart with sentiments, in which you have had the goodness to sympathize, "Accept, sir, the tribute of my respectful and affec- tionate gratitude to the citizens of the state,, and their honored chief magistrate." There was an incident connected with General La Fayette's escort to the boundary of Baltimore, which deserves to be particularly noticed. The cavalry troop was commanded by Samuel Sprigg, Esq. who, two years ago, ended a full term of service in the capacity of Governor of the state of Maryland, of which he was Captain-General and Commander in Chief Returned to private life, a wealthy planter, in the midst of all that can render life easy and pleasant, he is proud of resum- ing his character of a citizen, and becoming a member of a troop of horse, in which he enrols himself with his neighbours, who choose him their commander. In that capacity, he has had the pleasure of receiving Gen- eral La Fayette at the boundary of his county, and es- corting him through it. This incident, we say, deserves to be noted as a fine practical illustration of the princi- ples of republican government. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 239 General La Fayette arrived in the city of Washing- ton, according to previous arrangement, about 1 o'clock on Tuesday the 12th. About 9 o'clock, on Tuesday morning, the General and suit left Kossburg, and proceeded to the District of Columbia, at the line of which he wb.s met by the committee of arrangements from the city of Waihing- ton, and a number of revolutionary officers, ef^corted by a handsome troop of city cavalry, and a company of Montgomery cavalry. The meeting of the General with his revolutionary compatriots, and with the com- mittee, was affectionate and impressive in the extreme. After many embraces were exchanged, the General was transferred to the elegant landau provided by the city for his use, drawn by four line greys, in which he was accompanied by Major General Brown and Com- modore Tingey, members of the committee ; and his son George Washington La Fayette, his Secretary, Col. Vassieur, and Mr. Custis, of ArlingtoD,vvere placed in another carriage provided for the purpose. The whole then advanced to the city, Capt. Sprigg's compsny in front, the remaining companies proceeding and flanking the carriages containing tho; General, his suite, the committee, &c. On rising to the extensive plain which stretches eastward from the capitol to the Anacosta river, the General found himself in front of the most brilliant military spectacle which our city ever witness- ed, being a body of 10 gr 1200 troops, composed en- tirely of volunteer companies of the city, George- town, and Alexandria, some of them recently organiz- ed, clad in various tasteful uniforms, and many of them elegant beyond any thing of the kind we have before seen. Brigadier Generals Smith and Jones were in the field with their respective suits, and the 236 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. field officers of the first brigade. These troops, together with the large body of cavalry, the vast mass of eager spectators which overspread the plain, and the aninnation of the whole, associated with the presence of the venerated object of so much curi- osity and affection, gave a grandeur and interest to th.e scene which has never been equalled here on any ibr- mer occasion. After the General had received the respects and welcome of our military chiefs, the whole body of troops took up the escort, for the capitol, wheeling into column, in East Capitol-street, and then into line upon the leading division. The General and suite then passed this line in review, advancing to- wards the capitol, and receiving the highest military honors as he passed. After the military procession had reached the east end of the market house, on Kast Capitol-street, which was handsomely adorned with proper emblems, and the Declaration of Independence, above which perched a living eagle of the largest size, the committee of ar- rangements and General La Fayette and suite alighted from their carriages and preceded by the committee, the General and suite passed through the market house, which on each side was lined with anxious and delight- ed spectators, to the east entrance of the Capitol Square, over which was thrown a neat arch, decorated with evergreens and other ornaments, v/ith appropriate la- bels, expressive of the esteem and gratitude of the ci- tizens to the national guest; on the pinnacle stood an- other eagle. On entering the gate, the General was met by a group of 25 young girls, dressrid in white, in- tended to represent the 24 States and the District of Columbia, each wearing a wreath of flowers, and beac- imMOIP.S OF LA FATETTE. 231 ing in her hand a miniature national flag, with the name of one of the States inscribed upon it ; wh^n the one representing the district advanced and arrested his progress, and, in a short speech, neatlj and modestlj delivered their welcome to the nation's guest. After which each of the young ladies presented her hand to the General, which he received in the most affection- ate manner, and with the kindest expressions. He then passed a double line of girls, properly dressed, from the schools, wh© strewed his way with flowers. Leaving the girls, he passed lines of the students of the colleges and seminaries, with their respective ban- ners, and a company of Juvenile Infantry, dressed in uniform, and armed in a suitable manner ; and then the younger boys from the schools. Ail these form- ed a numerous and highly interesting assemblage. Ar- riving at the north wing of the Capitol, the General was conducted by the committee of arrangements through the great door, up the grand staircase, into th© central rotunda of the Capitol, which though of im- mense size, was filled with ladies and gentlemen ; and, through it, received, on every side, demonstrations of the most ardent and grateful respect. On leaving the the rotunda, he passed under the vencirable tent of Washington, also tilled with ladies, revolutionary offi- cers, and other gentlemen, to the front of the portico of the Capifoi, neatly carpeted, on which was erected the tent. He was introduced to the Mayor, who in* troduced him to the Mayor of Georgetown, the mem- bers of the corporation, and other gt?nt]emen pres- ent, when advancing to the fDJ-yor ascended the landau w th the General, attended by Gen. Brown and Com. Tingey, and ^he procession was resumed in the same order as before; and passing through Pennsylvania Avenue, proceeded to ttie president's house In this pnssyge the streets were lined with sp. ctators ; but t. 7 most pleasing siglit was the windows on each side oi it tilled with ladies, in their best attire and looks, bestowMig, with beaming eyes, their benedictions on the beloved Chief, and waving white handkerchiefs, as tokens of their happiness. MEMOIRS OF laA FAYETTE. 239 ©n passing the centre market, another salute was fired fr.«m a battery south of the Tiber, by a company ©f artillery. The General, with his son, the Mayor, committee of arrangements, &c. thus e.^corted, having reached the President's house, (distant fren^ the Capitol more than a mile) passed into the gate o[ the enclosure, and thence to the portico of the mansion. The General, on alight- ing, was there received by the Marshal of the District of Columbia, and, supported by Gen. Hrown and Com* Tingey, and accompanied by the Mayor and others of the committee of a; rangements, was. with his son con- ducted into the drawinj^ room where the President was prepared to receive him. The President, stationed at the head of this circular apartment, had on his right hand the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury, on his left the Sec- retary of War and the Secretary of the Navy, and, ranged on each side the room, were the other gentle- men invited to he present at this interview '1 he whole ntimber of distinguised persons present being fifty or sixty. On the General's reaching the centre of the circle, the P' esident advanced to him, and gave him a cordial and affectionate reception, such as might have been ex- pected fr «m the illustrious representative of the Amer- ican people, to one of those early friends of theirs, whom, like himself, they delight to honor. After the interchange of courtesies between the guest and the President, he was welcomed by the Heads of Departments. Between him and Mr. Craw- ford with whom he had in France an intimate ac- quaintance, the meeting was that of old and affectionate ^40 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYE'JTE. friends : and by all he was respectfully and kindly greeted. >'ubsequently, the General was introduced in succession, by the Chief of each Department of the Government, to the officers attach d to each. Liberal refreshments were then offered to the company, and fifteen or twenty minutes were spent in delightful con- versation After which the General took his leave, well pleased with his reception, and, remounting the landau, [)roceeded to rejoin hi^ escort. Retiring from this affecting scene, the General pass- ed in review, and was saluted by the vhole body of troops, which had been wheeled into line, and extend- ed from the President's square to the Gener.J's quarters. On his alighting, he expressed his thanks to ihem for the honor bestowed on him, and then another grand salute was fired by a company of artillery : after whi<.h, the mihtary were dismissed. He retired, for a short lime, to his private room ; and, when he returned into public, was, with his suite, introduced to a great num- ber of citizens, anxious to express their heartfelt res- pect to the disinterested champion of their country'^ liberty. To an address from the ^'ayor, full of fine feeling, the General made the following reply: — *' The kind and flattering reception with which I am honored by the citizens of Washington, excite the most lively feelings of gratitude ; those grateful feelings, sir, at every step of my happy visit to the United States, could not but enltance the inexpressible delight 1 have enjoyed at the sight of the immense and wrnderlul im- provements, so far beyond even the fondest anticipa- tions of a warm American heart; and which, in the «pace of forty years, have so gloriously evinced the su- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 241 perioiity of popular institutions, and self government, over tbe too imperfect state of political civilization, found in every part of the other hemisphere. In this august place, which bears the most venerable of all ancient and modern names, I have, sir, the pleasure to contemplate, not only a centre of that constitutional Union so necessary to these States, so important to the interests of mankind ; but also a great political school, where attentive observers from other parts of the world may be taught the practical science of true so- 'cial order. " Among the circumstances of my life, to which you have been pleased to allude, none can afford me such dear recollections, as my having been early adopted as an American soldier ; so there is not a circumstance of my reception in which I take so much pride, as in shar- ing those honors with my beloved coiupanions in arms. Happy I am to feel that the marks of affection and esteem bestowed on me, bear testimony to my perseverance in the American principles I received under the tent of Washington, and of which I shall, to my last breath, prove myself a devoted disciple. I beg you, Mr- May- or, and the gentlemen of the Corporation, to accept my respectful acknowledgments to you and to the citizens eet the United States steam boat, which had La Faj'ette on board. He entered the former near the mouth of the river, where he was received by the committee from Yorktown, and conveyed to that place, attended by four other large boats, crowded with citizens anxious to see and wel- come " the guest of the nation." One of the commit- tee addressed him, in a very affectionate and impressive manner, as soon as he came on board of the Virginia steam boat. A great concourse of people from the neighbouring towns were collected, and many from far distant places, together with the most distinguished public characters in the whole state of Virginia. There were also present on this occasion, many officers of high rank of the army and navy of the United States. Great preparations had been made by the citizens of Virginia, and by the state autliorities, to celebrate the anniversary of the capture of the British army, under Lord Cornwallis, at this place, on the 19th of October, 1781 ; an event, in which La Fayette took a very ac- tive and useful part; perhaps no general in the siege, under Washington, was more active and useful — an event, also, which had great and immediate influence with the iilnghsh government, to acknowledge our in- dependence and offer terms of an honorable peace. General La Favette had been invited, some weeks be- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 245 fore, to be present in Yorktown, at this time. The Ex-Presidents Jefferson and Madison, were also invited tb attend, but they both declined. Mr. Madison's want of health prevented ; and Mr. Jefferson declined on account of age and infirmity. AVe give his letter in reply to the ivitation. '' Monticello, Oct. 9, 1824. « Sir, *' 1 received, on the 2d instant, your favor of Sep- tember 27, conveying to me the obliging invitation of the volunteer companies of the state, lo meet them and their distinguished guest. Gen. Lvi Fayette, at York on the i9th instant. No person rejoices more than I do at the effusions of gratitude with which our fellow-citi- zens, in all parts, are receiving this their antient and virtuous friend and benefactor ; nor can any other more cordiallj^ participate in their sentiments of affection to him. Age and infirmities, however, disable me from repairing to distant occasions of joining personally in these celebrations; and leave me to avail myself of the opportunity which the friendship of the General will give by his kind assurance of a visit. He will here have the pleasure of reviemng a scene which his mili- itary manoeuvres covered from the robberies and rav- ages of an unsparing enemy. Here, then, I shall have the vi'elcom.e opportunity of joining with my grateful neighbors in manifestations of our sense of his protec- tion peculiarly afforded to us, and claiming our special remembrance and acknowledgements. But I shall not the less participate with my distant brethren by sin- cerely sympathising in their warmest expressions of gratitude and respect to their country's guest. " With this apology for my inability to profit of the v 2 ^4&' MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. honorable invitation of the vo'uateer companies, 1 pray yon to accept for them and yourself the assurance of my high respect and consideration. TH : JKFFERSON." Hon. Mr.. Marshall, the Chief Justice of the United States. Major-General Taylor of the Virginia militia, Mr. Bassett, many yt^ars a membei- of Congress from the state, and a committee from Yorktown, went in the steam boat to meet General La Fayette. The address of one of the committee, on his etitering the Vir^^nia 5team boat, was as follows : '-'• We are deputed by our fellow citizens now assem- bled at Yorktown, to welcome you to Virginia. *i We will not recount, in y.)ur presence, the real services you have rendered this republic, and the vir- tues that so endear you to us, lesteven the simple voice of truth might pain the deficacy of a mind like yours. But the emotions we all feel, of gratitude, affection and veneration for you ; emotions rendered more intense in each, by the universal sympathy of others ; these we cannot suppress. In the numerous assembly, n.iW anx- iously awaiting your arrival, they are »wellingin every bosom, and hanging on every tongue, and beaming from every eye. ^* Yes, sir, you '' read your history in a nation's eyes." A whole people unite in one deep and glowing sentiment of respect and love towards you. Whereso- ever you go, the old gre'^t you as their leader in arms, and their companion in toil and danger; the partaker, too, of theit triumph. The young have been taught, from their earliest childhood, to honor and to bless your name. The mothers and the daughters of the land shed tears of joy at your approach. Your name is MEMOIP.S OF £A FAi'F.TTEr >c4 r associated in the memory of us all, wiili every nam.e, and with m st of the events in our aniials, deapest to the Vm^rican heart j with the illustrious arul revered name ol" Washington, and with the most glorious achieve- ments of the revolution. '^ But, of ail the state- in the Union — though we will not say that Virginia is the most grateful — yet she cer- tainly owes you the largest debt of gratitud€^. This state was the c!»ief scene of your services. In the day of her gn atest peril, in the darkest hour of her dis- tress, when invading arniie* threatened to overrun the country, and all the horrors of war were pointed a- gainst our very dwellings; Washington s<^lected you, his youthful friend, for the chief coi-.mand, and secure- ly entrusted the defence ol' his native »tate to your cour- age and conduct. How zealously you undertook, how well 3'ou fultiiled the arduou-* part assigned you, with what honor to yourself, and wish what adxantage to ..s, no iirne shall obliterate the remembrance The i:;eiie- ral of the enem}^, in effect, ptonounced your eulogium, when conscious of his own abilities, Und confiding in the superiorty of his forces, he vauritingly said, "" The boy Cannot escape mo."" History record-, not only t'lat rur youthful general did escape him, but that he held safe the far greater part of the country, in spite of his ut- most efforts; and came at last to yonder spot, to assist in the capture of his army; to witness the downfall of his hopes, the humihatio ; (.} his pride, and the last ef- fort of British power against Ameri< an Ae :(!om And now, after the lapse of foity-three years, he visits l!.e Same spot again — happy to renrw there the gh r ous recollections of the past ; and yet, happier, we hope, to see how dearly we appreciate t! e blessings oi libera ty and independence which he assisted «s to achieve. 248 MF.MOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. " On that spot, sir, we are most proud fo receire you. We hail you as the hero of hberty and the friend of man. We greet you as the bosom friend of Wash- ington. We greet you as one of the father's of the re- public." General La Fayette answered — '' I am happy, sir, to find myself again, after a long absence, and to be so kindly welcomed, on the beloved soil of the state of Virginia ; that state, to which I am bound by so many old ties of gratitude, devotion, and mutual confidence. It is to the patriotic support I found in the civil authorities of this state, whose gener- ous spirit had already shone from the beginning of the revolutionary contest ; it is to the zeal, the courage, the perseverance of the Virginia militia, in conjunction with our small gallant continental army, that we have been indebted for the success of a campaign arduous in its beginning, fruitful in its happy issue. Nothing can be more gratifying to my feelings, than the testimonies 1 receive of my living still in the hearts of the Virgini- ans ; and I beg you, sir, to be pleased to accept, and transmit to the citizens of this state, the cordial tribute of my grateful, constant and affectionate respect." The beach and the heights of Yorktown were filled with anxious spectators : the anticipation was intense. The Governor and Council were stationed on a tempo- rary wharf, erected for the occasion, to receive him. Judges, revolutionary patriots, officers of the army, in- vited guests and citizen^, were also in waiting, in a sep- arate group. La Fayette landed with his companions, and supported by Colonels l-ass.-tt, liarvie, Peyton and Jones ; who introduced him lo the Governor of the State. The latter received him with the following speech :-* S^iEMOIRS OF LA FAyET'I*E. 2^ " General La Fayette, ''Sir — On behalf of the p6ople of Virginia, I tender to you a most cordial and hearty welcome to our State. " In you we recognise the early, the stedfast, thfe consistent friend. Whilst the United Slates in general, owe you so large a debt of gratitude, for the liberal ten- der of your purse, your person and your blood in their behalf, the state of Virginia, is, if possible, still more deeply indebted to you. — You were her defender in the hour of her greatest trial. At the early age of twenty four years, with an army greatly inferior in numbers, and still more in equipments and discipline, ypu conduct- ed your military movements with so much judgment, that the ablest officer of the British army could never obtain the slightest advantage over you ; and whilgt that officer spent his time in harrassing our distressed state, you manoeuvred before him with the most unceasing caution and vigilance, with a steady eye, to that grand result, which brought the war to a crisis on the plains of York. " Forty-three years from that period, we have the hapiness to find you in our country, the vast improve- ment of which is the most conclusive evidence of the correctness of the principles for which you contended by the side of Washington. " I will conclude, sir, by the expression of a sentiment, which I believe lo be strictly true ; — It is, that no man, at any time has ever received the effusions of a nation's feelings, which have come so directly from the heart." The General advanced, and grasping the Gover- nor's hand, said, — " I am gratified sir, most highly grat- ified, by the reception you have given me on the part of the state of Virginia, The i^appy conduct and th« S^50 MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETt£. successful termination of the decisive campaign, ifl which jou have the goodness to ascribe to me so large a part, were attributable much more to the constituted authorities and people of Virginia, than to the general who was honored with the chief military command. 1 have the livliest recollection of all the scenes of my services in this state, and of all the men with whom it was my happiness and honor to serve — and happy as I was to assist and witness the accomplishment of Ameri- can liberty and independence, I have been yet happier in the assurance that the blessings which have flowed from that great event, have exceeded the fondest and most sanguine expectations." The General was then successively introduced to the councillors, the judges, the revolutionary officers, and a number of citizens. The procession then advanced — Gen. La Fayette, the Governor, Chief Justice, and Mr. Galhoun, the Secretary of War, seated in the barouche. Next La Fayette's son and suite, and the Council, &c. &c. in regular succession. It advanced (the General's head uncovered) amidst the salutes from the artillery company stationed on the heights and from the steam boats and small craft — and amid the full swell of music. It passed through the long lines of citizens and old rev- olutionary soldiers arranged in two columns. It wound up the hill, and fin ally terminated at the General's quar- ters. — On entering the house (Gen. Nelson's) he was cheered by a crowd of citizens. The introduction of a number of ladies and citizens followed — receiving all with interest and the quiet dig- nity of a spirit at peace within itself, and pleased with all the world. The most interesting of these inter- views were with th e soldiers of the revolution. One MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 25 1 91 them advanced, seized the General by the hand, exclaiming, ^* I was with you at Yorktown. I entered yonder redoubt at your side. I too was at the siile of the gallant De Kalb, xour ; ssociate in arra^, when he fell in he field.'' The tears st.eame-d from the vete- ran's eyes ; and La Fayette vhowed by his countenance the sympathy he felt. '^ Yes, m\ brave soldier, I am happy to have lived, to meet you once more." After a short time, La Fayette, respecting that ines- timable spirit of eqiJahty which pervades over free in- stitutions, wi^nt forth to salute the crowd of citizens who stood in the street. He was stationed at, the gate, and the long line of gratified spectators passed by him. F.ach person seized his hand a« he passed him. ! o all La Fayette extended soase mark of kindness and consideration. The spectacle was deeply impressive. The variety of manners in the different spectators wtis singularly striking. Some as they approached, tixed their eyes on his fare, and lingered after they had pass- ed, as if to drink in tne last expression of its counte- nance. Others advanced with the deepest feelings of awe, with their eyes cast upon the earth. On Monday. La Fayette dined with a select company of some 20 or 30, consisting of the revolutionary offi- cers, ike. At night, some transparencies were exhibit- ed over the door of his house, and under the Richmond marquee. In truth, the scene exceeded all rational expecta- tion : I he committee of arrangements deserve much encomium for their enterprising .spirit and judicious ef- forts. It is a scene which no man who saw it will er- er forget. The Virginians appeared in their true col- ours. — The moral eifects of this spectacle were sub- 2bz MEMOmS CF LA FAYETTE. lime. There was an effect in it, which no words x^an describe. Tears streamed from an hundred ejes. The sentiments it diffused through several thousands of spec- tators, were, of the loftiest character. On this day, Monday 18th, the reception was purely civic, not a soldier appeared under arms. But on the 191h the military spectacle was imposing and briUiant. Soon after breakfast, La Fayette walked from his quarters, to the tent of W;>shington, surrounded by the committee of arrangements and others. Numbers were then introduced to him — many ladies, the veteran soldiers of the revolution, citizens from other states and all quarters of Virginia. Col. Wm. I. Lewis, of Campbell, was introduced to him, and delivered the following address : — ''Gkn. La Fayette, '' The sons of the mountains join most cordially their low land brethren in welcoming your return to this country, they are the more delighted at this particular period, because after an absence of about forty years, you will now be a witness of the happy (effects of self government, founded on the natural rights of man — • rights, which you so nobly contributed to establish. Lit- tle did you think when in j'outhful age, you voluntarily put your life in your hand, and crossed the stormy bil- lows of the deep, to %ht and bleed for the independence of America, that the results would have been so won- derful. At that period we were only a handful of peo- ple, for in every thing of military import, except an invincible love and attachment for liberty — we fought, and thanks to La Fayette and his native nation, we con- quered ! — Now we see the rcsult^we have nearly by the offspring of our own loins increased to more than MEMOIRS OP LA PAYETTE. 253 10,000,000 of people cleared the immeasurable forests of savages, and wild beasts, and in their places are cul- tivating rich fields, building villages, towns, and cities; our commerce is spread over every sea, and our navy rides triumphant on the ocean. Such are the effects of free government, founded on equal rights, supported by wise and merciful laws faithfully executed ! — There is but one allov to our pleasure of meeting you — we drf^ad your return to Europe. The despots of that countr envy _your increasing glory, founded on virtue, which they cannoi imitate ; and their political fears may again incarserate you in the grated walls of a dungeon ! Stay then with us, La Fayette — stay with us — here ia every house you will find a homs and in every heart a friend — we will with filial affection rock with gen- tleness the cradle of your dic'ining age; and when it shall please the God of universal nature to call you to himself, crowned with the ble^ssin^s of at least one free and mighty nation, we will then with holy devotion bury your bones by the side of your adf^pted and im- ' mortal father, and moisten your tomb with the tears of love and gratitude," The costume and whole appearance of Cul. Lewis were striking and interesting ; !:•-' h:.d on the nountain •^ress. On the conclusion ot ih- ati- ress, the General grasped him with both hands, and m the mosl touchiog manner, bej^ged him to convf-y to his rnou'-tain friends his most affectionate acknwwledgments for this testimo- ny of their kindness. He recounted the services which their gallantjy had formerly rendered him He dwelt ' with delight upon the interest they now muiUtested in his happiness. About 11 o^clock, the procession began to form for X 254 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE^ the triumphal arch, erected on the ruins of (he Itock Redoubt, standing within six yards of the river's bank. The ceremony of the reception at that most interesting point, was pathetic beyond expression. The old Gen- eral advanced up the hillock which leads to the redoubt, limping and supported by the Governor, with his aids and members of the committee of arrangement. A large column of officers and citizens followed them. \l hen La Fayette had reached the triumphal arch, General Taylor stepped from the simicircular group, which was formed near the river's bank, saluted him with profound respect, and addressed him in the fol- lowing manner : " Gf.neral, " < m behalf of my comrades, 1 bid you wecome. They come to greet you, with no pageantry, intended to surprise by its novelty, or dazzle by its splendour : But they brmg you. General, an offering which wealth could not purchase, nor power constrain. On this day, associated with so many thrilling recollections ; on this spot, consecrated by successful valour, they come to offer you this willing homage of their hearts. " Judge, General, of their feehngs at this moment by your own. Every thing around them speaks alike to their senses and sensibilities. These plains, where the peaceful plow-share has nut yet effaced the traces of military operations ; these half decayed ramparts, this ruined village, in which the bombs' havoc is still every where visible, tell us of past warfare ; and remind VIS of that long, arduous and doubtful struggle, on the igsue of which depended the emancipation of our country. " On yonder hillock, the last scene of blood was closed by the surrender of an army; and the liberty © MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE- 256 cor nation permanently secured. With what resistless eloquence does it pursuade our gratitude and admira- tion for the gallant heroes, to whose noble exertions we owe the countless blessings which our free institutions have conferred upon us ? " "I'he spot on which we stand was once a redoubt occupied by our enemy. With how rapid a pencil does imagination present the blooming chieftain, by whom it was wrested from his grasp. Can we be here and forget, that superiar to the prejudices which then enchained even noble minds, he perceived in the first and almost hopeless struggles of a distant and obscure colony, the movement of that mora! power, which was destined to give a nc.v direclioa and char. acter to political institutions, and to improve human happiness. Can we forget, that, deaf to the soHcitatioiis of power, of rank, and of pleasure, with a noble prodi- gality, he gave to our country his sword, his treasure, and the influence of his example. '^ And when in the aged warrior who stands before us, we recognise that youthful chieftain, with what rapid- ity does memory retrace the incidents of his eventful life ? With what pleasure do we see his manhood real- ize the promise of his youth ? In senates or in camps, Ie the palaces of kings, or in their dungeons^ we behold the same erect and manly spirit. At one time temper- ing the licentiousness of popular feeHng ; at another restraining the extravagance of power, and always re- gardless of every thing but the great object of his life, the moral and paUtical improvement of mankind. " General — In the brightest days of antiquity, no arti- ficial stimulus of rank or power, or wealth, was requir- ed to excite noble minds to acts of jgenerous daring, ^ %^ ilKMOlRS OF LAFAtETTE. wreath of laurel, or of oak, was at once the proof and the reward of illustrious merit. For this, statesmen meditated, warriors bled, and eloquence soared to its sublimest heights. The prize was invaluable; for, it was won only by merit. It detracted, however, some- what from its worth, that it was conferred by the par- tiaiity of compatriots, and in the fervor of admiration inspired by recent success. " Your life, General, illustrious throughout, in this also is distinguished. — Time which dims the lustre of ©rdinary merit, has rendered yours more brilliant. Af- ter a lapse of^early half a century, your triumph is decreed by the sons of those who witnessed your ex- ploits. " Deign then, General, to accept the simple but ex:^ pressive token of their gratitude and admiration. Suf- ^^r their leader to place upon your veteran brow the ©nly crown it would not disdain to wear, the blended embltms of civic worth and martial prowess. It will ;aot pain you, General, to perceive some scattered Fprigs of melancholy cypress intermingled with tb& blended leaves of laurel and oak. Your heart would turn from us wish fgenerous indignation, if on an occa- sion like this, amid the joyous acclamations which greet yon, every where, were heard no sighs of grate- Jul recollection for those gallant men who shared yous )i>attles, but do not, cannot share your triumph. The wreath which our gratitude has woven to testify our love for you, will lose nothing of its fragrance, or its verdure, though time hang upon its leaves some teai-s ©f pious recollection of the friend of your early youth : In war the avenger, in peace, the father of his couatry. *' In behalf then, of all the chivalry of Virginia ; on MEM01K5 OF LA FAYETTE. 257 this redoubt, which his valour wrested from the en- emy at the point of the bayonet ; I place on the head of Major General La Fayette this wreathe of double triumph: — won by numerous and illustrious acts of martial prowess, and by a life devoted to the happiness of the human race. In their names, I proclaim him alike victorious in arms and acts of civil polity. In ban- nered fields, a hero — in civil Hfe, the benefactor of mankind.'" La Fayette was deeply affected. There was a sol- emn earnestness in his manner, a touching sensibility in his whole countenance which most deeply impressed every observer. Many wept — all were moved. When Gen. Taylor had closed his address, he was about to fix the civic wreath upon the General's head. But the considerate veteran, always himself, always attentive to the slightei^t proprieties of word and action, caught the hovering wreath as it approached his brow with his right hand, and respectfully bowing, dropt it to his side, when he thus- replied : '• I most cordhUly thank you, my dear general, and your companions in arms, for your atTectionate welcome} jour kind rt roiloctions, and the flattering expressions of your frieiuisiiip. IJay)py I am to receive them on these already ancient lines, where the united arms of America and France have been gloriously engaged in a holy alliance to .^upport the rights of American In- dependence, and the sacred pjiiiciple of the sovereignly of the people. Hapr;y also to be so welcomed or; the particular spot where my dear light infantry comrad{>s acq'iired one of their honcralle claims to public love and esteem. You know, sir, that in this business of storming redoubts, with unloaded urni'- anH W-.i.-^:} bnvo' \ 2 258 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. nets, the merit of the deed is in the soldiers who exe- cute it, and to each of them, I am anxious to acknowl- edge their equal share of honor. Let me, however, with affection and gratitude, pay a special tribute to the gallant name of Hamilton, who commanded the at- tack, to the three field otlicers who seconded him, Gimat, Laurens and Fish, the only surviving one, my friend now near me. In their name, my dear general, in the name of the light infantry, those we have lost as well as those Avho survive, and only in common with them, 1 accept the crown with which you are pleased to honor us, and I offer you the return of the most grateful acknwledge^ ments.'' When he had closed, he gave a new proof of the rapidity of his copceptions, the generosity of his soul, the uniform modesty of his character. The very mo- ment he concluded, (never having been prepared for such a scene, never having seen the address, never hav- ing suspected the presentation of the wreath) lie turned round and drew Col. Fish to the front. '' Here he exclaimed, "half of this' wreath belongs to you." "^^ No sir, it is all your own." " Then" said La Fayette, putting it inty Col. Fish's hand, take it and preserve it as owr common property .^^ The whole scene was strongly marked by the moral sublime. This ceremony over, the grand review com- menced. La Fayette stood near the arch, and the vol- t»mteer companies, and the U. S. troops passed him in regular succession, with flags flying and music floating in the air. The troops then formed themselves again in line, and La Fayette on foot, passed down the line. Ue was carried to the obelisk, situated on the spot where Vimiojaei had stormed the second redoubt.— The MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETlT. 23f9 review over, and La Fayette having seen, and been seen by all the troops, he mounted his barouche in com- pany with the g:oTernor, and was followed by the oth- er carriages. The whole body of military and citizens then moved to the field, near to which the British troops had grounded their amis in ,1781. Between these, and the amphitheatre, where at least one thousand ladies sat, the barouche passed on near to the ladies, who con- tinued to wave their white handkerchiefs as he slowly moved on. "Ladies, receive my warm thanks foryour kind vv'elcome,'* was constantly upon his lips. The whole scene defies description. Here were the fields, which forty-three years ago, had witnessed the tread of a conquered enemy! A thousand associations of this description rushed upon the mind. Now, filled with an aniniaied and joyous throng of from lU to 15,000 persons. The spectacle surpassed all expeclation ; all expression. ^Vhen at the tomb of Washington, (se^ p^^ge 245) Mr. Custis addressed him as follows: — ^' Last of the generals of the army of Independence ! At this awful and impressive moment, when forgetting the splendour of a triumph greater than Roman consul ever had, you bend with reverence over the remains of Washington, the child of Mount Vernon presents you with this token, containing the hair of him, whom while living you loved, and to v^ hose honored grave you now pay the manly and affecting tribute of a patriot's and a soldier's tear. " The ritig has ever been an emblem of tlie union of hearts from the earliest ages of the world ; and this will unite the affections of all the Americans to the per- son and posterity of La Fayette, now and hereafter. 260 AiEMOIRS OF LA PAYETTE. And when your descendants of a distant day shall be- hold this valued relic, it will remind them of the hero- ic virtues of their illustrious sire, who received it, not in the palaces of princes, or amid the pomp and vani- ties of life, but at the laurelled grave of Washington. '' Do you ask, — is this the Mausoleum befitting the ashes of a Marcus Aurelius, or the good Antonius ? I tell you, that the father of his country lies burled in the hearts of his countrymen; and in those of the brave, the good, the free, of all ages and nations. Do you seek for the tablets, which are to convey his fame to immoi tallity ? They have long been written in the freedom and happiness of their country. These are the monumental trophies of Washington the great ; and will endure when the proudest works cf art have '^ dis- solved and left not a wreck behind " '• Venerable man ! Will you never tire in the cause of freedom and human happiness? Is it not time that you should rest from your labours, and repose on the bosom of a country, which delights to love and honor you, and will teach her children's children to idess 3^our name and memory? Surely, where liberty dwells, there must be the country of La Fayette. "Our lathers witnessed the dawn of 3'our glory, par- took of its meridian splendour; and oh, let their chil- dren enjoy the benign radiance of your setting sun. And when it shall sink in the horizon of n;jiure, hese^ here with pious duty, we will form your sepulchre; and, united in death as in life, by the side .i the great chief you will rest in peace, till the last trum{) auakes the slumbering world, and calls your virtues to their great reward. '•'' The joyous shouts 0/ millions ^}( i\eoiae:i builQd MSMOlRS OF LA FAYETrE. 2&1 your returning foot-print on our sands. The arms of miliioos are opened wide to take you to their grateful hearts ; and the prayers of millions ascend to the throne of the Eternal, that the choicest blessings of heavea may cheer the latest days of La Fayette." General La Fayette having received the ring, press- ed it to hi-» bosom, and replied — " The feelings, which at this awful moment oppress my heart, do not leave the power of utterance- I can only thank you, my dear Custis, for your precious gift. I pay a silent homage to the tomb of the greatest and best of men, my paternal friend." General La Fayette was escorted to his quarters by the troops, and a sumptuous dinner provided for him, and the distinguished civil and military characters who were present on the occasion. The following morning> the officers of the volunteer companies present, prepar- ed a military breakfast. Thp table was spread in the tent of Washington, which was pitched at the volun- teer's encampment. He left York Wednesday after- noon, and reached Willinmsburg in the evening, where he was received with open arms by the citizens. Kence he proceeded to Norfolk, where he had been previously invited, and where great preparations were made to receive him according to his distinguished merit, and his highly important services to the country. From Norfolk he was to proceed to Richmond ; and thence farther south through North and South Caroli- na, to Georgia. Invitations have been given him to visit Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio; but it is proba- ble he will decline them. For he intends returning to Washington in December, and to spend most of the 262 MEM6lRS^ OP LA FATETTE. winter season in that city. Early in the spring, he will probably visit the northern stales again ; and em- bark for France, at Boston, some time in June or July. There is a strong and very general desire that La Fayette should pass the remainder of his life in the United States; and that the national government should provide a respectable establishment for him and his family in this country. That the representatives of the people will be ready to grant an honorable stipend, there cannot be a doubt. But France is his native country and his home. There* are his children and big grand children. There, it is natural, he should desird to pass his few remaining years. And such an inten- tion, we believe, he has expressed. What will be his final resolution on the subject, we will not conjecture. From the New York Commercial Advertiser. LA FAYETTE. O deep was the gloom on our sad land descending, And wild was the moan from the tempest's dread fornr, While the heroes and sires of our country were bending Their souls to their God, and their brows to the storm. Who bounds to the shore from the dark bosom'd ocean. In the sparkle and pride of his beauty and youth ? His ardent mind burning, his soul all devotion, To the high cause of liberty, justice and truth? He joins the bold band, who, with spirits undaunted, Strive to guard and to win, ali man's bosom holds dear j It is done ! thoy have triumphM ! and heaven has granted Fair freedom to crown their majestic careen MfeMftlRS OP LA PATltTE. 563 How lovely the land where the bright sun is flinginjg The purple and gold from his throne in the west ! There millions of hearts in their gladness are singing, There iinds the poor exile contentment and rest. The eagle that rush'd on a torn, bloody pinion, AndsoarM to the sky 'mid the cidmors of fight, Now wings his proud way in untroubled dominion, While the nations all silently gaze on his flight. Who comes o'er the billow with head bent and hoary, With lull throbbing heart, and with glistening eye? Past years roll before him — the scene of his glory Fills his heart with emotions, deep, solemn and high- Great man ! thy lov'd name to the skies is ascending, A name whose remembrance no time can destroy. While gladness and grief are within us contending, For all thou hast suffer'd, and all xi^e enjoy. We will rank thee with him, who was sent us by heaven , Ye shall meet in our hearts as in glory ye met : Spread, ye winds, the ^lad news ! to our wishes is givet^ The friend ol our Washington, brave La Fayette^ TO LA FAYETTE. WeHl search the earth, and search the sea^ To cull a gallant wreath for thee ; And every field tor treedom fought, And every mouatain-height, where au^ht Oi liberty can yet be found. Shall be our bloommg harvest-ground^ tQi4: IffiMOIRS OF LA VkVWtXt. Laurels in garlands hang upon Thermopylae and Marathon ;— On Bannockburn the thistle grows; — On Runnymead the wild rose blows ; — And on the banks of Boyne, its leaves Green Erin's shamrock wildly weaves. In France, in sunny France, we'll §et The Fleur-de-Irs and mignonette From every consecrated spet, Where lies a martyr'd Huguenot ; — And cull even hre, from many a field, And many a rocky height, Bays, that our vales and mountains yiel^ Where men have met to fight For law, and liberty, and life. And died in freedom's holy strife. Beiow Atlantic seas, — below The waves of Erie and Champlaia, The sea-grass and the corals grow In rostral trophies round the slain ; And we can add to form thy crown, Some branches worthy thy renown. Long nny the chaplet flourish brightj And borrow from the Hea^vens its li^ht! As wiih a cloud th;it circles round A star, when other diars are set, W^ith glory shall thy brow be bound, W'ith glory shall thy he^:) be crowned, With glory-sturiike cinctured yet:— Fof air, and earlh, and sky, and sea. Shall yield a glorious wreath to thee.