In the spring of 1777 the army of Washington amounted to about 7000 men.

No action occurred between the main armies until August when the British

landed in Maryland with the intention of capturing Philadelphia. On the

11th of September the two armies met at Brandywine--a desperate battle

ensued and a partial dearly purchased victory was gained by the English.

On the approach of the enemy the City of Penn was abandoned. On the 4th

of October another severe battle was fought at Germantown which proved

disastrous to the American troops in consequence of their becoming

separated and confused by a thick fog. These keen misfortunes were more

than balanced by the capture of the entire British army in the north

under Burgoyne by Gen. Gates on the 17th of October. On the reception of

this news France recognised the Independence of the United States,

entered into a treaty of alliance and furnished important aid by sending

many of her brave sons to the rescue. The English retreated to New York

in the spring of 1778 from which place they made frequent descents upon

various places, destroying private property, murdering the inhabitants

and spreading desolation wherever they went. They sent an expedition to

Georgia and were crowned with victory. During this year no decisive

battle was fought. The same during 1779. The British seemed to be better

pleased with a predatory warfare than pitched battles which they carried

on in a manner that put savage barbarity in the shade and made the

inquisitor general of Madrid mourn for lost humanity. Alas for the

Christian majesty of mother Britain.

Again the exertions of Washington were almost paralyzed for the want of

men and money. The French Admiral D'Estaing was unfortunate in all his

movements. The British lion was prowling through the land in all the

majesty of cruelty. The anchor of hope could scarcely keep the shattered

bark of Liberty to its moorings--the cable of exertion lost thread after

thread until but a small band of _genuine_ patriots and heroes were left

as a nucleus to breast the fury of the storm that rolled its dashing

surges over them. But they clung to the creaking craft with a death grip

and weathered the terrific gale. The campaign of 1780 terminated more

favorably to the American arms. The south had become the main theatre of

action. The cruelties of the enemy had prepared more hearts to do

service in the cause of Liberty. The people were brought to see their

true interests and rallied under the banner of freedom determined on

victory or death. Gates, the hero of Saratoga, was put in command of the

southern army--fresh aid arrived from France--the conflict was one of

desperation. On the 18th of August a severe battle was fought near

Camden, S. C. The British were the victors. Defeat now only served to

rally the bone and sinew of the land. The hardy sons of Columbia rose

like a phoenix from ashes and hurled the thunderbolts of vengeance among

their savage foes with the fury of Mars. Every battle weakened and

disheartened the enemy when a victory was gained. A few more conquests

like those at Camden and Guilford Court House would seal their doom. The

energetic Greene succeeded Gates. The campaign of 1781 opened.

Washington moved to the south. Wayne, Lee, Greene, La Fayette, Nelson

and other brave officers were there. Count de Grasse was co-operating

with his fleet. In their turn the British lords, admirals and generals

found themselves surrounded with impending dangers. An awful crisis was

pressing upon them. Retribution stared them in the face. Their deeds of

blood haunted their guilty souls--consternation seized their troubled

minds. Lord Cornwallis concentrated his forces at Yorktown which he

fortified in the best possible manner.

On the 6th of October the combined forces of Washington and Rochambeau

commenced a siege upon this place which surrendered on the 19th of the

same month. The grand Rubicon was passed--the work was done--the

Colonies were free. That was the dying struggle of British monarchy in

America. Hope of conquering her indomitable sons expired like the death

flickering of a glow-worm. Heaven had decreed they should be free--that

decree was consummated. Like Jordan's dove, the Eagle of Liberty

descended to cheer the conquering heroes--snatched the laurels from

Britain's brow and placed them triumphantly upon the CHAMPIONS OF

AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE. To the friends of FREEDOM the scene was joyful,

sublime--to its enemies--painful, humiliating. This victory was hailed

with enthusiastic gratitude. It placed Washington on the loftiest

summit, of immortal fame--secured Liberty to his beloved country,

stopped the effusion of human blood, sealed the foundations of our

Republic--prepared an asylum for the oppressed--planted deep the long

nursed TREE OF LIBERTY.

On the 30th of September 1783 a definitive treaty was signed at Paris by

Messrs. Fitzherbert and Oswald on the part of Great Britain and Messrs.

John Adams, Franklin, Jay and Laurens on the part of the United States.

On the 2d of November Washington issued his farewell orders to his army

in terms of affectionate eloquence and parental solicitude. On the 3d

the troops were disbanded by Congress. With mingling tears of joy and

gratitude they parted and repaired finally to their homes to meet the

warm embrace, the fervent grasp of their families and friends--there to

reap the rich fruit of their perilous toils free from the iron scourge

of despotism. On the 23d of December Washington appeared in the hall of

Congress and resigned his commission. This act was one of sublimity and

thrilling interest. The past, present and future--all rushed upon the

mind of this great and good man as he invoked the blessings of Heaven to

descend and guard the Liberty of his beloved emancipated country. Every

eye was fixed upon him--every heart beat quicker--emotion rose to its

zenith--he laid the commission on the table--a burst of applause rent

the air--a flood of tears closed the scene.

No longer under the maternal care of their old mother, the people of the

United States were left to try the yet problematical experiment of self

government. Difficulties arose from local jealousies and conflicting

interests--a debt of forty millions of dollars had been

contracted--government paper became greatly depreciated--the public

credit was shivering in the wind--the Liberty that had been so dearly

purchased seemed doomed to a premature dissolution. To avoid this

threatened disaster delegates convened at Philadelphia from all the

States except Rhode Island for the purpose of devising a plan to

preserve and perfect that freedom which had cost millions of treasure

and fountains of noble blood. Washington was unanimously elected

President of this august body. After long and patient deliberation the

labors of these patriots resulted in the production of the Federal

Constitution, one of the brightest specimens of a republican form of

government on record. It is the grand palladium of our LIBERTY, the

golden chain of our UNION, the broad banner of FREEMEN, a terror to

tyrants, a shining light to patriots, the illustrated chart of our

rights and duties, a safeguard against disorganizing factions and

stamped its illustrious authors with a meritorious fame that succeeding

generations will delight to perpetuate.

On the 17th of September this was reported to Congress and was promptly

approved. It was immediately sent to the several states for

consideration all of which sanctioned it at that time except North

Carolina and Rhode Island. The former acceded to it in 1789, the latter

in 1790. Confidence was then restored and Independence made secure. From

that time to the present our nation has advanced on the flood tide of

successful experiment and been blessed with an increasing prosperity

that has no parallel in the annals of history. The star spangled banner

waves proudly on every sea and is respected by all the nations of the

earth. Our improvements at home have marched in advance of the boldest

conceptions of the most visionary projectors--the fondest anticipations

of their most ardent friends. They have often outstripped the most

adventurous speculators.

By the unanimous voice of a free and grateful people Washington was

elected the first President of the new Republic. With the same

proverbial diffidence and modesty that had marked his whole career he

took the oath of office on the 30th of April 1789. This imposing

ceremony was performed in presence of the first Congress under the

Federal Constitution assembled in the city of New York and in presence

of a crowded audience who deeply felt and strongly expressed their

filial affection for the father of their country. He at once entered

upon the important duties that devolved upon him which were neither few

or small. A cabinet was to be created, a revenue raised, the judiciary

organized, its officers appointed and every department of government to

be established on a firm, impartial, just and humane basis. In all these

arrangements he exhibited great wisdom, exercised a sound discretion and

proved as able a statesman as he had been a general. Deliberation and

prudence guided him at all times. He acted up to but never transcended

the bounds of equal justice and delegated authority. An angel could do

no more.

During his administration of eight years he brought into full force his

noblest energies to advance the best interests of his country--meliorate

the condition of those who were suffering from the effects of a

protracted war--improve the state of society, arts, science,

agriculture, manufactures--commerce--disseminate general

intelligence--allay local difficulties and render the infant Republic as

happy and glorious as it was free and independent. His patriotic

exertions were crowned with success--his fondest anticipations were

realized--he finished the work assigned him with a skill before

unknown--the government foundations were laid deep and strong--the

superstructure was rising in grandeur--Washington wrote his farewell

address and on the 4th of March 1797 retired from public life honored

and loved by a nation of freemen, respected and admired by a gazing

world--crowned with an unsullied fame that will grow brighter and more

brilliant through all time. He then repaired to Mount Vernon to repose

in the bosom of his family and enjoy that domestic peace by his own

fireside that he had long desired. He had served his country long, ably,

impartially, justly. He could look back upon a life well spent in the

cause of human rights, liberal principles and an enlarged philanthropy.

For his arduous services during the revolutionary war Washington took no

compensation. More than this, owing to the depreciation of continental

money he paid three-fourths of his own expenses. He kept a correct book

entry of every business transaction and produced a written voucher for

every disbursement he had made of public funds. During his presidential

terms his expenses exceeded his salary over five thousand dollars a year

which he paid from his private funds and refused a proffered

remuneration. With the exception of his appointment as

commander-in-chief of the American army in 1798 when France threatened

invasion, Washington was relieved from any farther participation in

public affairs. He continued to live at Vernon's sacred Mount until the

14th of December 1799 when his immortal spirit left its noble tenement

of clay--soared aloft on angel wings to realms of enduring bliss there

to receive a crown of unfading glory--the reward of a spotless life

spent in the service of his country and his God. His body was deposited

in the family tomb where it slumbered amidst the peaceful groves of his

loved retreat until 1837, when it was deposited in a splendid marble

sarcophagus designed by Mr. Strickland and manufactured and presented by

John Struthers, marble mason, both of the city of Philadelphia. Upon the

top of this masterpiece of workmanship is most exquisitely and boldly

carved the star spangled banner surmounted by the American Eagle. Under

these the name WASHINGTON is carved in bold relievo. The design and

finely finished work do great credit to Mr. Strickland as an architect

and to Mr. Struthers as an artist. The gift and the delicate manner it

was presented by the latter worthy gentleman do honor to his head and

heart. The body was in a state of preservation as remarkable as the

history of the man in life. The face retained its full form and fleshy

appearance and was but slightly changed in color. The ceremony of

removal was sublimely interesting and witnessed by a large concourse of

tearful spectators. This hallowed spot is visited yearly by large

numbers who approach it with profound veneration and awe. All nations

revere the memory of the father of our country--unborn millions will

chant his praise. Foreigners are proud to say they have visited the tomb

of Washington at Mount Vernon. This estate was left to George Washington

by his brother Lawrence in 1754. This brother served under Admiral

Vernon in his memorable attack upon Carthagena in 1741. Having been

treated with marked attention by the Admiral he named his estate in

commemoration of him.

The name of George Washington is associated with every amiable and noble

quality that can adorn a man. It is encircled by a sacred halo that

renders it dear to every philanthropist--respected by all civilized

nations. His fame is too bright to be burnished by eulogy--too pure to

be tarnished by detraction. His praises have been proclaimed by talents

of the highest order, hearts of the warmest devotion, imaginations of

the happiest conception--eloquence of the loftiest tone. It would

require an angel's pen dipped in ethereal fire and an angel's hand to

guide it to fully delineate the noble frame work and perfect finish of

this great and good man. Like the sun at high meridian, the lustre of

his virtues can be seen and felt but not clearly described. His picture

is one on which we may gaze with increased delight and discover new

beauties to the last. Like that of our nation--his history is without a

parallel. Unblemished rectitude marked his whole career, philanthropy

his entire course, justice his every action. Under the most trying

circumstances and afflictive dispensations a calm holy resignation to

the will of God added a brighter lustre to his exalted qualities. Like a

blazing luminary--his refulgence dims the surrounding stars and

illuminates the horizon of biography with a light ineffable. His

brilliant achievements were not stained with that reckless effusion of

blood that marked the ambitious Caesar, the conquering Alexander and the

disappointed Bonaparte. He was consistent to the last.

In private life he was graced with all the native dignity of man,

reducing all things around him to a perfect system of harmony, order,

economy, frugality and peace. In every thing he was chastened by

sterling merit, actuated by magnanimity, mellowed by benevolence,

purified by charity. He was a living epistle of all that was great and

good. He was the kind husband, the widow's solace, the orphan's father,

the faithful friend, the bountiful benefactor, the true patriot, the

examples worthy the contemplation and imitation of all who figure on the

stage of public action or in the walks of retired life. His private

worth was crowned with amaranthine flowers, richer and sweeter than the

epic and civic wreaths that decked his brow in the public view of an

admiring world. His virtues were enlivened by the richest colors of

godliness--his mind was finished by the finest touches of creative

power. His sacred memory will live through the rolling ages of

time--will be revered until the wreck of worlds and the dissolution of

nature shall close the drama of human action--Gabriel's dread clarion

rend the vaulted tombs--awake the sleeping dead and proclaim to

astonished millions--TIME SHALL BE NO LONGER.

ANTHONY WAYNE.

The history of the Sages and Heroes of the American Revolution cannot be

too often examined by the present and coming generations. To learn their

disinterested patriotism, bold conceptions, daring exploits,

unparalleled sufferings, indomitable perseverance, noble fortitude,

enduring patience and their exalted virtues--is to know something of the

high price our freedom cost. To properly appreciate the liberty we

enjoy is one of the best safe guards of its perpetuity. In the peaceful

enjoyment of inestimable blessings we are too apt to forget their origin

and their value. Could the torrents of blood shed to obtain the high

privileges we now inherit be placed in one mighty reservoir upon which

all our people could look for a single moment, millions would blush at

their own apathy in the preservation of our dearest interests. We have

many reckless demagogues and bold disorganizers in our midst who should

be baptized in this fountain of blood for the remission of their

political sins--some who set the Federal Constitution at naught and

would glory in the dissolution of our blood bought UNION. When our love

of country grows cold and respect for the chart of our Liberty is

lost--the sooner we emigrate the better for all concerned--not up salt

river but to Chinese Tartary or Chimborazo.

Among those who freely contributed to the revolutionary fountain of

blood was Anthony Wayne, born in Waynesborough, Chester County,

Pennsylvania on the 1st of January 1745. His grandfather held a

commission in the army of William III. and fought at the battle of the

Boyne on the 1st of July 1690 and at Aughrine on the 12th of July 1691

at both of which the Irish under James II. were defeated. At the last

battle their struggle for Independence ended and has never been renewed.

His father was a respectable farmer and placed this son at school in

Philadelphia where he received a good English education. He was

delighted with the study of mathematics and became familiar with

surveying and engineering at an early age. His taste for military

tactics was developed during his boyhood. His father and grandfather

were both men of military prowess. As young Anthony listened to the

story of their exploits he contemplated the field of battle, the clash

of arms and the shouts of victory with burning enthusiasm. This grew

with his growth and ripened with his manhood.

In 1773 he succeeded his father in the Colonial Assembly where he became

an active member and took a bold stand in favor of liberal principles

and equal rights. He did much to rouse the people to a just sense of

impending danger. His boldness inspired confidence--his energy prepared

for action. He preferred digging a grave with his sword rather than

tamely submit to foreign dictation based upon tyranny and enforced by

the insolent task masters of the crown. In 1775 he received a Colonel's

commission and speedily raised a fine regiment in his native county. He

was soon called into active service under Gen. Thompson in his

unfortunate expedition against Canada. When that officer was defeated

and taken prisoner with a part of his little army, Col. Wayne

manifested great presence of mind, skill and bravery in effecting a

retreat although writhing under a severe wound. From that time his

military fame rose and expanded until it reached the maximum of his

patriotic ambition--the pinnacle of his fondest desires. In 1776 his

services were very useful on the northern frontier in conducting the

engineer department in addition to the duties of his command. He had the

confidence of his superiors and the friendship of all around him. His

course was onward and upward. As a merited reward for his active

services and in consequence of his superior talents he was commissioned

Brigadier General at the close of that campaign.

At the battle of Brandywine he kept a superior British force from

passing Chad's Ford for a long time. After the partial defeat of the

American army Gen. Wayne was detached with his division to keep the

enemy at bay in view of another attack. The invading army was stationed

at what was then called Tredyffrin. Gen. Wayne encamped three miles in

the rear of the left wing near the Paoli Tavern and gave special orders

to guard against surprise. On the night of the 20th of September his

troops were suddenly attacked by a division under Gen. Gray who rushed

upon the Americans with fixed bayonets killing and wounding about 150

men. Overwhelmed by a superior force Gen. Wayne retreated a short

distance--rallied and formed his men and was no farther molested. At his

own request his conduct on that unfortunate occasion was investigated by

a court martial. Not the slightest fault was found against him. At the

battle of Germantown he led his men on to action with a boldness and

impetuosity that carried terror into the ranks of the imported veterans.

He had two horses shot, one under him and one as he was mounting and was

wounded in the left foot and hand. When a retreat was ordered his

military skill shone conspicuously in protecting his men.

He was uniformly selected by Washington to conduct hazardous and daring

enterprises, reconnoitre the enemy and collect supplies. His energy was

of the most vigorous tone whether on the field or in a council of war.

Previous to the battle of Monmouth he and Gen. Cadwalader were the only

officers who at first united with Washington in favor of attacking the

British army. So bravely did he act on the day of that brilliant victory

that the commander-in-chief made special mention of him in his report to

Congress. In July 1779 Gen. Wayne was selected to attempt a bold and

daring exploit. Stony Point was in possession of the enemy, strongly

fortified and filled with heavy ordnance. One side was washed by the

Hudson River, on the other was a morass passable only in one place. This

fort was on an eminence of considerable height. In front were

formidable breastworks at every accessible point. In advance of these

was a double row of abattis. Col. Johnson was in command of the garrison

with 600 men principally Highlanders, the bravest and most brawny troops

that were imported. A number of vessels of war were moored in the Hudson

in front. All things combined to render a successful attack more than

problematical with a much superior force. It was the very kind of

adventure for Gen. Wayne. To please our young military gentlemen I will

describe the arrangements for attack.

On the evening of the 15th of July, at 8 o'clock, he arrived within a

mile and a half of the fort and immediately communicated his plan of

operation to his officers. The hour of low twelve was fixed for the

desperate assault. Every officer and non-commissioned officer was held

responsible for each man in his platoon. No soldier was permitted to

leave the ranks until the general halt near the fort and then only with

an officer. When the troops arrived in rear of the hill on which the

fort stood Col. Febiger formed his regiment in solid column of a half

platoon in front. Col. Meigs formed in his rear--Maj. Hull in his rear,

the three forming the right column. The left was formed in the same

manner by Col. Butler and Maj. Murphy. Every officer and soldier placed

a piece of white paper in front of his hat or cap that they might

recognise each other if mixed with the enemy. Col. Fleury was put in

command of 150 picked men and stationed about twenty paces in front of

the right column with fixed bayonets and unloaded muskets. A little in

front of these an officer and twenty of the boldest men were placed

whose duty was to secure the sentinels and remove the abattis that the

main column might pass freely. The same with the left column. The main

columns were to follow the advance with shouldered unloaded muskets

relying entirely on the bayonet--according to the tactics of Gen. Gray

at Paoli. Any soldier who departed in the minutest particular from

orders was to be instantly killed by his officer. A reward of $500 was

offered to the first man who entered the

fortification--$400--$300--$200--$100 to each in succession of the other

four who first followed. The whole being formed, "_March_!" thundered

from Wayne who led the right column with Col. Febiger--the left was led

by Col. Butler followed by Maj. Murphy. Never were men more determined

on victory or death--never were orders more strictly obeyed. So

simultaneous was the attack by each division and so equally rapid their

movements that they met in the centre of the fort. The victory was as

complete and triumphant as the assault was bold and overwhelming. All

was accomplished without the discharge of a gun by the Americans who

advanced facing a tremendous shower of musket, grape and canister shot.

On the surrender of the fort Gen. Wayne ordered a salute of iron hail

for the benefit of the armed ships in the river which caused them to

slip their cables and move off with all possible despatch. Fifty-seven

of the enemy were killed and five hundred and forty-three taken

prisoners. As the columns were advancing Gen. Wayne was severely wounded

in the head with a musket ball--as he believed mortally--which felled

him to the ground. He rose on one knee--"_Onward my brave

fellows--onward!_" burst from him in stentorian accents. He requested

his aids to carry him into the fort that he might die amidst the music

shouts of victory. The garrison made a determined resistance at every

point of attack. Of the forlorn hope of the twenty led by Lieut. Gibbons

seventeen were killed. The wounded and killed of the Americans amounted

in all to ninety-eight. After entering the fort had the Americans opened

a fire the slaughter would have been dreadful. Gen. Wayne preferred

setting an example of humane treatment towards his conquered foes,

proving himself as magnanimous as he was brave and victorious. He

scorned retaliation although the dying groans at the Paoli massacre were

still ringing in his ears. Within an hour after the surrender, writhing

under his severe wound, Gen. Wayne addressed the following laconic

letter to Gen. Washington.

"Stony Point, July 16, 1779, 2 o'clock A. M.

"DEAR GENERAL--The fort and garrison with Col. Johnson are ours. Our

officers and men behaved like men determined to be free.

"Yours most sincerely,

"ANTHONY WAYNE.

"Gen. Washington."

Here is a model letter worthy the imitation of the elaborate epistle

manufacturers of the present prolific era of verbosity, ambiguity and

repetition. It should serve as a modest hint to our speech-makers and

induce them to say less and do more. Millions would then be saved to the

States and our nation.

So highly did Congress appreciate the capture of Stony Point that on the

26th of the same month the House passed a series of resolutions highly

complimentary to Gen. Washington for conceiving and to Gen. Wayne and

his brave companions in arms for planning and accomplishing the capture

of that important post. The amount of the military stores was divided

amongst the officers and men and the rewards offered promptly paid. The

letter of Mr. Jay, the President of the Continental Congress to Gen.

Wayne enclosing a copy of these resolutions, shows the concise and

systematic mode of doing business at that time.

"Philadelphia July 27, 1779.

"SIR--Your late glorious achievements have merited and now receive the

approbation and thanks of your country. They are contained in the

enclosed act of Congress which I have the honor to transmit. This

brilliant action adds luster to our arms and will teach the enemy to

respect our power if not to imitate our humanity. You have nobly reaped

laurels in the cause of your country and in the fields of danger and

death. May these prove the earnest of more and may victory ever bear

your standard and Providence be your shield.

"I have the honor to be &c.

"JOHN JAY, President."

Here is another _multum in parvo_ worthy of imitation. Plain common

sense plainly and briefly told--every line gemmed with the purest

patriotism.

Gen. Wayne was blessed with great presence of mind in sudden

emergencies. When in the vicinity of James river, Virginia, he was

incorrectly told that the main body of the British army had passed to

the opposite side. He advanced with only 800 men for the purpose of

capturing the rear guard but found the whole force of Lord Cornwallis

formed in line of battle. He immediately commenced a vigorous attack and

then retreated in good order. Believing this to be an ambuscade

stratagem the British dared not pursue him. In 1781 he was put in

command of the forces in Georgia. After several sanguinary engagements

he expelled the enemy from the state and planted the standard of freedom

upon the ruins of tyranny--upon the firm basis of eternal justice. As a

reward for his services that state presented him with a valuable

plantation reversing the adage--republics are ungrateful. He continued

in active service up to the close of the siege of Yorktown, a bold,

prudent, skilful and reliable patriotic officer. He remained in the army

until the Independence for which he had fought and bled was fully

recognised by mother Britain when he retired to the bosom of his family

crowned with the highest military honors he desired and with the rank of

Major General of the American army. But few of the Heroes of the

Revolution did as much hard service as Gen. Wayne and no one did it up

more brown.

In 1789 he was a member of the Pennsylvania convention to which was

submitted the Federal Constitution. He warmly advocated its adoption. In

1792 he succeeded Gen. St. Clair in command of the army operating

against the predatory Indian tribes in the far west. Gen. Wayne formed

an encampment at Pittsburgh and thoroughly disciplined his troops

preparatory to future action. So determined were the red men to maintain

the rights that God and nature had bestowed upon them that many of the

powerful tribes combined their war forces to resist their common

enemy--the Christian white man. To meet them on their own ground and

adopt their mode of warfare was the only way to insure success. For such

a service it required time to prepare and energy to execute. In the

autumn of 1793 Gen. Wayne had led his army to Greenville six miles from

fort Jefferson where he established his winter quarters. He fortified

his camp and built fort Recovery on the ground where the whites had been

defeated on the 4th of November 1791. He collected the bones of those

who then fell and had them buried under the honors of war. The presence

of the army kept the Indians quiet during the winter. For the want of

supplies the army did not reach the junction of the rivers Au Glaiz and

Miami until the 8th of August where a fort was erected for the

protection of military stores. Thirty miles from that place the English

had erected a fort near which the Indians were in full force. On the

18th the army reached the Miami rapids. There a fortification was

erected for the protection of baggage and the position of the red men

examined. They were found in a dense forest five miles distant

advantageously posted. On the 20th the attack was arranged and the

troops advanced. When reached the fire from behind trees was so

effective that the front, led by Major Price, was compelled to fall

back. At that moment--_trail arms--advance_--ran through the ranks with

electric velocity and effect as it thundered from the strong lungs of

Wayne. In a few brief moments the conquered red men were flying in every

direction closely pursued by the victorious troops for two miles. So

rapid was their retreat that Scott, who was ordered to turn their left

flank, found naught but trees like men standing but not like men running

for dear life. Gen. Wayne had 33 men killed and 100 wounded. From this

defeat the injured red men never recovered. They fled before fire and

sword--their corn fields and villages were destroyed, their power

paralyzed and a chain of forts established which kept them in constant

awe and compelled them to relinquish their rightful domain after having

struggled nobly to maintain their inalienable rights. True they were

savages. Newton, Shakespeare, Washington, Henry--savages born--savages

would have died. The Indians have their fixed customs--we have ours.

They had their rights--the white men took them forcibly away. Justice,

money, time, or angels' tears can never expunge the wrong. This is my

opinion--others have the same right to theirs--if different it will be

easier to _plead_ justification than to _prove_ it.

The result of the vigorous operations of Gen. Wayne was a general and

definitive treaty with many of the different tribes of Aborigines who

were compelled to bury the tomahawk and smoke the pipe of peace. This

treaty was ratified on the 3d of August 1795. Tranquillity then spread

her cheering mantle over our country from the shores of the Atlantic to

the inland seas of the west. General Wayne continued in the field of

operations for the purpose of completing the extended chain of forts

proposed and planned by him. No one was better calculated for that

arduous service. He continued to prosecute the work until December 1796,

when he was cut down by disease in the flood-tide of his eventful

career, deeply mourned and widely lamented. He died far from his family

in a hut on Presque Isle, a peninsula in Erie county, Pa. that extends

into Lake Erie, where he was buried and remained until 1809 when his son

Isaac removed his remains to his native county and deposited them in the

cemetery of St. David's church. The Pennsylvania State Cincinnati

Society has erected a beautiful white marble monument over his grave

with the following inscription on the south front.

In honor of the distinguished

Military services of

Major General

ANTHONY WAYNE,

And as an affectionate tribute

of respect to his memory

This stone was erected by his

companions in arms

THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE SOCIETY OF

CINCINNATI,

July 4th, A. D. 1809,

Thirty-fourth anniversary of

The Independence of

THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

An event which constitutes

the most

Appropriate eulogium of an American

SOLDIER AND PATRIOT.

On the north front is the following inscription.

Major General

ANTHONY WAYNE

Was born at Waynesborough

in Chester County

State of Pennsylvania

A. D. 1745.

After a life of honor and usefulness

He died in December, 1796,

at a military post

On the shores of Lake Erie,

Commander-in-chief of the army of

THE UNITED STATES.

His military achievements

are consecrated

In the history of his country,

and in

The hearts of his countrymen.

His remains

Are here deposited.

Although stricken down at the age of fifty-one years Gen. Wayne lived

long enough to fill his measure of glory and see the star spangled

banner wave triumphantly over his native land. Far from his family as he

was and in a rough cabin, he died peacefully. His spirit ascended to

reap the rich reward of his labors in the cause of rational freedom and

equal justice.

He was a large, portly man of commanding military mien, with an open

bold countenance. All the relations of private life he honored with the

most rigid fidelity. In the legislative hall as in the field he was

active and decisive. As a citizen he was esteemed in life and regretted

in death.

WILLIAM WHIPPLE JR.

That knowledge is of most importance that leads us in the shortest path

to truth. A thorough common education, like common sense, is most

useful. By a close observation of the laws of nature in full operation

around us, of things as presented to our understandings, of men as they

move and act before us--we obtain a treasure of knowledge not always

taught in the high schools and seldom hinted at--much less expounded in

modern books. Without this the classic scholar is afloat without a

rudder. This is the kind that best answers the definition of the

adage--_Knowledge is power_. In the great store-house of literature the

quantity of fancy goods has, for some time past, far exceeded the

coarser kind fit for everyday use. Whether this is an advantage to the

intellect of man calculated to increase its strength and volume--or like

luxurious diet, enervate and weaken, is a problem worthy the solution of

every reader. Certain it is our hardy ancestors were not mentally or

physically pampered with knick-knacks that now supplant much solid

matter. Certain it is that many of the patriots of the Revolution were

self-made practical men and shone as conspicuously in the galaxy of

sages as those whose early literary advantages were greater--conclusive

evidence that there is a shorter path to truth.

Among them William Whipple Jr. was conspicuous. He was the eldest son of

William Whipple--born at Kittery, Maine, in 1730. At a common English

school he was taught reading, writing, arithmetic and navigation. These

he mastered at an early age and was then entered a cabin boy on board a

merchant vessel in accordance with his father's wishes and his own

inclination. Before he reached his majority he became captain of a

vessel and made several successful voyages to Europe. Some ignoramuses

have vainly attempted to stigmatize his fair reputation at that era in

his life because he participated in the inhuman slave-trade. If they

will learn the true state of feeling at that time upon this subject

their anathemas will evaporate in thin air. The trade was then

sanctioned by Great Britain under whose government Capt. Whipple acted

and according to her laws--_The King can do no wrong_. The correctness

of the trade was not then doubted but by a few philanthropists and its

first cousin, the _Apprentice System_, is still a favorite project with

England. Time and reflection caused Captain Whipple to see the

impropriety of the traffic and entirely abandon it at an early day. He

also manumitted the only slave he owned who would not leave him during

the war and fought bravely for the liberty of our country. If every man

is to be condemned for the licensed or unlicensed errors of youth whose

riper years are crowned with virtue, the list of fame will require many

bold erasures and would be robbed of some of its proudest names. He who

would do it must belong to the big crowd ignorant of human nature.

In 1759 Capt. Whipple relinquished his oceanic pursuits and commenced

the mercantile business in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He also added the

swivel link to his chain of earthly happiness by marrying Catharine

Moffat. Every farmer, sailor and blacksmith knows the importance of this

link in the common chain. The wise Creator designed it in the chain of

life and no man should be without it. If of the right metal, it will

save him from many a dangerous twist and often from a break. A word to

the wise should be sufficient.

During his numerous voyages Capt. Whipple had treasured up a large fund

of useful knowledge. He was a close observer of men and things--an

analyzing reader and mingled with the best and most intelligent men when

in port. In England he had listened to the unwarranted pretensions of

ministers--in America--to the increasing complaints of the Colonists. He

was familiar with the chartered rights of his own country and with the

tyranny of the infatuated step-mother. He was prepared for action and

took a bold stand in favor of freedom. He took a conspicuous part in

public meetings and became one of the Committee of Safety. He rose

rapidly in public esteem--the former cabin boy became a leading patriot.

In January 1775 he represented Portsmouth in the Provincial Congress at

Exeter convened for the purpose of choosing delegates to the Continental

Congress. On the 6th of the next January he was made a member of the

Provincial Council of New Hampshire. On the 23d of the same month he was

elected a member of Congress then in session at Philadelphia and

continued actively and usefully engaged in that important station until

the middle of September 1779. He was present at the adoption of the

Declaration of Independence and affixed his name to that bold instrument

with the same fearless nonchalance as if signing a bill of lading. He

was emphatically a working man and rendered himself extremely useful on

committees. As a member of marine and commercial boards, his practical

knowledge gave him an advantage over his colleagues. He was one of the

superintendents of the commissary and quarter masters' department and

did much towards correcting abuses and checking peculation. He was

untiring in industry, ardent in zeal, philosophic in views, pure in

purposes and strong in patriotism. When he retired from Congress to

serve his country in a more perilous sphere, he had the esteem and

approbation of his co-workers in the glorious cause of LIBERTY.

In 1777 he became Brigadier General Whipple and took command of the

first brigade of the Provincial troops of New Hampshire acting in

concert with Gen. Stark who commanded the other. Gen. Burgoyne was on

the flood tide of military glory--rushing down upon the north like a

herd of wild buffaloes over a prairie--spreading consternation far and

wide. He was first checked in his triumphant career by Gen. Stark at

Bennington, Vermont. Gen. Whipple joined Gen. Gates about the same time

and was in the bloody battles of Saratoga and Stillwater where the palm

of victory was measurably attributed to the troops under his command. To

the consummation of the brilliant victory over the British army Gen.

Whipple contributed largely. Col. Wilkinson and himself were the

officers who arranged and signed the articles of capitulation between

the two commanders. He was one of the officers who conducted the

conquered foe to Winter Hill near Boston. His faithful negro

participated in all the perils of his old _massa_ and could not have

been more elated with the victory had he been the commanding general.

In 1778 Gen. Whipple was with Gen. Sullivan at the siege of New Port

which was abandoned for want of the aid of Count D'Estaing whose fleet

was injured by a gale. A safe retreat was effected in the night. In 1780

Gen. Whipple was appointed a Commissioner of the Board of Admiralty

which he declined, preferring to serve in the legislature of his own

state in which he continued for years. In 1782 he was appointed

Financial Receiver for New Hampshire by Robert Morris. The office was

arduous, unpopular and irksome but in his hands lost much of its

odiousness. At the end of two years he resigned. On the 20th of June

1782 he was appointed a judge of the Superior Court. On the 25th Dec.

1784 he was appointed a Justice of the Peace and Quorum throughout the

state which latter office he held to the day of his death. He was one of

the commissioners on the part of Connecticut to settle the controversy

between that state and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania relative to

lands in Wyoming valley. In all the multiform duties that devolved upon

him in the various public stations he filled he acquitted himself nobly.

He possessed a strong analyzing mind, deep penetration of thought, a

clear head and good heart.

During the latter part of his life he suffered much from disease in his

chest which terminated his useful career on the 28th of Nov. 1785. At

his request before death, his body underwent a _post mortum_

examination. His heart was found ossified. The valves were united to the

aorta and an aperture not larger than a common knitting needle was all

that remained for the passage of the blood. This explained the reason of

his faintness under sudden emotion.

In all the relations of private and public life--from the cabin boy up

to the lofty pinnacle of a well earned fame, Gen. Whipple was a model of

consistency and virtue. He left a reputation pure as the virgin sheet.

His career demonstrated clearly that in our country fame is confined to

no grade in life and that practical knowledge, crowned with strong

common sense, enables a man to be substantially useful to his country

and fellow men. Citizens of America of only a common education--you can

and should be useful. Look at this bright example and govern yourselves

accordingly.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS.

Infidelity, in all its multiform aspects, is a legitimate child of

inconsistency. The man who has impartially read the Bible--who

understands physiology, the philosophy of mind--the minutiae of anatomy,

the unerring laws of nature, the powers of reason--the revolving circuit

of his own immortal soul and denies the existence of Him who spake and

it was done--who commanded and it stood fast--disrobes himself of the

noblest power bestowed by creative Wisdom and forfeits the high dignity

of a man. All things, from the leaf that vibrates in the gentle breeze

to the etherial sky spangled with stars, proclaim the existence of a

God. Most assuredly there is a Supreme Being who rules, with unerring

wisdom, in the kingdoms of Nature, Providence and Grace. Beyond all

cavil this position is most conducive to the happiness of the human

family in this life. The superstructure of the Infidel is clustered with

present misery. If its foundation should prove sandy he curses himself

in this world to be more wretched in the next. Aside from the question

of its divinity--Religion is the substratum of social order and human

felicity. Infidelity is the destruction of both. History is crowded with

demonstrations of this position. Banish the Bible and religion from our

Republic--remove this firm foundation upon which the Sages of the

Revolution based it--anarchy would ensue and we should rush into the

same vortex of ruin which engulphed the French Republic.

By many of our Revolutionary patriots religion was exemplified--by all

it was venerated. Among those of them who enjoyed its full fruition

through life was William Williams born at Lebanon, Windham County,

Connecticut, on the 8th of April 1731. He was the son of Rev. Solomon

Williams whose paternal ancestor came from Wales in 1630. Solomon was

pastor of the Congregational church at Lebanon for fifty-six years. He

was a man of consistent and uniform piety--of liberal and expansive

views and believed religion to be the foundation of rational liberty.

His own soul enraptured with the substantial joys of practical piety--he

strongly desired his children might inherit the same blessing. His

prayers were answered. Of a large family of sons and daughters--all

consecrated themselves to the Lord of glory and became exemplary

members of the church over which their father presided.

After completing his preparatory studies William entered Harvard College

and graduated in 1751. He sustained a high reputation for correct

deportment untiring industry and scholastic lore. His father then

directed his theological course preparatory for the sacred desk. But his

talents were too diversified for a clerical life. He had a taste for

classics, architecture, mechanics, mathematics and general science.

He was also inclined to travel. In 1755 he accepted a commission in the

staff of Col. Ephraim Williams a kinsman of his and founder of Williams

College at Williamstown, Mass. Sir William Johnson, who commanded the

English troops, detached Col. Williams with 1100 men to reconnoitre the

army of Baron Dieskau composed of a large force of French and Indians.

After proceeding some four miles the detachment was attacked by a

superior force lying in ambush. Col. Williams fell in the early part of

the engagement bravely fighting for the mother country. His troops then

retreated in good order until the main body came up and repulsed the

enemy.

The French war cost the Americans much blood and treasure. It was a

matter of allegiance--not of interest. The Canadas were won by the

Colonies for Great Britain. The pilgrim fathers were long treated and

used as vassals of the English crown. Blended with the unparalleled

cruelties of the hired minions of the mother country was damning

ingratitude--the concentrated essential oil of Pandora that drives back

the rushing blood upon the aching heart.

During the campaign Mr. Williams became disgusted with the hauteur of

the British officers towards native Americans who were by far the most

efficient troops against the Indians and French, whose mode of warfare

they better understood. Released from the army, he resolved never again

to submit to such indignities. He returned home and commenced the

mercantile business. Soon after, he was elected town clerk, a member of

the assembly and appointed a justice of the peace. These were unsought

favors--purely a tribute to merit. For a long time he was either speaker

or clerk of the House of Representatives in which he served nearly one

hundred sessions. For fifty years he faithfully served in a public

capacity.

When the Revolutionary storm began to darken the horizon of public

tranquillity he boldly met its raging fury. Extensively and favorably

known--his salutary influence had a wide range. When the tocsin of war

was sounded he closed his commercial concerns and devoted his whole time

to the glorious cause of equal rights and rational Liberty. His

learning, piety, honesty of purpose, energy of action and large

experience--combined to give great weight to his character. He was an

active member of the council of safety and on the second Thursday of

October 1775, was appointed a delegate to the Continental Congress. He

entered zealously into the deliberations of that revered body and made

himself truly useful. He was ever ready to go as far as any one to

obtain the liberation of his suffering country from the serpentine coils

of tyranny. He was in favor of bold and vigorous measures and advocated

the Declaration of Rights from its incipient conception to its final

adoption. He was greatly instrumental in dispelling the doubts of many

whose motives and desires were as pure but whose moral courage was less

than his. He was well versed in the different forms of government,

international law and the routine of legislation. When he spoke in

public he was listened to with profound attention. He was a member of

Congress in 1776-7 and when the final vote was taken upon the Magna

Charta of our Liberty William Williams responded a thundering--AYE--that

told his boldness and his zeal. That vote stands confirmed by his

signature--a proud memento of his unalloyed patriotism--a conclusive

proof of his moral firmness.

He was free from that aspiring ambition that is based on self and

nurtured by intrigue. His motives emanated from the pure fountain of an

honest heart. To promote the glory of his country was the ultimatum of

his earthly desires. Upon the altar of Liberty he was willing to

sacrifice his property and life. To vindicate the cause of Freedom he

was willing to spend his latest breath. He used every honorable exertion

to rouse his fellow citizens to a sense of danger and induce them to

enlist in the common cause against the common enemy. At the time

Congress was compelled to flee from Philadelphia he risked his life to

rescue Colonel Dyer from the fangs of the British who had planned his

arrest. They both made a hair-breadth escape. When the government

treasury was drained of its last dollar, Mr. Williams threw in what he

termed a mite of hard money, being over two thousand dollars for which

he took continental money only to die in his hands. How emphatically

things are changed. Now the public treasury distributes mint drops

profusely upon many whose pretended services are as worthless as

continental rags--in some instances absolutely injurious.

He was remarkably active and fortunate in obtaining private donations

and necessaries for the army. He went from house to house, receiving

small parcels of any and every article that would alleviate the wants of

the destitute soldiers. At different times he forwarded to them more

than a thousand blankets. During the winter of 1781 he gave up his own

house for the accommodation of the officers of the legion of Col.

Laurens and did all in his power to render officers and soldiers

comfortable. His industry was equal to his patriotism seldom retiring

until after twelve and up again by the dawn of day.

Mr. Williams was a member of the convention of his state when the

Federal Constitution was adopted and gave it his hearty sanction. He was

never permitted to retire from the public arena until prostrated by

disease which terminated his useful career on the 2d of August 1811. He

had lived the life of a good man--his end was peaceful, calm and happy.

He was a fine figure of the middle size, dark complexion and hair,

piercing black eyes, an aquiline nose, an open and ingenuous

countenance, a stentorian voice and strong physical powers. He was

blessed with a clear head, a noble heart, a sound judgment, an acute

perception and a logical mind. Not a blot could be found upon the fair

fame of his public or private character. During the latter part of his

life he was troubled with an increasing deafness and spent much of his

time in Christian devotion. But few men have served their country as

much and no one more faithfully than did WILLIAM WILLIAMS.

JAMES WILSON.

The history of party spirit is red with blood. Its career has been

marked with desolation and ruin. It often rides on the whirlwind of

faction or on the more dreadful tornado of fanaticism. It has blotted

kingdoms and empires from existence, consumed nations, blighted the

fairest portions of creation and sacrificed millions upon its sanguinary

altar. Confined to no time or place--it has taken deep root in our own

country. Its poison has contaminated our political and religious

atmosphere most fearfully. It has had its victims of blood in this land

of republican and Christian professions. Its miasma has reached our

ballot boxes, violated the peaceful fireside, traduced private

character, invaded patriotism, induced perjury, countenanced forgery,

corrupted our elective franchise and produced mobocracy in its most

direful aspect. Great and good men have been victimized by reckless

partisans who stop at nothing and stoop to everything to accomplish

their purposes--right or wrong. They look at the end regardless of

means.

In recurring to the eventful period of the American Revolution those who

are not familiar with the history of the local politics of that day may

naturally conclude that party spirit found no place in the bosoms of

those who were engaged in a common cause against a common enemy. Far

different was the fact. Many of the best men of that trying period were

scourged, lacerated and for a time paralyzed by reckless party spirit.

Among its victims was James Wilson, born of respectable parents near St.

Andrews, Scotland, in 1742. His father was a farmer in moderate

circumstances which he moderated still more by rushing into the

whirlpool of speculation--an unfortunate propensity that adhered to this

son. He graduated at St. Andrews, Edinburgh. This done he took lessons

in rhetoric under Dr. Blair and in logic under Dr. Watts. He then came

to Philadelphia and obtained the situation of usher in the college of

that city. His moral worth, strong talents and high literary attainments

gained for him the esteem and marked respect of Dr. Richard Peters,

Bishop White and many others whose friendship and influence were most

desirable. Those who knew him best admired him most.

He subsequently studied law under John Dickinson and settled at

Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where he rose rapidly to the head of the Bar. A

powerful exhibition of Ciceronian eloquence and legal acumen at the

trial of an important land case between the Proprietaries and Samuel

Wallace gained for him an early professional celebrity. The Attorney

General, Mr. Chew, fixed his eyes upon him soon after he commenced his

argument and gazed at him with admiring astonishment until he closed his

lucid speech. He was immediately retained in another important land

cause and was considered equal to any member of the Pennsylvania Bar. He

removed ultimately to Annapolis, Maryland and at the end of a year to

Philadelphia where he was liberally patronised but rushing occasionally

into the whirlpool of speculation his circumstances were uniformly

embarrassed. As an evidence of his goodness of heart, amidst the most

keen reverses he remitted money regularly to his poor widowed mother in

Scotland to the day of her death using every means in his power to

smooth her path to the tomb.

With the intolerant commencement of British oppression the political

career of Mr. Wilson began. He boldly spoke and ably wrote in favor of

equal rights and liberal principles. He was an early and zealous

advocate of the American cause. Of a consistent and reflecting mind he

sometimes censured the rashness of others which brought upon him

malicious slanders which enabled his enemies several times to envelope

him so completely in the dark fog of party spirit as to partially

paralyze his exertions until the sun of truth would rise and dispel the

vapors of calumny.

He was a member of the Provincial Convention of 1774, convened for the

purpose of devising plans for the redress of grievances imposed by

England. During the session he was nominated to the Congress soon to

meet. He was bitterly opposed by Mr. Galloway but was elected by a

handsome majority. He was continued a member of Congress until 1777 when

his enemies succeeded in their long nursed machinations against him. At

the commencement of hostilities he was commissioned colonel and

appointed a commissioner to treat with the Indians. On the 4th of July

1776 he proved his sincerity in the cause of Liberty by a fearless vote

and a bold signature in favor of the Declaration of Independence. In the

minds of all who were not blinded by party spirit his action on that day

refuted the base slanders that had been promulged against him. At the

shrine of this dread monster the brightest subjects of purity have often

been sacrificed. No goodness of heart--no brilliancy of talent--no

exalted worth--no sanctity of character can shield a public man from the

base assaults of party spirit--be he benefactor, philanthropist, saint,

sage or hero. Even Washington writhed under the ostracism of this

withering scourge. Some men are born _demi-gogs_ and live under the

influence of Gog and Magog during their deleterious existence.

Mr. Wilson was an esteemed and active member of the Continental

Congress. Born a Scot he would not have exemplified the marked trait of

his nation had he not been cool and cautious in everything. He, with

many others, opposed the immediate adoption of the Declaration of

Independence--not because they doubted its justice but because they

believed the Colonies were not in a physical condition to sustain it.

His patriotism and republicanism both stood forth in bold _relievo_ when

the question was finally put. He venerated the instrument and was bound

by principle to submit to the will of the majority in what he believed

to be clearly right although he believed it premature. His opposition

was based upon the single fact of the physical weakness of the Colonies

clearly expressed, yet his partisan enemies branded him with a want of

patriotism. The people were not long deceived and esteemed him the more

for his candor.

In 1782 he was again elected to Congress and was hailed as one of its

most efficient members. The same year he was appointed one of the

counsellors and agents of Pennsylvania to meet the commissioners who

convened at Trenton, New Jersey, for the final settlement of the

protracted controversy between Connecticut and that commonwealth

relative to certain lands in the Wyoming Valley. The luminous and

unanswerable arguments of Mr. Wilson had a controlling influence over

the commissioners who decided in favor of Pennsylvania and closed an

unpleasant litigation of years.

During the _interim_ when he was not in Congress he held the office of

advocate-general for the French which led him to a close investigation

of national and maritime law. For this service the French king gave him

10,000 livres. He was at the same time a director in the Bank of North

America and had the full confidence of Robert Morris as a safe and able

financial adviser. As an active and discreet member of important

committees he stood in the front rank. He traced the lines of every

subject with the compass of wisdom and closed its bearings and

measurement with mathematical precision. He arrived at the desired goal

with less show but with more certainty than some whose zeal was more

impetuous but not more pure than his. He sought more to bestow lasting

benefits on his country than to elicit the huzzas of the multitude. He

well knew that effervescent popularity was not an index of that

substantial usefulness which lives long after that transient vapor

consigns its ephemeral subjects to the mellow repose of peaceful

oblivion. Balloon politicians may become inflated by the hydrogen of

party spirit and rise in the political atmosphere followed by the eyes

and elated by the shouts of thousands. A single spark of fire from the

furnace that created the gas will show most of them to be treacherous

and unsafe gasometers. Modest worth avoids ethereal excursions. It

stands like a rock of granite on the _terra firma_ of deep thought, calm

reflection and sound discretion. Nothing but a sense of imperious duty

can induce the very men who should be there to enter the whirling vortex

and thorny arena of politics. How many such men are now in public

stations guarding the rights and directing the proper destiny of our

nation is a subject worthy of careful and anxious inquiry. If the people

in mass are not true to themselves demagogues will not be true to them.

Mr. Wilson was one of the most useful members of the Convention that

formed the Federal Constitution. He strongly opposed the popular project

of the appointment of members of Congress by the legislatures of the

States and was mainly instrumental in placing their election in the

hands of the people. This principle should have been applied to every

office named in that instrument not subject to the control and

supervision of the President and Senate. Mr. Wilson was one of the

committee that put the Constitution in form and reported it to the

Convention. When completed by amendments and presented to his own State

he was its most powerful advocate and bore down upon the opposition with

a sweeping torrent of eloquence and logic that was irresistible. He was

also a member of the Convention of Pennsylvania to amend its

Constitution, in which he took a decided stand in favor of placing the

elective franchise in the hands of the people. The last vestige of

aristocracy trembled before him and the last whisper of slander against

the purity of his republicanism died upon the lips of echo. The boldest

features of liberal principles in the old revised Constitution of that

State were penned by James Wilson. Had his views been fully incorporated

in that instrument I presume a second revision would not have been made.

When the Supreme Court of the United States was organized Washington

selected Mr. Wilson for one of its judges. This high office he filled

with great ability up to the time of his death. In 1790 he was appointed

the first professor of the Law College in Philadelphia. When that and

the University of Pennsylvania were united he filled the chair. As a

learned and eloquent lawyer he had no superior at the Philadelphia bar.

He was honored with the degree of LL.D. and during the first year of his

professorship delivered an admirable course of lectures to the law

students. Like most of the Scotch literati, towards them he was distant

and reserved. His writings were vigorous and logical. In 1774 he wrote a

spirited essay on the assumptions of the British Parliament not

warranted by Magna Charta and portrayed the blessings arising from a

republican form of government in such fascinating colors that it

exercised a wide and salutary influence. To the uninitiated in party

politics it may seem strange that any one accused James Wilson of

aristocracy or a want of patriotism. A purer friend of his country or a

more ardent advocate of the cause of freedom could not be found among

the sages of '76. He passed through the ordeal of party persecution

several times but truth-telling time forced his enemies to retrace their

steps disgraced and shamed.

On the 28th of August 1798 this venerable sage, eminent lawyer, able

statesman, profound jurist and impartial judge took a final leave of

earth and closed his eyes in death. He died of strangury whilst absent

on his circuit. Fortunately he was with his friend Judge Iredell in

Edenton North Carolina where his ashes repose in peace. During his last

illness he realized the proverbial hospitality of the south and was

cared for in the kindest manner.

The private character of Judge Wilson was beyond reproach. He was a warm

friend, an affectionate husband, a faithful father, a consolation to the

widow and the fatherless, an upright and honest man.

In reviewing the history of this worthy man no one can doubt his

patriotism and purity. No room is left to question his devotion to the

American cause and his firm opposition to British oppression. Influenced

by noble motives, guided by liberal principles--it is painful to reflect

that he was often wounded in the house of his professed friends by those

who had sworn to support the same cause he so ardently and ably

espoused. The solution of this paradoxical problem may be found in the

present state of things without travelling back to that time of times

when party spirit should have withdrawn its hydra head into its

legitimate Pandora box. We have those among us who live under the

protective mantle of the Federal Constitution and the laws based upon

it, who denounce that Constitution and refuse obedience to statutes

according with it unless those statutes advance their interests and

chime with their revolutionary views. They are cancers on the body

politic loathsome to the sight of every friend of our country--to every

advocate of our UNION. It would promote our safety and their happiness

to colonize them beyond fifty-four forty.

JOHN WITHERSPOON.

The man who makes the Bible his counsellor--the polar star of his

actions, will not go far astray. Divine in its origin, the sublimity of

its language caps the climax of composition. As a history of the grand

epoch when God said--"Let there be light--and there was light"--it

stands alone clothed in all the majesty of Divinity. As a chronicle of

the creation of man after the moral image of Deity--of his ruinous

fall--of the glorious plan of his redemption--it must remain unrivalled.

As a chart of human nature--human rights and wrongs and of the

attributes of the great Jehovah--in precision, fullness and force of

description it far exceeds the boldest strokes, the finest touches of

the master spirits of elocution in every age. As a system of morals and

religion--the efforts of men to add to its transcendent beauty--its

omnipotent strength--are as vain as an attempt to bind the wind or

imprison the ocean. As a book of poetry and eloquence--it rises in

grandeur above the proudest production of the most brilliant talents

that have illuminated and enraptured the classic world. As a book of

Revelation--it cast a flood of light upon the wilderness of mind that

shed fresh lustre upon reason, science and philosophy. As a book of

counsel--its wisdom is profound, boundless, infinite. It meets every

case in time and is a golden chain reaching from earth to Heaven. It

teaches our native dignity--the duties we owe to our God, families,

parents, children and our fellow men. It teaches us how to live and how

to die--arms the Christian in panoply complete--snatches from death its

painful sting--from the grave its boasted victory and points the pious

soul to its crowning glory--a blissful immortality beyond the skies. The

man who is led by this sacred book to lean upon the Supreme Ruler of

revolving worlds, has a sure support that earth cannot give or take

away. When we can rightfully appeal to Heaven for aid in our

undertakings, faith bids us onward and fear no danger.

A large portion of the most prominent patriots of the American

Revolution were pious men. I am not aware of one who did not believe in

an overruling Providence. Several of them were devoted ministers of the

gospel. Among these was John Witherspoon, born in the parish of Yester

near Edinburgh, Scotland, on the 5th of February 1722. He was a lineal

descendant of John Knox the celebrated reformer. The father of John was

minister of Yester parish and moulded the mind of this son in the ways

of wisdom, virtue and science. At an early age he placed him in the

Haddington school where the rare beauties of his young mind unfolded

like the flowers of spring. He soared above the trifling allurements

that too often lead childhood and youth astray. His studies were his

chief delight. He exhibited a maturity of judgment, clearness of

perception and depth of thought--seldom manifested in juvenile life. He

entered the Edinburgh University at the age of fourteen and fully

realized the anticipations of his friends in his educational

advancement. Especially did he excel in theology. He passed the ordeal

of his final examination at the age of twenty-one and was licensed to

proclaim to his fellow men the glad tidings of the Gospel of Peace. He

immediately became the assistant of his revered father--a favorite among

their parishioners--an eloquent preacher of plain practical

Christianity.

On the 17th of January 1746, he was a "looker on in Vienna" at the

battle of Falkirk and with many others whose curiosity had led them to

the scene of action, was seized by the victorious rebels and imprisoned

in the castle of Doune. After his release he resided a few years at

Beith, subsequently at Paisly--rendering himself very useful as an

exemplary and faithful minister. During his residence at the latter

place he received urgent calls from Dublin, Rotterdam and Dundee. He

also had an invitation to fill the presidential chair of the College of

New Jersey in America to which he had been elected on the 19th of

November 1766. This was done at the suggestion of Richard Stockton. A

general demurrer by his friends and a special demurrer by his relatives

were entered against his acceptance. Ingenious arguments were used to

sustain the pleas put in. The delights of his native home--the horrors

of the western wilderness were placed before him in fearful contrast. A

very wealthy bachelor relative offered to will him his large estate if

he would remain. For a year he declined the proffered chair. During that

time his lady caught "the missionary fever" and became anxious to embark

for the new world--removing every obstacle with the ingenuity and

perseverance peculiar to woman when bent upon the accomplishment of a

noble object. On the 9th of December 1767 Mr. Stockton had the pleasure

of communicating his acceptance to the trustees of the college which was

most joyfully received.

Early in the ensuing August he arrived with his family and was

inaugurated at Princeton on the 17th of that month. His literary fame

had been spread through the Colonies and caused an immediate accession

of students--a new impetus to the institution--a renovation of the empty

treasury of the college. He introduced a thorough and harmonious system

in all its departments and fully answered the most sanguine

anticipations of his warmest friends.

His mode of instruction was calculated to expand the ideas of his

students and launch them upon the sea of investigation. He expelled the

dogmatical and bewildering clouds of metaphysical fatality and mystic

physiology that rendered darkness visible in the old schools. He

illuminated the minds of his students with the mellow rays of scientific

truth based upon enlightened philosophy, sound reason, plain common

sense and liberal principles. He taught them to explore the labyrinthian

avenues of human nature--the vast circuit of their own immortal minds.

He raised before them the curtain of the material, moral, physical and

intellectual panorama--lucidly demonstrated their harmonious unity of

action--perfected by the great Architect of this mighty machinery made

for man. He pointed them to the duties they owed to themselves, their

fellow men, their country and their God. He awakened in their souls the

living energies of charity that assimilates man to Deity and prompts him

to noble god-like action. He taught them how to live and be useful--how

to throw off this mortal coil when the journey of life should end. His

instructions were luminous and enriching--his precepts fertilizing as

the dew of Hermon.

On the flood tide of a high literary and theological fame he floated

peacefully along until the revolutionary storm drove him from the

college and the pulpit of his church to a different sphere of action.

Before coming to America he understood well the relations between the

mother country and the colonies. He was master of civilian philosophy,

international law, monarchical policy and the principles of rational

freedom. The enrapturing beauties of Liberty and the hideous deformity

of tyranny passed in review before his gigantic mind. In the designs of

creative Wisdom he saw the equal rights of man and resolved to vindicate

them. He at once took a bold stand in favor of his adopted country. With

an eagle's flight he mounted the pinnacle of political fame--with a

statesman's eye he surveyed the mighty work before him. The plan of

political regeneration stood approved by Heaven--he determined to give

his aid to the glorious cause. Most nobly did he discharge every duty

assigned him.

From the commencement of revolutionary agitation he was a member of

various committees and conventions formed for the purpose of seeking

redress from the king--_peaceably_ if possible--_forcibly_ if necessary.

He was a member of the Convention of New Jersey that framed the new

Constitution in 1776. On the 20th of June the same year he was elected

to the Continental Congress and most ably and eloquently advocated the

Declaration of Independence to which he affixed his name, appealing to

his God for approval--to the world for the justice of the cause he

espoused. He was continued a member of Congress up to 1782 with the

exception of one year and contributed largely in shedding lustre over

its deliberations. With a mind and intelligence able to grasp,

comprehend and expound the whole minutiae of government and legislation,

he combined a patriotic zeal and holy devotion for his

country--unsurpassed by any of his colleagues. His labors were

incessant, his industry untiring, his perseverance unyielding--his

patriotism as clear as the crystal fountain--pure as the pellucid

stream.

During the time he served in the legislative halls he did not neglect

the higher honors of the vineyard of his Lord and Master. He was often

at the family altar, in the closet and the pulpit. He was one of the

most able, eloquent and profound preachers of that eventful period. He

was one of the brightest ornaments of the religion of the Cross--one of

the strongest advocates in the cause of LIBERTY. As a speaker he was

listened to with deep interest--as a systematic and logical debater he

had few equals. His arguments were _a posteriori_, _a priori_ and _a

fortiori_--leading the mind from effect to cause, from cause to effect

and deducing the stronger reason. His corollaries were often of the most

thrilling character. He sometimes resorted to syllogism with great

effect. His speeches would be a syllabus to many of modern times upon

the same subjects. His memory was remarkably retentive, his perceptions

clear, his judgment acute.

He was a member of the secret committee of Congress the duties of which

were delicate and arduous. He was a member of the committee to

co-operate with Gen. Washington in replenishing and regulating the

army--of the committee of finance and upon several other working

committees. The eloquent appeals to the people from Congress,

recommending days for fasting and prayer were from his nervous pen. The

burning and melting manifesto, protesting against the inhuman treatment

of the American prisoners confined on board the filthy prison-ships at

New York, was supposed to emanate from him.

Dr. Witherspoon was prophetic in his mode of reasoning when pointing out

the results of propositions laid before Congress and opposed all those

he believed would terminate unfavorably. He strongly remonstrated

against the issue of continental money. His predictions of sudden

depreciation were too fully realized. It took a rapid downward course

and soon reached the ruinous discount of one hundred and fifty dollars

of paper for one of silver and then took a fatal leap and plunged into

the abysm of worthlessness. So deeply did he probe every subject that he

investigated, that his powers of penetration became proverbial. Most of

the measures he proposed when he entered the legislative arena that were

adopted proved successful and those he opposed and were adopted

uniformly proved disastrous.

In the halls of classic literature, the ecclesiastic courts or on the

floor of Congress, he was a shining light to those around him. His

literary, theological and political writings were numerous, of a high

order and are justly celebrated here and in Europe. They exhibit a

pleasing and rich variety of thought--a strong and chaste imagination--a

luminous and flowing fancy--a keen and sarcastic wit--a brilliant and

fascinating style--broad and liberal views--philosophic and logical

propositions--clear and convincing conclusions--all mellowed with the

rich freshness of living charity and universal philanthropy.

In 1779 he resigned his seat in Congress in consequence of ill health.

His son-in-law, Rev. Dr. Smith was Vice President of the college and

relieved him from the most arduous duties of President. The next year he

was again elected to Congress and resigned finally in 1782. The trustees

of the college then persuaded him to embark for Europe for the purpose

of raising funds for the institution. As he predicted before he left,

his efforts were unsuccessful. He returned in 1784 and retired to his

country seat a mile from Princeton, there to enjoy the blessings of

peace and the golden fruits that had been richly earned by years of

peril and toil. Surrounded by relatives and friends, enjoying the praise

and gratitude of a nation of freemen--his name immortalized as a

scholar, divine, civilian, statesman and patriot--he sat down under the

bright canopy of a clear conscience--an approving Heaven--anticipating a

crown of unfading glory beyond the skies.

In this manner he glided down the stream of time peaceful and happy

until the 15th of November 1794, when he fell asleep in the arms of his

Lord and Master, calm as a summer morning, serene as a cerulean

sky--welcoming the messenger of death with a seraphic smile. He was

buried at Princeton.

A review of the life of this great and good man affords an instructive

lesson for every considerate reader. He was endowed with all the

qualities calculated to ennoble and dignify man and assimilate him to

his Creator. His superior virtues and endowments eclipsed his frailties

and placed him on a lofty eminence beyond the reach of envy, malice or

slander. His fame is clustered with refulgent beauty that will spread a

lustre over his name that will brighten and shine until the death knell

of LIBERTY shall be sounded and social order rush back to original

anarchy.

In all the relations of public and private life, Dr. Witherspoon stood

approved, admired, revered. Let all strive to imitate his examples that

our lives may be useful in time--our final exit tranquil and happy--ever

remembering that virtue is the crowning glory of talent.

OLIVER WOLCOTT.

The unrestrained oppressions of imperial and kingly power, long

exercised with impunity, have been receding before the light of

intelligence with an ominous but rather unsteady pace for the last few

centuries. As the genial rays of Liberty illuminate the crowding

millions of the human family the tenure of thrones will become more

slender--monarchies more limited if not annihilated. In Europe kingly

power has been vibrating for years in the cradle of a political

earthquake. The love of freedom has never been extinguished in the old

world. The same motive power that prompted the pilgrims to court the

dangers and privations of this western hemisphere, still pervades the

bosoms of those held in bondage by military force. Volcanic eruptions

occasionally occur--new craters open--the time is rolling on rapidly

when these craters will rush together and deluge kingly and imperial

power with one broad sheet of liquid fire. In thunder tones of

retribution the people will proclaim their FREEDOM.

When our ancestors planted themselves on the granite shores of America

they had clear conception of a republican form of government as

organized by Greece and Rome. Many of them had read the thrilling

history of the rise, progress and fall of those republics in the

original languages where none of the beauties or force are lost by

translation. They were prepared to improve upon those governments by

avoiding their errors and preserving all that was valuable. With these

lights the pilgrim fathers appear to have been illuminated when rearing

the incipient superstructure of a more pure republic than any before

known. At first, articles of association were entered into by the people

of a single or contiguous settlements, based upon the broad platform of

equal rights and universal Liberty circumscribed only by eternal justice

and sterling honesty. Among the earliest of these miniature republics

was that consolidating Windsor, Hartford and Weathersfield in

Connecticut. The articles of association adopted by this infant Colony

were penned by Roger Ludlow. The revised constitution of that state is

either substantially copied from the instrument drawn by Ludlow or the

ideas of republicans must run in a channel that has no change.

Among those who directed the destiny of the pioneers of the new world

the name of Wolcott stands conspicuous. Henry Wolcott, the patriarch

ancestor, removed from England to Dorchester, Mass. in 1630. In 1636 he

founded the town of Windsor, Connecticut. During the perils of the

Indian wars--the difficulties with the Canadian French and through all

the various vicissitudes that have pervaded New England down to the

present time, the descendants of Henry Wolcott have acted a conspicuous

part. They were ready to go where duty called--to the field or

legislative hall.

Oliver Wolcott, the subject of this brief sketch, was the son of Roger

Wolcott who was appointed Governor of Connecticut in 1751. This son was

born on the 26th of November 1726 and graduated at Yale College in 1747.

The same year he was commissioned to raise and command a company which

he marched to the defence of the northern frontiers where he remained

until the peace of Aix la Chapelle. He then returned and applied himself

to the study of medicine until he was appointed the first sheriff of

Litchfield County formed in 1751. In 1755 he married Laura Collins a

discreet woman of great merit. In 1774 he was appointed counsellor which

station he filled for twelve consecutive years. He was also chief judge

of the Common Pleas Court and for a long time a judge of the Probate

Court. In the military field he rose from the grade of captain to that

of major-general. In the summer of 1776 he commanded the fourteen

regiments raised by Gov. Trumbull to act with the army in New York. He

headed his division at the memorable battle that resulted in the capture

of Burgoyne and revived the drooping spirits of those who were engaged

in the glorious cause of equal rights. He was uniformly consulted on

important military movements and listened to with great confidence. From

its commencement he was a zealous and efficient advocate of the cause of

freedom and stood firm amidst the revolutionary storm undaunted by the

roaring of the British lion.

In 1775 Congress made him commissioner of Indian affairs for the

Northern Department then an important trust. During the same year he

effected much towards reconciling disputes between Colonies relative to

their boundaries. Amiable and persuasive in his manners--imbued with a

clear sense of justice, he was an admirable mediator. He merited the

blessing pronounced on peace-makers.

In 1776 he took his seat in Congress and remained until he affixed his

signature to that Declaration of Rights which burst the chains of

material bondage--gave birth to our nation in a day--astonished gazing

millions--shook the British throne to its centre and gave us a Republic

that surpasses all Greek--all Roman fame.

He then returned to the field and on all occasions proved a brave,

skilful and prudent officer. When he deemed his services more useful in

Congress than in the army he would take his seat in that body, which he

did at intervals up to 1783. In 1785 he was associated with Arthur Lee

and Richard Butler to conclude a treaty of peace with the Six Nations of

Indians. The year following he was elected lieutenant-governor and

performed the duties of that office with great ability and dignity up to

the time of his death which occurred on the 1st day of December 1797. He

died regretted by the nation at large, but most by those who knew him

best.

His numerous public services were highly appreciated. They were promptly

and judiciously performed without any parade, pomp or vain show. His

private character was adorned by all the richness of purity--purpose and

action, that render a man an ornament among the virtuous. He possessed

all the sterling virtues--was a devout and consistent Christian--a

useful and honest man. In the hands of such men our government is

secure--our UNION safe.

GEORGE WYTHE.

To be born rich is oftener a misfortune than a blessing. Action is

designed by the great Creator--noble and god-like action. Riches are

prone to produce inertness. With the young, who are left to the bent of

their own inclinations either by the erroneous indulgence of parents or

for the want of parents or an efficient and kind guardian, an abundance

of riches often proves their ruin. A thousand emissaries are abroad to

lead them into the purlieus of vice and hurry on their sure destruction.

Money attracts attention in all circles. Although the love of it is the

root of all evil--still it commands undue attention. Thousands live who

will not earn, but must have it. These sharks are ever on the lookout

for young men of fortune and too often succeed in plucking every feather

from their newly fledged wings. The poor young man is in less danger. He

has no attractions for fashionable blacklegs--the vilest things that

creep on earth. Necessity impels him to action. He labors

industriously--studies economy--saves his earnings and eventually

becomes rich. Many of the most wealthy men of our country commenced

without a dollar. Few who are left large fortunes retain them and but

few who have lost them in profligacy have moral courage to break the

letters of vice, spurn the demons who have robbed them, return to the

paths of rectitude, redeem a lost fortune--a shattered reputation and

again stand up like men. We wonder and admire to behold such

instances--rare to be sure--but they have occurred.

This was fully exemplified by George Wythe born in Elizabeth City,

Virginia, in 1728. His father was a wealthy planter--his mother a woman

of unusual talents, learning and worth. To her this son was indebted for

his education and early impressions of the correct and noble principles

that actuated him after he assumed the dignity of a man. From her he

acquired the Greek and Latin languages and general science.

Unfortunately for him both his parents were snatched away by death

nearly at the same time, leaving him a buoyant youth without a hand to

guide or a voice to warn him against the allurements of vain pleasure or

the seductions of ruinous vice.

His father left him a fortune which was sufficient to have made a

prudent man in easy circumstances for life. Like too many _only_ sons,

he had been put to no business. He was a stranger to labor and had no

inclination to make its acquaintance. He was soon led away by idle

company, became dissipated and pursued the road to ruin until he was

thirty years of age, neglecting study and business and spending all his

substance.

Like the prodigal he then came to himself--returned to the paths of

virtue, studied the profession of law, was admitted to the Bar and

became one of its brightest ornaments. During the remainder of his life

he walked in the ways of wisdom most scrupulously and proved to his

friends and the world that a young man may be led astray by the prowling

wolves of vice--be torn and lacerated by the demon robbers that are

permitted to prey upon the community by the official guardians of our

cities and towns and yet recover from his wounds, redeem his character

and become a virtuous and useful member of society. God grant that this

example may influence thousands to go and do likewise.

No man ever dignified his profession more than Mr. Wythe. He was rigidly

honest and would not proceed in a cause until convinced justice required

his services. If drawn into a cause by misrepresentation that was

tinctured with wrong, he would abandon it the moment he discovered that

fact and return the fee. His virtuous habits, extreme fidelity, legal

acquirements and untiring industry, gained for him the esteem and

confidence of his friends and the people at large. He was a member of

the House of Burgesses for a long time and under the new government was

appointed Chancellor of the State, which office he filled with great

ability to the time of his death. He was highly esteemed as a legislator

for integrity, talent and independence. In politics he was guided by his

own matured judgment irrespective of party. On the 14th of November 1764

he was appointed on a committee to prepare a petition to the king, a

memorial to the House of Lords and a remonstrance to the House of

Commons on the impropriety and injustice of the proposed Stamp Act.

The remonstrance was from the able pen of Mr. Wythe and was drawn in

language so bold and strong that it alarmed many of his colleagues and

underwent a modification to divest it of what they deemed a tincture of

treason. He understood and properly appreciated the true dignity of man

and did not live to quail at the tyranny of a haughty monarch or corrupt

ministry. He was a prominent member of the House of Burgesses in 1768,

when Virginia blood and Virginia patriotism were roused and passed the

memorable resolutions asserting their exclusive right to levy their own

taxes--accused ministers and Parliament of violating the British

Constitution and denied the right of the crown to transport and try

persons in England for crimes committed in America. In passing these

resolutions parliamentary rules were dispensed with, the members

anticipating the proroguing power of the governor, who, on learning

their tenor, immediately dissolved the House. He was half an hour too

late--they had passed their final reading--were entered upon the records

and beyond his power to veto or expunge. This action of the governor was

unfavorable to the interests of the crown--the people took the helm as

they should do now and returned all the old patriotic members to the

next session with several new ones of the "same sort."

Among the new members was Thomas Jefferson who had been a law student

under Mr. Wythe--was charged with the same _rebel_ principles and was a

bold and fearless champion of Liberty and equal rights. The atmosphere

was becoming rather too highly charged with patriotic fire to be

comfortably inhaled by the governor and the bipeds of the crown. It was

rather too caloric for the free respiration of monarchical lungs. The

people, awakened to their true position--saw the path of duty and

pursued it. With an enlightened mass there is safety.

From that time Mr. Wythe continued to oppose parliamentary and

ministerial oppression and boldly vindicated the rights of his injured

country. At the commencement of the revolutionary movements he joined a

volunteer corps, determined to vindicate in the field the principles he

had advocated in the legislative hall. He lived up to the motto--"we do

what we say."

In August 1775 he was elected a member of Congress and took a high rank

in that body--then the observed of all observers. When the proposition

of Independence was made it met his warm approbation. He was to the hilt

in this measure. When the day arrived for final action he put his name

to that bold instrument that he knew must prove the Chart of Liberty or

the death warrant of the signers. In all the majesty of conscious

dignity these master spirits of freedom shook off the corroding rust of

kingly power, planted deep the tree of Liberty and proved to a gazing

world that a nation can be born in a day and live. Language can never

portray nor imagination fully conceive the enthusiastic joy that marked

the promulgation of the Declaration of Independence among the people.

The bells sounded a requiem and tolled the funeral knell of

monarchy--illuminations and roaring artillery conveyed the glad news

from the central arch of the Union to its remotest bounds--the

replenished torch of Liberty rose, a pillar of fire to guide the

patriots in their onward march--on the wings of thanksgiving and praise

the happy tidings were carried to the throne of Heaven, received the

sanction of Jehovah's high authority and were recorded in the book of

everlasting fame by the hand of justice with an angel's pen.

In November 1776 Messrs. Wythe, Pendleton and Jefferson were appointed

to revise the laws of Virginia. Although much other business devolved

upon them they prepared and reported one hundred and twenty-six bills by

the 18th of the ensuing June. The new code commenced the revision at the

time of the revolution in England and brought it down to and in

accordance with the new government.

In 1777 Mr. Wythe was chosen Speaker of the House of Delegates--the

same year a Judge of the High Court of Chancery and subsequently

Chancellor. A more impartial judge never graced the Bench. Nothing could

induce him to swerve from strict justice. He was a profound jurist and a

lucid expounder of the law. He graced the law professorship in the

College of William and Mary until other duties compelled him to resign.

He was a member of the legislature when Virginia sanctioned the Federal

Constitution.

He put in full practice his principles of Liberty by the emancipation of

his slaves and providing them with the means of support. He tried the

experiment of education upon one so far as to teach him Latin and Greek

when he suddenly died. He was extremely anxious to see a development of

African intellect that its calibre might be more clearly known.

Chancellor Wythe died suddenly on the 8th of June 1806, believed to be

from the effects of poison administered by _George Wythe Sweny_, a

grandson of his sister, for the purpose of arriving immediately at the

enjoyment of a part of his estate which was fortunately prevented by a

codicil made just before his decease. Although there was not proof to

convict, the ungrateful demon, circumstances were so strong against him

that the public verdict stamped upon him the damning

stigma--_murderer_.[A]

[A] After publishing my first edition, I was credibly informed the

poison was only intended for two emancipated slaves, who were legatees

in the will, both of whom died a few hours before their benefactor.

Mortification, from being co-heir with them, is the cause assigned for

the murder.--AUTHOR.

In his private character Chancellor Wythe was amiable, modest,

charitable and humane. He sought to improve the society in which he

moved and used great exertions to guard young men against the purlieus

of vice. He was industrious, temperate, frugal but liberal and

proverbial for charity and a practical Christian.

Jefferson, in delineating the character of his law

instructor--remarks--"No man ever left behind him a character more

venerated than George Wythe. His virtue was of the purest kind--his

integrity inflexible and his justice exact. Of warm patriotism and

devoted as he was to Liberty and the natural and equal rights of men he

might be truly called the Cato of this country without the avarice of a

Roman, for a more disinterested person never lived. Such was George

Wythe--the honor of his own and a model for future times."

ROBERT YATES.

Time is wasted by many persons as if it had no limit and they were to

live for ever. But few place a proper value upon it--but a small portion

of _these_ reduce it to an advantageous system. If every person

realized that "time is money" and ends in eternity--it would be used

very differently by many--not by all. The instances are very rare where

a man of fifty can look back upon his career and not see that he has

squandered a large portion of his time in senseless vacuity or improper

appropriation. If he then realizes its full worth he will gaze upon the

past with keen regret and vainly wish he could live his life over

again--a wish that the illustrious Washington said he did not indulge.

If no one of the human family wasted or improperly used time, earth

would be a Paradise--Pandemonium a fable. If all would assign a due

portion of time for each class of incumbent duties--rigidly adhere to

the one and promptly perform the others--a harmony in action and an

amount of labor would be produced that would effect a change in the

social, religious and business departments that would astonish the most

visionary theorist of system and order. Profligacy of time too often

commences in childhood--increases in youth and is made bankrupt in

manhood. Let all feel more deeply the importance of a judicious

arrangement and wise improvement of precious TIME. Its whirling wheels

are rolling us on rapidly to "that country from whose bourne no

traveller returns." It is a boon from our Creator--to Him we must render

an account of every hour from the moment our reason assumed and presided

over its empire. Let all be prepared to render that account with a joy

that shall increase in ecstacy through the ceaseless ages of ETERNITY.

In perusing this history of the Sages and Heroes of the American

Revolution the reader has learned that all of them were

industrious--several of them bright models of perfect system in the

distribution of their time. No one was more diligent in the performance

of his duties than Robert Yates who was born in the city of Schenectady,

N. Y. on the 27th day of January 1738. The early developments of his

mind were of unusual solidity and free from that frivolity that too

often retards the course of boys in their preparation for manhood. Let

my young readers remember this and become men in conduct during your

minority. You will then be prepared to appear upon the stage of action

with credit to yourselves and usefulness to our common country. Improve

your minds by storing them with useful knowledge. If the tree has no

blossoms in spring we gather no fruit in autumn. If your youth is barren

of healthful culture--if the vain allurements--the trifling amusements

of this deceiving world exclude from your immortal minds salutary

improvement--your mental powers may darken with age and rush you into

the murky waters of lasting disgrace--perhaps ruin you for ever. Soon

the mighty concerns of our country will devolve on you. In your hands

will be placed the destiny of our nation. Some of you must fill up the

swelling ranks of the professions--the arena of politics and posts of

honor and profit. Let these reflections raise you above the trifles that

amuse without benefitting you. Learn to be men when you are boys--you

may then be intellectual giants when you reach manhood. Remember your

Creator--study the Bible and let it be deeply impressed upon your minds

that to become eminently great you must be truly good.

Robert Yates commenced his classical education in the city of New York

and completed it at an early age. He then read law with William

Livingston of that city and became an ornament to the profession. He

located at the city of Albany--obtained a lucrative practice--the high

esteem of his numerous acquaintances and a title of honor too rare and

priceless--"THE HONEST LAWYER." An additional proof of his good sense

was exhibited by his leading to the hymeneal altar the amiable Miss Jane

Van Ness who proved worthy of the noble man of her judicious choice.

They sailed buoyantly, prosperously and joyfully on the flood tide of

domestic felicity until the angry elements of an oppressed people were

concentrated by British oppression and raised the rough storm of the

Revolution. Mr. Yates was a whig of the first water--bold, fearless,

calm, prudent and firm as the iron mountain of Missouri. No one better

understood the relative condition of the two countries--the powers and

rights of each and the law of nations. He was conversant with the

liberal principles of Magna Charta as granted by King John and as

improved and confirmed by King Henry III. in the ninth year of his

reign. He was familiar with the provisions of the British

Constitution--the Charters of the Colonies and the various declaratory

Acts of Parliament defining the rights of the American people which had

grown sacred by long and peaceful enjoyment. To see them now rudely

trampled upon by a venal ministry roused the patriotism and indignation

of Mr. Yates. He wrote and published several pungent essays exposing the

usurpations of the British Cabinet. He took an active part in the public

meetings of the people that prepared them to strike for LIBERTY. At that

time he was a member of the corporation of Albany and attorney for that

board. He was a leading member of the Committee of Safety when it was

virtually the supreme government of the empire state. The _tories_

greatly feared and most sincerely hated this bold champion of equal

rights. His ardent zeal was tempered with a discreet moderation and

equal justice to all. He never passed the orbit of legitimate power nor

hesitated in performing his whole duty regardless of consequences. He

was an active member of the first Provincial Congress of New

York--chairman of the committee to organize the military and did much

towards producing a concert of action against the invading enemy. In

1777 he was an efficient member of the Convention that framed the first

constitution of his native state. Under that constitution he was

appointed a judge of the Supreme Court. His acceptance raised him to the

zenith of rebellion in view of the creatures of the crown. He was

menaced by them and threatened by the tories. He promptly assumed the

duties of his responsible station and boldly performed them. Stern

justice, tempered with charity, directed his course. Officially he

favored no friend--persecuted no enemy. His courts were held in the

midst of bitter foes. No dangers could intimidate--no threats deter him

from the faithful discharge of all the duties devolving upon him. When

tories were arraigned before the court the overcharged zeal of jurors

sometimes paralyzed their sense of right. On one occasion he sent out a

jury of this kind four times with a direction to change their verdict of

"guilty" which was not warranted by the testimony. The legislature

talked loudly of calling him to an account for this act but on a sober

second thought wisely determined to permit the old Roman to pursue the

even tenor of his ways. His salary was far below the income of his

practice at the Bar. To advance the interests of his country was above

all pecuniary considerations. His salary for one year was paid in paper

apology for money which depreciated so much in a few days that it took

the whole to buy a pound of tea. This did not disturb his equanimity or

abate his zeal in the glorious cause of Independence.

After the close of the Revolution Messrs. Robert Yates, Alexander

Hamilton and Chancellor Livingston were chosen to represent the state of

New York in the Convention that framed the Federal Constitution. His

services on that important occasion were highly appreciated. He was

opposed to some features of that sacred instrument but voted for its

adoption when it came before the Convention of his own state. When it

became the supreme law of the land he was one of its firmest supporters.

In his first charge to the grand jury after it had been legally

sanctioned he used the following language which I implore the reader to

ponder well and let it come home with all the force of living truth

proclaimed from the tomb of a departed patriot.

"The proposed form of government for the Union has at length received

the sanction of so many of the States as to make it the supreme law of

the land. It is not therefore any longer a question whether or not its

provisions are such as they ought to be in all their different branches.

We, as good citizens, are bound _implicitly to obey them_. The united

wisdom of America has sanctioned and confirmed the act and it would be

but little short of treason against the Republic to hesitate in our

obedience and respect to the Constitution of the United States of

America. Let me, therefore, exhort you gentlemen--not only in your

capacity as grand jurors but in your more durable and equally

respectable character as citizens--to preserve inviolate this Charter of

our national Rights and safety--a Charter second only in dignity and

importance to the Declaration of our Independence. We have escaped, it

is true, by the blessing of divine Providence, from the tyranny of a

foreign foe--but let us now be equally watchful in guarding against

_worse and far more dangerous enemies_--DOMESTIC BROILS AND INTESTINE

DIVISIONS."

Would to God this patriotic language of Judge Yates could be written in

flaming capitals of living fire raised in bold relievo on plates of

burnished gold and suspended in every court room, legislative hall,

church, school-house and public place in our land. It should be

circulated by every press in our country and committed to memory by

every child.

Judge Yates was one of the Commissioners to settle the boundary question

between New York and the States of Massachusetts and Connecticut. He was

subsequently employed to prosecute claims of his native State against

Vermont. In 1790 he was appointed Chief Justice of the Empire State and

presided with great dignity until the 27th of January 1798 when his age

reached the constitutional limit and closed his long, useful, arduous

and brilliant judicial career. He had been an ornament to the Bench for

twenty-one years. Not a stain had soiled his official ermine. He then

resumed the practice of law and was appointed by the legislature of his

state to settle disputed titles in the military tract which office he

held until the Act creating it expired.

In comparative poverty and peace he glided down the stream of time until

the 9th day of September 1801 when an arrow from the quiver of death

pierced the shining mark--released his noble soul from its earthly

prison and returned it to its original home of enduring bliss. He had

exemplified primitive Christianity--his last hours were bright with

hope, strong in faith, calm, peaceful and happy. He was greatly beloved

in life--deeply mourned in death. In the performance of all the

multiform duties of public and private life he stood approved by his

friends, his country, his conscience and his God. He was an admired

model of system in all the concerns of life--arranged his time

judiciously, improved it wisely and earned a lofty fame that will endure

while virtue is esteemed and patriotism lives. In the hands of such men

our Republic will continue to rise in majesty sublime until its burning

light shall illuminate the world and become too brilliant for the vision

of all those who do not love and support our UNION.