On the 17th of September this was reported to Congress and was promptly approved. It was immediately sent to the several states for consideration all of which sanctioned it at that time except North Carolina and Rhode Island. The former acceded to it in 1789, the latter in 1790. Confidence was then restored and Independence made secure. From that time to the present our nation has advanced on the flood tide of successful experiment and been blessed with an increasing prosperity that has no parallel in the annals of history. The star spangled banner waves proudly on every sea and is respected by all the nations of the earth. Our improvements at home have marched in advance of the boldest conceptions of the most visionary projectors—the fondest anticipations of their most ardent friends. They have often outstripped the most adventurous speculators.
By the unanimous voice of a free and grateful people Washington was elected the first President of the new Republic. With the same proverbial diffidence and modesty that had marked his whole career hetook the oath of office on the 30th of April 1789. This imposing ceremony was performed in presence of the first Congress under the Federal Constitution assembled in the city of New York and in presence of a crowded audience who deeply felt and strongly expressed their filial affection for the father of their country. He at once entered upon the important duties that devolved upon him which were neither few or small. A cabinet was to be created, a revenue raised, the judiciary organized, its officers appointed and every department of government to be established on a firm, impartial, just and humane basis. In all these arrangements he exhibited great wisdom, exercised a sound discretion and proved as able a statesman as he had been a general. Deliberation and prudence guided him at all times. He acted up to but never transcended the bounds of equal justice and delegated authority. An angel could do no more.
During his administration of eight years he brought into full force his noblest energies to advance the best interests of his country—meliorate the condition of those who were suffering from the effects of a protracted war—improve the state of society, arts, science, agriculture, manufactures—commerce—disseminate general intelligence—allay local difficulties and render the infant Republic as happy and glorious as it was free and independent. His patriotic exertions were crowned with success—his fondest anticipations were realized—he finished the work assigned him with a skill before unknown—the government foundations were laid deep and strong—the superstructure was rising in grandeur—Washington wrote his farewell address and on the 4th of March 1797 retired from public life honored and loved by a nation of freemen, respected and admired by a gazing world—crowned with an unsullied fame that will grow brighter and more brilliant through all time. He then repaired to Mount Vernon to repose in the bosom of his family and enjoy that domestic peace by his own fireside that he had long desired. He had served his country long, ably, impartially, justly. He could look back upon a life well spent in the cause of human rights, liberal principles and an enlarged philanthropy.
For his arduous services during the revolutionary war Washington took no compensation. More than this, owing to the depreciation of continental money he paid three-fourths of his own expenses. He kept a correct book entry of every business transaction and produced a written voucher for every disbursement he had made of public funds. During his presidential terms his expenses exceeded his salary over five thousand dollars a year which he paid from his private funds and refused a proffered remuneration. With the exception of his appointmentas commander-in-chief of the American army in 1798 when France threatened invasion, Washington was relieved from any farther participation in public affairs. He continued to live at Vernon's sacred Mount until the 14th of December 1799 when his immortal spirit left its noble tenement of clay—soared aloft on angel wings to realms of enduring bliss there to receive a crown of unfading glory—the reward of a spotless life spent in the service of his country and his God. His body was deposited in the family tomb where it slumbered amidst the peaceful groves of his loved retreat until 1837, when it was deposited in a splendid marble sarcophagus designed by Mr. Strickland and manufactured and presented by John Struthers, marble mason, both of the city of Philadelphia. Upon the top of this masterpiece of workmanship is most exquisitely and boldly carved the star spangled banner surmounted by the American Eagle. Under these the name WASHINGTON is carved in bold relievo. The design and finely finished work do great credit to Mr. Strickland as an architect and to Mr. Struthers as an artist. The gift and the delicate manner it was presented by the latter worthy gentleman do honor to his head and heart. The body was in a state of preservation as remarkable as the history of the man in life. The face retained its full form and fleshy appearance and was but slightly changed in color. The ceremony of removal was sublimely interesting and witnessed by a large concourse of tearful spectators. This hallowed spot is visited yearly by large numbers who approach it with profound veneration and awe. All nations revere the memory of the father of our country—unborn millions will chant his praise. Foreigners are proud to say they have visited the tomb of Washington at Mount Vernon. This estate was left to George Washington by his brother Lawrence in 1754. This brother served under Admiral Vernon in his memorable attack upon Carthagena in 1741. Having been treated with marked attention by the Admiral he named his estate in commemoration of him.
The name of George Washington is associated with every amiable and noble quality that can adorn a man. It is encircled by a sacred halo that renders it dear to every philanthropist—respected by all civilized nations. His fame is too bright to be burnished by eulogy—too pure to be tarnished by detraction. His praises have been proclaimed by talents of the highest order, hearts of the warmest devotion, imaginations of the happiest conception—eloquence of the loftiest tone. It would require an angel's pen dipped in ethereal fire and an angel's hand to guide it to fully delineate the noble frame work and perfect finish of this great and good man. Like the sun at high meridian, the lustre of his virtues canbe seen and felt but not clearly described. His picture is one on which we may gaze with increased delight and discover new beauties to the last. Like that of our nation—his history is without a parallel. Unblemished rectitude marked his whole career, philanthropy his entire course, justice his every action. Under the most trying circumstances and afflictive dispensations a calm holy resignation to the will of God added a brighter lustre to his exalted qualities. Like a blazing luminary—his refulgence dims the surrounding stars and illuminates the horizon of biography with a light ineffable. His brilliant achievements were not stained with that reckless effusion of blood that marked the ambitious Cæsar, the conquering Alexander and the disappointed Bonaparte. He was consistent to the last.
In private life he was graced with all the native dignity of man, reducing all things around him to a perfect system of harmony, order, economy, frugality and peace. In every thing he was chastened by sterling merit, actuated by magnanimity, mellowed by benevolence, purified by charity. He was a living epistle of all that was great and good. He was the kind husband, the widow's solace, the orphan's father, the faithful friend, the bountiful benefactor, the true patriot, the examples worthy the contemplation and imitation of all who figure on the stage of public action or in the walks of retired life. His private worth was crowned with amaranthine flowers, richer and sweeter than the epic and civic wreaths that decked his brow in the public view of an admiring world. His virtues were enlivened by the richest colors of godliness—his mind was finished by the finest touches of creative power. His sacred memory will live through the rolling ages of time—will be revered until the wreck of worlds and the dissolution of nature shall close the drama of human action—Gabriel's dread clarion rend the vaulted tombs—awake the sleeping dead and proclaim to astonished millions—time shall be no longer.
Thehistory of the Sages and Heroes of the American Revolution cannot be too often examined by the present and coming generations. To learn their disinterested patriotism, bold conceptions, daring exploits, unparalleled sufferings, indomitable perseverance, noble fortitude, enduring patience and their exalted virtues—is to know something of the highprice our freedom cost. To properly appreciate the liberty we enjoy is one of the best safe guards of its perpetuity. In the peaceful enjoyment of inestimable blessings we are too apt to forget their origin and their value. Could the torrents of blood shed to obtain the high privileges we now inherit be placed in one mighty reservoir upon which all our people could look for a single moment, millions would blush at their own apathy in the preservation of our dearest interests. We have many reckless demagogues and bold disorganizers in our midst who should be baptized in this fountain of blood for the remission of their political sins—some who set the Federal Constitution at naught and would glory in the dissolution of our blood bought UNION. When our love of country grows cold and respect for the chart of our Liberty is lost—the sooner we emigrate the better for all concerned—not up salt river but to Chinese Tartary or Chimborazo.
Among those who freely contributed to the revolutionary fountain of blood was Anthony Wayne, born in Waynesborough, Chester County, Pennsylvania on the 1st of January 1745. His grandfather held a commission in the army of William III. and fought at the battle of the Boyne on the 1st of July 1690 and at Aughrine on the 12th of July 1691 at both of which the Irish under James II. were defeated. At the last battle their struggle for Independence ended and has never been renewed. His father was a respectable farmer and placed this son at school in Philadelphia where he received a good English education. He was delighted with the study of mathematics and became familiar with surveying and engineering at an early age. His taste for military tactics was developed during his boyhood. His father and grandfather were both men of military prowess. As young Anthony listened to the story of their exploits he contemplated the field of battle, the clash of arms and the shouts of victory with burning enthusiasm. This grew with his growth and ripened with his manhood.
In 1773 he succeeded his father in the Colonial Assembly where he became an active member and took a bold stand in favor of liberal principles and equal rights. He did much to rouse the people to a just sense of impending danger. His boldness inspired confidence—his energy prepared for action. He preferred digging a grave with his sword rather than tamely submit to foreign dictation based upon tyranny and enforced by the insolent task masters of the crown. In 1775 he received a Colonel's commission and speedily raised a fine regiment in his native county. He was soon called into active service under Gen. Thompson in his unfortunate expedition against Canada. When that officer was defeated and taken prisoner with a part of his little army, Col. Waynemanifested great presence of mind, skill and bravery in effecting a retreat although writhing under a severe wound. From that time his military fame rose and expanded until it reached the maximum of his patriotic ambition—the pinnacle of his fondest desires. In 1776 his services were very useful on the northern frontier in conducting the engineer department in addition to the duties of his command. He had the confidence of his superiors and the friendship of all around him. His course was onward and upward. As a merited reward for his active services and in consequence of his superior talents he was commissioned Brigadier General at the close of that campaign.
At the battle of Brandywine he kept a superior British force from passing Chad's Ford for a long time. After the partial defeat of the American army Gen. Wayne was detached with his division to keep the enemy at bay in view of another attack. The invading army was stationed at what was then called Tredyffrin. Gen. Wayne encamped three miles in the rear of the left wing near the Paoli Tavern and gave special orders to guard against surprise. On the night of the 20th of September his troops were suddenly attacked by a division under Gen. Gray who rushed upon the Americans with fixed bayonets killing and wounding about 150 men. Overwhelmed by a superior force Gen. Wayne retreated a short distance—rallied and formed his men and was no farther molested. At his own request his conduct on that unfortunate occasion was investigated by a court martial. Not the slightest fault was found against him. At the battle of Germantown he led his men on to action with a boldness and impetuosity that carried terror into the ranks of the imported veterans. He had two horses shot, one under him and one as he was mounting and was wounded in the left foot and hand. When a retreat was ordered his military skill shone conspicuously in protecting his men.
He was uniformly selected by Washington to conduct hazardous and daring enterprises, reconnoitre the enemy and collect supplies. His energy was of the most vigorous tone whether on the field or in a council of war. Previous to the battle of Monmouth he and Gen.Cadwaladerwere the only officers who at first united with Washington in favor of attacking the British army. So bravely did he act on the day of that brilliant victory that the commander-in-chief made special mention of him in his report to Congress. In July 1779 Gen. Wayne was selected to attempt a bold and daring exploit. Stony Point was in possession of the enemy, strongly fortified and filled with heavy ordnance. One side was washed by the Hudson River, on the other was a morass passable only in one place. This fort was on an eminenceof considerable height. In front were formidable breastworks at every accessible point. In advance of these was a double row of abattis. Col. Johnson was in command of the garrison with 600 men principally Highlanders, the bravest and most brawny troops that were imported. A number of vessels of war were moored in the Hudson in front. All things combined to render a successful attack more than problematical with a much superior force. It was the very kind of adventure for Gen. Wayne. To please our young military gentlemen I will describe the arrangements for attack.
On the evening of the 15th of July, at 8 o'clock, he arrived within a mile and a half of the fort and immediately communicated his plan of operation to his officers. The hour of low twelve was fixed for the desperate assault. Every officer and non-commissioned officer was held responsible for each man in his platoon. No soldier was permitted to leave the ranks until the general halt near the fort and then only with an officer. When the troops arrived in rear of the hill on which the fort stood Col. Febiger formed his regiment in solid column of a half platoon in front. Col. Meigs formed in his rear—Maj. Hull in his rear, the three forming the right column. The left was formed in the same manner by Col. Butler and Maj. Murphy. Every officer and soldier placed a piece of white paper in front of his hat or cap that they might recognise each other if mixed with the enemy. Col. Fleury was put in command of 150 picked men and stationed about twenty paces in front of the right column with fixed bayonets and unloaded muskets. A little in front of these an officer and twenty of the boldest men were placed whose duty was to secure the sentinels and remove the abattis that the main column might pass freely. The same with the left column. The main columns were to follow the advance with shouldered unloaded muskets relying entirely on the bayonet—according to the tactics of Gen. Gray at Paoli. Any soldier who departed in the minutest particular from orders was to be instantly killed by his officer. A reward of $500 was offered to the first man who entered the fortification—$400—$300—$200—$100 to each in succession of the other four who first followed. The whole being formed, "March!" thundered from Wayne who led the right column with Col. Febiger—the left was led by Col. Butler followed by Maj. Murphy. Never were men more determined on victory or death—never were orders more strictly obeyed. So simultaneous was the attack by each division and so equally rapid their movements that they met in the centre of the fort. The victory was as complete and triumphant as the assault was bold and overwhelming. All was accomplished without the discharge of agun by the Americans who advanced facing a tremendous shower of musket, grape and canister shot. On the surrender of the fort Gen. Wayne ordered a salute of iron hail for the benefit of the armed ships in the river which caused them to slip their cables and move off with all possible despatch. Fifty-seven of the enemy were killed and five hundred and forty-three taken prisoners. As the columns were advancing Gen. Wayne was severely wounded in the head with a musket ball—as he believed mortally—which felled him to the ground. He rose on one knee—"Onward my brave fellows—onward!" burst from him in stentorian accents. He requested his aids to carry him into the fort that he might die amidst the music shouts of victory. The garrison made a determined resistance at every point of attack. Of the forlorn hope of the twenty led by Lieut. Gibbons seventeen were killed. The wounded and killed of the Americans amounted in all to ninety-eight. After entering the fort had the Americans opened a fire the slaughter would have been dreadful. Gen. Wayne preferred setting an example of humane treatment towards his conquered foes, proving himself as magnanimous as he was brave and victorious. He scorned retaliation although the dying groans at the Paoli massacre were still ringing in his ears. Within an hour after the surrender, writhing under his severe wound, Gen. Wayne addressed the following laconic letter to Gen. Washington.
"Stony Point, July 16, 1779, 2 o'clock A. M."Dear General—The fort and garrison with Col. Johnson are ours. Our officers and men behaved like men determined to be free."Yours most sincerely,"Anthony Wayne."Gen. Washington."
"Stony Point, July 16, 1779, 2 o'clock A. M.
"Dear General—The fort and garrison with Col. Johnson are ours. Our officers and men behaved like men determined to be free.
"Yours most sincerely,
"Anthony Wayne.
"Gen. Washington."
Here is a model letter worthy the imitation of the elaborate epistle manufacturers of the present prolific era of verbosity, ambiguity and repetition. It should serve as a modest hint to our speech-makers and induce them to say less and do more. Millions would then be saved to the States and our nation.
So highly did Congress appreciate the capture of Stony Point that on the 26th of the same month the House passed a series of resolutions highly complimentary to Gen. Washington for conceiving and to Gen. Wayne and his brave companions in arms for planning and accomplishing the capture of that important post. The amount of the military stores was divided amongst the officers and men and the rewardsoffered promptly paid. The letter of Mr. Jay, the President of the Continental Congress to Gen. Wayne enclosing a copy of these resolutions, shows the concise and systematic mode of doing business at that time.
"Philadelphia July 27, 1779."Sir—Your late glorious achievements have merited and now receive the approbation and thanks of your country. They are contained in the enclosed act of Congress which I have the honor to transmit. This brilliant action adds luster to our arms and will teach the enemy to respect our power if not to imitate our humanity. You have nobly reaped laurels in the cause of your country and in the fields of danger and death. May these prove the earnest of more and may victory ever bear your standard and Providence be your shield."I have the honor to be &c."John Jay, President."
"Philadelphia July 27, 1779.
"Sir—Your late glorious achievements have merited and now receive the approbation and thanks of your country. They are contained in the enclosed act of Congress which I have the honor to transmit. This brilliant action adds luster to our arms and will teach the enemy to respect our power if not to imitate our humanity. You have nobly reaped laurels in the cause of your country and in the fields of danger and death. May these prove the earnest of more and may victory ever bear your standard and Providence be your shield.
"I have the honor to be &c."John Jay, President."
Here is anothermultum in parvoworthy of imitation. Plain common sense plainly and briefly told—every line gemmed with the purest patriotism.
Gen. Wayne was blessed with great presence of mind in sudden emergencies. When in the vicinity of James river, Virginia, he was incorrectly told that the main body of the British army had passed to the opposite side. He advanced with only 800 men for the purpose of capturing the rear guard but found the whole force of Lord Cornwallis formed in line of battle. He immediately commenced a vigorous attack and then retreated in good order. Believing this to be an ambuscade stratagem the British dared not pursue him. In 1781 he was put in command of the forces in Georgia. After several sanguinary engagements he expelled the enemy from the state and planted the standard of freedom upon the ruins of tyranny—upon the firm basis of eternal justice. As a reward for his services that state presented him with a valuable plantation reversing the adage—republics are ungrateful. He continued in active service up to the close of the siege of Yorktown, a bold, prudent, skilful and reliable patriotic officer. He remained in the army until the Independence for which he had fought and bled was fully recognised by mother Britain when he retired to the bosom of his family crowned with the highest military honors he desired and with the rank of Major General of the American army. But few of the Heroes of the Revolution did as much hard service as Gen. Wayne and no one did it up more brown.
In 1789 he was a member of the Pennsylvania convention to which was submitted the Federal Constitution. He warmly advocated its adoption. In 1792 he succeeded Gen. St. Clair in command of the army operating against the predatory Indian tribes in the far west. Gen. Wayne formed an encampment at Pittsburgh and thoroughly disciplined his troops preparatory to future action. So determined were the red men to maintain the rights that God and nature had bestowed upon them that many of the powerful tribes combined their war forces to resist their common enemy—the Christian white man. To meet them on their own ground and adopt their mode of warfare was the only way to insure success. For such a service it required time to prepare and energy to execute. In the autumn of 1793 Gen. Wayne had led his army to Greenville six miles from fort Jefferson where he established his winter quarters. He fortified his camp and built fort Recovery on the ground where the whites had been defeated on the 4th of November 1791. He collected the bones of those who then fell and had them buried under the honors of war. The presence of the army kept the Indians quiet during the winter. For the want of supplies the army did not reach the junction of the rivers Au Glaiz and Miami until the 8th of August where a fort was erected for the protection of military stores. Thirty miles from that place the English had erected a fort near which the Indians were in full force. On the 18th the army reached the Miami rapids. There a fortification was erected for the protection of baggage and the position of the red men examined. They were found in a dense forest five miles distant advantageously posted. On the 20th the attack was arranged and the troops advanced. When reached the fire from behind trees was so effective that the front, led by Major Price, was compelled to fall back. At that moment—trail arms—advance—ran through the ranks with electric velocity and effect as it thundered from the strong lungs of Wayne. In a few brief moments the conquered red men were flying in every direction closely pursued by the victorious troops for two miles. So rapid was their retreat that Scott, who was ordered to turn their left flank, found naught but trees like men standing but not like men running for dear life. Gen. Wayne had 33 men killed and 100 wounded. From this defeat the injured red men never recovered. They fled before fire and sword—their corn fields and villages were destroyed, their power paralyzed and a chain of forts established which kept them in constant awe and compelled them to relinquish their rightful domain after having struggled nobly to maintain their inalienable rights. True they were savages. Newton, Shakespeare, Washington, Henry—savages born—savages would have died. The Indians have their fixed customs—we have ours. They had their rights—the white men took them forcibly away. Justice, money, time, or angels' tears can never expunge the wrong. This is my opinion—others have the same right to theirs—if different it will be easier topleadjustification than toproveit.
The result of the vigorous operations of Gen. Wayne was a general and definitive treaty with many of the different tribes of Aborigines who were compelled to bury the tomahawk and smoke the pipe of peace. This treaty was ratified on the 3d of August 1795. Tranquillity then spread her cheering mantle over our country from the shores of the Atlantic to the inland seas of the west. General Wayne continued in the field of operations for the purpose of completing the extended chain of forts proposed and planned by him. No one was better calculated for that arduous service. He continued to prosecute the work until December 1796, when he was cut down by disease in the flood-tide of his eventful career, deeply mourned and widely lamented. He died far from his family in a hut on Presque Isle, a peninsula in Erie county, Pa. that extends into Lake Erie, where he was buried and remained until 1809 when his son Isaac removed his remains to his native county and deposited them in the cemetery of St. David's church. The Pennsylvania State Cincinnati Society has erected a beautiful white marble monument over his grave with the following inscription on the south front.
In honor of the distinguishedMilitary services ofMajor GeneralANTHONY WAYNE,And as an affectionate tributeof respect to his memoryThis stone was erected by hiscompanions in armsThe Pennsylvania State Society ofCincinnati,July 4th, A. D. 1809,Thirty-fourth anniversary ofThe Independence ofThe United States of AmericaAn event which constitutesthe mostAppropriate eulogium of an AmericanSoldier and Patriot.
On the north front is the following inscription.
Major GeneralANTHONY WAYNEWas born at Waynesboroughin Chester CountyState of PennsylvaniaA. D. 1745.After a life of honor and usefulnessHe died in December, 1796,at a military postOn the shores of Lake Erie,Commander-in-chief of the army ofthe United States.His military achievementsare consecratedIn the history of his country,and inThe hearts of his countrymen.His remainsAre here deposited.
Although stricken down at the age of fifty-one years Gen. Wayne lived long enough to fill his measure of glory and see the star spangled banner wave triumphantly over his native land. Far from his family as he was and in a rough cabin, he died peacefully. His spirit ascended to reap the rich reward of his labors in the cause of rational freedom and equal justice.
He was a large, portly man of commanding military mien, with an open bold countenance. All the relations of private life he honored with the most rigid fidelity. In the legislative hall as in the field he was active and decisive. As a citizen he was esteemed in life and regretted in death.
Thatknowledge is of most importance that leads us in theshortestpath to truth. A thorough common education, like common sense, is most useful. By a close observation of the laws of nature in full operation around us, of things as presented to our understandings, of men as they move and act before us—we obtain a treasure of knowledge notalways taught in the high schools and seldom hinted at—much less expounded in modern books. Without this the classic scholar is afloat without a rudder. This is the kind that best answers the definition of the adage—Knowledge is power. In the great store-house of literature the quantity of fancy goods has, for some time past, far exceeded the coarser kind fit for everyday use. Whether this is an advantage to the intellect of man calculated to increase its strength and volume—or like luxurious diet, enervate and weaken, is a problem worthy the solution of every reader. Certain it is our hardy ancestors were not mentally or physically pampered with knick-knacks that now supplant much solid matter. Certain it is that many of the patriots of the Revolution were self-made practical men and shone as conspicuously in the galaxy of sages as those whose early literary advantages were greater—conclusive evidence that there is a shorter path to truth.
Among them William Whipple Jr. was conspicuous. He was the eldest son of William Whipple—born at Kittery, Maine, in 1730. At a common English school he was taught reading, writing, arithmetic and navigation. These he mastered at an early age and was then entered a cabin boy on board a merchant vessel in accordance with his father's wishes and his own inclination. Before he reached his majority he became captain of a vessel and made several successful voyages to Europe. Some ignoramuses have vainly attempted to stigmatize his fair reputation at that era in his life because he participated in the inhuman slave-trade. If they will learn the true state of feeling at that time upon this subject their anathemas will evaporate in thin air. The trade was then sanctioned by Great Britain under whose government Capt. Whipple acted and according to her laws—The King can do no wrong. The correctness of the trade was not then doubted but by a few philanthropists and its first cousin, theApprentice System, is still a favorite project with England. Time and reflection caused Captain Whipple to see the impropriety of the traffic and entirely abandon it at an early day. He also manumitted the only slave he owned who would not leave him during the war and fought bravely for the liberty of our country. If every man is to be condemned for the licensed or unlicensed errors of youth whose riper years are crowned with virtue, the list of fame will require many bold erasures and would be robbed of some of its proudest names. He who would do it must belong to the big crowd ignorant of human nature.
In 1759 Capt. Whipple relinquished his oceanic pursuits and commenced the mercantile business in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He also added the swivel link to his chain of earthly happiness by marryingCatharine Moffat. Every farmer, sailor and blacksmith knows the importance of this link in the common chain. The wise Creator designed it in the chain of life and no man should be without it. If of the right metal, it will save him from many a dangerous twist and often from a break. A word to the wise should be sufficient.
During his numerous voyages Capt. Whipple had treasured up a large fund of useful knowledge. He was a close observer of men and things—an analyzing reader and mingled with the best and most intelligent men when in port. In England he had listened to the unwarranted pretensions of ministers—in America—to the increasing complaints of the Colonists. He was familiar with the chartered rights of his own country and with the tyranny of the infatuated step-mother. He was prepared for action and took a bold stand in favor of freedom. He took a conspicuous part in public meetings and became one of the Committee of Safety. He rose rapidly in public esteem—the former cabin boy became a leading patriot.
In January 1775 he represented Portsmouth in the Provincial Congress at Exeter convened for the purpose of choosing delegates to the Continental Congress. On the 6th of the next January he was made a member of the Provincial Council of New Hampshire. On the 23d of the same month he was elected a member of Congress then in session at Philadelphia and continued actively and usefully engaged in that important station until the middle of September 1779. He was present at the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and affixed his name to that bold instrument with the same fearless nonchalance as if signing a bill of lading. He was emphatically a working man and rendered himself extremely useful on committees. As a member of marine and commercial boards, his practical knowledge gave him an advantage over his colleagues. He was one of the superintendents of the commissary and quarter masters' department and did much towards correcting abuses and checking peculation. He was untiring in industry, ardent in zeal, philosophic in views, pure in purposes and strong in patriotism. When he retired from Congress to serve his country in a more perilous sphere, he had the esteem and approbation of his co-workers in the glorious cause ofLiberty.
In 1777 he became Brigadier General Whipple and took command of the first brigade of the Provincial troops of New Hampshire acting in concert with Gen. Stark who commanded the other. Gen. Burgoyne was on the flood tide of military glory—rushing down upon the north like a herd of wild buffaloes over a prairie—spreading consternation far and wide. He was first checked in his triumphant career by Gen. Stark atBennington, Vermont. Gen. Whipple joined Gen. Gates about the same time and was in the bloody battles of Saratoga and Stillwater where the palm of victory was measurably attributed to the troops under his command. To the consummation of the brilliant victory over the British army Gen. Whipple contributed largely. Col. Wilkinson and himself were the officers who arranged and signed the articles of capitulation between the two commanders. He was one of the officers who conducted the conquered foe to Winter Hill near Boston. His faithful negro participated in all the perils of his oldmassaand could not have been more elated with the victory had he been the commanding general.
In 1778 Gen. Whipple was with Gen. Sullivan at the siege of New Port which was abandoned for want of the aid of Count D'Estaing whose fleet was injured by a gale. A safe retreat was effected in the night. In 1780 Gen. Whipple was appointed a Commissioner of the Board of Admiralty which he declined, preferring to serve in the legislature of his own state in which he continued for years. In 1782 he was appointed Financial Receiver for New Hampshire by Robert Morris. The office was arduous, unpopular and irksome but in his hands lost much of its odiousness. At the end of two years he resigned. On the 20th of June 1782 he was appointed a judge of the Superior Court. On the 25th Dec. 1784 he was appointed a Justice of the Peace and Quorum throughout the state which latter office he held to the day of his death. He was one of the commissioners on the part of Connecticut to settle the controversy between that state and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania relative to lands in Wyoming valley. In all the multiform duties that devolved upon him in the various public stations he filled he acquitted himself nobly. He possessed a strong analyzing mind, deep penetration of thought, a clear head and good heart.
During the latter part of his life he suffered much from disease in his chest which terminated his useful career on the 28th of Nov. 1785. At his request before death, his body underwent apost mortumexamination. His heart was found ossified. The valves were united to the aorta and an aperture not larger than a common knittingneedlewas all that remained for the passage of the blood. This explained the reason of his faintness under sudden emotion.
In all the relations of private and public life—from the cabin boy up to the lofty pinnacle of a well earned fame, Gen. Whipple was a model of consistency and virtue. He left a reputation pure as the virgin sheet. His career demonstrated clearly that in our country fame is confined to no grade in life and that practical knowledge, crowned with strong common sense, enables a man to be substantially useful to his country andfellow men. Citizens of America of only a common education—you can and should be useful. Look at this bright example and govern yourselves accordingly.
Infidelity, in all its multiform aspects, is a legitimate child of inconsistency. The man who has impartially read the Bible—who understands physiology, the philosophy of mind—the minutiæ of anatomy, the unerring laws of nature, the powers of reason—the revolving circuit of his own immortal soul and denies the existence of Him who spake and it was done—who commanded and it stood fast—disrobes himself of the noblest power bestowed by creative Wisdom and forfeits the high dignity of a man. All things, from the leaf that vibrates in the gentle breeze to the etherial sky spangled with stars, proclaim the existence of a God. Most assuredly there is a Supreme Being who rules, with unerring wisdom, in the kingdoms of Nature, Providence and Grace. Beyond all cavil this position is most conducive to the happiness of the human family in this life. The superstructure of the Infidel is clustered with present misery. If its foundation should prove sandy he curses himself in this world to be more wretched in the next. Aside from the question of its divinity—Religion is the substratum of social order and human felicity. Infidelity is the destruction of both. History is crowded with demonstrations of this position. Banish the Bible and religion from our Republic—remove this firm foundation upon which the Sages of the Revolution based it—anarchy would ensue and we should rush into the same vortex of ruin which engulphed the French Republic.
By many of our Revolutionary patriots religion was exemplified—by all it was venerated. Among those of them who enjoyed its full fruition through life was William Williams born at Lebanon, Windham County, Connecticut, on the 8th of April 1731. He was the son of Rev. Solomon Williams whose paternal ancestor came from Wales in 1630. Solomon was pastor of the Congregational church at Lebanon for fifty-six years. He was a man of consistent and uniform piety—of liberal and expansive views and believed religion to be the foundation of rational liberty. His own soul enraptured with the substantial joys of practical piety—he strongly desired his children might inherit the same blessing. His prayers were answered. Of a large family of sons and daughters—all consecrated themselves to the Lord of gloryand became exemplary members of the church over which their father presided.
After completing his preparatory studies William entered Harvard College and graduated in 1751. He sustained a high reputation for correct deportment untiring industry and scholastic lore. His father then directed his theological course preparatory for the sacred desk. But his talents were too diversified for a clerical life. He had a taste for classics, architecture, mechanics, mathematics and general science.
He was also inclined to travel. In 1755 he accepted a commission in the staff of Col. Ephraim Williams a kinsman of his and founder of Williams College at Williamstown, Mass. Sir William Johnson, who commanded the English troops, detached Col. Williams with 1100 men to reconnoitre the army of Baron Dieskau composed of a large force of French and Indians. After proceeding some four miles the detachment was attacked by a superior force lying in ambush. Col. Williams fell in the early part of the engagement bravely fighting for the mother country. His troops then retreated in good order until the main body came up and repulsed the enemy.
The French war cost the Americans much blood and treasure. It was a matter of allegiance—not of interest. The Canadas were won by the Colonies for Great Britain. The pilgrim fathers were long treated and used as vassals of the English crown. Blended with the unparalleled cruelties of the hired minions of the mother country was damning ingratitude—the concentrated essential oil of Pandora that drives back the rushing blood upon the aching heart.
During the campaign Mr. Williams became disgusted with the hauteur of the British officers towards native Americans who were by far the most efficient troops against the Indians and French, whose mode of warfare they better understood. Released from the army, he resolved never again to submit to such indignities. He returned home and commenced the mercantile business. Soon after, he was elected town clerk, a member of the assembly and appointed a justice of the peace. These were unsought favors—purely a tribute to merit. For a long time he was either speaker or clerk of the House of Representatives in which he served nearly one hundred sessions. For fifty years he faithfully served in a public capacity.
When the Revolutionary storm began to darken the horizon of public tranquillity he boldly met its raging fury. Extensively and favorably known—his salutary influence had a wide range. When the tocsin of war was sounded he closed his commercial concerns and devoted his whole time to the glorious cause of equal rights and rationalLiberty. His learning, piety, honesty of purpose, energy of action and large experience—combined to give great weight to his character. He was an active member of the council of safety and on the second Thursday of October 1775, was appointed a delegate to the Continental Congress. He entered zealously into the deliberations of that revered body and made himself truly useful. He was ever ready to go as far as any one to obtain the liberation of his suffering country from the serpentine coils of tyranny. He was in favor of bold and vigorous measures and advocated the Declaration of Rights from its incipient conception to its final adoption. He was greatly instrumental in dispelling the doubts of many whose motives and desires were as pure but whose moral courage was less than his. He was well versed in the different forms of government, international law and the routine of legislation. When he spoke in public he was listened to with profound attention. He was a member of Congress in 1776-7 and when the final vote was taken upon the Magna Charta of our Liberty William Williams responded a thundering—aye—that told his boldness and his zeal. That vote stands confirmed by his signature—a proud memento of his unalloyed patriotism—a conclusive proof of his moral firmness.
He was free from that aspiring ambition that is based on self and nurtured by intrigue. His motives emanated from the pure fountain of an honest heart. To promote the glory of his country was the ultimatum of his earthly desires. Upon the altar of Liberty he was willing to sacrifice his property and life. To vindicate the cause of Freedom he was willing to spend his latest breath. He used every honorable exertion to rouse his fellow citizens to a sense of danger and induce them to enlist in the common cause against the common enemy. At the time Congress was compelled to flee from Philadelphia he risked his life to rescue Colonel Dyer from the fangs of the British who had planned his arrest. They both made a hair-breadth escape. When the government treasury was drained of its last dollar, Mr. Williams threw in what he termed a mite of hard money, being over two thousand dollars for which he took continental money only to die in his hands. How emphatically things are changed. Now the public treasury distributes mint drops profusely upon many whose pretended services are as worthless as continental rags—in some instances absolutely injurious.
He was remarkably active and fortunate in obtaining private donations and necessaries for the army. He went from house to house, receiving small parcels of any and every article that would alleviate the wants of the destitute soldiers. At different times he forwarded tothem more than a thousand blankets. During the winter of 1781 he gave up his own house for the accommodation of the officers of the legion of Col. Laurens and did all in his power to render officers and soldiers comfortable. His industry was equal to his patriotism seldom retiring until after twelve and up again by the dawn of day.
Mr. Williams was a member of the convention of his state when the Federal Constitution was adopted and gave it his hearty sanction. He was never permitted to retire from the public arena until prostrated by disease which terminated his useful career on the 2d of August 1811. He had lived the life of a good man—his end was peaceful, calm and happy.
He was a fine figure of the middle size, dark complexion and hair, piercing black eyes, an aquiline nose, an open and ingenuous countenance, a stentorian voice and strong physical powers. He was blessed with a clear head, a noble heart, a sound judgment, an acute perception and a logical mind. Not a blot could be found upon the fair fame of his public or private character. During the latter part of his life he was troubled with an increasing deafness and spent much of his time in Christian devotion. But few men have served their country as much and no one more faithfully than didWilliam Williams.
Thehistory of party spirit is red with blood. Its career has been marked with desolation and ruin. It often rides on the whirlwind of faction or on the more dreadful tornado of fanaticism. It has blotted kingdoms and empires from existence, consumed nations, blighted the fairest portions of creation and sacrificed millions upon its sanguinary altar. Confined to no time or place—it has taken deep root in our own country. Its poison has contaminated our political and religious atmosphere most fearfully. It has had its victims of blood in this land of republican and Christian professions. Its miasma has reached our ballot boxes, violated the peaceful fireside, traduced private character, invaded patriotism, induced perjury, countenanced forgery, corrupted our elective franchise and produced mobocracy in its most direful aspect. Great and good men have been victimized by reckless partisans who stop at nothing and stoop to everything to accomplish their purposes—right or wrong. They look at the end regardless of means.
In recurring to the eventful period of the American Revolution those who are not familiar with the history of the local politics of that daymay naturally conclude that party spirit found no place in the bosoms of those who were engaged in a common cause against a common enemy. Far different was the fact. Many of the best men of that trying period were scourged, lacerated and for a time paralyzed by reckless party spirit.
Among its victims was James Wilson, born of respectable parents near St. Andrews, Scotland, in 1742. His father was a farmer in moderate circumstances which he moderated still more by rushing into the whirlpool of speculation—an unfortunate propensity that adhered to this son. He graduated at St. Andrews, Edinburgh. This done he took lessons in rhetoric under Dr. Blair and in logic under Dr. Watts. He then came to Philadelphia and obtained the situation of usher in the college of that city. His moral worth, strong talents and high literaryattainmentsgained for him the esteem and marked respect of Dr. Richard Peters, Bishop White and many others whose friendship and influence were most desirable. Those who knew him best admired him most.
He subsequently studied law under John Dickinson and settled at Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where he rose rapidly to the head of the Bar. A powerful exhibition of Ciceronian eloquence and legal acumen at the trial of an important land case between the Proprietaries and Samuel Wallace gained for him an early professional celebrity. The Attorney General, Mr. Chew, fixed his eyes upon him soon after he commenced his argument and gazed at him with admiring astonishment until he closed his lucid speech. He was immediately retained in another important land cause and was considered equal to any member of the Pennsylvania Bar. He removed ultimately to Annapolis, Maryland and at the end of a year to Philadelphia where he was liberally patronised but rushing occasionally into the whirlpool of speculation his circumstances were uniformly embarrassed. As an evidence of his goodness of heart, amidst the most keen reverses he remitted money regularly to his poor widowed mother in Scotland to the day of her death using every means in his power to smooth her path to the tomb.
With the intolerant commencement of British oppression the political career of Mr. Wilson began. He boldly spoke and ably wrote in favor of equal rights and liberal principles. He was an early and zealous advocate of the American cause. Of a consistent and reflecting mind he sometimes censured the rashness of others which brought upon him malicious slanders which enabled his enemies several times to envelope him so completely in the dark fog of party spirit as to partiallyparalyze his exertions until the sun of truth would rise and dispel the vapors of calumny.
He was a member of the Provincial Convention of 1774, convened for the purpose of devising plans for the redress of grievances imposed by England. During the session he was nominated to the Congress soon to meet. He was bitterly opposed by Mr. Galloway but was elected by a handsome majority. He was continued a member of Congress until 1777 when his enemies succeeded in their long nursed machinations against him. At the commencement of hostilities he was commissioned colonel and appointed a commissioner to treat with the Indians. On the 4th of July 1776 he proved his sincerity in the cause of Liberty by a fearless vote and a bold signature in favor of the Declaration of Independence. In the minds of all who were not blinded by party spirit his action on that day refuted the base slanders that had been promulged against him. At the shrine of this dread monster the brightest subjects of purity have often been sacrificed. No goodness of heart—no brilliancy of talent—no exalted worth—no sanctity of character can shield a public man from the base assaults of party spirit—be he benefactor, philanthropist, saint, sage or hero. Even Washington writhed under the ostracism of this withering scourge. Some men are borndemi-gogsand live under the influence of Gog and Magog during their deleterious existence.
Mr. Wilson was an esteemed and active member of the Continental Congress. Born a Scot he would not have exemplified the marked trait of his nation had he not been cool and cautious in everything. He, with many others, opposed the immediate adoption of the Declaration of Independence—not because they doubted its justice but because they believed the Colonies were not in a physical condition to sustain it. His patriotism and republicanism both stood forth in boldrelievowhen the question was finally put. He venerated the instrument and was bound by principle to submit to the will of the majority in what he believed to be clearly right although he believed it premature. His opposition was based upon the single fact of the physical weakness of the Colonies clearly expressed, yet his partisan enemies branded him with a want of patriotism. The people were not long deceived and esteemed him the more for his candor.
In 1782 he was again elected to Congress and was hailed as one of its most efficient members. The same year he was appointed one of the counsellors and agents of Pennsylvania to meet the commissioners who convened at Trenton, New Jersey, for the final settlement of the protracted controversy between Connecticut and that commonwealthrelative to certain lands in the Wyoming Valley. The luminous and unanswerable arguments of Mr. Wilson had a controlling influence over the commissioners who decided in favor of Pennsylvania and closed an unpleasant litigation of years.
During theinterimwhen he was not in Congress he held the office of advocate-general for the French which led him to a close investigation of national and maritime law. For this service the French king gave him 10,000 livres. He was at the same time a director in the Bank of North America and had the full confidence of Robert Morris as a safe and able financial adviser. As an active and discreet member of important committees he stood in the front rank. He traced the lines of every subject with the compass of wisdom and closed its bearings and measurement with mathematical precision. He arrived at the desired goal with less show but with more certainty than some whose zeal was more impetuous but not more pure than his. He sought more to bestow lasting benefits on his country than to elicit the huzzas of the multitude. He well knew that effervescent popularity was not an index of that substantial usefulness which lives long after that transient vapor consigns its ephemeral subjects to the mellow repose of peaceful oblivion. Balloon politicians may become inflated by the hydrogen of party spirit and rise in the political atmosphere followed by the eyes and elated by the shouts of thousands. A single spark of fire from the furnace that created the gas will show most of them to be treacherous and unsafe gasometers. Modest worth avoids ethereal excursions. It stands like a rock of granite on theterra firmaof deep thought, calm reflection and sound discretion. Nothing but a sense of imperious duty can induce the very men who should be there to enter the whirling vortex and thorny arena of politics. How many such men are now in public stations guarding the rights and directing the proper destiny of our nation is a subject worthy of careful and anxious inquiry. If the people in mass are not true to themselves demagogues will not be true to them.
Mr. Wilson was one of the most useful members of the Convention that formed the Federal Constitution. He strongly opposed the popular project of the appointment of members of Congress by the legislatures of the States and was mainly instrumental in placing their election in the hands of the people. This principle should have been applied to every office named in that instrument not subject to the control and supervision of the President and Senate. Mr. Wilson was one of the committee that put the Constitution in form and reported it to the Convention. When completed by amendments and presented to his ownState he was its most powerful advocate and bore down upon the opposition with a sweeping torrent of eloquence and logic that was irresistible. He was also a member of the Convention of Pennsylvania to amend its Constitution, in which he took a decided stand in favor of placing the elective franchise in the hands of the people. The last vestige of aristocracy trembled before him and the last whisper of slander against the purity of his republicanism died upon the lips of echo. The boldest features of liberal principles in the old revised Constitution of that State were penned by James Wilson. Had his views been fully incorporated in that instrument I presume a second revision would not have been made.
When the Supreme Court of the United States was organized Washington selected Mr. Wilson for one of its judges. This high office he filled with great ability up to the time of his death. In 1790 he was appointed the first professor of the Law College in Philadelphia. When that and the University of Pennsylvania were united he filled the chair. As a learned and eloquent lawyer he had no superior at the Philadelphia bar. He was honored with the degree of LL.D. and during the first year of his professorship delivered an admirable course of lectures to the law students. Like most of the Scotch literati, towards them he was distant and reserved. His writings were vigorous and logical. In 1774 he wrote a spirited essay on the assumptions of the British Parliament not warranted by Magna Charta and portrayed the blessings arising from a republican form of government in such fascinating colors that it exercised a wide and salutary influence. To the uninitiated in party politics it may seem strange that any one accused James Wilson of aristocracy or a want of patriotism. A purer friend of his country or a more ardent advocate of the cause of freedom could not be found among the sages of '76. He passed through the ordeal of party persecution several times but truth-telling time forced his enemies to retrace their steps disgraced and shamed.
On the 28th of August 1798 this venerable sage, eminent lawyer, able statesman, profound jurist and impartial judge took a final leave of earth and closed his eyes in death. He died of strangury whilst absent on his circuit. Fortunately he was with his friend Judge Iredell in Edenton North Carolina where his ashes repose in peace. During his last illness he realized the proverbial hospitality of the south and was cared for in the kindest manner.
The private character of Judge Wilson was beyond reproach. He was a warm friend, an affectionate husband, a faithful father, a consolation to the widow and the fatherless, an upright and honest man.
In reviewing the history of this worthy man no one can doubt his patriotism and purity. No room is left to question his devotion to the American cause and his firm opposition to British oppression. Influenced by noble motives, guided by liberal principles—it is painful to reflect that he was often wounded in the house of his professed friends by those who had sworn to support the same cause he so ardently and ably espoused. The solution of this paradoxical problem may be found in the present state of things without travelling back to that time of times when party spirit should have withdrawn its hydra head into its legitimate Pandora box. We have those among us who live under the protective mantle of the Federal Constitution and the laws based upon it, who denounce that Constitution and refuse obedience to statutes according with it unless those statutes advance their interests and chime with their revolutionary views. They are cancers on the body politic loathsome to the sight of every friend of our country—to every advocate of ourUnion. It would promote our safety and their happiness to colonize them beyond fifty-four forty.
Theman who makes the Bible his counsellor—the polar star of his actions, will not go far astray. Divine in its origin, the sublimity of its language caps the climax of composition. As a history of the grand epoch when God said—"Let there be light—and there was light"—it stands alone clothed in all the majesty of Divinity. As a chronicle of the creation of man after the moral image of Deity—of his ruinous fall—of the glorious plan of his redemption—it must remain unrivalled. As a chart of human nature—human rights and wrongs and of the attributes of the great Jehovah—in precision, fullness and force of description it far exceeds the boldest strokes, the finest touches of the master spirits of elocution in every age. As a system of morals and religion—the efforts of men to add to its transcendent beauty—its omnipotent strength—are as vain as an attempt to bind the wind or imprison the ocean. As a book of poetry and eloquence—it rises in grandeur above the proudest production of the most brilliant talents that have illuminated and enraptured the classic world. As a book of Revelation—it cast a flood of light upon the wilderness of mind that shed fresh lustre upon reason, science and philosophy. As a book of counsel—its wisdom is profound, boundless, infinite. It meets every case in time and is a golden chain reaching from earth to Heaven. It teaches our native dignity—the duties we owe to our God,families, parents, children and our fellow men. It teaches us how to live and how to die—arms the Christian in panoply complete—snatches from death its painful sting—from the grave its boasted victory and points the pious soul to its crowning glory—a blissful immortality beyond the skies. The man who is led by this sacred book to lean upon the Supreme Ruler of revolving worlds, has a sure support that earth cannot give or take away. When we can rightfully appeal to Heaven for aid in our undertakings, faith bids us onward and fear no danger.
A large portion of the most prominent patriots of the American Revolution were pious men. I am not aware of one who did not believe in an overruling Providence. Several of them were devoted ministers of the gospel. Among these was John Witherspoon, born in the parish of Yester near Edinburgh, Scotland, on the 5th of February 1722. He was a lineal descendant of John Knox the celebrated reformer. The father of John was minister of Yester parish and moulded the mind of this son in the ways of wisdom, virtue and science. At an early age he placed him in the Haddington school where the rare beauties of his young mind unfolded like the flowers of spring. He soared above the trifling allurements that too often lead childhood and youth astray. His studies were his chief delight. He exhibited a maturity of judgment, clearness of perception and depth of thought—seldommanifestedin juvenile life. He entered the Edinburgh University at the age of fourteen and fully realized the anticipations of his friends in his educational advancement. Especially did he excel in theology. He passed the ordeal of his final examination at the age of twenty-one and was licensed to proclaim to his fellow men the glad tidings of the Gospel of Peace. He immediately became the assistant of his revered father—a favorite among their parishioners—an eloquent preacher of plain practical Christianity.
On the 17th of January 1746, he was a "looker on in Vienna" at the battle of Falkirk and with many others whose curiosity had led them to the scene of action, was seized by the victorious rebels and imprisoned in the castle of Doune. After his release he resided a few years at Beith, subsequently at Paisly—rendering himself very useful as an exemplary and faithful minister. During his residence at the latter place he received urgent calls from Dublin, Rotterdam and Dundee. He also had an invitation to fill the presidential chair of the College of New Jersey in America to which he had been elected on the 19th of November 1766. This was done at the suggestion of Richard Stockton. A general demurrer by his friends and a special demurrer by his relatives were entered against his acceptance. Ingenious arguments were used to sustain the pleas put in. The delights of his native home—the horrors ofthe western wilderness were placed before him in fearful contrast. A very wealthy bachelor relative offered to will him his large estate if he would remain. For a year he declined the proffered chair. During that time his lady caught "the missionary fever" and became anxious to embark for the new world—removing every obstacle with the ingenuity and perseverance peculiar to woman when bent upon the accomplishment of a noble object. On the 9th of December 1767 Mr. Stockton had the pleasure of communicating his acceptance to the trustees of the college which was most joyfully received.
Early in the ensuing August he arrived with his family and was inaugurated at Princeton on the 17th of that month. His literary fame had been spread through the Colonies and caused an immediate accession of students—a new impetus to the institution—a renovation of the empty treasury of the college. He introduced a thorough and harmonious system in all its departments and fully answered the most sanguine anticipations of his warmest friends.
His mode of instruction was calculated to expand the ideas of his students and launch them upon the sea of investigation. He expelled the dogmatical and bewildering clouds of metaphysical fatality and mystic physiology that rendered darkness visible in the old schools. He illuminated the minds of his students with the mellow rays of scientific truth based upon enlightened philosophy, sound reason, plain common sense and liberal principles. He taught them to explore the labyrinthian avenues of human nature—the vast circuit of their own immortal minds. He raised before them the curtain of the material, moral, physical and intellectual panorama—lucidly demonstrated their harmonious unity of action—perfected by the great Architect of this mighty machinery made for man. He pointed them to the duties they owed to themselves, their fellow men, their country and their God. He awakened in their souls the living energies of charity that assimilates man to Deity and prompts him to noble god-like action. He taught them how to live and be useful—how to throw off this mortal coil when the journey of life should end. His instructions were luminous and enriching—his precepts fertilizing as the dew of Hermon.
On the flood tide of a high literary and theological fame he floated peacefully along until the revolutionary storm drove him from the college and the pulpit of his church to a different sphere of action. Before coming to America he understood well the relations between the mother country and the colonies. He was master of civilian philosophy, international law, monarchical policy and the principles of rational freedom. The enrapturing beauties of Liberty and the hideous deformityof tyranny passed in review before his gigantic mind. In the designs of creative Wisdom he saw the equal rights of man and resolved to vindicate them. He at once took a bold stand in favor of his adopted country. With an eagle's flight he mounted the pinnacle of political fame—with a statesman's eye he surveyed the mighty work before him. The plan of political regeneration stood approved by Heaven—he determined to give his aid to the glorious cause. Most nobly did he discharge every duty assigned him.
From the commencement of revolutionary agitation he was a member of various committees and conventions formed for the purpose of seeking redress from the king—peaceablyif possible—forciblyif necessary. He was a member of the Convention of New Jersey that framed the new Constitution in 1776. On the 20th of June the same year he was elected to the Continental Congress and most ably and eloquently advocated the Declaration of Independence to which he affixed his name, appealing to his God for approval—to the world for the justice of the cause he espoused. He was continued a member of Congress up to 1782 with the exception of one year and contributed largely in shedding lustre over its deliberations. With a mind and intelligence able to grasp, comprehend and expound the whole minutiæ of government and legislation, he combined a patriotic zeal and holy devotion for his country—unsurpassed by any of his colleagues. His labors were incessant, his industry untiring, his perseverance unyielding—his patriotism as clear as the crystal fountain—pure as the pellucid stream.
During the time he served in the legislative halls he did not neglect the higher honors of the vineyard of his Lord and Master. He was often at the family altar, in the closet and the pulpit. He was one of the most able, eloquent and profound preachers of that eventful period. He was one of the brightest ornaments of the religion of the Cross—one of the strongest advocates in the cause ofLiberty. As a speaker he was listened to with deep interest—as a systematic and logical debater he had few equals. His arguments werea posteriori,a priorianda fortiori—leading the mind from effect to cause, from cause to effect and deducing the stronger reason. His corollaries were often of the most thrilling character. He sometimes resorted to syllogism with great effect. His speeches would be a syllabus to many of modern times upon the same subjects. His memory was remarkably retentive, his perceptions clear, his judgment acute.
He was a member of the secret committee of Congress the duties of which were delicate and arduous. He was a member of the committee to co-operate with Gen. Washington in replenishing and regulating thearmy—of the committee of finance and upon several other working committees. The eloquent appeals to the people from Congress, recommending days for fasting and prayer were from his nervous pen. The burning and melting manifesto, protesting against the inhuman treatment of the American prisoners confined on board the filthy prison-ships at New York, was supposed to emanate from him.
Dr. Witherspoon was prophetic in his mode of reasoning when pointing out the results of propositions laid before Congress and opposed all those he believed would terminate unfavorably. He strongly remonstrated against the issue of continental money. His predictions of sudden depreciation were too fully realized. It took a rapid downward course and soon reached the ruinous discount of one hundred and fifty dollars of paper for one of silver and then took a fatal leap and plunged into the abysm of worthlessness. So deeply did he probe every subject that he investigated, that his powers of penetration became proverbial. Most of the measures he proposed when he entered the legislative arena that were adopted proved successful and those he opposed and were adopted uniformly proved disastrous.
In the halls of classic literature, the ecclesiastic courts or on the floor of Congress, he was a shining light to those around him. His literary, theological and political writings were numerous, of a high order and are justly celebrated here and in Europe. They exhibit a pleasing and rich variety of thought—a strong and chaste imagination—a luminous and flowing fancy—a keen and sarcastic wit—a brilliant and fascinating style—broad and liberal views—philosophic and logical propositions—clear and convincing conclusions—all mellowed with the rich freshness of living charity and universal philanthropy.
In 1779 he resigned his seat in Congress in consequence of ill health. His son-in-law, Rev. Dr. Smith was Vice President of the college and relieved him from the most arduous duties of President. The next year he was again elected to Congress and resigned finally in 1782. The trustees of the college then persuaded him to embark for Europe for the purpose of raising funds for the institution. As he predicted before he left, his efforts were unsuccessful. He returned in 1784 and retired to his country seat a mile from Princeton, there to enjoy the blessings of peace and the golden fruits that had been richly earned by years of peril and toil. Surrounded by relatives and friends, enjoying the praise and gratitude of a nation of freemen—his name immortalized as a scholar, divine, civilian, statesman and patriot—he sat down under the bright canopy of a clear conscience—an approving Heaven—anticipating a crown of unfading glory beyond the skies.
In this manner he glided down the stream of time peaceful and happy until the 15th of November 1794, when he fell asleep in the arms of his Lord and Master, calm as a summer morning, serene as a cerulean sky—welcoming the messenger of death with a seraphic smile. He was buried at Princeton.
A review of the life of this great and good man affords an instructive lesson for every considerate reader. He was endowed with all the qualities calculated to ennoble and dignify man and assimilate him to his Creator. His superior virtues and endowments eclipsed his frailties and placed him on a lofty eminence beyond the reach of envy, malice or slander. His fame is clustered with refulgent beauty that will spread a lustre over his name that will brighten and shine until the death knell ofLibertyshall be sounded and social order rush back to original anarchy.
In all the relations of public and private life, Dr. Witherspoon stood approved, admired, revered. Let all strive to imitate his examples that our lives may be useful in time—our final exit tranquil and happy—ever remembering that virtue is the crowning glory of talent.