martyr in the glorious cause of Liberty. After bravely defending Port
Griswold at New London against an overwhelming force under the traitor
Arnold he was compelled to surrender [see the Life of Arnold]. A British
officer entered and asked who commanded the fort. Col. Ledyard
replied-"I _did_ but _you_ do now" and handed him his sword which he
immediately plunged through the body of his defenseless prisoner. Nearly
70 were slaughtered after the surrender. The fort was manned by 157
militia hastily collected and poorly armed. But 6 were killed in the
regular attack. The British had two commissioned officers and 40
privates killed--135 non-commissioned officers and privates
wounded--conclusive proof of the bravery of Col. Ledyard and his men in
an action of only forty minutes. The following extract from the
inscription on the tomb-stone of Col. Ledyard shows the high estimation
in which he was held.
"By a judicious and faithful discharge of the various duties of his
station he rendered most essential services to his country and stood
confessed the unshaken patriot and intrepid hero. He lived the pattern
of magnanimity, courtesy and humanity--he died the victim of ungenerous
rage and cruelty."
LEE ARTHUR commenced his mortal career in Virginia in 1740. He was
highly educated in England--took the degree of M. D. at the medical
university of Edinburgh--returned to Williamsburg in his native State
and commenced the successful practice of his profession. In a few years
he returned to England--read law in the Temple and became a political
writer over the signature of Junius Americanus which gave him an
acquaintance with the popular party and gained him a membership in the
famed society of the supporters of the Bill of Rights. His numerous
political essays in favor of the cause of Liberty gained for him a high
reputation at home. He was associated with Messrs. Franklin and Deane in
negotiating a treaty of alliance with France in 1776. Upon learning that
false accusations had been circulated by Mr. Deane alleging improper
political conduct he resigned and returned home. He was elected to the
Virginia Legislature in 1781 and then to Congress where he remained
until 1785. The previous year he had effected a treaty with the Six
Nations of Indians. He went from Congress into the Treasury Department
where he continued up to 1789 when he left the public arena and died in
1792. He was a man of parts and a zealous patriot.
LEE CHARLES was a native of North Wales and held a military commission
at the age of eleven. His was emphatically the life of a soldier. He
served at an early age in Canada--under Burgoyne in Portugal--in the
Polish army--travelled the tour of Europe--killed an Italian officer in
a duel--came to America in 1773--declared for Liberty and was made a
major-general by Congress in 1775. He commanded for a time in New
York--then in the south--was soon transferred to New Jersey where he was
made prisoner in 1776 and treated in the most brutal manner and not
exchanged until the close of the next year. In 1778 he was arraigned
before st court martial for disobeying orders at the battle of Monmouth
and suspended for one year. He lived in seclusion in Virginia until 1782
when he repaired to Philadelphia and died in October of that year--poor
and friendless--friendless because he was poor. He was a man of
energy--a brave officer--rather morose and not calculated to captivate
or gain popular applause.
LEE HENRY was born in Virginia in 1756 and entered the military arena in
1776 with the rank of captain of cavalry. At the battle of Germantown
his company was the body guard of Washington. In 1780 he was
commissioned lieutenant-colonel and put in command of the celebrated
"Lee's Legion" so often referred to and which was a terror to the enemy
during the war. At Eutaw Springs and in numerous battles he gained
imperishable laurels. From 1786 to the time of the adoption of the
Federal Constitution he was a member of Congress and a member of the
Convention that framed that sacred instrument. In 1799 he was elected to
Congress and selected to pronounce the funeral oration of President
Washington. In 1792 he was governor of Virginia. For military courage,
skill and prudence Col. Lee stood in the front rank. His capture of the
garrison of Paulus Hook opposite New York in open day without the loss
of a man and in sight of the main British army and navy, was a feat
scarcely equalled during the Revolution. So perfect were his plans--so
rapid were his movements that he eluded pursuit and took every man found
in the garrison to the American camp. He commanded the army that put a
quietus on the Whisky boys in Pennsylvania. With all his honors fresh
upon him he was incarcerated in prison for the crime of debt. He there
wrote his "Memoirs of the Southern Campaign." He was severely wounded at
the riot in Baltimore in 1814. He died at Cumberland Island in Georgia
at the house of a friend in 1814. His remains repose near those of Gen.
Greene who was his warm friend and companion in arms. His relentless
creditors could rob him of his personal liberty but could not chain his
noble mind nor rob him of a well earned fame or of the glorious title of
an HONEST MAN.
LEE EZRA was born in Connecticut in 1749. He left his plough in the
furrow to avenge the wrongs that were heaped upon his country by the
hirelings of the crown. With the commission of a Captain he entered the
service under Gen. Parsons. He had the marked esteem of Gen. Washington
and performed many secret missions for him. He fought with him at
Trenton, Monmouth and Brandywine. When the British fleet lay in New York
bay he sent every war vessel to Sandy Hook as fast as wind could take
them--the men sweeping the bottoms of the ships with chains for fear
some live Yankee might still be there. An ingenious apparatus for
blowing up ships was invented by David Bushnel of Saybrook, Conn.
Washington employed Capt. Lee to put it in operation. For the want of a
resisting power to work the attaching screw he was not able to penetrate
the copper on the bottom of the vessel. He finally detached the
apparatus containing the magazine of powder and left it under one of the
large war ships. In due time it exploded--put the water in earthquake
agitation and shook the very earth. The brave Britons were as badly
frightened as when they had the dreadful battle with the kegs on the
Delaware opposite Philadelphia. They were missing in a short time. After
the Independence of his country was secured Capt. Lee returned to his
farm where he lived in the esteem of his fellow citizens and pursued the
even tenor of his ways at Lyme Connecticut until the 29th of October
1821 when his noble soul returned to its original happy home.
LEE THOMAS SIM was a citizen of Maryland and early espoused his
country's rights and sternly opposed British wrongs. He served his
country in various public capacities--was a member of the Continental
Congress--a delegate to the Convention that framed the Federal
Constitution and governor of his state. He lived in the full enjoyment
of the esteem of his numerous friends until 1819 when his lamp of life
was snuffed out by death.
LINCOLN BENJAMIN was introduced on our rolling planet at Hingham, Mass,
on the 23d of January 1733. Like Cincinnatus he left his plough and
hastened to repel the invading foe. As Colonel of militia he had taken
the entered apprentice degree in military tactics and rose rapidly in
rank. In 1776 the Council of Massachusetts made him a Major General and
in February of the ensuing year Congress conferred on him a similar
commission at the suggestion of Washington. He was with him at New York
and in Jersey and rendered efficient aid during that trying period. In
July 1777 he joined the northern army and did much toward preparing the
way for the capture of Burgoyne. He made his head quarters at
Manchester, Vermont. On the 13th of September he sent Col. Brown to lake
George with 500 men who surprised the enemy--seized 200 batteaux--took
293 prisoners and liberated 100 Americans with a loss of only three
killed and five wounded. He soon united his force with that of Gen.
Gates and was second in command. During the bloody battle of the 7th of
October he commanded within the lines. On the 8th of October he was
severely wounded in the leg and disabled for a long time. He suffered
several surgical operations and lost a considerable portion of the bone
which lamed him for life. In 1778 he was put in command of the southern
division of the army then in a miserable condition. Near the last of
December Gen. Provost arrived with several armed vessels and 3000 fresh
troops and occupied Savannah. In September 1779 Gen. Lincoln and Count
D'Estaing made a bold but unsuccessful attack upon the enemy. A column
under Count Dillion missed their way and were not in the action, to
which accident may be attributed the failure of success. In leading on a
corps of cavalry Count Pulaski was mortally wounded. Gen. Lincoln then
repaired to Charleston and used his best exertions to place it in a
state of defence. In February 1780 Sir Henry Clinton arrived and on the
30th of March planted himself in front of that city. After wasting
considerable powder he demanded a surrender on the 10th of April which
was promptly refused. A vigorous siege was prosecuted until the 11th of
May when terms of capitulation were arranged. Gen. Lincoln had kept the
enemy at bay much longer than was anticipated by friend or foe. His
conduct stood approved by all whose good opinion he valued. At Yorktown
he commanded the central division. His conduct elicited the high
approbation of Washington who mentioned him particularly in his report
to Congress. In 1781 he was placed at the head of the War Department. At
the end of two years he resigned and was complimented by Congress with a
resolution of strong commendation. In 1784 he was one of the
commissioners who made a treaty with the Penobscot Indians. In 1787 he
commanded the troops who quelled the rebellion of Shay and Day. The same
year he was elected Lieut. Governor. In 1789 he was one of the
commissioners who effected a treaty with the Creek Indians and in 1793
with the Western Indians. He was appointed Collector of the Port of
Boston in 1789 which office he held until two years before his death
which occurred on the 9th of May 1810. In all respects he was a worthy
citizen and exemplified every virtue that renders a man truly useful.
Lippitt Christopher was born in Rhode Island in 1744. From early life he
took a deep interest in the welfare of his country and filled many
public stations. When the war cry was sounded he was Colonel of a
regiment and marched his yeoman troops to the battle field. He
subsequently entered the Continental army--was raised to the rank of
Brigadier--fought bravely at Harlaem Heights, White Plains, Trenton and
Princeton and received the high commendation of Washington for his zeal,
courage and uniform consistent course. He was elected governor of his
native state before the close of the war and was several times called
out to repel the invading foe. He was always at the post of duty and
knew no fugitive fear. He acted a noble part in the drama of life--when
the curtain of death closed upon him he was ready. He died at Cranston,
Rhode Island in 1824.
LIVINGSTON ROBERT R. was a native of the Empire State and one of the
early and bold patriots who bearded the British lion and drove him from
his lair of illegitimate power. He was an acute lawyer, a profound
jurist, an able statesman. He was a member of Congress in 1776 and on
the committee appointed to prepare the Declaration of Independence. He
was Secretary of Foreign Affairs-minister to France and for a long time
chancellor of the State of New York. He dignified every station he
occupied, graced the walks of private life and made a peaceful exit from
earth in 1813.
LIVINGSTON WILLIAM was born in New York in 1723. He was a ripe scholar,
a firm patriot and was among the first to expose the usurpations of
mother Britain and rouse the people to a vindication of their chartered
rights. He was an able writer and was most sincerely hated by the
creatures of the crown. He removed to New Jersey just previous to the
war storm. He was an able member of Congress in 1774. He was the first
governor of his adopted State under the new order of things and ably
filled that dignified office for fourteen consecutive years when he was
called "to that country from whose bourne no traveller returns." He died
near Elizabethtown, N. J. on the 25th of July 1790 full of years and
crowned with honors enduring as history.
McCLINTOCK NATHANIEL commenced his earthly career in New Hampshire on
the 21st of March 1757. He received a finished education and was a
favorite in every circle where he moved. He was courted by the hirelings
of the crown with the promise of high honors. He was affianced to
Liberty and could not entertain their propositions. Soon after the
war-cry was raised on the heights of Lexington he entered the army wish
the commission of lieutenant. He rose quickly to the rank of major over
older captains which created dissatisfaction among them although they
fully agreed that his talents and services made him worthy of the
promotion. He proved the noble magnanimity of his soul by at once
resigning that perfect harmony might be restored. He had fought bravely
at Trenton--at Ticonderoga and in all the battles with the troops of
Burgoyne up to the time of his surrender. On leaving the army he entered
on board the private armed ship General Sullivan of 20 guns, Capt.
Manning, as second lieutenant. In 1780 this ship was captured by two
British cruisers of much superior force after a severe engagement in
which Maj. McClintock was killed. Thus prematurely fell one of the
brightest and most promising sons of New Hampshire.
McKINSTRY JOHN is first ushered into historic notice at the battle of
Bunker's Hill where he acted a brave part in repelling the overwhelming
force of the enemy. From that time to the surrender of Yorktown he was
constantly in the field with a commission of captain often commanding a
partisan corps in bold and daring enterprises. In Canada he had become a
terror to the enemy. At Cedar Keys, 30 miles above Montreal on the St.
Lawrence, he was taken prisoner and soon bound to a tree by the savages
and surrounded with faggots. All hope of escape had fled--a torturing
death seemed inevitable--the torch was ready to be applied--the war
dance was arranged--the Captain uttered what he supposed was his last
prayer. At that awful moment Heaven reminded him that he was a Mason and
had heard that the ruling chief Brandt, belonged to the same time
honored fraternity. He gained his eye--gave him the proper sign--was
instantly released--treated with great kindness and exchanged in a short
time. Many instances are on record of a similar character and others of
a different nature where a brother has been rescued from the jaws of
death. Gen. Freegift Patchin, of my native place was rescued by Brandt
when a prisoner in Canada under exactly similar circumstances. I have
often heard it from his own lips. If all mankind were true Masons and no
black sheep in the flock--a harmony would succeed before unknown. The
instances above cited should silence every objector to an institution
pure in principle but sometimes dishonored by the unworthy.
Capt. McKinstry resumed the business of agriculture when the army was
disbanded and lived in the esteem of his countrymen in the town of
Livingston, N. Y. until 1822 when his mourning neighbors performed the
last solemn duty of placing him in his grave.
McPHERSON WILLIAM was born at Philadelphia, Pa. in 1756. He was made a
cadet in the British army when but 13 years of age. At the commencement
of the American Revolution he was adjutant of the 16th Regiment of the
king's troops. This did not make him a loyalist. His innate love of
freedom induced him to at once tender his resignation which was not
accepted till 1779 when he repaired to the American camp. Having been
stationed at Pensacola up to this time he had never drawn his sword
against his country. He had been long personally and favorably known to
Gen. Washington who at once made him a brevet major. He was an aid under
Gen. La Fayette for some time and subsequently placed over a corps of
cavalry in Virginia. On all occasions he acquitted himself nobly. On the
19th of September 1789 he was made surveyor of the port of
Philadelphia--in 1792 inspector of revenue--in 1793 naval officer, which
station he held until 1813 when he was called from time to eternity.
MADISON JAMES was born in Orange County, Virginia, on the 16th of March,
1751. Although young at the commencement of the Revolution he took a
deep interest in its success. After the close of the struggle for
Independence he was among those who clearly saw that the old Articles of
Confederation could not preserve the priceless Liberty obtained. He has
the imperishable honor of proposing the Convention that framed the
inestimable Federal Constitution that has thus far held our ship of
state to its moorings amidst the dashing waves of party spirit--the
roaring breakers of political fanaticism--the angry purges of impolitic
ultraism. His fame as a far-seeing statesman stands on a lofty eminence.
His voluminous writings bear the impress of giant intellect--unalloyed
patriotism--sterling integrity and untiring industry. He succeeded
Thomas Jefferson in the Presidential chair and served two terms. He
steered the ship of state through the second war of Independence and run
her close to the wind. His life was a continued course of
usefulness--his demise left a vacuum in our nation not readily filled.
The curtain of death closed upon him in 1836.
[Illustration: {James Madison portrait and signature} ENGRAVED BY T.B.
WELCH FROM A PORTRAIT BY G. STUART.]
MANLY JOHN commenced his earthly pilgrimage in Massachusetts in 1734. He
was one of the first who met the enemy on her favorite element. He was
put in command of the armed schooner Lee on the 24th of October 1775 and
cruised in and around Massachusetts Bay. His success was beyond all
anticipation. He made numerous captures of great value to the American
army and embryo navy. His noble daring and consummate skill were hailed
as germs of future greatness. He was transferred to the privateer
Hancock and launched out upon a more extensive cruise and captured the
British sloop of war Fox and several other prizes. On his return he was
received with great enthusiasm and transferred to the privateer Jason.
Soon after he sailed he was attacked by two English privateers of 18 and
10 guns. He ran the Jason between them before he fired a gun and in a
few brief moments they both surrendered. On his return passage with
these prizes he was captured by the Rainbow of 40 guns on the 8th of
July 1777 and was confined in Mill Prison and at Halifax until near the
close of the war and treated with the proverbial cruelty so often before
noticed. In 1782 he was put in command of the frigate Hague. During his
cruise he was run on a sand bank near Guadaloupe by a 74 gun ship which
was joined by three other ships of the line. They opened a tremendous
fire upon the frigate which was continued for three days. On the morning
of the fourth day the Hague swung clear, hoisted the Continental
colors--fired a farewell salute of 13 guns and returned to Boston.
Charges were there brought against this gallant captain by one of his
officers. Those were partially sustained before a court martial but
appear not to have been placed upon the public records nor well
understood by the community. His unsurpassed bravery may have operated
in his favor. He died at Boston on the 12th of February 1793.
MARSHALL JOHN was born in Virginia in 1756. He was one of the noble sons
of the Old Dominion who threw themselves in the breach made upon our
country by the corrupt British ministry. He was a long time in the
tented field under Washington and acted a bold and glorious part in the
achievement of our Independence. He was a man of superior talents--sound
education and strong mind. In 1797 he was envoy to France--Secretary of
State under Thomas Jefferson and soon after was made Chief Justice of
the United States Supreme Court which station he dignified to the close
of his life. He wrote an elaborate Life of Washington. He was
universally esteemed as an ornament to the bench, his country and to
every circle in which he moved.
MATHEWS THOMAS is first spoken of as a citizen of Norfolk, Virginia and
a brave officer of the Revolution. It is painful to the historian in
search of facts relative to the Sages and Heroes of the American
Revolution to be unable to ascertain even the birth-place of many who
did good service in the glorious cause of independence. So in this case.
Mr. Mathews was a prominent man--rose to the rank of general--was
speaker of the House of Delegates in Virginia and nobly performed the
public and private duties of life that devolved upon him. He died at
Norfolk, Va. on the 20th of April 1812.
MERCER HUGH was born and educated at Aberdeen, Scotland. He became a
physician and was surgeon's mate at the battle of Culloden Moor,
Scotland, where the young Pretender was defeated by the Duke of
Cumberland in 1745. He came to Pennsylvania in 1746 and was actively
engaged in the border wars. He was with Gen. Braddock in 1755 and
witnessed the awful slaughter on the day that general was mortally
wounded. He formed an intimacy with Washington during that campaign.
The next year he served under Gen. Armstrong and greatly distinguished
himself at the battle with the Indians at Kittanning above Pittsburgh.
He there narrowly escaped being captured--had his right arm broken with
a ball--became separated from his companions and was alone in the
wilderness two weeks before reaching Cumberland without any food but
water and the flesh of a rattlesnake that he fortunately killed. The
city of Philadelphia presented him with a splendid medal for his bravery
on that occasion. In 1763 he removed to Fredericksburg, Va. where he
enhanced his importance in society by leading Isabella Gordon to the
hymeneal altar. He soon gained a good practice in his profession and the
esteem of a large circle of acquaintances. He was an ardent Whig and was
among the first to repel the enemy by force of arms. He was at once made
a brigadier-general. His brigade was a part of the left wing of the
American army at the battle of Trenton in December 1776. On the 3d of
January following he commenced the attack at Princeton with 350 men.
Before the main force could be brought to his support he was charged by
the whole regiment commanded by Col. Mawhood. His line was broken--he
was surrounded in person and compelled to surrender after which he was
mortally wounded. At that moment Washington came up and quickly routed
the enemy and rescued the brave Mercer. He lived but one week and was
buried at Princeton. His death was not only deeply deplored by his
friends, the army and Congress but was a most serious loss to the
country at large. His age, experience, talents, high character--all
combined to render him one of the most important men of our nation at
that eventful era. In the memoirs of Gen. Wilkinson he is placed next in
rank to Washington in point of prospective usefulness. His whole soul
was enlisted in the glorious cause of Liberty.
MEIGS RETURN JONATHAN was a native of Middletown, Conn. At the
commencement of the struggle for FREEDOM he had his military lamp
trimmed and burning brightly with the fire of patriotism. He was in
command of a splendid company of infantry volunteers in beautiful
uniform, well armed and eager for service. He marched to Cambridge
immediately on receiving intelligence of the battle of Lexington. He was
soon raised to the rank of major and endured the fatigues of the
expedition to Quebec under Arnold. In the desperate attack on that
fortress he commanded a battalion and was among the first who scaled the
walls and entered the city where he was taken prisoner and was not
exchanged until near the close of 1776. In 1777 he was made a colonel
and performed many astonishing feats of valor. On the 23d of May of that
year he proceeded to Sag Harbor, Long Island, with 170 men--destroyed 12
British vessels fully laden with supplies for the army then in New
York--killed six of the enemy--took 90 prisoners and returned to New
Haven without the loss of a man. For this bold and successful enterprise
Congress voted him an elegant sword. In 1779 he commanded one of the
regiments under Gen. Wayne at the storming of Stony Point. He was a
reliable man on all occasions and under the most trying circumstances.
In 1787 he was one of the pioneer colony that located at the mouth of
the Muskingum river on the Ohio. He was their esteemed governor until
the officers of the territory arrived. He formed a code of regulations
which were subscribed and placed upon a venerable oak where they were
as frequently and more usefully consulted than the oracle Apollo at
Delphi. He was a man of great philanthropy--a warm friend of the injured
red men and accepted the agency of the Cherokee station. He gained the
confidence and love of that noble nation who named him "_the white
path_." With them he lived usefully and died peacefully on the 28th of
January 1828 strong in hope, rich in faith with a full assurance of a
glorious immortality.
MIFFLIN THOMAS commenced his earthly career in Pennsylvania in 1744. He
was an influential Quaker until he was read out of meeting in 1775
because he dared strike for Liberty. He was an early, warm and able
advocate of equal rights. He was an efficient member of the Congress of
1774. He was commissioned Quarter-Master-General in August 1775. He was
one of the most successful stump-orators of that time. No one could more
effectually excite the populace--when incited to action it needed a
cooler head to direct the tornado and rule the storm of passion. He was
very useful in rousing the militia to rush to the rescue. In 1787 he was
a member of the Convention that framed the Federal Constitution. In
October 1788 he succeeded Franklin in the chair of the Executive Council
of the state. He aided in forming the first republican Constitution of
Pennsylvania and was the first Governor under it. He was eminently
useful in terminating the whisky rebellion. In all that he undertook he
executed with great steal and energy. His life was devoted to the good
of his country--he filled his measure of usefulness and left the theatre
of life at Lancaster, Pa. on the 20th of January 1800.
MILLER HENRY is first introduced as one of the bravest officers of the
Continental army. He rose to the rank of colonel and was a thorny
customer of the enemy when retreating through New Jersey. At numerous
battles he was distinguished for cool and undaunted courage. At the
battle of Monmouth he had two horses killed under him while leading his
men to the charge. He commanded a brigade of militia at Baltimore the
last time mother Britain attempted to chastise her truant child. He
filled several civil offices and dignified them with old school
civility--an article rather on the decline in these modern days of new
fangled notions. He died at Carlisle, Pa. on the 5th of April 1824.
MONROE JAMES commenced his busy life in Virginian in 1759. He entered
the Continental army at the age of 17 and proved a noble and brave boy.
He distinguished himself in the battles of Harlaem Heights, White
Plains, Trenton, Brandywine, Germantown and Monmouth. At the latter he
was aid to Gen. Sterling. At the close of the war he held the commission
of Captain. He then read law with Thomas Jefferson--became a member of
the Virginia legislature--was elected to Congress in 1783--in 1790 was a
member of the United States Senate--in 1794 was minister to France--in
1799 governor of Virginia--in 1803 minister to France, the same year
minister to England--in 1804 minister to Spain--in 1806 minister to
England--in 1811 Secretary of State under Madison--then Secretary of
War--in 1817 President of the United States and served two terms--labor
and glory enough for the life of one man. James Monroe came from the
searching crucible of all these responsible stations like gold seven
times tried--free from dross and full in weight--a fact that renders the
eulogy of words on his fame imbecile. He made his last bow upon the
stage of life on the glorious 4th of July 1831 when the curtain of death
dropped and hid him from the admiring view of a gazing world.
[Illustration: {James Monroe portrait and signature} ENGRAVED BY T.B.
WELCH FROM A PORTRAIT BY VANDERLYN.]
MONTGOMERY RICHARD commenced his journey in this world of fickle spirits
in the north of Ireland in 1737. He was one of the noblest sons of the
Emerald Isle. His genius was brilliant--his education finished, his
manners accomplished, his soul patriotic--the whole man was worthy of
admiration. He fought for Great Britain under Wolfe and fell on the very
ground where he had joined in shouts of victory in 1759. He came to
America to remain permanently in 1772--purchased an estate near 100
miles above New York City--married a daughter of Judge Livingston and
became a prominent citizen and a warm friend to the cause of Liberty. In
1775 he was appointed Major General and in conjunction with Gen.
Schuyler placed over the northern forces. In October the illness of his
colleague left him in sole command. He captured Fort Chamblee, St. Johns
and Montreal by the 12th of November. He then proceeded to Quebec and
formed a junction with Arnold at Point Aux Trembles. On the 1st of
December a siege was commenced on Quebec and continued until the 31st of
that mouth. On the memorable last day of 1775 the gallant little band
under these two ardent soldiers was led to the storming attack of the
town in four divisions with strong fortifications to overcome and double
their force within the walls. The first gun that was fired upon the
division led by the gallant Montgomery killed him and his two aids. His
death spread a general gloom over our land and was deeply lamented in
the mother country. Congress caused a monument to be erected to his
memory in front of St. Paul's church in the city of New York with a
suitable inscription. By direction of the legislature of the empire
state his remains were brought from Quebec and deposited near this
monument on the 8th of July 1818. His widow lived to see the last
vestiges of the husband of her youth--our nation rejoiced to have this
noble hero repose in the bosom of our own soil. The fame of Gen.
Montgomery is above eulogy. It will grow richer with age--time cannot
corrode it.
MORGAN DANIEL was a native of Durham, Bucks county, Pa. From there he
removed to New Jersey and then to Virginia where he was a common laborer
for some time and by his industry and economy saved money sufficient to
ultimately purchase a farm in the county of Frederic. When a common
laborer his company was not of the highest order--his habits not rigidly
moral but in that company he was the ruling spirit. He was with Braddock
when defeated by the French and Indians and received a wound that marked
him in the face for life. Like many more with a rough exterior, he had a
noble heart within him--a heart full of daring courage, patriotism and
philanthropy. He was among the first who rushed to the standard of
Washington at Cambridge with the commission of Captain. He was with
Arnold in his memorable expedition to Quebec and was taken prisoner
during the attack on that city. On being exchanged he returned and took
command of the celebrated rifle corps that so often carried death into
the ranks of the enemy. At the capture of Burgoyne the carnage produced
by this corps was terrific--especially among the bravest of the British
officers--contributing very largely in achieving that splendid victory
that first rolled back the tide of war upon the conquering foe. Of this
all seemed sensible but Gen. Gates who did not award to him his just
share of credit in his report to Washington and Congress. For a time he
left the service. When Gates was ordered to the command of the southern
army he personally solicited Col. Morgan to accompany him. He was
plainly referred to past improper treatment but the Colonel ultimately
repaired to that field with the commission of Brigadier General. He
became the hero of the Cowpens for which Congress voted him a gold
medal. That brilliant affair has been previously described. About that
time Gen. Greene succeeded Gates. A disagreement occurred between him
and Morgan as to the route to be taken in the retreat. Morgan took his
own way--joined Greene at Guilford court house and then left the
service. He subsequently commanded the Virginia troops in the campaign
against the whisky boys in Pennsylvania. He was elected a member of
Congress and filled the station with dignity. He ultimately located at
Winchester, Va. where he lived in the high esteem of his fellow
citizens--became a consistent member of the Presbyterian church and died
in 1799. He was possessed of strong common sense--a brave but sensitive
soldier--a good citizen--a worthy and honest man.
MORGAN JOHN was born in Philadelphia in 1735 and became an eminent
physician and sterling whig. In 1765 he was elected Professor of the
Theory and Practice of Medicine in the Medical College of Philadelphia.
In October 1775 he was appointed chief physician of the hospitals of the
American army. Jealousy and envy put she tongue of slander in motion and
induced false accusations against him and succeeded in effecting his
removal in a few months. He did not again enter the thorny course of
public life and died at Philadelphia in 1789.
MORRIS GOVERNEUR commenced his earthly pilgrimage near the city of New
York in 1752. He was liberally educated and became an eloquent and sound
lawyer. He was a member of the Provincial Congress of N. Y. in 1775 and
on the committee that drafted the first constitution of that state. In
1777 he was a member of the Continental Congress--in 1781 was associated
with Robert Morris as assistant superintendent of Finance--in 1787 a
member of the Convention that framed the Federal Constitution--in 1792
minister plenipotentiary to France and in 1800 was elected to the U. S.
Senate where his extensive acquirements and Ciceronean eloquence shed
fresh lustre on that body--on his country and his own high reputation.
Mr. Sparks has published his speeches and writings with an interesting
biographical sketch of his life. He was an ornament to every circle in
which he moved--an honor to every station he filled--a particular star
in the galaxy of the Sages of his day and generation.
MOULTRIE WILLIAM was ushered upon this mundane sphere in England in 1730
and came to Charleston, South Carolina to enjoy Freedom. When mother
Britain violated that inherent privilege he was among the first to
resist the invading foe. He was a prominent member of the public
meetings and conventions that prepared the people to vindicate their
rights. He was appointed colonel of one of the three regiments raised
in his adopted state in 1775. He superintended the erection of the Fort
Sullivan's Island that bears his name. So hastily was it constructed and
so slender was its formation that he was advised to abandon it on the
approach of the British fleet. On the 28th of June 1776 Sir Peter Parker
came up with eight ships of war and opened a tremendous fire upon this
fragile fortress and the presumptuous rebels. To his utter astonishment
streams of flashing fire gleamed from the American battery--a storm of
iron hail came crashing among his ships. Splinters flew--rigging
dropped--blood flowed--men fell. For ten hours Sir Peter raved and
foamed with anger and urged his men to renewed exertions. At length a
rebel cannon ball kissed off the nether part of his silk breeches which
he considered a personal reflection upon his dignity and sullenly
retired with his fleet after having been badly cut up. This brave
defence by a few raw militia against an overwhelming veteran force was a
theme of enthusiastic praise throughout America and Europe. Col.
Moultrie was raised to the rank of brigadier-general and in 1779 was
made a major-general in the Continental army. He participated in the
most trying scenes of the south up to the surrender of Charleston on the
12th of May 1780 when he became a prisoner and was not exchanged until
near the close of hostilities. He then returned to his home and aided in
perfecting measures to preserve that Independence for which he had so
nobly fought and conquered. He was elected governor of his state and
filled several minor offices with usefulness and dignity. He died at
Charleston S. C. on the 27th of September 1805.
MUHLENBURG PETER was born in Pennsylvania in 1746. His father was the
Patriarch of the German Lutheran church in the Keystone state. This son
was liberally educated and became the Rector of an Episcopal church. He
loved his flock well but loved his country and her freedom more. At the
commencement of the struggle for Liberty he exchanged his gown for
regimentals, his pen for the sword, his pulpit for the tented field. In
1776 he received the commission of colonel--raised a regiment and
marched it to headquarters. The next year he was raised to the rank of
brigadier and near the close of the war to the rank of major-general. He
was a prudent, deliberate, brave and reliable officer. He had the
unlimited confidence of Washington and performed his duty nobly on all
occasions. At the siege of Yorktown he acted a bold and conspicuous
part. After the war closed he was Vice-President of the Executive
Council, member of the legislature, a U. S. Senator, Supervisor of
excise and Collector of the Port of Philadelphia at the time of his
death which occurred on the 1st of October 1807 at his country seat in
Montgomery Co. Pa. As a Christian, minister, soldier, general, civil
officer, citizen, husband, father, relative and friend--he acted a noble
part and fulfilled the design of his creation.
NICHOLSON JAMES was born in Chestertown, Md. in 1737. He was a hardy son
of Neptune from his youth and an uncompromising opponent of tyranny.
When the revolutionary storm commenced he dared to brave its fury and
tempt the bosses of its foaming surges. He was put in command of the
armed ship Defence at the commencement of the war of Liberty and for a
long time was a successful cruiser. Just before the close of the
Revolution he was captured and put on board a prison ship at New York.
He was a skillful, daring, noble and vigilant officer. His name is
worthy of a place with the Sages and Heroes of our Independence. He died
in 1806.
OGDEN MATTHIAS was a brave colonel in the Continental army and among the
first in the field of military glory. He passed through the wilderness
to Quebec with Arnold and was carried from the walls of that city
severely wounded on the day of the unfortunate attack by the Americans.
He served to the close of the war with credit to himself and usefulness
to his country. Near the termination of the Revolution he was raised to
the rank of brigadier-general. He was a man highly honorable in all
things and under all circumstances--liberal, charitable and honest. He
died at Elizabethtown N. J. on the 31st of March 1791.
OLNEY JEREMIAH commenced his exemplary life in Rhode Island in 1750. He
was remarkable for mildness and an abundant share of the milk of human
kindness and just as remarkable for his undaunted bravery in the field
of battle and unshaken firmness in the cause of Freedom. He was much
admired by Washington and frequently led the Rhode Island line to
victory. He participated in the dangers and glory of the battles of
Springfield, Monmouth, Red Bank and Yorktown. Subsequent to the war he
was Collector of the Port of Providence and President of the Society of
Cincinnati of his native state. No man enjoyed more fully the affection
of all who knew him--no one more richly merited it. He died at his
residence on the 10th of Nov. 1812.
ORR JOHN was born in New Hampshire in 1748. He was an officer under the
brave and independent Stark and so severely wounded in one of his legs
at the battle of Bennington that he was crippled for life. He was a man
of strong intellect and filled several judicial and legislative offices
with ability and strict fidelity. He had the respect and confidence of
his fellow citizens through life and was sincerely mourned at his death
which occurred at Bedford, N. H. in 1823.
PAINE THOMAS commenced his eventful life in England in 1737. He pursued
the business of stay maker for some time in London--then went to sea in
a British privateer--was subsequently an excise man and a grocer. On
learning the situation of the American Colonies from Franklin he became
deeply interested in their behalf and came to this country in 1775 when
his intellectual powers suddenly burst into a blaze of light. His
vigorous essays and eloquent speeches in favor of American Independence
did much towards consummating that glorious event. Had he published or
said nothing against that religion which is held sacred by the great
mass of our nation he would have remained as he was at first--one of the
most popular political men of that time. If professing Christians all
honored the religion of the cross infidelity would be robbed of its
richest aliment. Hypocrites, degenerate and lukewarm church members,
bigoted sectarians, dogmatical dictators, deluded fanatics--are all
caterers for infidelity. The editor of the Cottage Bible remarks in
commenting on the 19th chap, of Judges--"More inhumanity and villany may
be found among degenerate professors of Christianity than among infidels
and in general where we expect the most kindness we meet with the
greatest injuries." This remark is painfully true but is not an argument
against primitive Christianity. If we had no pure coin or solvent banks,
counterfeit notes and bogus money could not be circulated. If
Christianity was not essentially good, hypocrites would be left without
a motive to profess it. Aside from the question of its divine origin, as
a system of social order--as the foundation of rational liberty and
moral rectitude--as a system imparting the greatest amount of happiness
to the greatest number--it rises sublimely above all others. This is
conceded by the ablest infidel writers. I refer to primitive
Christianity as taught and practised by the immaculate Redeemer and his
disciples. As this _is_ not--_cannot_ be denied, common sense dictates
that all should practice at least its moral precepts if only upon the
ground of self-preservation and interest which are ever dependent upon
social order and good government. Thomas Paine took an active part in
the French Revolution--was a member of the National Assembly--incurred
the displeasure of Robespierre--fled to escape the guillotine--returned
to America and died in the city of New York in 1809 not in a quiescent
state of mind.
PARSONS SAMUEL HOLDEN was a citizen of Connecticut and an eminent
lawyer. When the Revolution commenced he left his office for the tented
field resolved on Liberty or death. His zeal and daring courage gained
for him the commission of major-general. He had the unlimited confidence
of Washington--the esteem of his fellow officers--the love of his brave
soldiers--the admiration of his numerous acquaintances--the gratitude of
his bleeding country. His useful career was cut short by his being
drowned near Pittsburgh, Pa. in 1789.
PAULDING JOHN was born in the State of New York in 1732. He was a brave
soldier and rose from the ranks so the grade of major after he aided in
the capture of Major Andre. For that noble act the names of Paulding,
Williams and Van Wert are embalmed in the affections of every patriot
whilst the name of the traitor Arnold rouses a manly indignation in the
bosom of every man who loves his country. His portrait will darken as
time rolls on. For this important capture Congress passed a highly
complimentary resolution on the 3d of November 1780 and made the
following order which was placed upon the records. "That each of them
receive annually, out of the public treasury, two hundred dollars in
specie or an equivalent in the current money of these States, during
life and that the Board of War procure for each of them a silver medal,
on one side of which shall be a shield with this inscription--'FIDELITY'
and on the other the following motto--'_Vincit amor patriae_' [the love
of our country prevails] and forward them to the commander-in-chief, who
is requested to present the same, with a copy of this resolution and the
thanks of Congress for their fidelity and the eminent service they have
rendered their country." Maj. Paulding died at Staatsburgh, Duchess
County, N. Y. on the 30th of December 1819.
PETERS NATHAN was a native of Connecticut and a bold defender of his
country's rights. On the morning after the cry--"_To arms! to arms!_"
sounded in his ears mid ran through his soul like vivid lightning he was
on his way to the field of battle. He rose rapidly from the grade of
lieutenant to that of major and became one of the boldest of the bold.
He fought bravely at Long Island, Frog's Point, Trenton, Princeton and
in every place where he met the enemy in mortal combat. On the 6th of
September 1781, before Arnold left Port Griswold, he caused a slow train
of powder to be set on fire communicating with the magazine. Just
before reaching the volcanic mass Major Peters rushed into the fort and
prevented a destructive explosion. No dangers prevented him from the
prompt performance of every duty. At the close of the successful
struggle for freedom be resumed the practice of law at New London where
he lived in the high esteem of his friends and his country to a ripe old
age. He was a sound lawyer, a safe counsellor, a brave soldier, a good
citizen--AN HONEST MAN.
PETERS RICHARD was born in the balmy month of June in 1744. He was
educated at Philadelphia and became an eminent member of the bar of that
city. Understanding the rights of his country and the advantages of
freedom he determined to maintain them at all hazards. In 1776 he was
made secretary to the Board of War and faithfully performed the arduous
duties of that important station until 1781 when he was elected a member
of Congress and continued in that august body to the close of
hostilities. He was appointed the first United States District Judge for
Pennsylvania and highly honored that dignified station for thirty-six
consecutive years. His decisions in the Court of Admiralty form the
foundation on which our superstructure of that branch of jurisprudence
is raised. This platform was adopted by the celebrated maritime judge
Lord Stowell of England--a high compliment to the judicial acumen of
Judge Peters. He was deservedly popular because scrupulously impartial,
rigidly just and proverbial for humanity and kindness. In his
performance of all the public and private duties of life he was a
luminous example of human excellence worthy of admiration and imitation.
He was a liberal patron of public improvements and did much to improve
agriculture. He died at his residence in August 1828.
PETTIT CHARLES was born in New Jersey in 1737. He was a sensible lawyer
and opposed to the usurpations of the hirelings of mother Britain
although himself secretary of his native province when the revolutionary
storm commenced its pitiless peltings. Congress made him a deputy
quartermaster under Gen. Greene in conjunction with Col. Coxe. They
performed the perplexing and arduous duties of that responsible office
whilst Gen. Greene was in the field to the entire satisfaction of
Washington, the army and Congress--a high encomium upon their
perseverance and activity when we reflect upon their limited means to
perform a mighty work. At the close of the Revolution he removed to
Philadelphia and became a successful merchant. He was a member of
Congress from Pennsylvania under the old Confederation--a member of the
State Convention that sanctioned the Federal Constitution and in every
public station which he was called to fill he performed his duty with
the strictest integrity and great industry. His private virtues rendered
him dear to every good man. He was president of the first insurance
company incorporated in Philadelphia. He died at his residence on the
6th of September 1806.
PICKERING TIMOTHY commenced his infancy at Salem, Mass. in 1746. He was
favored with a classical education and superior talents. He took an
early and active part in the cause of equal rights and rendered
efficient service in organizing the new government of his native State.
He was made a judge of the Common Pleas and Maritime
courts--adjutant-general of the United States army and a member of the
Board of War. From 1790 to '98 he negotiated several treaties with
sundry tribes of Indians. Under President Washington he was in
succession Postmaster General, Secretary of War and Secretary of State.
From 1803 to 1811 he was a member of the United States Senate--from 1814
to '17 was a representative in Congress. Few men of his time performed
more public work--no one acted with more fidelity and faithfulness. He
was an able judge, a firm patriot, a judicious legislator, an efficient
officer--a credit to his State--an honor to our nation and in all
respects a worthy man. He died in Salem, Mass. in 1829.
PICKENS ANDREW commenced his earthly existence in Bucks County, Pa. on
the 13th of September 1739. When Andrew was a child his father removed
to Augusta County, Va. and then to Waxhaw, in South Carolina. Andrew
commenced a brilliant military career in the French war--served with
Marion and Moultrie in 1761 in the sanguinary expedition against the
Cherokees under Lieut. Col. Grant and became a hardy frontier warrior.
When mother Britain became insolent and oppressive he was as ready to
fight as he had been to serve her. He became a terror to the refugees
_alias_ Tories. At Kettle Creek he pounced upon an army of them under
Col. Boyd of double his force and flogged them so severely that they
were quiet until the British army afterwards spread over the south. At
the Cowpens he commanded the militia and inspired them with the courage
of veteran regulars. Congress voted him a sword for his gallantry on
that occasion. At Eutaw he commanded the Carolina militia in conjunction
with Marion. He was severely wounded in the breast by a musket ball
early in the action and but for the buckle of his sword belt would have
been shot through. When Charleston surrendered he was obliged to flee
before the enemy to North Carolina and was among the first to rally
under the indomitable Greene. In 1781 he commanded the last expedition
against the Cherokees and laid the foundations of the peace that has
never since been broken. Through the entire course of his military
career he stood approved by his superiors and beloved by those under his
command. He rose to the rank of brigadier-general in the regular army
and was made major-general of militia in 1794. At the close of the war
he filled several civil offices and aided essentially in consummating
the treaty of Hopewell with the Cherokees to which place he removed soon
after. He was a member of the convention that formed the Constitution of
his State--a member of the legislature and in 1794 was elected to
Congress. In 1797 he was returned to the legislature of his State where
he remained fourteen consecutive years. He was a commissioner in all the
treaties with the southern Indians. In this department Washington
considered him the most useful man of that time. He took a deep interest
in the war of 1812 and was that year governor of his State. He then
retired to private life full of honors and years with a fame that will
grow richer as it shall be rehearsed by each succeeding generation. His
private character was as spotless as his public life was brilliant. He
died at his residence on the 11th of October 1817.
PORTER ANDREW was born in Worcester, Montgomery County, Pa. on the 24th
of September 1743. Without the advantages of a school education he
became an eminent mathematician by the force of his own genius and
industry. When the Revolution commenced he was at the head of a large
mathematical school in the city of Philadelphia. Deeming the cause of
Liberty paramount to all other interests he tendered his services to
Congress and on the 19th of June 1776 he was made a captain of marines
and placed on board the frigate Effingham. He was shortly after
transferred to the artillery corps where he made himself extremely
useful during the whole period of the war. He was ultimately raised to
the rank of Colonel and commanded the 4th Pennsylvania regiment of
artillery. He distributed iron hail effectually at the battles of
Trenton, Princeton, Germantown and Brandywine. At Germantown he received
the thanks of Gen. Washington on the field for his skill and undaunted
courage. He was with Gen. Sullivan in his expedition against the Indians
on the Susquehanna. It was Col. Porter who suggested to Gen. Clinton the
plan of raising the water of Otsego Lake by a dam at its narrow outlet
which produced a flood sufficient to float his troops on rafts to Tioga
Point where they formed a junction with Sullivan. When the siege of
Yorktown was planned Gen. Washington placed Col. Porter in charge of the
military laboratory in Philadelphia to prepare the shells, cartridges,
&c. for that important occasion. Although deprived the pleasure of being
at the siege he had the high honor of preparing the thunder and hail
that terminated the sanguinary conflict. Subsequent to the war he was
one of the commissioners to run a line by astronomical observations
between Pennsylvania and the adjoining States. He succeeded Gen.
Muhlenberg as major-general of militia. Governor Snyder appointed him
surveyor-general of the State of Pennsylvania in 1809 which office he
ably filled until the 16th of November 1813 when he left earth for a
fairer, brighter world on high. He was buried in the Presbyterian
church-yard at Harrisburg with military honors.
PREBLE EDWARD commenced his earthly career at Portland, Maine, on the
15th of August 1761. From his youth he gloried in hazardous enterprises.
At the age of eighteen he became a midshipman on board the Protector of
26 guns commanded by the brave Capt. John Forster Williams. On his first
cruise young Preble had the proud satisfaction of contributing to the
capture of the Admiral Duff of 36 guns after a brief but sanguinary
action which so injured the British vessel that she sunk in a few
moments with 40 of her crew. In the second cruise the Protector was
captured and most of the officers taken to England. Preble was permitted
to return and was made first lieutenant on board the sloop of war
Winthrop. Shortly after that he took a party of brave tars in the night
and captured a British armed brig lying in Penobscot Bay and of superior
force to the Winthrop. This was accomplished with fourteen men dressed
in white frocks. The brig lay near the shore and a large number of the
enemy jumped overboard as the shrouded tars gained the deck and made for
land where lay a considerable British force with artillery. Amidst a
brisk fire Preble towed out his prize and moored her safely along side
of the Winthrop. He continued on this ship till the close of the war. In
1801 he commanded the frigate Essex--in 1804 was made a commodore and
placed in charge of the Mediterranean fleet of seven sail which prepared
the way for placing the Bashaw of Tripoli upon his proper level and
induced him to enter upon an honorable peace and relinquish all claims
to a tribute. This act placed Com. Preble high on the list of naval
heroes. He died on the 25th of August 1807.
PRESCOTT WILLIAM was born at Goshen, Massachusetts in 1726. He early
engaged in the service of mother Britain and acted a distinguished part
at the capture of Cape Breton in 1758. He was a Colonel of militia when
the war commenced and one of the first in the field. He commanded at the
sanguinary battle at Bunker's and Breed's Hill on the 17th of June 1775.
With 1200 men hastily collected and with a temporary breastwork--made
principally by excavating a shallow ditch and placing two rail fences
parallel near each other and filling the interval with fresh mowed
grass--he continued to repulse 5000 veteran troops, with a slaughter
equalled only at the battle of New Orleans, until his ammunition was
expended when he retreated with a loss of 453 men--killing 1054 of the
enemy. Col. Prescott then entered the regular service and continued in
the army until 1777 and then resigned. He was a volunteer at the capture
of Burgoyne and rendered essential service. After the Revolution he
served in the legislature and filled various civil offices with
fidelity. He was brave, noble, generous and humane. In his "Memoirs"
Gen. Lee beautifully remarks--"When future generations shall inquire
where are the men who gained the brightest prize of glory in the arduous
contest which ushered in our nation's birth? Upon Prescott and his
companions in arms will the eye of history beam. The military annals of
the world rarely furnish an achievement which equals the firmness and
courage displayed on that proud day by the gallant band of Americans and
it certainly stands first in the brilliant events of the war." Col.
Prescott died in 1795 sincerely mourned.
PRIOLEAU SAMUEL was a native of Charleston, South Carolina, born in 1743
and among the first of that noble band of patriots who resolved on
Liberty or death. He was in active service until taken prisoner at the
surrender of his native city. He was then taken to the castle at St.
Augustine and treated with great cruelty. His wife with five children
fled to Philadelphia. He possessed great firmness and was emphatically a
true patriot--a good citizen--an honest man. He died at Charleston on
the 23d of March 1813.
PULASKI COUNT was a native of Poland and put forth his noblest efforts
to redeem her from thraldom. In 1771 he called around him a few brave
spirits--penetrated the capitol and carried away King Stanislaus in the
face of his petrified guards. He soon made his escape and proclaimed
Pulaski an outlaw. He then came to America and was created a Brigadier
General. Being unacquainted with our language he could not command to
advantage but no one could better lead a column of cavalry in a charge.
He served some time at the north and was then transferred to the south
and fell at Savannah boldly charging the enemy with his daring dragoons.
His noble bearing, polished urbanity, open frankness and amiable
disposition had gained the admiration of all who knew him--his
patriotism, bravery and unwavering love of Liberty placed his name upon
the records of unfading glory.
PUTNAM ISRAEL commenced his eventful life at Salem, Mass. on the 7th of
January 1718. He was a man of iron constitution and herculean powers. He
served mother Britain faithfully in the French war and had many hair
breadth escapes. He was taken prisoner and nearly burned to death by the
savages. He was rescued by a French officer. His great feat with a wolf
is familiar to every school boy. His manner of capturing an armed vessel
when under Gen. Amherst was as novel as it was simple and successful.
With four others he proceeded under her stern in the night--drove
several wedges between the rudder and hull which placed her at the mercy
of the wind--she drifted on shore and was easily captured the next
morning.
When the war cry from Lexington reached his ears he left his plough in
the furrow--mounted his horse--rode 100 miles in a single day to reach
the scene of action--was soon created a Major General and carried more
original thunder than any other man in the army. His voice could be
heard above the roar of battle. He was in the sanguinary affair at
Bunker's Hill and had charge of erecting the temporary fortifications.
He was at the battle of Long island--superintended the fortifications at
Philadelphia and in all his duties manifested an energy and skill that
placed him high in the estimation of every patriot. In the spring of
1777 he was placed in command of the troops at the High Lands. A refugee
Lieutenant was detected in his camp as a spy. Governor Tryon wrote him
to at once liberate the officer or he would give him particular thunder.
Old Put replied thus laconically.
"SIR--Nathan Palmer, a Lieutenant in your king's service, was taken
in my camp as a spy--he was tried as a spy--he was condemned as a
spy and he shall be hanged as a spy.
"P. S. Afternoon. He is hanged.
"ISRAEL PUTNAM."
Gen Putnam was the founder of West Point. Whilst superintending the
fortifications at that place he was disabled from further duty by an
attack of paralysis. This did not impair his mental powers or disturb
the equanimity and cheerfulness of his mind or prevent him from being a
pleasant, amusing and interesting companion. He lived at Brookline Conn.
in the enjoyment of the gratitude of a nation of freemen until the 29th
of May 1790 when his soul left its tenement of clay and returned to its
Creator. He was truly an honest man. On the 16th of June 1776 he spurned
a princely bribe that was tendered to him by Sir William Howe.
PUTNAM RUFUS was born in Sutton, Mass. in 1738. At the age of 16 he
commenced serving mother Britain in the French war and proved a gallant
soldier. In the Continental army he was the principal engineer with the
rank of Brigadier General. He was at the head of the Ohio Company for
the purpose of settling the North West Territory. On the 7th of April
1788 he planted about forty emigrants at Marietta on the Ohio river. In
1789 he was appointed a judge of the Supreme Court of that territory--in
1791 a Brig. General in the army of the United States under Gen. Wayne
and in 1795 Surveyor General of the United States which office he held
until towards the close of Jefferson's administration. He adorned all
the virtues that dignify the man and crowned his life with a consistent
course of primitive piety. He continued to reside at Marietta until the
4th of May 1824 when his happy spirit soared to realms of unending bliss
beyond the skies.
RAMSAY DAVID was ushered into life at Lancaster, Pa. in 1749. He was
thoroughly educated and became an eminent physician. After a brief
residence in Cecil County, Md. he removed to Charleston, S. C. in 1773.
He was an ardent patriot and was commissioned a surgeon in the
Continental army. At the surrender of his adopted city he was among the
prisoners who were sent to St. Augustine. In 1782 he was elected a
member of Congress and confirmed there up to 1786 except one year. A
part of that time he was President of that body. He became an able
historian and has enriched our libraries with a history of the
Revolution--of South Carolina--of America and a biography of Washington
and several other interesting publications. He stood at the head of his
profession in Charleston. In 1815 he was called into court to give
evidence relative to an insane man who followed him in a rage and killed
him on the street.
RANDOLPH EDMUND was a native of Virginia and an eminent member of the
Bar. He aided largely in giving an impetus to the revolutionary ball and
was among the boldest patriots who early resolved to cut the maternal
cords that bound the American Colonies to mother Britain. He was a
member of Congress in 1779--subsequently Governor of
Virginia--Attorney-General of the United States and for a time Secretary
under Washington whose confidence he lost in 1795 for reasons not on the
record. He lived in the esteem of his friends until 1813 when he quietly
retired to the spirit world.
RANDOLPH PEYTON was a native of Virginia and early engaged in the border
wars. He was a good lawyer and Attorney-General under the crown as early
as 1748. He became a prominent legislator and was among the first and
boldest to expose and oppose British oppression. He was prudent but
firm. He threw his whole soul into the cause of Liberty. In all the
preliminary meetings of the Old Dominion he was a leading member and a
perfect regulator among those whose zeal sometimes fed them beyond the
orbit of sound discretion. He was President of the important Congress of
1774 and added to the dignity of the proceedings of that august
assemblage of Sages. He was returned to Congress the next year but was
detained as speaker in the legislature of his state until late in the
session. On the 21st of October 1775 he attended a dinner party at the
house of a friend and while there fell from his seat in a fit of
apoplexy and expired in a few moments. His body was taken to Virginia
and interred. Thus prematurely was extinguished one of the bright
luminaries that illuminated the horizon and dawn of the Revolution. His
loss was deeply deplored.
REED JOSEPH was born in New Jersey on the 27th of August 1741. He became
a distinguished member of the Philadelphia Bar where he was pursuing a
lucrative practice when he was called to aid in the emancipation of his
country. He was a member of the committee of correspondence, President
of the Provincial Convention and member of Congress. In 1775 he repaired
to Cambridge where he was made an Aid and Secretary of Washington. In
1776 he was adjutant-general of the army and acted a brave and useful
part at Trenton, Princeton and in every battle under Washington. During
the campaign of 1777 he was constantly in the field. He had a horse
killed under him at Monmouth, Brandywine and White Marsh but was
preserved from a wound in the numerous hard fought battles at which he
was present. The following answer to a proposition of bribery from the
British Governor Johnstone is attributed to him and has been claimed for
another. "I am not worth purchasing but such as I am the king of Great
Britain is not rich enough to buy me." Nor was she rich enough to buy
the humble soldiers who captured Andre. In 1778 Gen. Reed was elected
President of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania which station
he held for three consecutive years and was very efficient in the work
of infusing a proper spirit in the militia of his state. He filled every
place he occupied with great zeal and ability. He was the man to be
substantially useful wherever duty called him. He wore himself out in
the service of his country and died in Philadelphia on the 5th of March
1785 in the very prime of life and when on the flood tide of an enduring
fame.
REVERE PAUL was born in Massachusetts in 1735. It was he who carried the
express from Gen. Warren to Messrs. Adams and Hancock the evening
previous to the battle of Lexington. He was a colonel of militia and a
devoted patriot. He was in the unfortunate Penobscot expedition in the
summer of 1779. His was a life of purity and stern integrity. He died in
Boston in 1818.
SARGENT WINTHROP was a native of Massachusetts and graduated at Harvard
College in 1771. With all the circumstances of his life before him, the
historian could present him to the admiring reader in a blaze of glory.
Thousands of the noble actors on the stage of the Revolution have passed
away without a place on the historic page. From the commencement to the
close of the long and sanguinary struggle for Independence he was
actively and honorably engaged in the military field. In 1786 he was
appointed Surveyor of the North Western Territory and in 1787 Secretary
of that government. He was adjutant-general of the army of Gen. St.
Clair in his disastrous expedition against the Indians and of the army
of Gen. Wayne when he conquered the same red men who had defeated St.
Clair. He was subsequently Governor of Mississippi. In all the duties of
public and private life he acquitted himself nobly and fulfilled the
design of his creation. He died in 1820.
SCAMMEL ALEXANDER commenced his infancy in Mendon, Mass, about 1748. He
was liberally educated and excelled in mathematics--strong evidence of
an analyzing mind. He was among the first and the last in the war field
of the Revolution. In 1775 he was made a brigade-major and the next year
a colonel in the line of Continental troops raised by New Hampshire. At
the battle of Saratoga in 1777 he commanded the 3d regiment and was
severely wounded. He was subsequently appointed adjutant-general of the
American army and was generally beloved. As this did not lead him into
the din of battle and clash of arms he resigned and took command of a
regiment of infantry. On the 30th of September 1781 he was examining the
position of the enemy at Yorktown--was suddenly sprang upon and
captured. After he had surrendered the barbarous foe gave him a mortal
wound which terminated his brilliant career at Williamsburg, Va. on the
6th of October 1781. The death of no officer was more deeply
lamented--no one of his grade deserved better of his country and his
friends.
ST. CLAIR ARTHUR was a native of Edinburgh, Scotland. He was a
Lieutenant under Wolfe and served through the French war. He
subsequently located in Pennsylvania, became naturalized and took a deep
interest in the prosperity of his adopted country. He was President of
the Cincinnati Society of his state. At the commencement of the
Revolution he espoused the cause of Freedom and in 1777 was commissioned
a Major General. His military laurels increased and rested gracefully
upon him during the war with mother Britain. In 1785 he was elected a
member of Congress and in 1787 was President of that body. He was the
first governor of the North West Territory. In 1790 he was put in
command of the memorable expedition against the Miami Indians. On the
4th of November 1791 he met them in mortal combat and was defeated with
the loss of many brave officers and soldiers who had braved the fury of
the Revolutionary storm unscathed. By many he was censured--how justly
is not a subject to be discussed in this place. That he was a brave and
skilful officer when opposed to regular troops he had fully proved.
Braddock had done the same. To fight the red man on his own ground is a
very different affair. It is reasonable to presume that his disastrous
defeat arose from an ignorance of Indian warfare--not from any want of
courage or an ignorance of regular military tactics. On his return he
resigned his military commission. He was severely pierced by the keen
arrows of poverty during his latter years. He died in 1818.
SCHAICK GOSEN VAN commenced his mortal career at Albany, New York in
1737. He entered the British army in 1756 with the commission of
Lieutenant and served mother Britain faithfully to the end of the French
war at which time he had reached the rank of Lieut. Colonel. Had he not
been a superior officer he could not have attained that rank among
Englishmen. At the first sound of the war cry in 1775 he was on hand
ready for action and spent his life and fortune in the cause of FREEDOM.
He was placed in command of the first regiment of the New York line and
ultimately rose to the rank of Brig. General of the regular army. He
fought bravely at Monmouth and other places and had the high esteem of
Washington. In 1779 he commanded the successful expedition against the
Onondaga Indians for which Congress passed a resolution of most hearty
thanks. Gen. Schaick did honor to his country and to every station in
which he moved. He was an able officer, a good citizen--an honest man
and repaired to his final rest in 1784.
SCHUYLER PHILIP was born in New England in 1732. He was commissioned a
Major General and had no superior in energy, vigilance and courage. For
some time previous to the approach of Burgoyne he ably discharged the
multifarious duties of the northern command. When that proud General
advanced he found traces of Schuyler's industry at every point and his
scouts in all directions. Bridges were demolished--the roads blocked
with trees--the navigation of Wood creek deranged--supplies removed and
his army kept in constant alarm by the light troops of Schuyler who laid
the foundation of the victory that virtually saved our Independence.
This opinion was often expressed by a revered uncle of mine who was with
Schuyler during all his services in the north. At the very time this
General was prepared to snatch the laurels of victory from Burgoyne's
brow and place them on his own--Gates superseded him. He loved his
country too well to be governed by the strict rules of military
etiquette at that momentous point of time. He surrendered the command to
him with all the papers and information he had acquired, with these
burning remarks--"I have done all that could be done, as far as the
means were in my power, to injure the enemy and to inspire confidence in
the soldiers of our army and I flatter myself with some success--but the
palm of victory is denied me and it is left to you, General, to reap the
fruits of my labor. I will not fail to second your views and my devotion
to my country will cause me, with alacrity, to obey your orders." This
language would have been more terrible to me than a thousand crashing
thunder bolts. It would have taken more than the laurels of Saratoga to
heal the deep gashes my mind would have received from this keen sarcasm
of the injured but patriotic and magnanimous Schuyler. A sarcastic
remark from Schuyler to Gen. Burgoyne when dining with Gates soon after
the surrender is worthy of record. The British General had caused
Schuyler's house to be reduced to ashes and attempted an apology which
was interrupted by the other--"Make no excuses General. I feel myself
more than compensated by the pleasure of meeting you at this table."
Gen. Schuyler was in all respects a first rate man. Jealously had put
slander in motion against him which was the reason he was superseded.
Investigation cleared away the fog from the minds of those in power but
did not heal the wounds in his. He was subsequently a member of the
Continental Congress and served 12 years in the United States Senate
under the Federal Constitution. He died in 1804.
SEDGEWICK THEODORE began his earthly career at Hartford Conn. in 1746.
He became a strong lawyer and firm supporter of the cause of Liberty. He
was frequently in the legislature of Massachusetts and a member of the
Continental Congress. He was a member of the convention of his adopted
state that sanctioned the Federal Constitution and was subsequently a
member of the United States Senate. At the end of his term he was placed
upon the Supreme Bench of Massachusetts and dignified his station until
1813 when he was summoned from earth and its toils to the dread tribunal
of the great Jehovah.
SERGEANT JONATHAN DICKINSON was born at Princeton, New Jersey in 1746.
He became an eminent lawyer and a strong advocate for American rights.
He was elected a member of Congress in February 1776 and continued in
that body until July 1777 when he was made Attorney General of
Pennsylvania. Why he did not sign the Declaration of Independence is a
problem I should like to see solved. In the Connecticut controversy he
was employed by his adopted state to advocate her interests. When the
yellow fever raged at Philadelphia in 1793 he was a very efficient
member in the Board of Health and fell a victim to that fearful disease
in October. His private virtues shone conspicuously through his whole
life--his country, the poor, the widow and the orphan deeply mourned
his premature death.
SMALLWOOD WILLIAM was a citizen of Maryland and a brave Brigadier
General in the Continental army--a member of the old Congress and
governor of his state. In every station and in all the departments of
life he performed his whole duty and enjoyed the love and confidence of
his friends and country until 1792 when he cancelled the debt of nature
and descended peacefully to the tomb.
STEUBEN FRANCIS WILLIAM AUGUSTUS BARON DE commenced his noble life in
Prussia in 1733. He became perfect master of military tactics at an
early age in the Prussian army--was an Aid to Frederic the great with
the rank of Lieutenant General and was in constant service in his native
land until he embarked for America. He landed in New Hampshire in 1777
and was soon after appointed Inspector General of the American army with
the rank of Major General. With untiring industry and great energy he
rapidly introduced an effective system of discipline, tactics and
evolutions, that essentially improved the whole army and rendered it
much more efficient in the field. He participated in the battle of
Monmouth and had charge of the entrenchments at the siege of Yorktown.
At the conclusion of peace his valuable services were partially rewarded
in the grant of a farm by the state of New Jersey and 16000 acres of
land in Oneida county New York granted by that state. He died on his
farm near New York city November 28th 1794.
STRONG CALEB was born at Northampton, Mass. in 1744. He was a profound
counsellor at the bar of his native town--an able advocate in the cause
of Independence. He was a prominent member of the Committee of Safety
that was virtually the government of the State for some time. He was a
member of the legislature and fearlessly espoused the cause of Liberty.
He was a member of the convention that framed the Constitution of
Massachusetts and of the one that formed that of the United States. He
was elected to the United States Senate and was governor of his native
State eleven years. He was an efficient public officer, a devoted
patriot, an esteemed citizen--an honest man. He died in 1820 sincerely
mourned by his country and most deeply regretted by those who knew him
best.
SULLIVAN JOHN entered on his earthly career in Maine in 1741. His father
came from that country called by Aristotle and Strabo _Irene_--by Caesar,
Tacitus and Pliny, _Hibernia_--by Mela and others _Juverna_ all of which
names may be traced to the original--_Ir_, _Eri_, _Erin_--now called
Ireland. Gen. Sullivan left a lucrative practice at the bar and was
commissioned a brigadier-general in 1775 and the next year was raised to
the rank of major-general. On the 4th of June 1776 he superseded Arnold
in Canada and on the death of Gen. Thomas he was left in command of all
the American troops then there. Owing to the illness of Gen. Greene
Sullivan was put in command of his division on Long Island and was taken
prisoner at the battle on the 27th of August. On the 22d of August 1777
he planned a successful expedition against Staten Island. He acted a
brave part at the battles of Brandywine, Germantown and in every place
where he was engaged. In 1778 he was placed in command of the troops at
Rhode Island and commenced a siege on Newport in August of that year in
anticipation of the co-operating aid of the French fleet which was
prevented by a storm. This compelled him to raise the siege at once and
retreat from a superior force which he effected with consummate skill
and success after repulsing the pursuing enemy on the 29th of that
month. The next year he commanded the successful but cruel expedition
against the Six Nations of Indians. He penetrated the very heart of
their country, killed and captured considerable numbers, burnt eighteen
of their towns, many of their isolated wigwams--destroyed 160,000
bushels of their corn, all their vegetables, fruits and everything that
could be found to sustain life. The expedition was suggested in
consequence of the Wyoming massacre. It can be sanctioned by the law of
retaliation--no other. Gen. Sullivan was subsequently a member of the
Continental Congress for three years--president of New Hampshire and in
1789 was appointed a judge of the District Court which office he
dignified until the 23d of January 1795 when he cancelled the debt of
nature and slumbered in death. He was very efficient in quelling Shay's
insurrection. In every sphere of life he exhibited talents of a high
order and left a public fame and private reputation untarnished by
corruption.
SULLIVAN JAMES was born at Berwick, Me. in 1744. He became a bright
ornament of the bar and an able advocate of the cause of freedom. He was
an active member of the legislature--of the Provincial Congress and of
the Continental Congress. He was a judge of Probate and in 1790 was
appointed attorney-general of his State. In 1807-8 he was elected
governor of Massachusetts and died in December 1808. He was an admirable
model of human excellence, adorned those qualities that dignify a man
and crowned his life with the lucid exemplification of primitive
Christianity.
STEVENS EDWARD commenced his earthly career in Culpepper County, Va. and
his bold military achievements at the battle of the Great Bridge near
Norfolk, Va. where he commanded the rifle battalion with a bravery and
skill that elicited general commendation. Soon after that he was placed
in command of the 10th Virginia regiment and repaired to the
headquarters of Washington. At the battle of Brandywine his skill and
courage in covering the retreat of the Americans astonished friends and
foes and saved the army from capture. At the action of Germantown his
gallantry was publicly applauded by Washington upon the field of glory.
He was subsequently placed in command of the Virginia Brigade and fought
with great bravery at Camden under Gates, at Guilford Court House under
Greene and at the siege of Yorktown under Washington. From the formation
of the republican Constitution of Virginia to 1790 he was constantly a
member of her legislature. He was a man of untarnished reputation,
substantial talent and usefulness. His patriotism soared above all party
considerations--he could not be swayed by demagogues. He went for his
whole country--the Constitution and our UNION for ever. He looked upon
the Federal Constitution as the Jews did upon their ark--the repository
of the safeguards and glory of our Republic. He closed his useful life
at his residence in Culpepper, Va. on the 17th day of August 1820--ripe
in years and full of honors.
THOMAS JOHN was reared in Kingston, Mass. He was a brave officer in the
service of England during the French war. He was one of the first who
rushed to the battle field in 1775. At the siege of Boston--on the
heights of Dorchester--in every place where duty called him he acted a
bold and noble part. He was soon raised to the rank of brigadier-general
and ordered to Canada to take command of the troops who had survived the
fatigues of the campaign under Arnold and Montgomery where he fell a
victim to the small pox. His great experience, ardent patriotism, known
courage, untarnished character--all combined to render his loss a great
misfortune to his country and his friends.
THOMAS THOMAS was born in the State of New York in 1745. He was among
the first and most devoted patriots. He was a brigadier-general and
commanded a body of troops in 1776 at the battle of Harlaem Heights and
White Plains. In the autumn of that year the British burnt his house and
carried his aged father to New York where their proverbial inhumanity
soon produced his death. Gen. Thomas was a severe scourge to the
enemy--ever on the alert--energetic, bold and shrewd. He was
subsequently taken prisoner, stripped of his regimentals and hat and
marched through the streets of New York in the most disgraceful manner.
He was at length placed on parole and permitted the limits of Brooklyn.
After he was exchanged he sought every opportunity to make up lost time
until the foe was driven beyond the great heron pond. He then removed to
the town of Harrison, Westchester County, New York where he lived
respected and died deeply regretted in July 1824. He was several times a
member of the legislature of his State.
TRUXTON THOMAS took his station on this rolling planet at Rhode Island
in 1755. He was delighted with old Ocean from his boyhood and became an
expert mariner at an early age. He loved Liberty and was willing to pay
its price without discount. He was placed in command of an armed vessel
in 1775 and continued capturing prizes during the whole period of the
Revolution without a single reverse of fortune. He made constant inroads
on the commerce of Great Britain and was too wary a fox to be trapped,
cornered or run down by the celebrated British sportsman of the seas. In
1794 he was put in command of the frigate Constitution. In 1799 the
French government became ripe for naval exercise and quite belligerent
in its manners. The frigate L'Insurgent made battle with Commodore
Truxton and after a brief action surrendered. The French ship of war La
Vengeance then met the Constitution and after passing the very
significant salutes usual at hostile meetings surrendered at discretion
to Com. Truxton. On his return to the United States he retired to
Philadelphia where he lived in the esteem of our nation and his friends
until 1822 when his cable of life was cut and his soul launched on the
ocean of eternity.
WADSWORTH JEREMIAH was a native of Connecticut and early in the field to
do battle for his loved--his injured country. He rose to the rank of
general and was remarkable for great energy, undaunted courage, ardent
patriotism and untiring industry. He was a member of Congress for some
time. In public and private life he adorned the virtues that ever
dignify the man and passed from the stage of life peacefully in 1804.
WARD ARTEMUS was born in New England in 1727. He was a man of fine
parts, strong common sense, thorough education, a zealous patriot. He
was the first major-general commissioned by the Continental Congress,
his commission bearing date the 7th of June 1775. At the siege of Boston
he commanded the right wing of the army resting on Roxbury. His feeble
constitution induced him to resign the ensuing April. In a legislative
capacity he continued to serve his country faithfully. He was repeatedly
a member of the old and new Congress. A more incorruptible man never
came from the clean hands of the Creator. He patiently endured a
lingering illness for years and was relieved from the toils and pains of
earth on the 28th of October 1800.
WARD HENRY was a valued citizen of Rhode Island and stood in the front
rank of her noble and daring patriots. He did good service in the tented
field--was Secretary of his state--filled up his measure of usefulness
and called his friends to mourn over his final exit and perform the last
rites of sepulture in 1797.
WASHINGTON WILLIAM was a native of Stafford County, Va. He was a distant
relative of George Washington and among the first of the chivalric sons
of the Old Dominion to respond to the thrilling war cry--_Liberty or
death_. He commenced his military career in command of a company of
infantry in the 3d regiment of the Virginia line commanded by Col.
Mercer. Captain Washington first distinguished himself for undaunted
courage at York Island and in New Jersey. When Gen. Washington attacked
Col. Ralle in command of the Hessians at Trenton, Capt. Washington led
the advance of one of the columns. He received a musket ball through one
of his hands which was not mentioned by him until after the enemy had
surrendered. Soon after the brilliant affair at Trenton and Princeton he
was transferred to Col. Baylor's regiment of cavalry with the rank of
major and proceeded to Virginia with the regiment to increase its
strength with fresh recruits. In 1775 this regiment was surprised by a
superior force under Maj. Gen. Grey and nearly annihilated. Major
Washington escaped and was then put in command of the consolidated
remnants of the cavalry regiments of Cols. Baylor, Bland and Maylan and
ordered to report himself to Gen. Lincoln in South Carolina. He was in
constant service from the time of his arrival. His corps suffered at the
battle of Monk's Corner and at Leneau's Ferry. He then proceeded with
Col. White to North Carolina for the purpose of raising recruits. This
laudable project was not approved by Gen. Gates for reasons not
explained which formed a link in his chain of disasters. Col. Washington
proceeded to replenish his regiment and resumed field service under Gen.
Morgan. At Cowpens, Hobbick's Hill, Eutaw, Guilford Court House--Col.
Washington gained increasing epic laurels for himself and Spartan corps.
At the battle of Eutaw he was unfortunately taken prisoner and not
exchanged until after the surrender of Yorktown. In 1782 he led the
amiable and accomplished Miss Elliott to the hymeneal altar and located
at the ancestral seat of his wife at Sandy Hill in South Carolina. He
there enjoyed life with his family and friends in the happy way that
Virginians well understand and fully exemplify. A braver soldier, a more
noble and generous man than Col. Washington did not exist in the human
family. He made his final exit in 1810.
WINDER LEWIS was a resident of Maryland and a brave soldier of the
Revolution. In the struggle for Independence the best men were not
office seekers but sought the good and glory of their country. Many
soldiers in the ranks were men of strong intellect and substantial
education. So with this veteran. After the close of the war toils he
filled various public stations and became governor of his state. He
enjoyed the esteem of his country and friends until 1819 when he
slumbered in death.
WHEELOCK JOHN was a favorite son of Massachusetts and one of the noble
patriots who left the halls of literature and periled their lives in
defence of chartered rights. He was an active officer in the army and
had the esteem of his countrymen. He was subsequently a popular
President of Dartmouth College. He made himself extensively useful until
1817 when he took his journey to "that country from whose bourne no
traveller returns."
WILLIAMS OTHO HOLLAND was ushered into life at the county of Prince
George, Md. in 1748. At the commencement of the Revolution he resigned a
lucrative office under the crown to teach the man who dishonored that
crown that Americans dared to assert their rights at the cannon's mouth
as well as in paper essays. He was lieutenant in a rifle corps under
Capt. Price and marched to head quarters at Cambridge in 1775. In 1776
he was raised to the rank of major in the rifle regiment under Col.
Stephenson. He was in the garrison of Fort Washington when attacked by
the overwhelming force of Sir William Howe and was taken prisoner. When
exchanged he was placed in command of the 6th regiment of the Maryland
line and ordered to South Carolina with Baron de Kalb. He was raised to
the grade of adjutant-general under Gen. Gates and shared the keen
reverses of that general. Under Gen. Greene he was retained in the same
office which he bravely filled to the close of the struggle for Liberty.
At Guilford, Hobbick's and Eutaw his efficient services were warmly
acknowledged by the judicious Greene, whose bosom friend and constant
adviser he was. At all times and under all circumstances he nobly
performed his duty in public and private life. At the close of the war
he was commissioned a brigadier-general as a compliment to his high
merit. Subsequent to the Revolution he was appointed Collector of the
Port of Baltimore where he died in July 1794.
WOLCOTT ERASTUS was a favorite son of Connecticut of commanding
talents--a strong lawyer--an ardent patriot--a good citizen--a brave
officer--an honest man. He rose to the rank of brigadier-general and
subsequent to the Revolution was elevated to the Bench of the Superior
Court of his state. His measure of usefulness became full in 1798 when
the hermetical seal of death closed his bright career.
WOOSTER DAVID was born in Stafford, Conn. in 1711. Although frosted with
near 70 winters when the Revolution commenced, he was eager to share in
the glory of repelling an insolent foe from his native land and in
making that land the happy abode of the brave and the free. In 1775 he
was made a brigadier-general by Congress and put in command of the
Connecticut troops. This commission he resigned and became a
major-general of the militia of his state. On the 27th of April 1777 he
was mortally wounded in leading on his troops against a British force
at Ridgefield and died on the 2d of May. His fall was deeply lamented by
Congress and our nation. He had all the ardor of youth united with the
experience of age. Such men were greatly needed in such a contest as the
American Revolution--uniting the sage, hero, citizen and honest man in a
harmonious whole.
WYLLIS SAMUEL was a citizen of Connecticut--a major-general of great
promise--a man of sterling merit--a patriot of great zeal--a citizen of
great worth and was killed by a party of British in 1777 on a predatory
"beauty and booty" excursion.
* * * * *
Thus closes a condensed view of the most prominent Sages and Heroes of
the American Revolution. I have aimed at an object of greater importance
than the relation of historical incidents--an illustration of the
heaven-born principles--the god-like actions of the patriots of '76. If
these are not cherished and practised by the present and coming
generations of our expanding Republic--the LIBERTY--the _priceless_
FREEDOM we now enjoy will be buried in the smoking ruins of the Elysian
temple of our INDEPENDENCE--now towering in majestic grandeur. I have
honestly and frankly expressed what I strongly feel relative to the
vital interests of our beloved country. My conclusions are based upon
laborious investigation, close observation and large experience. In
common with every true friend to our government I feel a deep interest
in the portentous question of slavery which has so recently rocked our
nation in the volcanic cradle of civil discord. I have taken full notes
of its whole course from its embryo inception to the present time. I
have listened to the arguments of the ablest men in each of the high
contending parties. I have read all I could find upon the subject of
West India emancipation. So far as the British politicians were
concerned I am satisfied that act was a bold stroke of ulterior
policy--not of philanthropy. I have made myself familiar with the
practical operations of the slave system in our own country by leisurely
visiting all the cities, large towns, most of the small ones and the
numerous plantations in all the slave States except Florida and Texas.
Without such a tour no man can well form a correct conclusion upon this
momentous subject. He can only make an imaginary chamber survey--not the
best evidence to present in court. I am not an advocate for the
_principle_ of bondage--but few can be found in the slave States who
are. I look at slavery as it is--not as represented on the high colored
charts of ultra abolitionists. It was _forced_ upon the American
Colonies by mother Britain. It is here by entail--not from original
choice [see the Preamble of the Virginia Constitution.] This charges
George the Third with "prompting _our negroes_ to rise in arms among
us--those very negroes, whom, by an inhuman use of his negative he hath
refused us permission exclude by law." Its present form in the south is
infinitely more humane than the cunningly devised apprentice system of
England. Instead of rescued Africans being returned to their native land
by that arrangement they are put to hard labor on the British Islands
for a season and may then be sent adrift at the pleasure of the
employer. A provision for life is insured to all the subjects of bondage
in the slave States. There the free man may be stripped of the means of
support by process of law--the slaves never. They are practically the
most potent freeholders in those States. A large majority of the slaves
there are better cared for than the same proportion of the colored
population in the free States, both menially and physically. Larger
numbers of them enjoy religious instruction and become church
members.[A]
[A] The better condition of these slaves is fully proved by the fact,
that the ratio of their increase, within the last ten years is 3 to 1
over that of the colored population of the free States.--AUTHOR.
Immediate emancipation would involve these slaves in the keenest misery
unless they were provided with means of support far beyond the resources
of their owners and the abolitionists combined. Humanity would recoil
with horror at the practical workings of the proposed abolition system.
It was originated in Europe for the express purpose of destroying our
UNION. Its paternity is illegitimate--its object our ruin--its tendency
chaotic. Its tare seeds were first sown broadcast in our country by
Thompson--_a hired emissary_ from Great Britain who is now in our midst
a second time on the same demoniac mission. His breath is
pestilence--his pathway is marked with the fomenting scum of a
meddlesome demagogue. In addition to his salary paid by England he is
filling his pockets from the hard earnings of our people whom he blinds
to destroy. The Syracuse Journal states that after the meeting this
member of the British Parliament addressed at that place a short time
since "_had passed resolutions against the Union_ the remainder of the
time was consumed in receiving subscriptions to support Mr. Thompson in
his anti-slavery itineracy. Thus the anti-slavery agitators are obliged
to call in paid British assistance to help them break up the Union." At
the same meeting this vile emissary made this startling assertion in
substance--You have not famine and pestilence but what is worse you are
cursed with 30,000 recreant priests. No American would be permitted to
pursue this course in Europe a moment. If we tolerate such foreign
interference we are unworthy of FREEDOM. When I speak of abolition I
refer to ultra political abolition--that which tramples upon our
Constitution as an unholy thing and would rejoice at the dissolution of
our UNION and urge the slaves on to murder. I have no sympathy for
ultraism in any section or in any cause.
We must look at slavery as it exists in our country. Time has planted it
too deeply to be eradicated by the caustic of abolition. Fine spun
arguments upon the Declaration of Rights--the Federal Constitution--the
Missouri Compromise--free soil and philanthropy cannot remove it. The
question is local and belongs exclusively to the slave States. As well
may the south interfere with the internal policy of the north as for us
to dictate to the high minded slave owners who might have been gained by
the talismanic power of love--never by threats or coercion. As a whole,
a more humane, noble, generous people never came from the clean hands of
the Creator. They can be led by a single hair of kindness--fanatical
power may crush but can never drive them. But for the unfortunate issue
of abolition raised by the foreign emissary alluded to--gradual
emancipation would long before this have been on the flood tide of
progress in several of the slave States. I write from the record. A
violation of the eleventh commandment has added greatly to the
perpetuity of slavery in our country.
For these reasons and others I would name if space permitted, I verily
believe the abolition issue fraught with more danger to our Independence
than any that has yet been conceived and promulged by the enemies of
our Liberty. It is like cutting off the head of a man to cure a cancer
on his face. The preservation of our glorious UNION is paramount to all
other considerations which have yet engaged the attention of our nation.
Could the following advice from the Farewell Address of the illustrious
Washington be carefully read and implicitly obeyed by all in our
land--then our FREEDOM would be safe--our UNION preserved.
"In contemplating the causes which may disturb our Union, it occurs, as
a matter of serious concern, that any ground should have been furnished
for characterizing parties by geographical discriminations--northern and
southern--atlantic and western--whence designing men may endeavor to
excite a belief that there is a real difference of local interests and
views. One of the expedients of party to acquire influence within
particular districts, is to misrepresent the opinions and aims of other
districts. You cannot shield yourselves too much against the jealousies
and heart burnings which spring from these misrepresentations. They tend
to render alien to each other those who ought to be bound together by
fraternal affection.
"To the efficacy and permanency of your Union a Government for the whole
is indispensable. No alliances, however strict, between the parts can be
an adequate substitute. They must inevitably experience the infractions
and interruptions which all alliances in all times have experienced.
Sensible of this momentous truth, you have improved upon your first
essay by the adoption of a Constitution of Government better calculated
than your former for an intimate union and for the efficacious
management of your common concerns. This government, the offspring of
our own choice, uninfluenced and unawed, adopted upon full investigation
and mature deliberation, completely free in its principles, in the
distribution of its powers, uniting security with energy and containing
within itself a provision for its own amendment, has a just claim to
your confidence and your support. Respect for its authority, compliance
with its laws, acquiescence in its measures, are duties enjoined by the
fundamental maxims of true liberty. The basis of our political systems
is the right of the people to make and alter their constitutions of
government. But the constitution which at any time exists, till changed
by an explicit and authentic act of the whole people, is sacredly
obligatory upon all. The very idea of the power and the right of the
people to establish government presupposes the duty of every individual
to obey the established government.
"All obstructions to the execution of the laws, all combinations and
associations, under whatever plausible character, with a real design to
direct, control, counteract or awe the regular deliberation and action
of the constituted authorities, are destructive of this fundamental
principle and of fatal tendency. They serve to organize faction--to give
it an artificial and extraordinary force--to put in the place of the
delegated will of the nation the will of a party, often a small but
artful and enterprising minority of the community and according to the
alternate triumphs of different parties to make the public
administration the mirror of the ill-concerted and incongruous projects
of faction rather than the organ of consistent and wholesome plans
digested by common counsels and modified by mutual interests.
"However combinations or associations of the above description may now
and then answer popular ends, they are likely, in the course of time and
things, to become potent engines by which cunning, ambitious and
unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and
to usurp for themselves the reins of government destroying afterwards
the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.
"Towards the preservation of your government and the permanency of your
present happy state, it is requisite, not only that you steadily
discountenance irregular oppositions to its acknowledged authority but
also that you resist with care the spirit of innovation upon its
principles however specious the pretexts. One method of assault may be
to effect in the forms of the constitution, alterations which will
impair the energy of the system and thus to undermine what cannot be
directly overthrown. In all the changes to which you may be invited,
remember that time and habit are at least as necessary to fix the true
character of governments, as of other human institutions, that
experience is the surest standard by which to test the real tendency of
the existing constitution of a country--that facility in change upon the
credit of mere hypothesis and opinion exposes to perpetual change from
the endless variety of hypothesis and opinion and remember, especially
that for the efficient management of your common interest in a country
so extensive as ours, a government of as much vigor as is consistent
with the perfect security of liberty is indispensable. Liberty itself
will find in such a government, with powers properly distributed and
adjusted, its surest guardian. It is, indeed, little else than a name
where the government is too feeble to withstand the enterprises of
faction, to confine each member of the society within the limits
prescribed by the laws and to maintain all in the secure and tranquil
enjoyment of the rights of person and property.
"Against the insidious wiles of foreign influence (I conjure you to
believe me fellow citizens) the jealousy of a free people ought to be
_constantly_ awake since history and experience prove that foreign
influence is one of the most baneful foes of republican government.
"In offering to you, my countrymen, these counsels of an old and
affectionate friend, I dare not hope they will make the strong and
lasting impression. I could wish--that they will control the usual
current of the passions or prevent our nation from running the course
which has hitherto marked the destiny of nations! but if I may even
flatter myself that they may be productive of some partial benefit, some
occasional good--that they may now and then recur to moderate the fury
of party spirit--to warn against the mischiefs of foreign intrigue--to
guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism--this hope will be
a full recompense for the solicitude for your welfare by which they have
been dictated."
NOTE--In a recent speech the emissary Thompson used this most specific
language:--"I do not believe there is one minister in the United States
who believes what he says. I know enough of ministers in that country to
believe that they preach wilfully and designedly what they know to be
false! These men deliberately go to their closets, and, for purely
political and pro-slavery purposes, write sermons for the Sabbath-day,
which they all the while know to be palpably and damnably untrue!"
* * * * *
Transcriber's Corrections
Following is a list of significant typographical errors that have been
corrected.
- Page 41, "Hazlewood" changed to "Hazelwood" (command of Com.
Hazelwood).
- Page 44, "broad-side" changed to "broadside" for consistency of use
(poured in our broadside).
- Page 74, "Iredel" changed to "Iredell" (trial before Judges Iredell
and Peters).
- Page 76, "collossal" changed to "colossal" (upon his colossal
vanquished political foes).
- Page 80, "1774" changed to "1794" (He died in June 1794).
- Page 80, "soliel" changed to "soleil" (effects of _coup de soleil_).
- Page 80, "Clarke" changed to "Clark" (Mr. Clark was truly pious).
- Page 86, "deba e" changed to "debate" (induced Mr. Clymer to rise in
debate).
- Page 107, "enthusia m" changed to "enthusiasm" (received with great
enthusiasm).
- Page 109, "Collossus" changed to "Colossus" (the Colossus of Liberty).
- Page 119, "Chesnut" changed to "Chestnut" (the battle of Chestnut
Hill).
- Page 125, "pecipitate" changed to "precipitate" (a precipitate
retreat).
- Page 130, "framework" changed to "frame-work" for consistency of use
(the frame-work of the British cabinet).
- Page 131, "acknowled" changed to "acknowledged" (stands acknowledged
by the civilized world).
- Page 139, "FREDDOM" changed to "FREEDOM" (the blue canopy of FREEDOM).
- Page 146, "Surry" changed to "Surrey" (adjoining county of Surrey).
- Page 149, removed repeated "to" (duty to be performed).
- Page 152, "Prefering" changed to "Preferring" (Preferring his fishing
rod and gun).
- Page 152, "suppossed" changed to "supposed" (supposed him _non compos
mentis_).
- Page 166, "whatsover" changed to "whatsoever" (intercourse whatsoever
with any colony).
- Page 175, "loose" changed to "lose" (and lose all power).
- Page 178, "sprited" changed to "spirited" (this public spirited man).
- Page 180, "Chatechism" changed to "Catechism" (his Political
Catechism).
- Page 209, "philanthrophy" changed to "philanthropy" (the purest
philanthropy).
- Page 212, "beseigers" changed to "besiegers" (the works of the
besiegers).
- Page 213, "extatic" changed to "ecstatic" (with ecstatic delight).
- Page 263, removed repeated "of" (I am in immediate want
of----dollars).
- Page 281, "prepation" changed to "preparation" (a full preparation for
practice).
- Page 282, "valuble" changed to "valuable" (and rendered valuable
service).
- Page 296, "boquet" changed to "bouquet" (to form a bouquet).
- Page 299, "disscusions" changed to "discussions" (Internal discussions
were to be).
- Page 315, "aqueline" changed to "aquiline" (his nose aquiline).
- Page 318, "subsequenly" changed to "subsequently" (was subsequently
elected colonel).
- Page 341, "head-quarters" changed to "headquarters" for consistency of
use (troops to headquarters).
- Page 366, "land-marks" changed to "landmarks" for consistency of use
(broken down its landmarks).
- Page 370, "Alleghany" changed to "Allegheny" (junction of the
Allegheny).
- Page 381, "Cadwallader" changed to "Cadwalader" (he and Gen.
Cadwalader).
- Page 387, "shortes" changed to "shortest" (the shortest path).
- Page 390, "kneedle" changed to "needle" (common knitting needle).
- Page 395, "atainments" changed to "attainments" (high literary
attainments).
- Page 400, "maifested" changed to "manifested" (seldom manifested in
juvenile life).
- Page 424, "descendents" changed to "descendants" for consistency of
use (his present descendants).
- Page 426, "superiors" changed to "superior" (manned with superior
numbers).
- Page 428, "commision" changed to "commission" (the commission of
major).
- Page 431, "Gansevort" changed to "Gansevoort" in three places
(GANSEVOORT PETER entered; Capt. Gansevoort was six feet three; Col.
Gansevoort never surrendered).
- Page 432, "Virgiania" changed to "Virginia" (a Virginia regiment).
- Page 435, "genuius" changed to "genius" (constellations of genius).
- Page 446, "Lithunia" changed to "Lithuania" (palatinate of Brescia,
Lithuania).
- Page 448, "comissioned" changed to "commissioned" (was commissioned to
proceed).
- Page 460, "head-quarters" changed to "headquarters" for consistency of
use (marched it to headquarters).
- Page 466, "breast-work" changed to "breastwork" for consistency of use
(a temporary breastwork).
- Page 467, "Putnan" changed to "Putnam" (Gen Putnam was the founder).
- Page 468, "Revotion" changed to "Revolution" (dawn of the Revolution).
- Page 479, "indispensible" changed to "indispensable" (whole is
indispensable).