Part I

. Dr. Matthew Irvine of Charleston, South Carolina was a third brother and served in the Continental army. Andrew entered the regiment of his brother William as Lieutenant and was engaged in the Canada service under Gen. Wayne. He was in every action with that General up to the massacre of Paoli where he received seventeen bayonet wounds and miraculous as it was, recovered and was

## actively engaged in the northern and southern campaigns. No officer of

his rank did more service--no one could do it in a more heroic manner. After the war he lived in the esteem of the citizens of Carlisle, Pa. where he died on the 4th of May 1789.

IRWIN JARED was born in Mecklinburg, North Carolina in 1751. At the age of seven years he became a resident of Georgia. At the commencement of the Revolution he was a pioneer in one of the frontier settlements adjacent to the Indian tribes where he became the leader of his neighbors in keeping the red men at bay and teaching the tories salutary lessons. In that department he rendered himself eminently useful during the war. He was a member of the first legislature of Georgia under the new government which convened at Savannah in 1784. From that time forward he became emphatically a leading public man. He was long a member of the Georgia Senate and for many years its president. He was repeatedly Governor of the state. He filled every station in a manner that gained the unqualified approbation of his constituents. His public life was adorned by those private virtues that are indispensable to render a man truly great. He died at Union, Washington County, Georgia, on the 1st of March 1818.

JACKSON ANDREW commenced his brilliant life in the Waxhaw settlement, S. C. in 1767. He was constitutionally a patriot, soldier and statesman. He enlisted in the Continental army at the age of 14 and performed feats of noble courage that would have honored manhood. When fighting bravely for his country he was wounded and taken prisoner. After much suffering he was exchanged and at the close of the war prosecuted his studies and became a respectable member of the Bar. He commanded a successful expedition against the southern Indians--in 1820 was the commissioner to receive the Floridas from Spain--was made governor of that territory and performed many public duties with great energy. He was a major-general during the last war with mother Britain. His defence of New Orleans against the veteran army of Gen. Packenham has no parallel in modern warfare. In 1828 Gen. Jackson was elected President of the United States and served two terms. He was emphatically a man of the people. In point of physical and moral courage he had no superior. He was stern in his integrity, honest in his purposes, unbending in his resolves--determined in his course of action. When time shall absorb the bitterness of party spirit that his bold administration created--the historian will trace the fair lines of the career of Andrew Jackson and present a picture to after generations that will command their profound admiration. He lived a patriot--he died a Christian in 1845.

[Illustration: {Andrew Jackson portrait and signature} ENGRAVED BY T.B. WELCH FROM A DRAWING BY J.B. LONGACRE.]

JACKSON JAMES first inhaled the atmosphere at Moreton Homstead in the County of Devon, England, on the 21st of September 1757. His father was a strong whig and brought him to Georgia in 1772 and left him with his friend John Wereat, Esquire. James Jackson did not fancy hereditary monarchy or purse-proud aristocracy. His very nature was republican. At the dawn of the Revolution he was ready to peril his life in the cause of equal rights. The war cry that came rushing on mighty wind from the blood stained heights of Lexington he hailed as the day-spring of FREEDOM--the morning star of LIBERTY. At the age of 18 he was a volunteer in the party of bold spirits that made a descent on Savannah. At the attack on Tybee his dauntless courage attracted the attention of Archibald Bullock who was the acting head of the patriots. In a short time Jackson was in command of a volunteer company of light infantry. In 1778 he rose to the rank of brigade-major of the Georgia militia. At the storming of Savannah his gallantry could not be excelled. He was in the battle of Blackstocks on the 20th of August 1780. After Tarleton had retreated Major Jackson was put on his track and brought back 30 horses. At the battle of Cowpens the Major received the thanks of Gen. Morgan on the battle field. When in service under Gen. Pickens his noble daring was particularly noticed in the reports of that officer. About this time he was made a Colonel with the privilege of raising his own regiment, which he quickly accomplished. He commanded at the capture of the British fort at Ogechee, the post at Butler's White house and seemed to court danger whenever an opportunity presented. In his victory over Col. Brown on the 21st of May 1782, Gen. Wayne awarded great praise to Col. Jackson. On the 12th of July of that year the British surrendered Savannah and by arrangement delivered the keys to this brave Colonel who continued to command it until the close of the war. He then commenced a successful practice of law and stood on a lofty eminence of merit. He was hailed as one who had contributed largely towards achieving the Liberty all then enjoyed. He was raised to the office of major-general of militia--was a member of the legislature--quorum of the state and a member of the U. S. Senate. He was found equal to every station he was called to fill. He died at Washington city while at his post in the Senate on the 19th of January 1806.

JAMES JOHN was born in Ireland in 1732. His father and several of his neighbors came to Virginia in 1783 and settled at Williamsburg which name they gave to the place in honor of King William. They had all imbibed an unconquerable dislike towards England. At the commencement of the Revolution all their descendants were prepared to oppose her unjust pretensions. No one amongst them was a more determined opponent than John James. Familiar with border warfare he was prepared to act efficiently. He had long been a captain of militia under the crown and at once resigned his commission. His company all declared for Liberty and retained him in command. In 1776 he left his plough and marched his men to the defence of Charleston where he remained for some time. He was soon promoted to the rank of major and became one of the most active officers in service. He was with Gen. Moultrie when he was closely pressed by Gen. Provost. At the skirmish at Tulifinny he commanded the rifle corps. He acted a brave part at the battle of Eotaw. His riflemen expended 24 rounds of cartridges on the enemy and rarely wasted any ammunition. He was the original nucleus of Marion's brigade. He performed many bold exploits--had numerous hair-breadth escapes. At one time he was alone and attacked by two British dragoons who were in advance of their comrades. As they drew their sabres to cut him down he brought them to a sudden halt by drawing an empty pistol and then leaped over a chasm a little too broad for Tarleton's sportsmen. Just previous to the close of the war he returned to his rusty plough and lived in the high esteem of a grateful country and his numerous acquaintances until 1791 when he closed his useful career in death. He was a member of the Virginia legislature and filled several civil offices with credit and fidelity.

JASPER WILLIAM was a brave sergeant in the division of Gen. Moultrie. For personal bravery and shrewdness he had few equals. In the heat of the attack upon Fort Moultrie the flag staff was shot off by a cannon ball. The banner fell outside of the works. Amidst a storm of iron hail Jasper leaped from one of the embrasures, recovered the flag, mounted it on his spontoon staff and unfurled it to the breeze. He was promoted to the highest rank he would accept--a roving commission and the privilege of selecting his companions to aid him in his bold and romantic enterprises. He often brought in prisoners before Gen. Moultrie was aware of his absence. On one occasion several prisoners were ironed and put under a guard of eight soldiers with a corporal and sergeant and started for Savannah with a fair prospect of the hemp. One was a Mr. Jones whose young wife was in great agony on his account and followed him with their only child--a lovely boy five years of age. Jasper and his kindred spirit Sergeant Newton, resolved on their rescue. Within two miles of Savannah in a copse of wood is a spring of excellent water about six rods from the road. There Jasper and Newton lay in ambush. When the party arrived eight of them laid down their guns in the road and went to the fountain to drink, leaving two to guard their prisoners. The next moment the two on guard slumbered in death--the rest of the British party were all made prisoners--the Americans released and the whole arrived at the American camp the next morning at Perrysburg. The distressed wife had no intimation of the heroic adventure until the crack of the two guns from Jasper and Newton. The next moment she clasped her fond husband to her convulsed bosom. Her joy may be faintly imagined--not described. Gov. Rutledge presented Jasper with an elegant sword for his noble daring at Fort Moultrie. Soon after the brave defence of Fort Moultrie Mrs. Elliott presented a splendid stand of colors to Col. Moultrie's regiment that composed the force in that

## action. At the storming of Savannah two officers fell in an attempt to

plant these colors upon a redoubt of the enemy. When a retreat was ordered Jasper was mortally wounded while in the act of rescuing this standard from the enemy. After the retreat Maj. Horry called to see him and was made the bearer of the following message. "I have got my furlough. That sword was presented to me by Governor Rutledge for my services in defence of Fort Moultrie. Give it to my father and tell him I wore it in honor. If the old man should weep tell him his son died in hope of a better life. Tell Mrs. Elliott I lost my life in supporting the colors she presented to our regiment. Should you ever see Jones, wife and son--tell them Jasper is gone but the remembrance of that battle which he fought for them brought a secret joy in my heart when it was about to stop its motion for ever." In a few moments after he closed this message his noble soul soared to heaven.

JAY JOHN was born in the city of New York in 1745. He was one of the noble sages who dared to be free. He took an early and decided stand in favor of Liberty. He was of great service in rousing the people to a sense of their true interests. He was elected to Congress and took his seat in that body the latter part of 1776 and presided in the presidential chair for some time. In 1778 he was minister to Spain--in 1782 he was one of the commissioners to negotiate a treaty with Great Britain. In 1795 he was elected governor of the Empire State. He was an able public officer--a valuable private citizen. His soul joined its kindred in the spirit world in 1829.

JOHNSON FRANCIS was born in Pennsylvania in 1749. At the commencement of a conflict with mother Britain he was enjoying a lucrative practice at the bar. He well understood the merits of the high contending parties and enlisted under the banner of FREEDOM. He commenced his military career with Gen. Wayne with the commission of lieutenant-colonel in the first regiment raised by that brave officer. He shared with him all the fatigues and glory of the numerous expeditions and battles in which he was engaged up to the time Gen. Wayne went south. He succeeded him in the command of the 5th Pennsylvania regiment. His services were ably and zealously rendered and highly appreciated. He ventured his life and spent his fortune for Liberty. After the close of the Revolution he was elected sheriff of the city and county of Philadelphia as a tribute of merit awarded by both political parties. No man could be more generally beloved--no one better deserved it. He died in Philadelphia on the 22d of February 1815.

JOHNSON SAMUEL was one of the most talented and ardent patriots of the chivalric south. From the dawn of the Revolution he boldly espoused the cause of equal rights. He was a member of Congress and after the adoption of the Federal Constitution he was made a United States Senator. He was a judge of the Supreme Court of North Carolina and governor of that State. He discharged the duties of public and private life with energy, ability and scrupulous fidelity. His career of life was closed in 1806.

JOHNSON WILLIAM SAMUEL was a native of Connecticut and a zealous friend of the cause of Independence. He was a man of strong native talents improved by a sound education. He exercised a salutary influence over his constituents and served them faithfully in various public capacities. He was a member of the old Congress--a delegate to the Convention that framed the Federal Constitution and the first United States Senator from his native State. He lived in the esteem of his numerous friends until 1819 when his lamp of life went out.

JONES JOHN PAUL commenced his remarkable life in the district of Galloway, Scotland, in 1747. His original name was John Paul and Jones was added when he came to America in 1775. He had been a mariner from the age of 15 and was master of his profession. He left England in disgust in consequence of improper treatment by the authorities relative to his quelling a mutiny on board his ship, in doing which he was compelled to kill the ringleader, for which he was tried and acquitted and was threatened with a second trial. In the expedition of Com. Hopkins against New Providence he was a lieutenant and exhibited a dauntless spirit that at once placed him on the list of the brave. On his return he was placed in command of a sloop with 12 guns. In a short time he captured a British vessel with 18 guns. He then cruised boldly along the coast of Scotland--made several landings and a few contributions and proceeded to the Irish coast where he found the English armed vessel Drake in the harbor of Waterford--gave her a challenge--she entered the list of combat--was quickly flogged and hastened back to her old moorings crippled and her commander mortified. In the summer of 1779 he was put in command of the Bon Homme Richard of 40 guns and 415 men with some small craft. After visiting France he sailed from there on the 14th of August of that year--took several vessels of war and merchantmen and proceeded in search of the Baltic fleet which he discovered on the 22d of September at 2 P. M. off Flamborough Head under convoy of a frigate and sloop of war. He at once prepared for action. Just as the moon was rising, at quarter before 8 P. M. one of the most desperate naval actions commenced that can be found recorded on the pages of history. When the two larger ships came within pistol shot the British frigate opened the ball with a brisk fire from her upper and quarter deck. Jones returned the compliment with the grace of a naval hero. At the onset three of his six 18 pound guns burst and killed those around them. He ordered the other three not to be used. This accident induced him to grapple with the frigate and come to close quarters which he accomplished so completely that the muzzles of the guns of each were in contact. The rage of battle then commenced with all the desperation of gladiators. The Englishman had nailed his flag to the mast--Jones never surrendered. His ship was the most crippled--more of his guns silenced than on the frigate. This preponderance of metal was soon changed by a brave tar advancing over the frigate on the main yard of the American ship with a basket of hand grenades and lighted match. He dropped these messengers of death among the enemy and through the scuttles--killing many and setting the cartridges on fire in every direction. The fight raged on--the frigate was several times on fire--the Bon Homme Richard was leaking from shots between wind and water--all her guns silenced but four and not until both ships took fire was the fury of the conflict relinquished for a moment. When the flames were extinguished the carnage was renewed. Jones had taken over 100 prisoners and put them to the pumps under the direction of Lieut. Dale who was severely wounded. The English flag was at last torn down by the captain of the frigate which proved to be the Serapis mounting 50 carriage guns commanded by Capt. Pearson. All hands were removed on board the prize and at 10 the next morning the Bon Homme Richard went to the bottom. Capt. Pearson had 137 men killed and 76 wounded. Capt. Jones had 165 killed, 137 wounded. It is supposed many of his men were killed and wounded by one of his own vessels that fired into him some time by mistake at pistol shot. At the commencement of the action he received the fire of both British vessels until he closed with the frigate. The next morning the Pallas, Capt. Cotineau, attacked the British sloop of war and after a severe battle of over two hours compelled her to surrender. She was the Countess of Scarborough. Capt. Jones then proceeded home with his prizes and prisoners and was hailed with an enthusiasm that none but freemen so ardently feel and so strongly express. On the 14th of April 1781 Congress passed a strong resolution expressive of their high appreciation of his valuable services. A more skilful, daring and resolute man never commanded a ship.

After the termination of the Revolution he visited Russia and held a naval commission for a time under the Empress Catharine. From there he went to Paris in France where he died in 1792.[A]

[A] Com. Jones's remains are expected here shortly on board the Frigate St. Lawrence.

KENNARD NATHANIEL was born in Massachusetts in 1755. He was a volunteer in one of the first regiments raised in Massachusetts. In that he served one year and then entered on board a private armed vessel--was taken prisoner--taken to England and confined in Mill Prison for 27 months with a standing threat he should be hanged. He was finally sent to France and shipped on the Bon Homme Richard and was in the action described in the preceding article. He was put on board one of the prizes and ordered for France--was again taken prisoner--put on board the British frigate Unicorn and compelled to do duty until he found an opportunity to escape on the Island of Jamaica and reached home just before the close of the Revolution. During the war of 1812 he commanded a Revenue Cutter. From that period he was Inspector of Customs at Portsmouth N. H. up to the time of his death which occurred on the 24th of June 1823.

KING RUFUS commenced his life career in New York in 1755. In his youth he was an ardent friend to the cause of FREEDOM and a patriot in action. He was a member of Congress when convened at Trenton New Jersey in 1784. He was a very efficient member of the Convention in 1787 that formed the Federal Constitution and was soon after elected to the United States Senate. From 1796 to 1803 he was minister at the Court of St. James. In 1813 he was elected a United States Senator and was minister to England during the administration of John Quincy Adams. All his public and private duties were performed with a single eye to the glory of his country, the good of the human family and the preservation of our glorious UNION. He bid farewell to earth, its toys, toils, griefs and joys in April 1827.

KIRKWOOD ROBERT was a native of Newcastle county, Delaware. When the oppression of mother Britain became so intolerable that forbearance was no longer a virtue, Robert Kirkwood exchanged the implements of agriculture for the sword and entered the Delaware regiment under Col. Hazlet with the commission of Lieutenant. He was in thirty-two battles during the war and received the highest praise from every general officer under whom he served. At the battle of Camden fought by Gen. Gates, the Delaware regiment was reduced to 195 men who were formed into a company under the command of Capt. Kirkwood. A particular history of his bold exploits would fill a respectable volume. At the close of the war he was brevet Major. He was a universal favorite and richly deserved to be so. He fell fighting under Gen. St. Clair on the 4th of November 1791.

KNOWLTON THOMAS was a native of Ashford Connecticut and one of the first brave spirits that entered the field and among the first martyrs in the cause of FREEDOM. He commanded a regiment at the battle of Long Island in August 1776 which formed the van of the American army. In September following he came in contact with Gen. Leslie with a superior force and fell while gallantly leading his men to the charge. The command then devolved on Major Leitch of Virginia who was severely wounded but drove the enemy from the field. Col. Knowlton was an officer of great promise, an esteemed citizen--an honest man.

KNOX HENRY was born in Boston, Mass. on the 25th of July 1750. He was created a freeman and nobly fulfilled the design of his creation. In early life he became familiar with the engineer department, of military tactics. He was among the first Major Generals appointed by Congress and directed the ordnance operations during the whole period of the Revolution. The practised veterans of mother Britain were often compelled to admit that he had no superior in the management of artillery. His skill was effectually illustrated on every battle field where he was present. The victory at Monmouth over superior numbers was attributed by the enemy to the artillery of Gen. Knox. Washington referred to the fact in his report to Congress. From the commencement of his useful military career at Cambridge to its brilliant close at Yorktown, this brave and accomplished General stood on a lofty eminence of fame, admired and beloved by the commander-in-chief, by the whole army, by Congress and by our nation. He succeeded Gen. Lincoln in the War Department after the close of the Revolution and was the first Secretary of War under the Federal Constitution. On retiring from public life he settled at Thomastown, Maine, where his death was occasioned by a chicken bone lodging in his throat on the 25th of October 1806. In the private walks of life he exemplified those virtues most prominently that best adorn the man and assimilate him to his Creator.

KOSCIUSZCO THADDEUS commenced his noble existence in 1746 in the palatinate of Brescia, Lithuania, once an independent grand duchy containing 60,000 square miles which was united to Poland in 1569 and now forms the Russian provinces of Wilna, Grodno and Minsk. When reading the classics in his youth this noble patriot became enraptured with the vision of a Republic. He completed his education by a military course that he might be better prepared to battle for Liberty. When the story of the American Revolution reached him he at once resolved to enroll his name with those who dared to make an effort to be free. On his arrival, Washington appointed him a Colonel of engineers and one of his aids. His undaunted bravery on all occasions, his patriotic zeal, his amiable disposition, his purity of life, his noble bearing--all combined to endear him to the army and to every friend of freedom. He returned to his native land at the close of the Revolution and left his name carved high on the temple of our Liberty. Having aided in achieving the Independence we now enjoy, he saw his long nursed vision of a Republic reduced to a happy reality. His own countrymen were groaning under a bondage more servile than that which had oppressed the Americans. He longed to see them free. A few noble spirits were prepared to strike for Liberty. The time arrived for action. Kosciuszco was made Commander-in-chief in 1789. Five years passed in preparation. In 1794 his army was attacked at Raslavice by the Russian General Denisoff who was defeated with great slaughter. For six mouths he kept at bay the combined forces of Russia and Prussia. On the 4th of October of that year, the officer who commanded the advance position of the Polish army proved a traitor and permitted the enemy to occupy it without opposition. This effected the ruin of the liberating army--Kosciuszco fell covered with wounds and was incarcerated in a dungeon at St. Petersburg until Alexander was crowned who at once restored him to freedom. He then visited the United States and landed at Philadelphia where he was made a welcome guest. He subsequently spent some time in France. From thence he went to Solence in Switzerland where he died on the 16th of October 1817.

LACY JOHN was born in Bucks County, Pa. on the 4th of February 1755. His paternal ancestor came from the Isle of Wight under the auspices of William Penn. John's ancestor and all his descendants belonged to the Society of Friends. The love of Freedom predominated over the anti-war creed of John and he made up his mind to obtain it, peaceably if he could--forcibly if he must. He took the commission of captain from Congress on the 6th of January 1776 and was at once thrown over the fence by his Quaker brethren. He left his home, his society and his mill to do battle for his country. He served under Gen. Wayne in Canada and performed the hazardous duty of carrying an express from Gen. Sullivan to Arnold when before Quebec. On his return the next year he resigned in consequence of a difficulty with Gen. Wayne. He was then appointed by the legislature of Pennsylvania to organize the militia in Bucks County. He was soon elected colonel. He was now in the midst of tories and Quakers who were acting in concert with the enemy and threatened him with personal vengeance. These threats he disregarded as the idle wind. He brought his regiment into the field and performed feats of valor that at once raised him to a high standard on the list of heroes. His conduct was particularly noticed by Washington and he was honored with the commission of brigadier-general on the 9th of January 1778 and ordered to relieve Gen. Potter. He was then but 22 years of age. Probably influenced by his refugee neighbors--the British in Philadelphia determined on taking him dead or alive. His duties were onerous, his watchfulness untiring. On the 1st of the ensuing May he was stationed at what is now Hatborough with less than 500 men, mostly raw militia. Owing to the negligence of the officer of his picket guard his little camp was surrounded just at the dawn of morning by about 800 British infantry, rangers and cavalry. He formed his men quickly and cut his way through with such impetuosity that he threw the enemy into confusion and escaped with the loss of only 26 killed with a few wounded and prisoners who were treated with a barbarity that casts savage warfare so far in the shade that their most cruel tortures would appear as refulgent sun light in comparison. This bold manoeuvre of Gen. Lacy and his brave Spartans was a matter of applause throughout the country. He was constantly employed by Gen. Washington on hazardous enterprises and in every instance received his unqualified approbation. After the evacuation of Philadelphia Gen. Lacy was made a member of the legislature and served three consecutive sessions. In 1781 he closed his military career and like a good citizen, married an amiable daughter of Col. Reynolds of New Jersey and commenced a successful career of domestic felicity. He filled various civil offices, lived in the esteem of every patriot (not of all his Quaker relatives) and died at the village of New Mills, Burlington County, N. J. on the 17th of February 1814.

LAURENS HENRY was ushered into the world at Charleston, S. C. in 1724. He was one of the first in his state to put the revolutionary ball in motion. He was President of the Provincial Congress of South Carolina that convened in June 1775. He prepared articles of association that demonstrated how clearly he perceived--how strongly he felt the oppressions of mother Britain. In November 1777 he succeeded John Hancock in the Presidential chair of the Continental Congress. In 1780 he was commissioned to proceed to Holland to negotiate a loan and form a treaty with the United Netherlands. On his passage he was captured by a British war vessel and on the 6th of October was committed to the tower in London under the charge of high treason. He was there confined for 14 months and treated with the proverbial cruelty that has left a dark stain upon the names of the British ministers then in power, that if they were linen the concentrated powers of a thousand suns could not efface it in a million of years. Many stratagems were devised to obtain from him concessions and promises that would lessen his sufferings and apparent danger but which did not honor his country. They were spurned with an indignity that none but FREEMEN can so burningly exhibit. When his son was sent to the court of France the father was requested to write and request him to desist from his mission or the life of his parent would be taken. He promptly refused and replied--"My son is of age and has a will of his own. I know him to be a man of honor. He loves me dearly and would lay down his life to save mine but I am sure he would not sacrifice his honor to save my life and I applaud him for it." The indignation of the Americans and many in the mother country was roused against those who held Mr. Laurens in bondage. The authorities found themselves in a tight place. They dare not try and condemn him as a rebel. For this a swift retribution awaited them. Burgoyne and many other high functionaries were prisoners of war. The old patriot could not be moved from the position of a freemen. He correctly considered himself only a prisoner of war--his own countrymen and other nations were of the same opinion. After much ado about a plain simple matter the king's counsellors had him bound, with Messrs. Oswald and Anderson as sureties, to appear at the Easter term for trial after being compelled to strike from the recognizance the words "our sovereign lord the king." Before leaving he was entirely released and requested by Lord Shelburne to hasten home to assist in consummating a peace. Before leaving he received a commission from Congress to repair to Paris and act in conjunction with Messrs. Franklin, Adams and Jay and had the proud satisfaction of signing the preliminaries of peace on the 30th of November 1782. His cruel deprivations during his imprisonment laid the foundation of disease which terminated his life near Charleston, S. C. on the 8th of December 1792. His name is enrolled with the patriotic, the virtuous and the good.

LAURENS JOHN was the noble son of Henry before alluded to. He was one of the bravest of the brave. He entered the army in 1777 with the rank of lieutenant-colonel and was a member of the military family of Washington. At Germantown he was severely wounded in an attempt to dislodge the enemy from Chew's house. He gained laurels at Rhode Island, Monmouth, Savannah, Charleston and at several other points of desperate conflict. He was among the first to enter the lines at Yorktown. He courted danger ardently--his courage was impetuous--he knew no fear. Dr. Ramsay said of him--"A dauntless bravery was the least of his virtues and an excess of it his greatest foible." His love for Washington knew no bounds. He challenged Gen. Charles Lee for speaking disrespectfully of the father of our country and marked him for life. He was asked how young Laurens behaved and replied--"I could have hugged the noble boy he pleased me so." His mission to France in 1781 to effect a loan was successful. His private virtues were as bright as his public career was brilliant. He was a high-minded, honorable, accomplished gentleman. At a trifling skirmish after the war was virtually closed this noble young man was killed in 1782.

LEDYARD WILLIAM was born in Connecticut in 1738. He was a murdered 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!"

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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).