'YALEe¥IMlI¥lElSSJIir¥e • iunsiiyrarar • DEPOSITED BY THE LINONIAN AND BROTHERS LIBRARY fasten. JkMisk&Z ii,£..£:.M>ztsi!.J£24. ffin»n» OF GENERAL LAFAYETTE. WITH AN ACCOUNT OB HIS VISIT TO AMERICA, AND OF HIS RECEPTION BY THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES; FROM HIS ARRIVAL, AUGUST 15TH, TO THE CELEBRATION AT YORKTOWN, OCTOBER 19th, 1824. BOSTOJf: HUNTED AND PUBLISHED BY E. G. HOUSE, JVe. 13, Merchants-Hall. 18S4. DISTRICT OF MASSACHUSETTS— To wit : District ClerVt OJfi.ee. BE it remembered, that on the 2d day of November, A. D. 1824, in the forty-ninth year of tbe independence of the U- nited States of America, E. G. Hor/ti, of tbe paid district, has deposited in this office the title of a book, the right whereof he claimt as proprietor, in the words following, io wit — Memoirs of General Lafayette, with an account of his visit to America , and of his reception by the people of the United States, from his arri val, Aug. 15, to the Celebration at Yorktown, Oct 19, 1824- In conformity to the act of the Congress of the United States, entitled, " an act for the encouragement of learning, by securing tbe copies of maps, chart* and bonks, to tbe authors and propri etors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned :" and also to an act entitled " an aet supplementary to an act,eniitled an act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts and books, t» the authors and proprietors of such copies during tlie times therein mentioned ; and extending tbe benefits thereof to the arts of designing, engraving and etching historical, and -other prints." JNO. W. 1?A VIS, Clerk of the DM. of Mats. ADVERTISEMENT, BY THE EDITOR. IT is a poor apology to offer for any defect or omission in a work intended for the infor mation of the public, that it was prepared in haste. Yet in the present case it can be of fered "with truth. The Editor of this volume knew nothing of the plan, until it had been some time proposed, and many subscribers ob tained. The gentleman by whom it was first intended to have been prepared, was sudden ly taken away, without writing, or even col lecting any thing for the volume. It was un dertaken with reluctance, as it was known the. public would be impatient for the work, and as the publisher was also desirous it should be prepared in a few weeks. It is only fifty days since the task was begun. It is believ ed, however, that several documents, not yet published, will be found in this volume ; and iy ADVERTISEMENT. that many events and incidents are preserved, which would otherwise have been lost to the public. Every thing relating to the life and charac ter of this extraordinary man, is certainly wor thy of remembrance by the benevolent and in telligent through the civilized world, and es pecially by Americans, to whom he has ren dered the most essential services. The en deavour has been to avoid panegyric ; though in this case, a plain statement of facts may be construed, by those ignorant of the life of La Fayette, into a disposition to bestow extrava gant praise. It has been a source of much satisfaction to the Editor, to find so many proofs of consist ency and of principle, as well as of zeal in the cause of rational liberty, which the life of this heroic and disinterested personage affords. And if he shall appear in this hasty memoir, as the ardent, undeviating and sincere friend of civil freedom and of the rights of man, it will be because he justly merits such a high character. In the account of his reception by the peo ple of this country, in various plaees, during his present visit, it may be thought that we ADVERTISEMENT. have been too particular. It was promised, however, in the proposals for the volume, that such relation would be given. It is believ ed that it will be found to be interesting, and that it will be a satisfaction hereafter, to recur to it. This account embraces the time which elapsed after he landed at New York, August 15, 1834, to the celebration of the cap ture, of the Brittish army at Yorktown, Octo ber 19. These statements were copied prin cipally from the public newspapers ; and it was thought to be unnecessary to give credit* for them, or to insert the usual marks of quo* tation. Boston, Nov. 1,1824- TABLE OF CONTENTS. PAGE Introductory remarks, - - 13, 14 Birth and education of La Fayette, - 15 His purpose to visit America in 1777, - 16 His arrival and early service in America, - 17 Battle of Firandy wine, - - - 17 Washington's attachment to him, - - 18 Commands in northern department, - - 18 Escape from British near Philadelphia, - 19 Battle of Monmouth, - - 19 Brave conduct of La Fayette, - - 19 A volunteer to R. Island, - - 20 Journey to Boston, - - - 20 Proposal to visit France, - - 21 Resentment of the conduct of British Commissioner, 22 Visit to Boston, - - - - 23 Embarks there for France, 25 Resolve of Congress honorable to La Fayette, 27 Letter of Franklin, - - - 28 Return to America in 1780, 29 Services in France in behalf of America, - 30 Letter of Gen. Washington, - - - 31 Commands in Virginia in 1781, - 33 His services and bravery in that department, 33 8 CONTENTS. Escapes from Cornwallis, His troops deserting, . - - 34 Critical situation, - His conduct approved by Washington, - - 36 He applauds Gen. Wayne, - - 3^ Proposes to visit Fiance again, - - 39 Resolves of Congress approving his conduct, - 40 Letter to Congress, - - - 41 His letter to S. Adams, - - - 42 Mr. Adam's reply, - - - 45 Doings of Massachusetts, ¦¦ - 47 Details of service at Yorktown, - - 49, 49 Events on his return to France, - i 54 Letter to Sir H. Clinton, - - - 54 Visit to America in 1784, - - 53, 56 Arrives in Boston, 87 His reception, » - - 58 Honorable notice of his services, by Congress, 60- His public conduct in 1786, - - - 63 Meeting of States' General, 1787, - 64' In favor of reform, ... 64 New Constitution in 1789, - - 65 Supported by La Fayette, - --66 Parties in France and civil commotions, • 67, 66 Commands the Militia of Paris, . . 68 The Parisian mob, - - - - 68 Struggle for power between monarchists and re» formers, ¦• - - ¦. 67, 70 Louis attempts to leave France, - - 71 Jacobin clubs, - - . 71 } 7£_ Letter to Bouille, j- - - 78 His enemies cabal, - - 744 Commands part of the French army, * *** CONTENTS. » Letter to the national assembly, June 1792, 75 Letter to the King, - - - 81 Letter to the assembly, 82 Opposed and denounced by the Jacobins, - 84 His firmness and patriotism, - - 85 His address to the soldiers, - - 86 Leaves France, - - - - 87 Arrested and confined, 88 Removed to prison at Olmutz, - - 88 His letter, - 88 Washington seeks for his release, - 90 Fox and others intercede for his release, - 92 Bollman and Huger attempt his deliverence, - 93 Failure, and subsequent confinement, - 94 Madame de La Fayette, ... 95, 96 Her imprisonment, 96 La Fayette released, - - - 97 Reply to Emperor of Austria, - - 98 Proceeds to Holland, 98 Return to France 180.0, 99 "Offered a seat in the Senate by Bonaparte, - 100 His income and estates, - - 100 His letter to the First Consul, - - 101 Not a supporter of Bonaparte, - - 103 Neglected by Napoleon, - - 103 G. W. La Fayette, - - - 103 Death of Madame de La Fayette, - 104 Her character, - - - 104 Retirement of La Fayette, - - 105 Louis XVIII restored, - - - 106 La Fayette desirous of constitutional liberty, - 107 His conduct after the battle of- Waterloo and abdica tion of Napoleon. - - - 107 Retirement to private life, - - lW Correspondence with A. Hamilton, - - 112 His family, - - - - l,a Madame de Stael's opinion of him, - US Elected a member of assembly 1819, - MB His efforts for constitutional liberty, - 116 His mode of life, and employment, - 118 His Benevolence, - - - 119 Gen. Washington's kindness to his son, - 120 Visit of Mr. Fox to La Fayette, - - 12<1 Manners of Madame La Fayette, - - 123 Religion of La Fayette, - - 125 Charity among christians, , - - 126 His character and opinions, . ¦- 126, 127 His decision and consistency, - - 129 Invitation of Congress, - - » iSft do. from Boston, & c. - - 131 His replies, - - - - 132 His arrival at New- York, - - 133 His reception in New- York, - - 134 Journey to Boston, - - - 141 His arrival in Boston, - , - - 145 Address of the Mayor, ... 147 His answer, - -. 149 Address of Governor of Massachusetts, - 153 Address of Cincinnati, - - 155 Answer to do. - - ' . 157 Commencement, - - . 159 Visited by Bostonians, . . . 162 Phi Beta Kappa, . . , .163 Visit to Charlestown and Bunker Hill, . 166 Bunker Hill M onument, . . 169 Visit to Gov. Brooks, ,. . . 17$ CONTENTS. 11 Evening Parties, . „ . 172 ©rattle Street Church, 172 Visit to President Adams, 17* Military parade,. 173 Apology for great rejoicings, 175 Militia, .... 175 Visit to Salem, 176 Address of Judge Story, 179 Visit to Ipswich, and Newburyport, 183 To Portsmouth, - 184 Return to Boston, 189 Visit to Lexington and Concord, 191, 102 Bolton, Lancaster, 193 Visit to Worcester, 195 Judge Lincoln's address, 196 Journey to Connecticut, 198 'Reception at Hartford, 198 Return to New- York, 201 La Fayette's toasts, 202 Visit to the schools, 203 Grand ball at Castle Garden, 804 Visit to West-Point, . ». 206 Visit to Newburgh, 207 His visit to. Hudson, ¦. 208 Arrival at Albany, eoa Kindness to soldiers, in 1777, 210 Returns to New York, 211 Journey through New-Jeraey, 212 Princeton, . 212 Trentoh, . 213 Philadelphia, . . . 214, 216 Governor's address, . < 214 Reply to the same, w 21 i J2 CONTENTS. Address of Mayor, 220 The answer, . ' ¦. . ¦221 Illumination . . 222 Vindication of Quakers, 222 Reply to Frenchmen, 224 Capt. Barron's address, 225 Answer to same, . 226 Journey through Delaware, 226 Visit to Baltimore, 227, 230 Address of Cincinnati, 231 Address of Gov. Maryland, - 232 Answer, • 233 Governor Sprigg, 234 Visit to Washington, . • 236 Reception by the President, 239 Address of Mayor of Washington, 240 Visit to Alexandria, 243 To ihe tomb of Washington, 243 Arrival in Yorktown, 244 Jefferson's letter, . , 245 Address of Committee ofVirginia, 246 Answer of La Fayette, 248 Address of Governor ofVirginia, 249 Reply of La Fayette, 249 His reception at Yorktown, 260, 251 Address of Cdl. Lewis, 252 Answer to same, . . 253 Parade and ceremonies, on 19th Oct. 255 Custis' address, 259 Departure for Norfolk, t 261 Conclusion, 363 OF <&tntvnl 3Lu iFaaette. AMONG the many great men who have distinguished themselves in the present age, for their attachment and devotion to the cause of civil liberty, General La Fayette is one of the most eminent. During the last fifty years, great changes have been made or attempted in human governments, highly favourable to political freedom and the rights of mankind. In some cases, indeed, revolutions have not been conducted upon just principles nor by prudent councils ; and the immediate results have been disasterous rather than beneficial. Changes have taken place without direct and visible improvement; and efforts to meliorate the condition of man have produced a reaction in the adherents to ancient arbitrary systems, which have given occasion to much suffering and great excesses. The struggle for freedom by the patriotic citizens of America, towards the close of the last century, was successful; and has proved most auspicious to human happiness. We have reason to hope, that its blessings will not be confined to this western continent. A spirit of enquiry, indeed, has gone abroad in the world. It B , 14 MEMOIRS »F LA FAYETTE. is spreading in Europe : and though we devoutly wish it may not prove the occasion of bloody contests, we .shall rejoice to trace its fruits in the gradual destruc tion of old despotic systems, and in the general diffu sion of knowledge among the people, and the enjoy ment of those equal and just rights, which mild gov ernments are calculated to secure. In our own beloved country, we can boast of many sin cere patriots and heroes beside our ' paternal chief,' ihe revered Washington, " who was first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen ;" oth ers will be recollected, who devoted themselves to the cause of liberty and their country, with a sincerity and zeal almost without a parallel in tbe annals of history. Their memories will not cease to be revered while Americans are distinguished for a love of civil freedom. It must be acknowledged, however, that there was a peculiar disinterestedness in the services and sacrifi ces of the Marquis La Fayette in defence of American independence. It was from a noble and enthusiastic love of liberty, that he was induced to cherish and advocate our cause. It was for strangers and in a for eign land, that he went forth to defend the rights of man, assailed by the hand of arbitrary power. He was not a desperate adventurer, without fortune, or friends, or honors. He was surrounded with all these in his own country. He belonged to a very atocient and noble family, and inherited a large estate. The original family name was Motier ; but for several gen erations back had assumed the addition of La Fayette. Some of his male ancestors were distinguished for mil itary, and some of the females for literary talents. His income was 200,000 francs. His property and -MlSMdlftS Of XA PAYETTE. 15 influence were increased by a matrimonial connexion with a lady of the truly illustrious house of Noailbs.- ETe was married at the age of eighteen. Marie-Paul-Joseph^Roch-Yves-Gilbert-Motier. de La Fayette was born at the chateau de Chavagnac in the province of Auvergne, September 6th 1757. The rank and affluence of his family secured for him the best education: and this, according to the fashion- o£> the times in France, was not only in classical and polite literature, but united also a knowledge of military tactics. At the age of sixteen, he was offered an hon orable place at Court, which he declined. His mind was early imbued with a love of freedom; It' is not known, whether his study of English writers who were friendly to civil liberty, or an eager curios ity to learn the merits of the dispute between Great Britain and the Amerioan colonies, led him first thus to take a deep interest in favour of our indepen dence. That controversy excited the attention of statesmen on the continent of Europe as well as in England. It has been said that he was acquainted with sonie distinguished English characters in 1776, from whom he learnt the situation of America, and' the object of our revolution. In the latter part of this year, he applied to Silas Deane, our agent then at Paris, for information, and encouragement in his planj already adopted, of rendering his personal service to the cause of America. While he was at Paris, (Dec. 1776) with these views, Dr. Framsxin arrived. The intelligence, received from him respecting our situa tion and prospects at that period, was of a nature to discourage any one, who had not cherished the most enthusiastic and resolute purpose to engage in our be- 16 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. half. Our almost desperate condition seems only to have increased Tiis zeal and devotion to the interests of America. " Hitherto, said he, I have only cherish ed your cause ; I now go to serve it personally." He believed our cause to be just. He considered it the cause of civil liberty; and gloomy as was the prospect, hazardous as was the enterprize, he was determined to support it at the risk of life itself. In his situation, the privations and sacrifices to be made and endured were incalculably great. It is indeed a singular in stance of an heroic enterprize for the good of man kind. We cannot more justly describe his sentiments and views, than by quoting his own language used at a sub sequent period, in a letter to the President of the Con tinental Congress — "The moment I heard of America, I loved her ; the moment I knew she was fighting for liberty, I burnt with a desire to bleed for her." The sacrifices he made cannot be so well otherwise esti mated as by reflecting that he left an affectionate wife, in whom he was most happy ; and who, he was obliged to assure, that he would speedily return, before she would consent to the enterprize. When La Fayette made known his purpose to em bark for America, under all the appaling circumstances of our country, our Envoys were still unable to furnish a passage for him. They had no vessels at command ; and they were not then in a situation to purchase one. Loans were the object of their mission ; but as yet they had not succeeded in obtaining them. And as the French court had not acknowledged our indepen dence, or openly espoused our cause, it would have been improper for them to famish a vessel for MEMOIRS Of LA FAYETTE. 17 such purpose. What was then done for America must be effected in secret ; and at most, only connived at by the French government. But the ardour of young La Fayette was not to be checked hy any such considerations. He took council rather of his feelings, than of that prudence by which ordinary minds are governed. He therefore immediately engaged a ves sel at his own charges, and sailed for the United States, where he arrived in the month of January. He landed at Charleston, S. C. and soon entered as a volunteer in the American army. Soon after his ar rival, he purchased clothing and arms for the troops under General Moultrie in that quarter. He also early made an advance to General Washington of 60,000 francs, for the public service. Forseveral months, he continued to serve in this capacity. His zeal and services were early appreciat ed by Congress; and in July, 1777, he was created a Major-General. But he did not at once, act under that commission. In the battle of Brandy wine, in Septem ber of the same year, although he distinguished him self by his activity and undaunted bravery, it does not appear that he acted as Major-General. He received' a. wound in his leg, in this engagement, and his -ser vices were highly applauded. He remained in the field till the close of the battle, inspiring the men by his presence end active courage. The wound was severe and- required attention; but before it was en tirely healed, he joined the army again under Wash ington. In November, at the head of some Jersey- militia, he attacked a body of 300 Hessians and defeat ed them. General Greene was engaged in the same affair, a part of the time ;. and said of young La Fayette, e 2. 18 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. " that he seemed to search for danger." Soon after this period, he had command of a division in the Con tinental army; and frequently was appointed the chief officer in separate departments of great impor tance and responsibility. General Washington became greatly attached to him. He was an intelligent judge of character ; and was never known to bestow his confidence upon those who were not worthy of it. He was so distinguished by the regard of the Commander in Chief, that it be came usual to call him " his adopted son." Washing ton loved him for his goodness, and honored him for his bravery and military talents. In the early part of 1778, when it was proposed to make an attack upon Canada, and to endeavor to connect it with the thirteen United States, Gen, La Fayette was appointed to com mand the troops collected for that purpose at Al bany. This plan originated in Congress, and was said to be much favored by the French Ambassador ; but Washington ever doubted the propriety, or the fea sibility of the scheme, and eventually gave his opinion decidedly against it ; and it was not prosecuted. It was at this time, probably, that Brigadier General Stark took the oath of fidelity to the American Con gress, and of renunciation to the king and government of Great Britain, which had then been recently re quired, before General La Fayette ; and which was administered by the commanding officer in each separate Department. The original certificate of this oath is said now to be in existence. It is a singular fact, that a native American took this oath before a foreigner : or perhaps even then, General La Fayette had been declared by Congress to be entitled to all the rights of a citizen of the UniteJ States. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. l9 In May 1778, while the British main army was in Philadelphia, and the American troops at Valley Forge, he was detached with about two thousand five hun dred men under his command, to a position in advance of the continental camp and near the city, for the pur pose of watching the motions of the enemy. The British endeavored to surround and surprise him ; but he had timely notice of their plan, and retired in safety to the vicinity of Washington's head-quarters. Had he been surprised in this situation, the result would probably proved fatal to our cause. For the conti nental troops under Washington were few in number and poorly clothed and armed. But the Commander in Chief, doubtless was fully aware pf the important and critical nature of the service, and entrusted it to one, in whose judgment as well as bravery he had perfect confidence. Soon after this in the month of June, the British army left Philadelphia, to return to New-York. It consisted of as large a number of well disciplined troops, as they had in America at any one time ; and though they chose not to make a direct attack upon Washington, they seem to have had no apprehensions of an attack from him. But he was resolved to avail of the occasion of their march through the State of New-Jersey, to attack and annoy them. This he did on the memorable 28th of June, near Monmouth Court-house ; and had his judicious plan been faithful ly executed, or his own personal activity and brave ry been seconded by General Lee, who had the com mand of the troops more immediately engaged on that day. a great and decisive victory would in all probability have attended the daring enterprize. Gen- 20 memoirs of la fayette. eral La Fayette had a distinguished command on" that critical day. Lee, indeed, at first declined the com mand of the advanced corps, detacthed by Washington to hari ass the rear of the enemy while on their march; and it was given to the former : though, afterwards,, when it was found, that the enemy was preparing for a general engagement, a reinforcement was ordered, and the whole placed under the command of General Lee. In the whole affair, General La Fayette con ducted with remarkable intelligence and bravery ; and received the entire approbation of the Commander ia. Chief. In August of the same year (1778) when the enemy had a large force on Rhode Island, and were supposed to be- meditating an attack on some place in the vicini? ty, La Fayette (with General Greene) offered his ser vices as a volunteer. The expedition was not attend ed with success: the British troops were then more numerous than we could collect against them ; and what were mustered were principally militia. The continental regiments were then all needed near New- York. But General La Fayette assisted in conducting,, . the retreat of our men, with much skill and effect ; and his behaviour.-on the occasion received the partic- , ular notice and approbation of CoDgress.- About this time, with the knowledge and consent of Congress, La Fayette made a visit to Boston. The par ticular object of thi« journey is not known. It is evi dent, however, from the resolve of Congress on the oc casion, that it was not from merely personal or private views. It was, uo doubt, for some purpose of a public nature, and for the welfare of the nation. The follow ing is the resolve alluded to; and is proof, that his visit. memoir; or la fayette. 21 at the time, was designed for the promotion of some plan calculated for the prosperity of the country. In Congress, Sep. 9th, 1778. «' Resolved, That the President be requested to inform the Marquis de la Fay ette, that Congress have a due sense of the sacrifive he made of his personal feelings, in undertaking a journey to Boston with a view of promoting the interests of these States, at a time when an occasion was daily ex pected of his acquiring glory in the field ; and that his gallantry in going a volunteer on Rhode Island, when the greatest part of the army had retreated, and his good conduct in bringing off the pickets and out sen tries, deserves particular approbation." The resolve was communicated to La Fayette by the President of Congress, with a polite note ; to which the Marquis replied as follows : " Sir, I have received your favour of the 13th instant, acquainting me of the honor Congress has been pleased to confer on me by their most gracious resolve. What ever pride such approbation may justly give me, I am not less affected by the feeling of gratitude, and that satisfaction of thinking my endeavours were ever look ed upon as useful to a cause in which my heart is so deeply interested. Be so good, Sir, as to present to Congress my plain and hearty thanks, with a frank as surance of a candid attachment, the only one worth be ing offered to the representatives of a free people. The moment I heard of America, I loved her ¦ The moment 1 knew she was fighting for liberty, I burnt with a de sire of bleeding for her : and the moment I shall be able of serving ber, in any time, or in any part of the world, will be the happiest of my life. I never so much g2 MEMOIRS Of LA FAYTETTE. wished for idccasions of deserving those obliging senti ments I am honored with by these States and their re presentatives, and that so Mattering confidence they have been pleased to put in me ; which have filled my heart with the warmest acknowledgments and most eternal affection. I pray you to accept my thanks for the polite man ner in which you have communicated the. resolve of Congress ; and I have the honor to be, &c. LA FAYETTE." During the year 1778, some propositions were made to Congress from the British ministry, through three commissioners, who were sent over to America. The object was to bring about a cessation of hostilities, and peace, without acknowledging our Independence. They were, therefore, immediately rejected. In the address of the commissioners to Congress, the French King and ministers were mentioned' with great disre spect, and represented as secret enemies to America ; and therefore, not to^ be believed in their engagements and promises in our favour. The Marquis de La Fay ette highly resented this heavy charge against his- king and government ; and wrote a very spirited letter on the subject to Lord Carlisle, the principal commission* er. He seemed ready to appear as the champion of his abused Prince and country, in the chivalrous manner such attacks were met in former ages, when disputes were settled between nations by single combat. The indignation he expressed was honorable to his patriotic feelings ; but probably, his maturer years and judgment would have chastened and moderated it. Early in the year 1779, after an absence from his be loved family and country of more than two years, La. Memoirs Of la fayette. 23 "Fayette visited France : not. however, without the con sent of Congress and also of General Washington, and a determination to return to America at a future day. He embarked at Boston. In waiting for a passage to France, the Marquis was several weeks in Boston ; and here became acquainted with John Hancock, Dr. Coop er, S. Breck, Esq. and others, to whose families he be came particularly attached. The hospitable attention of the Bostonians, was not lost upon him. With warm feelings and elegant manners, he was well qualified to appreciate their patriotism and politeness ; and impres sions were made upon his generous mind, favourable to their characteis, which he has not forgotten to the pre sent day. In no place in America, perhaps, did he find the citizens more congenial to his ardour of affection and devoted love for civil liberty. It cannot be doubted, that to a man of his amiable and tender feelings, the consid eration of meeting with his family and friends influenc ed him to this visit. But it appears also, from his let ters at that time, that he considered his duty to his King and country required him to go to France. War was now declared between France and England ; and he believed himself bound to give his personal services for the defence of his own nation. With all his zeal in favour of liberty and of America, which he consid ered engaged in its sacred cause against an arbitrary power, he acknowledged his obligations to assist in protecting his native country. If his King should con sent, he engaged to return to America, and devote himself again in support of her rights. The following letters will justify this statement of his views, at the time of which we are speaking. The first is from General Washington, to the President of Congress. 24 MEMOIRS OF LA EAYETTE. 'iHead quarters, Oct 13th 1778. Sir, This will De delivered to you by Major General, tbe Marquis de La Fayette. The generous motives which first induced him to cross the Atlantic, and en ter the army of the United States, are well known to Congress. Reasons equally laudable now engage him to return to France, who in her present circumstances, claims his services. His eagerness to offer his duty to his Prince and country, however great, could not influence him to quit the continent in any stage of a* unfinished campaign ; he resolved to remain at least till the close of the pre sent ; and embraces this moment of suspense, to com municate his wishes to Congress, with a view of having the necessary arrangements made in time ; and of be ing still within reach, should any occasion offer of dis tinguishing himself in the field. The Marquis, at the same time, from a desire of preserving a relation with us, and a hope of having it yet in his power to be useful as an American officer, so* licits only a furlough, sufficient for the purpose above mentioned. A reluctance to part with an officer, who unites to all the military fire of youth, an uncommon maturity of judgment, would lead me to prefer his be ing absent on this footing, if it depended solely on me. I shall'always be happy to give such a testimony of his services, as his bravery and good conduct on all occa sions entitle him to ; and I have no doubt that Congress will add suitable expressions of their sense of his mer its, and their regret on account of his departure. I have the honor to be, &c. GEO. WASHINGTON." MEMOIRS Of LA fAYETTE. 25 From the Marquis to Congress. " Philadelphia, Oct. 8th, 1778. " Whatever care I should take not to employ the pre cious instants of Congress in private considerations, I beg leave to lay before them my present circumstances, with that confidence which naturally springs from affec tion and gratitude. The sentiments which bind me to my country, can never be more properly spoken of, than in presence of men who have done so much for their own. As long as I thought I could dispose of my self, I made it my pride and pleasure to fight under A- merican colours, in defence of a cause which I dare more particularly call ours, because I had the good for tune of bleeding for her. Now that France is involved in a war, I am led by a sense of duty as well as by patri otic love to present myself before my king, and know in what manner he judges proper to employ my services. The most agreeable of all will always be such as to serve the common cause among those, whose friendship I had the happiness to obtain, and whose fortune 1 bad the honor to follow in less smiling times. That reason, and others, which I leave to the feelings of Congress, engage me to beg from them, the liberty of going home for the next winter. "" As longias there were any hopes of an active cam paign, I did not think of leaving the field. Now that I see a very peaceable and undisturbed moment, I take this opportunity of waiting on Congress. In case my request is granted, I shall so manage my departure, as to be certain before going, the campaign is really over. Inclosed you will receive a letter from his Excellency, General Washington, wherein he expresses his assent to my obtaining leave of absence. I dare flutter myself, C g€ MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. that I shall he considered as a soldier on furlough, who most heartily wants to join again his colours, and his most esteemed and beloved fellow soldiers. Should it be thought 1 can be any way useful to America, when 1 shall find myself among my countrymen, I hope I shall always be considered as one most interested in the welfare of these United States, and one who has the most perfect affection, regard and confidence for their representatives. With the highest regard, &c. LATAYETTE.'k -" In Congress, Oct. 21. 1778. , Resolved, That the Marquis La Fayette, Major Gene ral in the services of the United States, have leave to go to France ; and that he return at such time as shall be most convenient to him. — -Resolved, That the Pres- ' ident write a letter to the Marquis La Fayette, return ing him the thanks of Congress for that disinterested .zeal which led him to America, and for the -services he hath rendered to the United States, by the exertion of his courage and abilities on many signal occasions. " Resolved, That the Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, at the Court of Versailles, be directed to cause an elegant sword, with proper devices , to be made and presented in the name of the United States, to the. Marquis La Fayette." The foregoing resolves were communicated to the JMarquis in the following letter : " Philadelphia, Oct. 24, 1778. Sir, I had the honor of presenting to Congress, your Jdtter, soliciting leave of absencej I am directed by MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETrE. 2? them-, to express their thanks for your zeal in promot ing that ust cause in which they are engaged, and for the disinterested services you have rendered to the U* nited States of America. " In testimony of the high esteem and affection in which you are held by the good people of these States, as well as an acknowledgment of your gallantry and military talents displayed on many signal occasions, their Representatives, in Congress assembled, have or dered an elegant sword to be presented to you, by the American Minister,, at the Court of Versailles. Inclosed within the present cover, will be found an act of Con? gress of the 21st instant, authorizing these declarations, and granting a furloligh for your return to France, to be extended at your own pleasure. I pray God to bless and protect you ; to conduct you in safety to the pres ence of your Prince, and to the re-enjoyment of your noble family and friends. I have the honor to be, &c. H. LAURENS." To this note the Marquis made the following reply : "Philadelphia, Oct. 26, 1778. Sir, I have received your excellency's obliging letter, enclosing the several resolutions Congress have honor ed me with, and the leave of absence they have been pleased to grant. Nothing can make me happier, than the reflection, that my services have met with their approbation. The glorious testimonial of confidence and satisfaction respectfully bestowed on me, by the re presentatives of America, though much superior to my merit, cannot exceed the grateful sentiments they have excited. I consider the noble present offered me in 28 JHEM01RS OF LA FAYETTE. the name of the United States, as the most flattering honor. It is my most fervent desire, soon to employ that sword in their service, against the common enemy of my country and their faithful and beloved allies; That liberty, safety, wealth and concord may ever ex tend and bless these United^States, is the earnest wish of a heart glowing with a devoted zeal and unbounded love for them, and the highest regard, and most sincere affection for their representatives. " Be pleased, Sir, to present my thanks to them, and to accept yourself the assurance of my respectful at tachment. . LA FAYETTE.'* Letter of Dr. Franklin, to the Marquis La Fayette. " Passy, Aug. 24, 1779. Sib, The Congress, sensible of your merit towards the United States, but unable adequately to reward it, de termined to present you with a sword, as a small mark of their grateful acknowledgments. They directed it to be ornamented with suitable devices. Some of the principal actions of the battles, in which you distin guished yourself by your bravery and good conduct, are therefore represented upon it. These, with a few em blematical figures, all admirably well executed, make its principal value. By the help of the exquisite artists France affords, I find it easy to execute every thing, but the sense we have of your worth, and our obligations to you. For this, figures and even words are found insuf ficient. I therefore, only add, that, with the' most per fect esteem, I have the honor to be, &c. B. FRANKLIN." MEMOIRS OF LA FAYE TTB 29 The Marquis de La Fayette came again to the United States in April 1780, and landed at Boston, though the vessel first touched at Marblehead on its way to the former place. In his passage both to and from France, he was in danger of capture from the British. The frigate, in which he returned to this country, was chased by an English man of war ; and when it was supposed, they must come to action, La Fayette was found at one of the guns, preparing to act his part should they be attacked. In this visit to France, he exerted himself with effect, to induce the Court of Varsailles to afford the United States more ef fectual aid ; and especially, to send over a large fleet, which rendered essential service to the American. cause. His great devotion to our interests would cer,~ taiuly jpad him to advocate any measures with his King, favourable to our wishes': and his influence, con sidering hjs high rank and family, was undoubtedly at tended" with beneficial results. His services in our behalf were particularly noticed by Congress. " When the Marquis de La Fayette obtained per mission to reyisit his native country and offer his ser vices to his sovereign, he retained,, with his rank in the American army, that ardent zeal for her interests, which the affectionate attentions he had received, the enthusiasm of a soldier in the cause of those for whom. he had made his first campaigns and by whom he had been highly distinguished, combined with a conscious ness that he was substantially promoting the perma nent interests of France ; were all so well calculated to. inspire in a young and generous mind, in favour of an infant people struggling for liberty and self gover&s meat, with the hereditary rival of his nation. C.3 30 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. * "He was received at the Court of Versailles with every mark of favour and distinction ; and all the in fluence he had acquired was employed in impressing on the cabinet the importance and policy of granting succours to the United States. " Having succeeded in this favourite object, in which he was aided by the representations of the former and present minister of France at Philadelphia ; and find ing no probability of active employment on the conti nent of Europe, he obtained permission to return to America, with the grateful intelligence of the service he had rendered while in France, to the country in whose cause his service had been first drawn. He ar rived at Boston in the month of April 1780, and has tened to Head Quarters. He then proceeded to Congress with the information that the King oFFrance had consented to employ a large land and naval ar mament in the United States, for the ensuing cam paign. He was received by Washington with joy and affection ; and by Congress with those marks of distinction and regard to which his constant and inde fatigable zeal in support of the American cause, as well as his signal service, gave him such just preten sions. The intelligence which he brought gave new impulse both to Congress and to the State Legislatures. The lethargic slumbers into which they seemed to be " sinking yielded to resolutions of the most vigorous character." — Marshall. The letters below, with the resolve of Congress, will show the sense Washington had of the services of his " adopted son," the Marquis La Fayette, and the personal attachment which he cherished for him, as well as the high estimation, in which the disinter- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 51 ested zeal of that devoted friend of liberty was held by the grand Legislature of America. " Head Qjaarters, Morristown, May 13, 1780. The Marquis La Fayette does me the honor to take charge of this note. I am persuaded Congress will participate in the joy 1 feel at the return of a gentle man who has so signally distinguished himself in the service of this country; who has given so many and so decided proofs of his attachment to its interests ; and who ought to be dear to it by every motive. The warm friendship 1 have for him conspires with consid erations of public utility to afford me a double satis faction in his return, During the time he has been ia France he has uniformly manifested the same zeal in our affairs, which animated his conduct while he was among us; and has been, upon all occasions, an essen tial friend to America. He merits, and I doubt not Congress will give him every mark of consideration and regard in their power. I have the honour to he, &c. GEO. WASHINGTON. To His Excellency the President of Congress.1" " Philadelphia, May 16, 1780. After so many favors, which, on every occasion and particularly at my obtaining leave of absence, Con gress were pleased most graciously to bestow on me, I dare presume myself entitled to impart to them the private feelings, which I now so happily experience. In an early epoch in our noble contest, I gloried' in the name of an American soldier ; and heartily enjoy ed the honor I have of serving the United States ; ray satisfaction is at this long wished-for moment en- 32 memoirs of la fayette-- tirely complete, when putting an end- to my furlough, I have been able. again to join my colours, under which I hope for opportunities of indulging the ardent zeal, the unbounded gratitude, the warm, and I might say, the patriotic love, by which I am forever bound to America. I beg you, sir, to present Congress with a new as surance of my profound respect and my grateful and affectionate sentiments. I have the honour to be, &c. LA FAYETTE." In Congress, May 16, 1780. "Resolved, That Con gress consider the return of the Marquis La Fayette to America, to resume his command in the army, as a fresh proof of the distinguished zeal and deserving attachment which have justly recommended him to the public confidence and applause ; and that they receive^ with pleasure, a tender of farther services of so gal lant and meritorious an officer." , "Boon after his return to America the Marquis was entrusted with the command of a select corps of the Light Infantry of the continental army. This afforded: him a new opportunity for the display of his munifi cence. He presented each officer of the corps with an elegant sword ; and the soldiers were clothed in uniform, principally at his expense. He infused into this corps a spirit of pride and emulation ; viewing it as one formed according to his own wishes and worthy of his entire confidence.' They were the pride of hi» heart, and he was the idol of their regard ; constantly panting for an opportunity of performing some signal •ehievement worthy of his and their own charade*. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. S3 The corps was probably equal for discipline and bra very, to any in the world." Early in the year 1781, La Fayette was detached with about twelve hundred troops to Virginia ; with a view to co-operate with the French fleet in checking the plundering expadition of General Arnold, who had then recently landed there with a body of British troops from New York. The Marquis performed this long and difficult march with great dispatch. Many of the soldiers under his command were deficient in clothing : and it was by the personal responsibility of General La Fayette that funds were raised in Balti more and vicinity to remedy this evil. The credit of the continent was very low ; and its means of immediate- payment of the public expenses known to be entirely inadequate. The generosity of this distinguished friend of liberty was as remarkable as his personal bravery. He was indeed, both as to life and estate, wholly de voted to the cause of America ; and difficulties and dangers served only to manifest the sincerity and-in- tenseness of his zeal in behalf of a people struggling for freedom. Soon after this, in the month of May, 1781, Lord Cornwallis, in his progress from North Carolina into Virginia, formed a junction with the British forces un der Arnold and Phillips. His object was immediately to crush the Americans under La Fayette, then en camped near Richmond. The experienced British Commander thought it would be an easy matter with his superior numbers to secure the " Young French man." But the youthful soldier was not wanting in prudence and foresight, though ardour and courage were his predominant qualities. In these traits of 34 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. character, as well as others, he was not unlike the " paternal chief" of the American army. La Fayette made good a retreat ; and escaped the net Cornwallis had prepared for him, with such confident hopes of success. He directed his course northvi ard ; and soon effected a junction with General Wayne, who had been ordered to reinforce him with eight hundred men •f the Pennsylvania line. The Light Infantry under La Fayette were chiefly eastern troops, who had great objections to a southern climate, and many deserted. In this critical situation, the Marquis adopted the following expedient. He gave out, that an expedition of great difficulty and danger was to be soon undertaken ; and appealing to the gen- erous feelings of his soldiers, he expressed a hope that they would not forsake him. If, however,, any were desirous of returning to their regiments, he said, they should have permission. The effect was as he had hop ed. The troops had too much honor and pride to de sert their brave commander in such an exigency. About this time, the main army of the British under Cornwallis, had taken the precaution to cut off the di rect communication between the American troops and their stores, lately removed from Richmond, to Alber- marle. The Marquis La Fayette, however, recross- ing the Rappahannock, by forced marches, arrived within a few miles of the British, when they were yet two days march from Albermarle Court-house ; and, opening in the night a nearer road, which had beeu long disused, appeared the following day, greatly to the surprise of Cornwallis, between the British army and the continental stores. Thus disappointed in his plan pf possessing the American stores, the British command'* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 35 er retired to Williamsburg. The Marquis followed the enemy at a prudent distance ; and was soon so for tunate as to form a junction with the Baron Steuben, who had been detached into that quarter, to protect the public stores, and assist in the general defence of the country. The British forces, many of which consist- ed of cavalry, were then very formidable in Virginia. . This was a very critical period in the affairs of Amer- ca. Washington was satisfied that some decisive blow must be struck; for our finances were low; and many began to despond as to the result of the contest. The British were very powerful and resolute. The plan of Washington filially was, to make it appear to the en emy than an attack was intended against New York; and at the same time prepare for a general expedition to Virginia, and destroy the British army in that quar- tec. This plan succeeded hy the aid of the French fleet, though its Admiral came with reluctance into the measure. Cornwallis and his army were captured in -October following; and the Brittish ministry soon after consented to listen to honourable terms of peace. Major General La Fayette actetl a gallant and distin guished part in this whole campaign. We have al ready witnessed his activity, promptitude and bravery in the early part of the season. His efforts continued, and were conspicuous on various trying occasions. In the affair near Jamestown, he was in great personal danger, and one of his horses was shot under him. It was owing to his uncommon vigilance and activity, that the Amer ican troops under his command were able to keep a large British army in check; and when a detachment Tinder the brave General Wayne were in danger off be ing taken, they were rescued by the prompt and skil- •36 MEMOIRS OF L.4 FAVETTfc. ful manoeuvres of the Marquis. His spirit and firniness were attended with the best effects Upon the men un der his command; and seemed to inspire them with courage and confidence, at this period of great embar rassment and gloom. He was distinguished for human ity as well as courage. The sick and wounded were alway sure to receive his generous attentions. In the several engagements which took place, previously to the capture of Lord Cornwallis, many of the American soldiers were wounded, and he made immediate provi sion fi>r their relief and comfort. The military skill and bravery manifested by Gene ral La Fayette, and the officers and men under his com mand in Virginia, at this period, will be evident from his letters and orders here given. They speak parties ularly -of the courage and conduct of General Wayne, and his detachment; but they also aflbrd new proofs of the intelligence and activity of the commanding officer. Letter from General La Fayette, to General Greene. " Near James Rimer, July 8, 1781. Sir, On the 4th, the enemy evacuated Williamsbutgb,, where some stores fell into our hands, and retired to this place, under the cannon of their Shipping. The next n>orning we advanced, and a part of eur troops took post about nine miles from the British camp. The 6th, I detached an advanced corps under General Wayne, to reebnnoitre the enemy's situation. Their light parties being lirawn in, the pickets which lay near their encampment, were gallantly attacked by some riflemen* whose skill was employed to great ef fect. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 3.7 Having learnt that Lord Cornwallis had sent off his heavy baggage under an escort, and posted his army in an open field, fortified by the shipping, 1 returned to the detachment, which 1 found generally engaged. A piece of cannon, had been attempted by the van-guard, and the whole British army advanced to the wood, oc cupied by General Wayne. His whole corps did not exceed 800, part of which were militia, with three field pieces. — But at sight of the British, the troops ran to the rencontre, notwithstanding the very superior number of the enemy, and a short skirmish ensued, with a warm,, close and well directed fire. But, as both the right and left of the enemy greatly out-flanked ours, I sent orders to General Wayne, to retire to about half a mile, where Col. Vose and Barber's light infantry battal ions had arrived, by a most rapid movement, and where I directed them to form. In this position, they remain ed till some hours in the night. The militia under Gen eral Lawson also advanced; but during the night, the enemy -retired to the south of the river. From all accounts, the7 enemy's loss is great. We had none killed, but many wounded. Wayne's detach ment suffered most. Many horses were killed, which rendered it impossible to move the field pieces. * But it is enough for the glory of General Wayne, and the officers and men under his command, to have attacked the whole British army, with only a recennoitering party, and to have obliged them to retreat over the ri ver. I have the honor to be, &c. LA FAYETTE." Under date of July 11th, an officer of rank gives some further account of this affair. " The enemy had 300 men killed and wounded; and among the latter D '38 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. were several officers. Their precipitate retreat the same evening, to Jamestown Island, and thence to the other side of the river, is a tacit acknowledgment, that a general action was not their wish. We hear that the British officers are much mortified at the issue, and confess they were out-generalled. Their numbers were far superior to ours; and Ihey had the advantage of a large corps of cavalry. We could not have extri: cated ourselves from the difficulties we were in, but by the manoeuvre we adopted ; which, though it may have the appearance of temerity, to those unacquained with 'the circumstances, was founded upon the truest milita ry principles ; and was a necessary, though a very bold and daring measure." Extract from the general orders of the Marquis.~La Fayette, July 8th, 1781, near James River. " The General is happy to acknowledge the spirit of the detachment under General Wayne, in their engage ment with the whole of the . British army, of which he was an eye witness. , He requests General Wayne, and the officers and. men under his command, to accept his best thanks. The bravery and destructive fire of the riflemen, rendered essential service. The fire of the light infantry checked the enemy's progress round our right flank. .The General was much pleased with the conduct of Captain Savage, of the artillery, and is satis fied, that nothing but the loss of horses occasioned that of the two field pieces. The zeal of Colonel Mercer^ . corps, is fully expressed in the number of horses he had killed." His conduct at the seige and capture of Cornwallis, .at Yorktown, received the particular approbation of the MEMOIRS OF LA LAYETTE. . 39 commander in chief. Perhaps no officer in the Ameri can line, contributed more than he did to the success which attended our arms on that memorable occasion. When the British General was confident of seizing him and his little party by stratagem, or of overpowering them by numbers, he was on his guard, and had the good fortune to elude every effort to destroy him. And, dur ing the immediate seige of Yorktown, he occupied one of the most dangerous posts; and was among the fore most in the many vigorous assaults made upon the Bri- • tish army, before it was compelled to surrender. He had the honor to be ranked with Lincoln, Greene; Knox,' Wayne and others, iri the glorious exploits, which convinced the enemy of our persevering bravely, and induced them at last to sue for peace. In November following, the Marquis returned to France, having first obtained the consent of Congress^ .. and of the commander in chief. The contest between Great Britain and the United States,was drawing to a close. The former became satisfied of the impossibili ty of subduing America : and the latter was anxious to terminate a war, which had exhausted her finances, and occasioned an oppressive debt. The resolves of Con gress, with reference to the departure of General La Fayette at this period, exhibits, in a very favorable i light, the important services he had rendered the coun try, in the critical situation in which it had been placed. In Congress, Nov. 1781. " Resolved, That Major General La Fayette have permission to go to France, and to return at such time as may be most agreeable to himself— that he be informed, that,- on a view of his conduct throughout the past campaign, and particularly during the period, in which he had the chief command 4f MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE; in Virginia, the many new proofs which present them1- selves of his zealous attachment to the cause he has es poused, and of his judgment, vigilance, gallantry and ad dress in its defence, have greatly added to the high opin ion entertained by Congress of his merits and military talents — that he make known to the officers and troops whom he commanded during that period, that the brave and enterprizing services, with which they seconded- his zeal and efforts, and which enabled him to defeat the attempts of an enemy, far superior in numbers, have- been beheld by Congress, with particular satisfaction and approbation. — That the Secretary of foreign affairs acquaint the Ministers Plenipotentiaries of the United States, that it is the desire of Congress, that they confer with the Marquis La Fayette, and avail of his infor mation, relative to the situation of public affairs in the United States—That the Secretary for foreign af fairs, further acquaint the Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of Versailles, that he will conform to the in tention of Congress, by consulting with, and employing the assistance of the Marquis La Fayette, in accelerat ing the supplies which may be afforded by his most Christian Majesty for the United States — That the su perintendent of finance, the Secretary for foreign af fairs and the board, of war, make such communications to the Marquis, touching the affairs of their respective departments, as will best enable him to fulfil the pur pose of the preceding resolutions — That the superin- tendant of finance, take order for discharging the en gagements entered into by the Marquis La Fayette, with the merchants of Baltimore, when he bbrrowed money of them on his own credit, to supply our troops with necessarie s." MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 41' At the same time, Congress ordered that a convey ance be provided for General La Fayette, in a public vessel, whenever he should choose to embark ; and voted to send a letter by him, to the King of France. The following is the reply of the Marquis, to the President of Congress, who forwarded him the re. solves. " Sir, I have been honored with the resolutions which Congress have been pleased to pass in my favor. Tes timonies of their esteem and their confidence that are so very flattering to me, could not but excite those ex alted sentiments of gratitude, which I am unable suffi ciently to express. — My attachment to America, the sense of my obligations, and the new favors conferred upon me, are so many everlasting ties that devote ma to her. At all times, and in every part of the world, my heart will be panting for opportunities to be employed in her service. With unspeakable pleasure, I "shall transmit the resolve of Congress to the brave and vir tuous troops, whom it has been my happiness to com* mand. I have the honor to be, &c LA FAYETTE." ' When he transmitted the forogoing resolve of Conv gress, to the troops he had lately commanded, he ob- served to them, " In the moment the Major General leaves this place, he wishes once more to express, his gratitude to the brave corps of light infantry, who, for nine months past, have been the companions of his for tunes. He can never forget, that, with them alone, of regular troops, he had the good fortune to manoeuvre before an army, which, after all. its reductions, was u 2. 4g: MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. still six times more numerous than the regular force he had under command." The interest taken in favour of our country by Gen eral La Fayette, and the anxiety he felt upon all occa sions for the success of our contest with England, are so strongly evinced by his letter to the Hon. Samuel Ad ams, that we feel bound injustice to the character of this zealous apostle of liberty, to present it to ©urjieaders, with the reply of Mr. Adams. It shews, indeed, not only the disposition of La Fayette, in every possible way, to support the cause of America ; but his great knowledge of human nature, and his regard for the hon orable feelings of soldiers. The letter was written at Morristown, May 30, 1780, soon after the Marquis returned from his visit to France, where he exerted himself with the French Ministers to grant aid and supplies to the United States. Dear Sir, — Had 1 known that I would have the pleas- tire of meeting you at Boston, and holding confidential conversations with you on public and private matters, I should have anticipated the uneasiness I was put un der by the obligation of secrecy, or previously obtained the leave of breaking that so strict law in your favor. Now, my dear sir, that Congress have set my tongue at liberty, at least for such men as Mr. Samuel Adams, I will, in referring you to a public letter from the com mittee of Congress, indulge my private feelings in "im parting to you some confidential ideas of mine on our present situation. ,, As momentary visits did not entirely fulfil the purpose of freeing America, France thought they would render themselves more useful, if a naval and land force were sent for co-operating with our troops, and by a longer MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 43 stay on the coast of the Continent, would give to the states, a fair opportunity of employing all their resour ces. The expectations are very sanguine at Versailles, and ought to be more so, when that letter shall be re ceived, by which you know Congress engaged to fur nish on their part, five and twenty thousand Continent.il troops, that are to take the field by the beginning of the spring. On the other hand, my dear sir, all Europe have their eyes upon us : They know nothing of us, but by our own reports, and our first exertions which have heightened their esteem, and by the accounts of the en emy, or those of some dissatisfied persons, which were calculated to give them a quite different opinion : so that, to fix their own minds, all the nations are now looking at us ; and the consequence of America, in the eyes of the world, as well as its liberty and happiness, must depend upon the ensuing campaign. The succour sent by France, 1 thought to be very important when at Versailles : now that I am on the spot, I know it was necessary ; and if proper measures are taken, I shall more heartily than ever, enjoy the happiness I had of being somewhat concerned in the op eration. But if things stood as they now do, I confess that whether as an American soldier, whether as a pri vate man that said a great deal, and knows Congress have ordered much more to be said on the future exer tions of America, — who took a particular delight in praising the patriotic spirit of the United States, I would feel most unhappy and distressed, were I to tell the people that are coming overfull of ardour and sanguine hopes, that we have no army to co-operate with them, no proyisions to feed the few soldiers that are leff, &c. 44 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. &c. But I hope, my dear sir, it will not be" the case; and more particularly depending upon the exertions of your state, / know Mr. Samuel Adams' influence and popularity will be as heretofore employed, in the sal vation and glory of America. If proper measures are taken for provisions, if the states do immediately fill up the continental battalions by good drafts, which is by far the best way ;• if all the propositions of the committee are speedily complied with, I have no doubt, but that the present campaign will be a glorious, decisive one, and that we may hope/ for every thing that is good: if, on the contrary, time be lost, consider what unhappy and dishonorable con sequences would ensue from our inability to a co-oper ation. Your state began the noble contest, it may be glori- ¦ ously ended by your state's exertions, and the example they will once more set to the whole continent. The^ reception I met with at Boston, binds me to it by the strongest ties of a grateful affection. The joy of my heart will be to find myself concerned in an expedition, that may afford peculiar advantages to them ; and I earnestly hope it will be the case, in the course of this (if proper measures are taken)-glorious campaign. I flatter myself you will be yet in Boston, and upon this expectation, I very much depend for the success of the combined expeditions. Such a crisis is worth your being wholly engaged in it, as it will be glorious, im< portant ; and I may say it -n'dw, because necessary for the support of the great cause in which you acted so early and decisive a part. What you mentioned conn* dentially to me at Boston, I have duly noticed, and shall ever remember with the attention^of a friend. For ful* WJEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE, 4&~ filling the same purpose, I wish we may be under par ticular obligations to you on this occasion. Give me leave, my dear sir, to suggest to you an idea which 1 have "lately thought of: all tue continental offi cers labor under the most shameful want of clothing. When I say shameful, it is not to them who have no money to buy — no cloth to be bought. You can con ceive what may be theirs and our feelings, when they will be with the French general and other officers ; and from a general idea of mankind and human honor it is easily seen how much we should exert ourselves to put the officers of the army in a more decent situation. I beg, my dear si*, you will present my respects to- your family, and believe me most affectionately, Yours, LA FAYETTE. Boston, June, 1780. My Dear Marquis, Yesterday your very obliging letter of the 30th May was brought to me by Mons. Guinard. The succour coming from France will be so season able and important, that if America is not wanting to herself, she will have it in her power by the blessing of heaven, to gratify the utmost of her wishes. His most Christian Majesty's expectations from us must needs be great ; and gratitude to so generous an ally as well as a due attention to our own safely, inter est and honor, lay us under the strongest obligations to be in readiness to co-operate with the greatest ad vantage. I have long been fully sensible of your most cordial and zealous attachment to our great cause; and to your personal representation to his Majesty, in ad- 46 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. dition to the benevolence of his royal heart, I will take the liberty to attribute his design to afford us such aid? and for so long a time as may put it in our power to employ all our resources against the enemy. It fortunately happened that the General Assembly. ef this state was sitting when the letter and inclosures Jrom the committee of Congress came to the President of the Council. — They were immediately laid before the Assembly and I have the pleasure to assure jou that the filling our battalions by an immediate draft, furnish ing the army with provisions, and every other measure for the fulfilling of the just expectations of your sove reign and of Congress, on this most important occasion, are the objects of their closest attention. I had for several months past been flattering myself with the prospect of this aid. It strongly impressed my mind from one circumstance which took place when you was at Philadelphia the last- year. But far from certainty, I could only express to some confidential friends here,* a distant hope, though as I conceived, not without some good effect : at least it seemed to enliven our spirits and animate us for so great a crisis. If it were possible for one to be forgetful of our all important cause for a momejit, my particular friendship for you would be a prevailing inducement with me, to make my utmost feeble exertions to prevent your dis appointment after the great pains you have taken to serve us. I have endeavored, and shall continue those endeavors while 1 stay here, to brighten the dark side of the picture which your imagination has painted in one part ofyour letter before me— God forbid that we should be obliged to tell our friends when they arrive, that we have not a sufficient army to co-operate with them, nor MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE 47 .-provisions to feed the few soldiers that are left. I think I may venture to predict that this state will comply with the requisition upon her to give the utmost re spectability to our army on so promising an occasion. I was in the Council Chamber when I received your let ter, and took the liberty to read some parts of it to the members present. I will communicate other parts of it to some leading members of the House of Represen tatives as prudence may dictate, particularly what you mention of the officers' want of clothing. I thank you my dear sir for the friendly remembrance you had of the hint I gave you when you was here. Be pleased to pay my most respectful compliments to the Commander in Chief, his family, &c. and be assured of the warm affection of your obliged friend and very hum ble servant, SAMUEL ADAMS. Marquis de la Fayette. The Legislature of Massachusetts did immediately, viz. on June 6, 1780, pass a resolve for raising four thousand men as a reinforcement of the continental ar my. The preamble to the resolve was as follows ; — " Whereas a requisition has been made to this court for a reinforcement to the continental army, in order that it may be able to act vigorously the ensuing campaign, and the present situation of affairs requiring the utmost exertions at this period, and affords the most flattering prospect of putting an end to this distressing war, if the army is reinforced at this juncture, and enabled to im prove the great advantages offered." To carry this resolve into effect, the Brigadier Generals through the State were directed immediately on receipt ©f the re solve, to issue orders for calling the companies togeth- 48 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. er, and raising the men required from each town, by voluntary inlistments, or by drafting them, on failure of, a full number being otherwise raised. Those thus drafted were to be fined if they refused to march ; but a very generous bounty was granted, to induce ;men to enlist voluntarily. The Selectmen were required to furnish the men wiih clothes and travelling expenses; and boih the Selectmen and Brigadier Generals were liable to a heavy fine, if they neglected their duty. The patriotic efforts of the Legislature, thus drawn in to action,- in consequence of the. pressing letter of La Fayette, and their own sense of the necessity of the case, were every where met by a corresponding zeal on the part of the people1 of Massachusetts; and the men were soon raised, and sent on to the head quar ters of the continental army, to fill the regular regi ments of this State, 'then in the service. At 'the siege of York-Town, where Lord ConwaJlis with a largeBritish army was' attacked and taken by the Americans, La Fayette was particularly distinguished for activity and courage. And a more minute account of this affair is necessary, in recording the useful and bril liant services of this youthful hero in the cause of Ameri ca, which her sons wish most gratefully to recollect.— General Washington in person commanded the Ami ricatt army on this occasion, in pursuance of a plan he had ' adopted, as already mentioned He proceeded to our camp in the vicinity of York-Town, where Cornwallis was posted, the last of September. He was assisted by. Major Generals Lincoln, Steuben, La Fayette, Knox, <§*c. The French troops, who composed a part of the army engaged in the capture of Cornwallis, were under command -of Count Rochambeau, who had MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 49 the character of an intelligent and brave officer. The whole number of troops, both American and French, was estimated at twelve thousand, To them, however, were occasionally added small detachments of the mi litia from the vicinity. The British troops were com puted to be about seven thousand, and their commander had been strengthened in his situation by fortifications, hoping to defend himself till he might receive succours from New-York. The allied army was supported in this expedition by a large French fleet which was in the Chesapeake. This afforded great confidence to the Americans, for they had just then defeated the British fleet in those waters, and thus effectually cut off all communication between Lord Cornwallis and the British army in New- York. The French admiral had been determined to proceed at this time, to a station in the West Indies, agreeably to orders which he had received from the King his master, some weeks before. He was requested to re main, and co-operate in this expedition, by Count Ro- chambeau, and by Washington himself; but they could not prevail with him to relinquish his proposed depar ture for the West Indies ; and it was only through the most zealous and repeated solicitations of La Fayette, with a solemn promise that he would justify the meas ure to the Court of France, that the admiral, Count de Grasse, was induced to continue on the station, by which the capture of the. British army was greatly facilitated. Under all these favourable circumstances, it is not unreasonable to suppose, that the allied army cherish ed a strong confidence of success in their enterprize. Washington had planned this expedition with great intelligence and foresight ; for he had been resolved E TSO 'MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. to attempt some decisive and effectual blow against the enemy. He had, however, to engage a body of well disciplined and reguhr troops under an officer of great experience and bravety; and all his own resources, together with the courage and activity of the officers under his command were necessary to ensure success. The American chief lost no time in preparing for a vig orous attack upon the British. They were soon oblig ed to abandon their redoubts and advanced posts, and to retire within the town. The light infantry, under General La Fayette, and a party of the French troops, were ordered to advance, and to take posses sion of the places they had abandoned, that they might cover those of the besieging army, who were engaged in throwing up breast works. These advanced parties were much annoyed by a heavy cannonade from the beseiged; and Colonel Scammel, the officer of the day, while viewing the ground recently deft by;the British, was surprised by a party of their cavalry;; and, after he surrendered, received a mortal wound, which ter minated his life in a few days. Scammel -was a brave and accomplished officer, and eminent as' a disciplinari an. He was a native of Massachusetts, .a gentleman of public education, of elegant manners, and most honor able character.- He was greatly lamented by VV ashing- ton, and by all the officersof the American army.— Those who had been particularly associated with him, long cherished the highest respect for his memory. Redoubts were thrown up by our advanced parties, for several successive nights ; and on the evening of the. 7th of October, a large detachment undor General Lin coln were ordered out, to open entrenchments near the fines of tfie British. La Fayette had an important. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE -A dotmnand also in the enterprise. The great interest felt for him by the Americans was shewn by a request of the Surgeon General, " that if the Marquis should be wounded, he might receive immediate attention." The duties of our troops, at this time, were very- arduous ; but they were most vigilant and active ; and by the 9th several batteries were prepared to open upon the town, in which the British General was besieg ed. General W&shington himself put the match to the first gun, and a furious cannonade immediately fol lowed, which was a serious salutation to Cornwallis. From the 10th to the ,15th the seige was prosecu ted with great vigor; an incessant fire -was kept up by the allied armies ; and the enemy were not back ward in returning it. The Americans made further approaches to the town and threw up other batteries in a second parallel. Many of our men were killed and wounded in- these operations. The enemy had two re doubts, several hundred yards in front of their princi pal works, which greatly impeded the approaches of the Americans. . It became important to obtain posses sion of them by assault. The one on the left of the, enemy's garrison was given to General La Fayette, with a brigade of light infantry of American troops. The other redoubt was attacked by a detachment of French troops under commanded of Baron deViominel. The assailants, both on the right and left, exhibited the greatest ardor and bravery. Powerful resistance was made by the enemy ; but was soon overcome by our gallant troops, inspirited by their still more gallant offi cers ; though with the loss of many of our men. Two field officers were wounded in this affair; one of whom was Major Gibbs from Massachusetts, who then belong- 5JL MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ed to the guard of the commander in chief. The ad vanced corps of the detachment on the left, under General La Fayette, was led on to the assault by the intrepid Colonel Hamilton, who during this campaign had command of a regiment of light infantry. Our troops entered the redoubt with charged bayonets, but without firing a gun. The Marquis was indefatigable in pushing forward his men, and was constantly in sit uations of great peril. Some of the American soldiers were ready io take the lives of the captured after they had possession of the fort, in revenge for the bar barous conduct ofthe British towards many of our men, and especially for the mortal wound inflicted upon the brave and amiable Scammel, after he had surrendered. General Washington with Lincoln, Knox, and their aids were in the vicinity of this action, in very exposed sit uations. The Americans under La Fayette, carried the redoubt which they attacked, before the French made their assault upon the other. The latter also, suffered a greater loss of men than the former. When the fort was taken by the troops under the Marquis, he sent his aid, through the fire of the .whole British line, to give notice to Baron Viominel, "" that he was in his redoubt, and to enquire where the Baron was." The Baton returned for answer, " that he was not yet in his, but should be in five minutes." General Washington expressed his sense of this bril liant affair in his orders ofthe 15th, Head Quarters, be fore York-Town. " The Marquis La Fayette's divis ion will mount the trenches tomorrow. The command er in chief congratulates the allied army on the success of the enterprise, last evening, against the two impor tant redoubts on the left of the enemy's works. He MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ~.J requests the Baron Viominel "who command'- o C\a French grenadiers, and the Marquis La Fayette, who commanded the American Light Infantry, to accept his warmest acknowledgments for the excellence of iheir dispositions, and for their own gallant conduct on the occasion. And he begs them to present his thanks to every individual officer and to the men of their respec tive commands, for the spirit and rapidity with which they advanced to the points of attack assigned them, and for the admirable firmness with which they sup ported them, under the fire of the enemy, without re turning a shot. The General reflects with the highest pleasure on the confidence which the troops of the two nations must hereafter have in each other : assured of mutual support, he is convinced there is no danger which they will not cheerfully encounter ; no difficulty which they will hot bravely overcome." If the Marquis de LaFayette was animated by an ardent love of civil liberty, when he first came to America, his: attachment to its principles must have become more firm and settled, if not more intense, after an acquain tance of five years, with the patriots and heroes of our revolution. He had become acquainted with our in stitutions, and with the principles of our government ; and was probably led to believe that systems equally free might be maintained -in other countries. He was so enamoured, not only with the' theory,, but with the practical effects, of republicanism, that he felt it a duty to recommend systems of government more consonant to the rights of mankind. We know not, if he justly appreciated the importance of the general diffusion of knowledge among all classes of people, to ensure such a happy state of society. It was probably owing to' E- 2 - 54 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. this consideration, however, that he did not immedi ately attempt the reformation of the political sys tem under which his own nation had long been oppressed. That Louis XVI. was mild, humane, and anxious for the good of his subjects, we are not disposed to doubt. But the antient regime was un questionably despotic ; and in the hands of ambitious or selfish ministers, liable to be an instrument of injus tice and oppression. And those who have long been accustomed to govern, without being accountable for their conduct, will not easily be induced to relinquish power, from any considerations of abstract right,, or a belief that others will be more just. We will here present a letter of La Fayette, direct ed to Sir H. Clinton ; to show his regard to truth, and to his own reputation suffering in some measure by a statement which had been publicly made by that mili tary officer. Paris, April 29, 1783. — Sir, Upon a perusal of your printed correspondence, I must beg leave to trouble you with an observation ; not that I haye claims to. set forth, or relations to criticise. A sentence in your let ter of — is the only one I intend to mention. " Hav«, ing said to Lord Cornwallis, that he may be opposed by about 2000 continentals ; and, as La Fayette observes, a body of ill-armed militia," you are pleased to add, " as spiritless as the militia of the southern provinces,. and without any service ;" which reads as, if it was a part of my letter. How far your description is unde serving, 1 think experience has proved ; and that it. came from me, no American will believe. But your correspondence is so public that, with full reliance on year candour and politeness, I have taken the liberty MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 55 to transcribe the passage, and to return it to you, Sir, . as its true author. At the same time permint me to assure you, &c. LA FAYETTE.- The reply of Sir H. Clinton. London, May 29, 1783'. Sir, In consequence of the letter you have done me the honor to write me, 1 have read over tbe publica tion in question ; and 1 confess the remark alluded to, from the manner in which it is introduced,' appears to make a part of your letter. You have, certainly, Sir, a right to this acknowledgment, and permit me, at the same time, to add the assurances, &e. H. CLINTON. In the summer of 1784, the Marquis de-LaFayette once more visited America. He came to witness the prosperity and improvements of the country ; and to enjoy the society of those brave and honorable men, with whom he had been associated in fighting the bat tles of liberty. Associates- in danger form an, attach ment for each other, which time does not usually de stroy.. And when they have long struggled to gether for just and generous purposes, the attach ment must be strong and permanent indeed. The he roic actors in. our glorious revolution were linked to gether by the most disinterested ties. Ihey will nev er forget each other's services and virtues : And we trust, their children will never cease to venerate their characters, or to acknowledge their exalted merit. When General La Fayette visited the United States in 1784, he was received with an affectionate welcome, little less enthusiastic and splendid, than that with which he has been lately greeted, on landing again oa 56 Memoirs of la fayette. our shores, after a lapse of forty years. He then also arrived at the port of New York ; and in October fol lowing made a visit to Boston, where he had so many particular friends ready to receive him with the most cordial greetings. He was met at Watertown by the officers of the (then) late continental army, and ad dressed by his ardent friend, General Knox, in behalf of the whole body, and a public dinner was provided for him on the occasion. The feelings excited by the visit of their beloved fellow officer, will be best descri bed by giving the address ;. which was as follows : " We, the late officers of the Massachusetts line of the continental army,, embrace the first moment of your arrival, to welcome you with all the sincerity and ar dour of fraternal affection: an affection commenced in the dark hour of our conflict, elevated and perfect ed through the successive vicissitudes ofthe war. " We beg leave to observe, that we have had re peated occasions to witness the display of your military talents, and of joining in the approbation and applause which our beloved Commander in Chief so often ex pressed of your conduct. We are deeply irapresS-- ed, with a sense of the various and important ser vices you have rendered our country ; and it will be the pride of some patriotic and enlightened historian to enumerate your actions in the field, and to illustrate 'your incessant efforts to pnontote the1 happiness'' of the United States. »' We shall ever retain a lively gratitude for the inter- - -position of your august sovereign and nation, at a time when America was oppressed by a formidable enemy. - By his influence and the powerful assistance afforded by his land and naval forces, the war has been happily, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE.1 57" terminated, and thy independence of the United States- firmly established, at a period much earlier than the most sanguine patriot could have expected. " A mind like yours enobled by a generous attachment to the rights of mankind, must enjoy the highest plea sure in viewing the people, to whose cause you so zeal ously devoted yourself, in full possession of that peace, liberty and safety, which were the great objects of* their pursuit. " Animated by virtue and the auspices- of your own fame, may you go on to add to the splendor of your character, and heighten the glory of your country, by placing the name of La Fayette on the same list with Conde, Turenne and. her other immortal heroes. In behalf of the officers of the Massachusetts line. H. KNOX." Reply of the Marquis. " From the instant of our parting, Gentlemen, I have been eagerly looking forward to this period. How far my pleasure is completed by your kind welcome, I leave, my beloved friends, to your own hearts to deter? mine. " While your affection and confidence ever made me happy, let me gratefully acknowledge, that, for the marks of our beloved General's approbation, I felt myself wholly obliged to the gallant troops I com manded. Could my conduct, in any degree justify your partiality, it will be the pride of my heart to think the American camp was my school, every one of you my brothers, and that 1 wfis adopted as a disciple and son, by ouv immortal Commander in Chief. In the interposition of my Sovereign and nation,. I ' SS'- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. ienjbyed' niore than I could express ; every Frenchs citizen felt with a patriotic King in this happy alliance ;s and from those troops who shared in our dangers, you, meet with'a' peculiar regard and attachment. " During my absence, gentlemen, my heart has been- constantly with y'ou. As an army, we are separated. But forever, I hope, shall unite in a brotherly affec tion : arid now that a glorious peace has terminated your labours, I rejoice to find your attachment to those principles for which you have conquered, ranks, you among the most virtuous citizens of the Commonwealth,. LA FAYETTE." At the public dinner given by the officers of the late- army to this distinguished friend of American ' Inde pendence, were also invited the Governor andCbuncilj. and many others of high rank and distinction It may be gratifying to some who peruse this volume- to know. the sentiments" offered as toasts on the joyful occasion*^. The following are selected : The United States. — His most Christian Majesty. General Washington. — The Cincinnati The asserters and supporters of the rights of man kind through the world. « May America never forget in prosperity those whoj were her fast friends in adversity. j May our country be as famed for justice and hono'iy^ as she is for valour and success. ., The Legislature of the State being in session, order ed, that the Marquis de La Fayette be invited by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives together with the Supreme Executive, to meet the two Houses of Assembly in the Senate room, "to congratulate hira on His safe arrival in the United 'MEMOIRS OP LA FAYETTE. a3 States, after the final establishment of peace, to which his friendly influence in Europe had largely contribut ed." The Marquis attended accordingly, when the Governor congratulated him in terms of the highest respect and affection ; to which the Marquis made a polite and suitable reply. But La Fayette was too ¦much beloved and his eminent services in our cause ¦too highly appreciated by the people of the patriotic iown of Boston, not to meet with a more general wel come. A dinner was given him at Faneuil Hall by the citizens ; at which were .present the Governor and 'Council, President of the Senate and Speaker of the •House of Representatives, the Clergy and other distinguished gentlemen, and seventy five officers of the late continental army. When General Washing- Ion's name was given for a toast, the Marquis rose from his seat, and with a tear starting in his eye, be gan the act of applause, which was continued and re peated again and again by the wholp company. In other places, the Manquis also met a cordial and distinguished reception. His ardent attachment to Americd and his great services in her cause, were still fresh in the recollection of all. It was known, that he had advocated our independence in Kurope, and exerted his influence with his generous Prince to aid in its support. It was remembered, " that in the mo ment of our greatest misfortunes, he espoused the cause of America," that his military talents and the ar dour of his virtuous mind had been devoted to our in terest : and " while gratitude should be accounted, a virtue, the name of La Fayette," it was said, " wonbl not cease to'be dear to Americans." When about to leave the United States and return t«> »160 MF.MOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. France, Dec.l784,the Marquis de La Fayette addressee! a note to Congress, and expressed a desire to take a respectful leave of that body, before his final departure. A committee was appointed on this request of the Mar quis, of which the Hon. Mr. Jay was chairman, and whose report was as follows— " That the merit and ¦ services of General La Fayette render it proper that such opportunity of taking leave- of Congress be afford ed, as may Strongly manifest rtheir esteem and regard for him." — Whereupon it was resolved, " That a Com mittee to consist of a member from each state, be ap pointed to receive the Marquis, and in the name of Congress to take leave Of him — that they be instructed to assure him, that'Congress continue to entertain the ^samehigh sense Of his abilities and zeal to.promote the -welfare of America, both here and in:Europe, which they have frequently expressed and manifested on for- ^mer occasions, and which the recent marks of his atten tion to their commercial and other interests have per fectly confirmed. That as his uniform and unceasing at- itachment to this country has resembled that of a patriotic. citizen, the United States regard him with particular ¦ affection, and will not cease to feel an interest in what ever may Concern his honor and prosperity, and that their best and kindest wishes will always attend him." It was also resolved by Congress, at the same time; " That a letter be written to his most Christian Majes ty, and signed by the President of Congress, expressive of the high sense which the United States entertain of the real talents and meritorious services of the Marquis de La Fayette, and recommending him to the particular favor and patronage of his Majesty." The committee received the" Marquis in Congress MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 61 Hall, and took leave of him in the name of that hon orable body, agreeably to the instructions given them. They communicated to him the resolves before men tioned ; to which he replied — " While it pleases the Congress of the United States so kindly to receive me, I want words to express the feel ings of a heart, which delights in their present situation and in the public marks of their esteem. " Since I joined the standard of liberty to this wished for hour of my personal congratulations, I have seen such glorious deeds performed and virtues displayed, by the sons of America, that in the instant of my first concern for them, I had anticipated but a part of the love and regard which devote me to this rising empire. "During our revolution, I obtained an unlimited, indul gent confidence, which I am equally proud and happy to acknowledge ; it dates with the time, when an inex perienced youth, I could only claim my respected friend's paternal adoption. It has been most benevo lently continued throughout every circumstance ofthe -cabinet and the field ; and in personal friendships I have often found a support against public difficulties. WThile on this solemn occasion, I mention my obligations' to Congress, the States, and the people at large, permit me to remember my dear military companions, to whose services their country is so much indebted. " Having felt both for the timely aid of my country, and.for the part she, with a beloved king, acted in the cause of mankind, lenjoy an alliance so well rivetted by mutual affection, by interest and even local situation. Recollection ensures it. Futurity does but enlarge the .prospect : and the private intercourse will every day F ;62 -MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. increase, which independent and advantageous trade .cherishes, in proportion as it is justly understood. " In unbounded wishes to America, I am happy to ob serve the prevailing disposition ofthe people to strength en the confederation, preserve public faith, regulate trade ; and, in a proper guard over continental maga zines and frontier posts, in a general system of militia, in foreseeing attention tothenavy, to ensure every kind of safety. .May this immense temple of freedom ever Stand a lesson to oppressors, an example to the oppress ed, a sanctuary for the rights of mankind ! And may these happy United States attain that complete splen dor and prosperity, which will illustrate the blessings ,-of their government, and for ages to come, rejoice the departed souls of its founders. " However unwilling to trespass on your time, I must yet present you with my grateful thanks for the late favours of Congress ; and never can they oblige me so much, as when they put it in my power, in eve ry part of the world, and to the latest day of my life, to gratify the attachment, which will ever rank me a. mong the most, zealous and respectful servants of the United States." On the return ofthe Marquis de La 'Fayette to his na tive country in 1/85, he spent some time in the bosom of his amiable family. With an affectionate wife, of cultivated mind and accomplished manners, with a cir cle of literary friends, and enjoying a high reputation for his heroic services in America, he must have pos sessed all the ingredients of human happiness. He re ceived the smiles ofthe King and Court; was caressed hy the gay and chivalrous ; and had the esteem and friendship of the first literary characters in France. He MEMOIRS OF LA LAYETTE. 6D was fond of agricultural pursuits ; and as his. estates were extensive, he devoted a considerable portion of his time to the cultivation and improvement of his lands. Dur ing th's time his hospitable attentions were shewn to American travellers, who were always sure of his friend ly reception. The legislature of Virginia, in 1786, conferred upon La Fayette, an honorable tribute of regard, in recollect state of -slavery ; Petion reigns ; the savage Dauton and his satellites are mas ters. Thus it is for you to determine whether you will support the hereditary representative ofthe throne, or submit to the disgrace of having a Petion for your king." The appeal was in vain. Though a momentary respond was given by the soldiers to the sentiments of their magnanimous commander, the baleful influence /|f faction had corrupted many of them ; and finding MEMOIRS OF LA LAYETTEv " , S7i Bimself robbed of the confidence of the army,- as well as of the assembly, and thus deprived of all hope of being useful- to his country, he quitted France, with an intention of retiring to America, where he had j.ust reason to expect a grateful reception.- Thus terminated the revolutionary career of La Fay ette ; through the. whole of which he appears to the impartial observer to have acted an honorable and dfer interested part. If he committed faults, they were those of opinion or judgment ; in sincerity and in zeal ous devotion to the liberty of his country, he was ex ceeded by none. He may justly be considered " an il lustrious confessor of regulated liberty." His great object was to refurm- existing abuses, to lay the foun dation of constitutional freedom : and with all his zeal lor the recognition and the support of the. rights of man, he was desirous of preserving a just measure of au- - thority in the crown, and maintaining a sacred regard to law and justice. That he failed in his wishes of introducing into France a more mild and popular gov ernment, is matter of regret with the friends of civil liberty in America. But he cannot justly be censured by them for the failure of his object, or for the exces ses which attended the revolution. The violent pro ceedings of the jacobins, which excited so much horror among the friends of regulated liberty in other coun tries, were fopposed by him personally with singular firmness and constancy. He distinguished, with great accuracy, between the will of the people and the clamours of a faction ; and between the deliberate acts of the legislature sanctioned by the constitution, and the hasty sentence or orders of a party, adopted with out the usual forms of law, so necessary to the ordfir and welfare of society. 88 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. La Fayette was arrested by an Austrian General, and delivered over to the King of Prussia, who ordered him to be confined in a prison at Wesel and at Magdeburg. Here he suffered some time, when he was removed to the fortress of Olmutz. In this place he was kept un der the most rigorous confinement — enduring the pri vations and severity fit only to be inflicted on the grea test criminals. After a close confinement of several weeks in the common prison at Wesel, he was removed to Magde burg, and thence to Olmutz. At Magdeburg he was confined for a year, in a dark and solitary dungeon ; during which he was offered his liberty, on condition of his joining with the enemies of France. He spurn ed the proposal with indignation ; and preferred impris onment and indignity, to treachery or hostility to his own country. When first taken into custody, he was treated with insult by the people of some places through which he was conducted; , but afterwards, a deep interest was manifested in his behalf, and the warmest sympathy was expressed for his unfortunate condition. The following is an extract from a letter of La Fay ette in 1793, while confined at Magdeburg. "Since my captivity, but one political paper has reached me, and that is yours for February. 7 appre ciate, with deep sensibility, the justice y$tr -render my sentiments, and the approbation you bestow upon my conduct. Your commendations are greatly beyond my deserts ; but your kind exaggerations contain, at this moment, something so generous, I cannot withold from you my thanks, that you have enabled me to hear the voice of liberty honoring my tomb. My situation is pe- MEMOIRS OF IA FAYETTE. 85 cnliarly strange. I have sacrificed my republican par tialities to the state and wishes of the nation : 1 obeyed the sovereign power where I found it vested, in the constitution. My popularity was as great as I could desire ; for the legislative body defended me better on the 8th of August, than it defended itself on the 10th. But I became obnoxious to the Jacobins, because I rep robated their aristocracy,, which aimed at usurping all legitimate authority. " From Constantinople to Lisbon, from Kamschatka to Amsterdam, every bastile is ready to receive me. The Huron and Iroquois forests are peopled with my friends; the despots and. the courts- of Europe, they are the only savages I fear. I am aware that the laws of England would protect me, -though the court of St. James is opposed to me : but I cannot seek protection in a country at, war with my own. America, the coun try of my heart, would welcome me with J03'. Yet my fears for the future destiny of France, induce me to give the preference to Switzerland,, at least for the present." After this, he was confined about four years in the prison of Olmutz, when Henry Bollman, a young Ger man physician, and Francis Huger, an American, (son of Colonel Huger, of South Carolina, who had first re ceived La Fayette when he arrived in the United States, in 1777,) made great personal sacrifices,, and exposed themselves to imminent dangers to effect his escape^ General Washington also, then President of the United States, repeatedly solicited his release, on the ground of his being an American citizen, as he really was by, a legal adoption. But his requests were vain. It was- not consistent with the policy of the " Legitimates" o£ B 2.'- 90 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Europe, to show any favor to such a friend of liberty as La Fayette, o^to listen to the honorable application of the chief magistrate of the American republic. We have ahead" seen frequent proofs of the pecul iar regard which Washington cherished for La Fayette. He did not forget him when immured in the prison at Olmutz. Such was the state of political affairs in Eu rope, such the suspicions both of the jacobins in France, and the advocates for monarchy'in the surrounding nations, that a formal and public request for the release of La Fayette, would have been of no avail. It would probably have added to the severity of his treatment by his implacable enemies. The American ministers residing at foreign courts were instructed, however, to suggest on proper occasions, the wishes of the Presi dent of the United States, for his enlargement. A con fidential person was sent to Berlin to solicit his dis charge. But La Fayette had been placed in the custody of the Austrian cabinet, before the messenger arrived. The American envoy at the court of St. James, exerted himself in favour of the heroic friend of Washington, but without effect. As the last resource, the President wrote directly to the Emperor of Germany on the sub-- ' ject. Justice both to Washington and La Fayette re quires the recital of the letter. " It will readily occur to your majesty, that occasions may sometimes exist, on which official considerations would constrain the chief of a nation to be silent and pas sive in relation even to objects which affect his sensi bility, and claim his interposition as a man. Finding myself precisely in this situation at present, I take the liberty of writing this private letter to your majesty, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 91 being persuaded that my metives will also be my apol ogy for it. " In common with the people of this country, I re- lain a strong and cordial sense of the services rendered to them by the Marquis de La Fayette; and my friend ship for him has been constant and sincere. It is natu ral, therefore, that I should sympathize with him and his family in their misfortunes; and endeavour to miti gate the calamities they experience, among which his present confinement is not the least distressing. " I forbear to enlarge on this delicate subject. Per mit me only to submit to your majesty's consideration, whether his long imprisonment and the confiscation of his estate, and the indigence and dispersion of his fami ly, and the painful anxieties incident to all these cir cumstances, do not form an assemblage of sufferings which recommend him to the mediation of humanity 1 Allow me, Sir, on this occasion to be its organ ; and to entreat that he may be permitted to come to this coun try, on such conditions as your majesty may think it ex pedient to prescribe. " As it is a maxim with me not to ask what, under similar circumstances, I would not grant, your majes ty will do me the justice to believe that this request ap pears to me, to correspond with those great principles of magnanimity and wisdom, which form the basis of sound policy and durable glory." — But his imperial ma jesty was either destitute of the humanity and magna nimity, to which Washington appealed ; or was pre vented granting the request, through some premises to an " holy alliance^ which even then existed among the princes of Europe. Several members of the British Parliament made an 92 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE"! effort, at this time, for the enlargement ef La Fayette and his three friends from the dungeon of Olmutzs. General Fitzpatrick moved for an address to his majes ty, stating " that the detention of La Fayette and others by order of the King of Prussia and Emperor of Austria, tyas dishonorable to the cause of the allies, and praying him to interfere for their release." In support of his motion, he remarked, that although- La Fayette was im prisoned by the allied powers on the continent, yet the , government of Great Britain would be implicated in the cruel act, unless it should attempt his libera tion,. as it had now become a member ofthe coalition against the anarchical conduct of the French. He contended that justice and humanity required them to intercede in be half of this oppressed and injured man; The generous Briton insisted, that La Fayette, though a friend to civ il liberty, was a firm advocate for constitutional princi ples, and was in favor of the power of the King as in a limited monarchy: and made a powerful appeal to the, generosity and honor of. his countrymen, to unite in so liciting for-the freedom of La Fayette. Colonel Tarl- ton, then amember-of Parliament, who had been oppos ed to La Fayette in America,.in the campaign of 1781,, supported the motion of his military friend; and with great eloquence, urged the propriety and justice of his liberation. Mr. Fox also spoke in favor of an address to the King, for this humane purpose. But their argu ments and their eloquence were vain. It did not con sist with the existing policy of the British' cabinet, to. listen to the proposition. The motion was lost by a large majority. Bollman proceeded to Olmutz, and thence to Vienna,, where he was so fortunate as to meet with young Hu- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE.. 93 ger; and they cordially united in the humane and chiv alrous project of rescuing the generous La Fayette.; They both repaired immediately to Olmutz, and there became acquainted with two other gentlemen, who fa voured their benevolent scheme- But the difficulty of effecting it can be easily imagined. A physician of Ol mutz was engaged to make known the plan to La Fay ette, when he visited him in prison, then in reality, or apparently in a debilitated state of health. He had, in tact, been attacked with fever at Magdeburg, which at one time was feared would terminate his valuable life,. and from the effects of which he had not fully recover ed. By him a note was communicated to La Fayette, which he answered with his blood. In a short time, the physician prevailed on the governor of the city to per mit his prisoner to take an airing, occasionally, . in a coach, attended by a guard. It was concerted, that in one of his short excursions with the governor, he should leave the carriage under some pretence, when he was to be joined by Bollman and Huger, and immediately conducted under covei of a dark night, to the confines of Silesia, beyond the territory ofthe Emperor of Aus tria. He alighted from the carriage, near a small wood, and his generous friends, who were ready to protect him, immediately attempted to convey him away on horseback ; but the guard, which accompanied the car riage, suspecting some design, pushed forward into the yvood, and attempted to seize the noble prisoner, and his brave friends. A dtsperate struggle ensued, in which the Marquis was wounded ; but they succeeded in es caping from the guard. Huger was seen and followed by some of the peasantry ; and after a long pursuit was overtaken and secured. The governor and his guard 94 MEMOIRS OP LA EAYET'EE". returned to Olmutz ; alarm guns were immediately firm ed, and the whole population for several miles was soon engaged in search of La Fayette and Bollman. They were taken in the course ofthe evening, at the distance •f about ten- miles from Olmutz, and conveyed back to the prison, where a most rigorous confinement awaited them. La Fayette was put in irons, and suffered the most excrutiating torture. He was in a feeble state, overcome by fatigue, and suffering greatly from the bruises and wounds received in his late attempt to es- cape. " His anxieties, his anguish (and'despair we may almost say,) at finding himself again in the power of his unrelenting jailor, so affected' his nerves, that his fever returned with increasedaand alarming violence. In this state he was allowed nothing but a little damp and mouldy straw ; irons were put round his feet, and round his waist was- a chain, fastened to the wall, which barely permitted him to turn from one side to the oth» er. No light was admitted into his cell : and he was refused even the smallest allowance of linen. " The winter of 1794-95 was very severe, but hid inhuman jailors did not relax from the rigour of pre scribed and systematic oppression. It seemed, indeed, as if their object w.ts to put an end to their victim's ex istence by this ingenious device of incessant cruelty. Worn down by disease and the rigour ofthe season, his hair fell from his head, and he was emaciated to the last degree. To these physical distresses were soon superadded those mental anxieties, which perhaps, were still more difficult to endure. 1 he only information he could obtain respecting the fate of his wife and children, for whom he felt the greatest solicitude, was, that they were confined in the prisons of Paris : and in reply te MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 96 his enquiries concerning his most generous friends, Boll- man and Huger, he was informed by his unfeeling tor mentors that they were soon to perish by the hands of the hangman." Bollman and Huger were kept in close confinement in the prison at Olmutz, for some time, for having at tempted to rescue La Fayette from his cruel imprison ment. The keepers of the prison were unfeeling men ; and instead of showing any favour to their prisoners, who ought to have received their admiration, subject ed them to unnecessary severity. They were subject ed to strict examination, after a long confinement, and .the sentence of their judges was in favour of their lib eration, on paying a large amount to government. By the aid of some generous friends, fhey were furnished „with the requisite sums, and discharged from the prison. .But La Fayette was still detained in prison, and in the -same suffering . and shameful condition as - before mentioned-. It was several months before his irons and. chains were removed ; which was effected through the very benevolent individuals, who had secret ly favoured his recent attempt to escape; but who, happily* both for him and themselves, were not suspect ed of any agency in the plot: these were an opulent Jewish merchant, and the chief surgeon to the prison ers. They prevailed also with the civil authority to grant permission to the Marquis to walk an hour each day, in front ofthe prison, though in custody of a strong guard of soldiers, and no one was allowed to speak to him Unutterably painful and distressing must have been the situation of Madame La Fayette ever after the fa tal day, when her beloved and affectionate husband felt 96 MKMOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. it his duty- to depart from France, and leave her and their three children unprotected, and subject to the insults arid severities of an enraged and lawless mob. She and her two daughters, then about fifteen -and twelve, were cast into prison in Paris. i he fam ily estates were confiscated, "and most of his particular friends fell by the stroke of the guilotine. In this ag onizing condition, she maintained the most wonderful fortitude and patience ; without uncommon firmness and sincere trust in providence, she must have sunk under such deep and complicated distress. While she wasia prison, she was often found in a retired spot, engaged inholy and humble supplication to. heaven. When she was released from the prison, after about twenty months of degrading confinement, her constitution was greatly enfeebled, and her friends and physician advised her to seek repose at some retired place in the country. But she refused, and feeble and emaciated as she was, she resolved to proceed immediately f to Olmutz, and to hury herself in prison with her husband, unless she could possibly procure his liberation. With this pur pose in view, she went first to Vienna,' to endeavour to -concilitate the favor and influence of the Emperor. Through the friendly interposition of two noble fe males, acquainted at court, -she was admitted to an au dience with the Emperor. He received her graciously, and professed a desire that her request might be fulfilled ; but gave no posi tive orders for the liberation of La Fayette, because his political engagements with other courts prevented it. He, however, consented that she might visit her husband. She accordingly repaired to Olmutz, to min ister, as an angel of light, to his comfort, though not MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE." §7 clothed with power to give him that liberty, whicb they ardently hoped. She and her daughters shared with him the confinement of a dreary prison, for nearly two years. It was not until 1797, that they were set at liberty : and this was immediately owing to the influ ence of General Bonaparte, on his victories over the Austrians in that year. La Fayette expressed his grat itude for this generous interference ; but he made no sacrifice of principle, and was never his admirer or sup porter. While confined in the prison of Olmutz, with her husband, Madame La Fayette, whose health was much impaired by her sorrows and suffering, requested leave to visit Vienna for a week. She was informed her request would be granted on condition, that her daugh. ters should be kept in a separate apartment from their father, and that she herself would never again enter the prison. She declined the offer, with indignation. Her letter on the subject, concludes thus — " Whatever may be the state of my own health and the inconven ience attending the stay of my daughters in this place, we will most gratefully take advantage of the goodness his imperial majesty has expressed towards us, by the permission to share in the miseries of this captivity." When the Emperor of Austria agreed to his liberal tion, he proposed certain conditions, to which La Fay ette refused his assent. One was that he should im mediately leave Europe and embark to America. " This," said the noble-minded Marquis, " has often been my desire and intention : but as my consent to xhis proposition, at the present moment, would be an acknowledgment of his right to impose such a condition, I cannot comply with the demand." — I #8 MEMOlRf OF LA FAYETTE. The other was, that as the principles which La Fay ette professed were supposed to be incompatible with the safety of the .Austrian government, the Emperor could not consent that he should again enter his terri tory without a special permission. To this La Fayetto replied, " that there already existed antecedent obli gations, of which he could not divest himself; partly towards America, but chiefly towards France ; and that he could not engage to do any thing, which should in terfere with the rights of his country to his personal services. With these exceptions, he assured the Em peror's ambassador, that- it was his firm resolution not to set foot again on any part of his Majesty's domin ions." When he was set free from the long and severe in carceration at Olmutz, La Fayette proceeded to the neutral city of ^ Hamburg, with his family ; where he received the kindest and most respectful attentions from some American gentlemen, then inthat place,' and also from many of the distinguished citizens, who cherished the highest regard for, his character, and his meritorious services in the cause of liberty. It was at this time, that his son, George Washington La Fay ette, joined the family, on his return from the United States, where he had just then passed several years. After a short residence in Hamburg, La Fayette ac- eepted the invitation of an Hanoverian nobleman, and passed some time at his elegant chateau in Holstein, where. his eldest daughter was married to Latour Mau- bourg, a brother of one of the Marquis' staff officers, who retired with him from France, August 1792; and had shared with him the severities of the prison of Magdeburg and Olmutz, He then resided some time MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE 99 in the family of a French emigrant, living in that vicin ity, and who was a distant relative of Madame La Fay ette. In this situation he studied the agriculture of Holstein; and gave particular attention to the raising of merino sheep, an object in which he was also en gaged after his return to La Grange, his country seat near Paris. In 1800 a new revolution took place in the French government. The Directors were found to be incom-f petent to the support of order ; cabals and factions still existed, and confusion prevailed through the nation. General Bonaparte, who had led the armies to victory in several campaigns, was ambitious of the sole direc tion of public affairs. The executive power, by the new constitution, was to be placed in three Consuls, of whom Napoleon was elected chief. A Conservative Senate, so called, was to constitute a part of the Legis lature and to be joined with the Consuls also in provid ing for the public welfare in cases of particular emer gency. By the constitutionalists and those opposed to the violent factions, by which France had been long agitated and disgraced, this change was considered as auspicious to the cause of rational liberty. They hop ed that a more stable government would be now form ed, and that their country would enjoy a season of re pose. La Fayette seized this favorable moment to re turn to France, after an absence of nearly eight years. His patriotic feelings had not abated, though he had suffered so long and so intensely from the haired of those who directed the destinies of his country. His love of liberty was not weakened, though many of his countrymen, with its sacred name on their lips, had committed excesses almost without a parallel in the most despotic governments. The First Consul invited La ISO MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Fayette to take a seat in the Conservative Senate ; but he declined; by which he gave new proofs of his dis interested and sincere attachment to the constitutional liberty and the rights of the people. After several conversations with Bonaparte, he was satisfied of the ambitious views of this military adventurer. He per ceived that the constitution was to serve as an apology for the exercise of unlimited power in the First Con sul; and that representatives and senators were to be the humble ministers of his will. He saw that the constitution did not emanate from the will of the peo ple ; and was not calculated to secure and promete their welfare. Bonaparte also had discernment to learn, that La Fayette was too sincere a friend to civil liberty and to the interests ofthe people, to support his purposes, or to submit to his plans of personal aggran dizement. We_shall have a more just estimation of the noble sentiments with which La Fayette was animated, in de clining the generous offers of the First Consul, when it is considered, that, in addition to his self-banishment to private life, he also refused an honorable salary of 7000 dollars; when the estates which remained in his possession yielded only 2000 dollars. He had a grant of land from the American Congress, in consideration of his important services in the revolution, estimated to be worth 100,000 dollars. Before the revolution, his income was 60.000-. dollars : but the most valuable of his patrimonial property, as well as that which accrued to him in consequence of his marriage, had been seiz ed by the lawless robbers of the revolution. It was in -conformity to the principles, which he had long professed and by which he was constantly guided, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 101 that he soon after opposed the election of Bonaparte as Consul for life. He would have consented, per haps, to the claims of the aspiring Napoleon to be the First Magistrate of France, under a constitution? which expressly defined and restricted his power, and at the same time provided a sufficient guaranty ofthe liberties of the people. On this occasion he wrote thus to the First Consul — " When a man, who is deeply impressed with a sense of the gratitude he owes you, and who is too ardent a lover of glory to be indifferent to yours, connects his suffrage with conditional restrictions, those restrictions not only secure him from suspicion, but prove amply, that no one will more gladly than himself behold in you the chief magistrate for life, of a free and independent republic. " The eighteenth Brumaire saved France from de struction ; and 1 felt myself reassured and recalled by the liberal declarations to which you have connectea the sanctibn of your honor. In your consular au thority, there was afterwards discerned that salutary dictatorial prerogative, which under the auspices of a genius like yours, accomplished such glorious purpo ses — yet less glorious, let me add,. than the restoration of liberty would prove. " It is not possible, general, that you, the first among that order of mankind, which surveys every age and ev ery country, can desire that a revolution, marked by an unexampled series of stupendous victories and unheard of sufferings, shall give nothing to the world but a ren ovated system of arbitrary government. The peo pie of this country have been acquainted with their rights too long, to forget them forever: but perhaps they may recover and enjoy them better now than I 2 102 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. during the period of revolutionary effervescence. And you, by the strength of your character and the influ ence of public confidence, by the superiority of your talents, your power, and your fortunes, in re-establish ing the liberties of France, can allay all agitations, calm all anxieties and subdue all dangers. " When I wish, then, to see the career of your glo ry crowned by the honors of perpetual magistracy, I but act in correspondence with my own private senti ments, and am influenced exclusively by patriotic con siderations. But all my political and moral obligations, the principles which have governed every action of my life, call on me to pause before I bestow on you my suffrage, until I feel assured that your authority shall he erected on a basis worthy of the nation and yourself. " I confidently trust, general, that you will recog nize here, as you have done on all other occasions, a steady continuance of my political opinions, combined with the sincerest prayers for your welfare,, and the deepest sense of all ray obligations towards you." Here closed all connexion between La Fayette and. Bonaparte. The First Consul not only avoided all in tercourse with one so sincerely- devoted to the cause of liberty ; but he treated him with that studied neglect,. which was little short of persecution. There was indeed nothing congenial either in the character or principles of these two distinguished men. The one was aiming at power by any means, without regard to, the rights or happiness of his fellow men ; the other was anxious for the permanent establishment of a mild government in his native country, for the true welfare and liberty of the people ; and was willing to make every sacrifice for the attainment of such great objects. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 103 The unfriendly feelings of Bonaparte were extended even to the younger La Fayette. This patriotic youth, with much ofthe public spirit of his noble father,engaged in the service of his country soon after his return from America. He was an aid of the brave Grouchy, gen eral of division ; an active, intelligent, meritorious officer, and distinguished on various occasions. But he received neither advancement nor distinction from the Emperor. It was, on the contrary, the wish of Napoleon, that young La Fayette would send in his resignation, and retire from the army.' When this was made known to him, he observed, " that as long as bis" country was involved in war, he should not dis grace himself by a resignation ; and that he should be ashamed to think of it, while his companions were daily exposing themselves to danger. It was true, he was an American citizen, but he was first of all a French man and a loyal Frenchman." G. W. La Fayette was much esteemed by the offi cers who knew him,, of all ranks ; and they frequently solicited his promotion; but the Emperor disregarded alike the merits of the youthful hero and the entreaties of his military friends. He continued in the army un til the treaty of Tilsit. To a man of his great sensibility and warmth of af fection, the severest affliction which La Fayette has been called to endure, great and various as have been his sufferings, now awaited him. His amiable, his at tached and devoted wife was torn from him, in his re treat, within a few years after his return to France ; when he more than ever, perhaps, needed her company and solnce, to fortify his mind under the multiplied dis appointments from the worlds 104 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. She-had never enjoyed perfect -health after her im prisonment at Olmutz. But possessed of uncommon fortitude and- imbued with religious sentiments, she was still instrumental in promoting the happiness of her husband and family. Her patience, her equanimity, her sweetness of temper never forsook her. But her constitution was broken, and a sudden paralysis de prived ber of her physical strength and almost of' speech. At the urgent request of her husband, though with reluctance, she was conveyed to Paris for med ical assistance ; but it proved in vain. She died in December 1807. While Madame de La Fayette was in the prison in'1 Paris, though treated with the greatest' severity by Robespierre and his party, she had the consolation of sharing in the sympathetic kindness and assistance of many individuals, who were willing to expose them selves to the hatred of her cruel persecutors for her relief. A gentleman from Boston, Joseph Russel, Esq. then a resident in Paris, made great efforts for her hberation ; although by this generous interference he hazarded his own life. It was through his friendly assistance, that her son G. W. La Fayette, then about fourteen years of age, was conveyed to the United States, where he remained till the discharge of his. parents from the dungeons of Olmutz. About this period, and soon after the death of his ami able wife, General La Fayette received a severe frac- turein one of his legs, by a fall, which occasioned his. confinement for nearly twelve months, and was the cause of his present lameness. He had been transact ing business with the minister of the marine ; and in going from the office to his carriage, a distance of twa MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 10S hundred paces, late in the evening, after a heavy rain and sleet, which had rendered it dangerous walking, he fell suddenly and broke a bone. For six or seven years,, till 1814, when Louis XVIII. returned to France to mount the throne ofthe Bourbons, La Fayette resided at his chateau of La Grange, an in active spectator of the political changes which took place. No doubt he had a sufficient apology for this inaction and voluntary retreat from public affairs. He was too honest and too candid, too much an enemy to the anarchy of the jacobin factions, and to the despotism of the Emperor, to support either, or to be received into their confidence. He would probably have been satis fied with the restoration of a Bourbon to the throne, if the throne could be founded in a constitution, admiting the representatives of (he people to a share in legisla tion, and defining the extent and the measure ofthe ex ecutive authority. He was animated by the same prin ciples and sentiments which governed him in the part he acted in 1789 and 1792: and although he might ac quiesce in a different government, either under the First Consul, or under Louis XV11I. he could not, consist ently, and therefore he chose not to forward their views by his own personal influence and support. He was still calumniated by some agents of the Bourbons, yet he declared, on the return of Bonaparte from Elba, to gain the throne of France, "that in all measures, which should, promote or be consistent with the liberties of the people, he would aid the cause of the legitimate heir of the crown." The views of Louis' friends and allies were too arbitrary to lead them to expect his ap probation and aid. Louis XV111. had not been long in France, befote £06 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE! great discontent was manifested among the citizens- at the prospect of his being placed on the throne of his brother. Napoleon and his friends took advantage of this state of things: he left his retreat in the Island of Elba, and returned to Paris. Louis was obliged to re tire. Bonaparte, through his brother Joseph, the ex- king of Spain, solicited of La Fayette to accept of a peerage. But he promptly declined ; but observed,. " that if there should bo a convocation of a chamber of representatives," which he strenuously urged, " he.- would consent to take a part in public affairs, should he be elected." His independence and his want of faith, in Napoleon, were preserved, notwithstanding the ur gent advances ofthe latter ; and he resolutely refused, to go near him till after his final abdication. Yet even at this-time, La Fayette thought he might rely on " his cordial opposition to all foreign invasion and influence, and to any family or party which should avail itself of such assistance in order to attack the independence and. ' the liberties of France.'1" Much as he distrusted the- views of Bonaparte, and desirous as he was of some ex plicit guaranty, from him arid his supporters, for the liberty of the French people, he would not unite with the Bourbons, who were resolved to place Louis XVIII." firmly on the throne of his ancestors, by any means in their power, and who had collected an army of one mil lion two hundred thousand foreigners to accomplish their object, at the risque of a civil war, and a general slaughter, similar to that with which the unprincipled,. revolutionary jacobins had before afflicted the nation. La Fayette was now elected a member of thp chamber of deputies from his own department, though he had protested against' the articles of the constitution of the MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 10J7 empire, and ofthe additional act which conspired against the sovereignty of the people, and the rights of the citi zens. This was a strong proof of the sense the peo ple had of his integrity and his patriotism. After the battle of Waterloo, Napoleon returned to Paris, in con sternation, and undecided as to the course he would.pur- sue on this signal reverse of fortune. Some of his friends advised him again to abdicate the office of Emperor, •which he held by so precarious a tenure ; others sug gested decisive and bold measures, with a view to for tify himself in power, even in opposition to the will and wisKes of the deputies. He attempted to prorogue the chamber of representatives, and have himselfproclaim- ed perpetual dictator. La Fayette was then present in the chamber ; and with his usual independence and energy, made the following observations. ¦** When, for the first time for many years, I raise my •voice, which the old friends of liberty will recognise a- gain, I feel constrained to address you, gentlemen, on the imminent danger of thecountry, which you alone are able to prevent. " Disastrous reports havebeen circulated and are now unhappily confirmed.' Now is the time to rally round the old tri-coloured standard of 1789, of liberty, of equal ity,- and of public order. It is this alone which we are bound to defend against foreign pretensions and domes tic factions. Allow a veteran in this , holy cause, whe has always been an enemy to the baneful spirit of dis sension, to submit the following preliminary resolutions^ of which I hope you will admit the necessity. " First. The Chamber of Representatives declare, that the independence of the nation is endangered. " Second. The Chamber 'declare themselves iq con; 10'8 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. tinued session — That every attempt to prorogue the Chamber shall be considered high treason — That any one guilty of such an attempt shall be deemed a traitor to his country, and be instantly proceeded against as such. " Third. The army of the line and the national guards, who have fought and are still fighting for the independence of France, deserve the .gratitude of their ¦country. " Fourth. The minister of the interior is directed to assemble the general staff, the commandants and majors of the legion of the national guard of Paris, to consult Dn the means of supplying them with arms, and to ren der complete this citizen-guard ; whose zeal and pat riotism having been proved for twenty-six years, offer a sure guaranty of the liberty, the property and the tranquillity ofthe capital, andof the inviolability of the '-representatives x>f the nation. •" Fifth. The ministers of war, of foreign relations, -of the interior and of the police, are invited to attend zens ; but insisted upon its expediency in the present state of the nation. At this time, also, he reminded the ministers of promis.es-, which had been made by the po litical friends of Louis XVIII. in favor of the liberties of the people. He " conjured them to maintain the lib erties of France, within the limits prescribed by the constitution." " To violate it," said he, " is to dissolve the mutual guarantys of the nation and of the throne;- i,tis to give ourselves up to a total primitive freedom1 from all duties and all laws." This discussion was un usually animated, and La Fayette was very decided in* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 1 17 fiis opposition to the measure. The course pursued by the court was condemned; and some severity of re mark was indulged in, as to the designs of ministers. The ministerial party obtained but a small majority in favor of the law ; and some fermentation was excited in Paris in relation to this subject. The liberals, or the friends of constitutional freedom, were insulted, and the life of La Fayette was openly menaced. This year, a society was formed among the friends of constitutional freedom, for the relief of those, who were arrested on mere suspicion, or on a charge of vi olating the restrictions on the press ; but who were be lieved to be unjustly suspected, and who had been found entirely innocent, even in the eye of the law, rigid as were its provisions. This was a numerous society ;— consisting of fifty four members of the chamber of dep uties, and many other opulent and literary citizens; at the head of which we find the name of M. La Fayette, The distinguished Americans and Englishmen who have visited La Fayette, at his family mansion of La Grange, describe his residence and its inmates as most beautiful and interesting. " It is situated in the fertile district of La Brie, thirty miles from Paris, remote from any common road, and far distant from the bustling world. In the midst of a luxuriant wilderness, rising above prolific orchards and antiquated woods, appears the five towers of La Grange, tinged with the golden rays of the declining sun. The deep moat, the draw bridge, the ivied tower and arched portals, opening in to a large square court, has a feudal and picturesque character ; and the associations which occur, on enter ing the residence of a man so heroic, so disinterested^ 118 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. so celebrated, fill the mind with peculiar admiration, and excite the most lively interest." The family par ty, partaking more of patriarchal than of courtly .plan ners, is composed of individuals mutually attached, and anxious only for mutual improvement and happiness; It represents the younger members, as employed in their studies or engaged in innocent recreations so sal utary to the youthful temper and constitution : and the older, as occupied in useful and literary pursuits, or de voted to the more enlivening pleasures of conversation. " The venerable head of this happy family, at the age of sixty seven, is in the full possession of every tal ent and faculty. His memory has all the tenacity of youthful recollection. On his person, time has yet made little visible impression. Not a wrinkle furrows the ample brow ; and his unbent and noble figure is still as upright, bold and vigorous, as the mind which in forms it. Grace, strength and dignity still distinguish the fine person of this extraordinary man; who, thbugh more than forty years before the world, engaged in scenes of strange and eventful conflict, does not yet ap pear to have reached his grand climactric. Active on his farm, graceful and elegant in his salon, it is difficult to trace, in one ofthe most successful agriculturists, and one of the most perfect fine gentlemen of France, a warrior and a legislator. But the patriot is always dis cernible. His conversation is enriched with anecdotes of all that is celebrated in character or event, for the last fifty years. His elegant and well chosen collection of books, occupies the highest apartments in one ofthe to.wers of the chateau ; and, like the study of Montaigne, hangs over the farm yard ofthe philosophical agriciil- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 119 twist. It frequently happens, said M. La Fayette, to one of his visitors as they were looking from a window on some flocks, which were moving beneath, that my merinos and my hay carts dispute my attention to Hume or Voltaire." Ofthe benevolent affections of La Fayette, his whole - life affords abundant proofs. He was possessed of the most patriotic and generous feeling. Numerous instan ces are also related of his kindness to individuals, and of his private benefactions. The children of his ten ants, and neighbours were objects of his generosity and ' , complacency. And those who are unjustly oppressed, Qr defrauded, were sure to find in him, an able advo cate. The widow of an American officer, of French parentage, who was left destitute at the death of her gallant husband, had a claim for patrimonial estates in France. The legal evidence to substantiate her claim was exceedingly difficult to be procured. The case was made known to La Fayette, and he never ceased his exertions until he recovered the greater part of the estate. Soon after the arrival of young La Fayette in Boston, 4795, he wrote to General Washington, then President ofthe United States, informing him of his situation, and requesting advice and counsel from the friend of his' father. As the chief magistrate of the nation, it would not have been prudent in Washington, publicly to inter fere in his behalf-^La Fayette, at this period, was al most equally obnoxious to the rulers of France, as any one ofthe royal family. He had, indeed, been most un justly denounced and proscribed by the dominant party; ibut they pretended he was attached to a monarchy.; 120 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. and a public official act of patronage in the President;, towards young La Fayette, would have furnished a pretext for complaint against the government. Wash ington had already given proof, that he did not approve ofthe conduct ofthe French Directory, nor of the pro ceedings of their minister in America. But though a prudent policy forbid all official attention and aid to the son of La Fayette, the generous & noble feelings of Wash ington induced him to give assurances of personal re gard, and of a readiness to afford all proper assistance towards the education and support of this youthful sub ject of political persecution. He wrote to his friend, Hon. George Cabot, stating the reasons for declining to •act officially or publicly in the case ; but requesting Mr. C. to assure young La Fayette that he might con sider him as a father, a friend and protector. Washington expressed a desire in this letter, that he should become ¦a member ofthe university in Cambridge, if qualified for admission, where he would be under the inspection and tuition of excellent men; for he was aware that want of employment would lead to dissipation ; and that 4he season of youth was to be diligently, improved for the cultivation of the mind. He desired Mr. C. to call on him to meet any expenses which might accrue in his education and support. The French tutor, who at tended young La Fayette, chose to have him under his own private instruction ; and he did not enter the uni versity;' The kindness and generosity of Washington were not the less meritorious in the appeal made to him by the son of his own, and of his country's friend. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. .121 Among the many eminent characters by whom Gen» eral La Fayette was visited in his retirement at La Grange, after his return to France, (in 1800)1 was Charles J. Fox, the celebrated British statesman. The family :of Mr. Fox, for several generations, was ranked among the whig party in England, and firm friends of the glorious revolution of 1689 ; when the H°use °f Stuart was excluded from the throne, and William and Mary acknowledged as the legitimate sovereigns. Mr. Fox was of the same political school with the elder Pitt, whose powerful talents were successfully exerted for the glory of Great Britain, in the latter part ofthe reign of George II. and who was a firm and decided ad- 'vocate for the rights of the British colonies in 1775. When La Fayette and family were confined in the dun geons at 01mutz,Mr. Fox, with others, then members of the British Parliament, pleaded the cause of these un happy sufferers, with great eloquence, but without ef fect. He had been personally acquainted with the cel ebrated French philanthropist, before this period; and was attached to his character and principles, as a zeal ous friend of civil liberty. The interview between these two highly distinguished reformers is represented to have been peculiarly interesting. Perhaps; the plans of reform proposed by Mr. Fox, could not have been carried into effect, at that time, without danger to the stability of the British government; but .the general character of Fox, gave evidence of the sincerity of his upright purposes; and of the purity ofthe motives, by which La Fayette was actuated, in the course he pur sued in France, in 1789, and subsequently, cannot be justly doubted, though the revolution did not result in the political benefits he had anticipated. L i.22, memoirs of la bayette,, *- When Mr. Fox was in Paris, some time in 1809,' La Fayette hastened from his -retired residence, at La- Grange, to. call on him. The writer, who gives an ac count of this meeting, observes, " that a stranger of an interesting and graceful figure, came gently in," where he and Mr. Fox were sitting,. atthe hotel in Paris, "ad vanced rapidly ; and, embracing Mr. Fox, shewed a- countenance full ;of joy, while tears rolled down his cheeks ; Mr. Fox testified equal emotion. It was M. de La Fayette, the virtuous and unshaken friend of liber ty. He had come fromthe country to see Mr. Fox, and to invite him to bis house. In a few moments their sentiments were interchanged. The review of the past was taken in a moment ; and they soon appeared to be affectionate friends, who having parted for a few days, were now reunited. La Fayette viewed the new state of things with regret; not from any personal dis like of the first consul, but from a rooted and principled conviction., that arbitrary power is injurious to the hap piness of mankind. " In his retirement, and filled with gloomy prospects ofthe republic, he lived in the most private and sim*- pie manner. In the bosom of an amiable and affection ate family, he found every consolation. He frequented no place of amusement; and, with a very limited for tune, exhibited the .bright example of a public man, content with a little, free from all envious and angry feelings : and willing to live in dignified silence, when he had not the power or influence to do good." The visit of Mr. Fox and his friend to La Grange, is thus described — " The towers and wood of the. chateau appeared in peaceful repose, as we drove near; and when we gained a full vie.w of the building, I felt great MEMOIRS OF 'LA FAYETTE, 1 $$ emotion ; it was the residence of a great and good man — a patriot and friend of mankind, whose life had been consecrated to virtue and liberty; the family came to the hall to meet us, happy in themselves, and rejoicing •to see the illustrious friend of La Fayette 1 I cannot forget that moment — no silly affectation, no airs of idle ceremony were seen at the residence of him, who had gloriously struggled for America, and had done all he could for France. " M. de La Fayette and Madame received Mr. and Mrs. Fox with the heartiest welcome. The family con sisted of two daughters, and a son and his wife, all young, and elegant ; all living with M. de La Fayette, as a brother and friend. His graceful and manly form, his benevolent countenance, his frank and warm man ners, which made him almost adored by his family, and a placid contentedness, nearly allied to cheerfulness^ altogether had an irresistable effect, in gaining the affec tions and esteem of those admitted to his more intimate society. " Madame de La Fayette, of the noble family of No- ailes, was a superior and admirable woman, possessing ¦the high polish ofthe ancient nobility, eloquent and animated. Fondly attached to M. de La Fayette and her family, she regretted nothing of past splendor ; she possessed an affectionate husband, and was happy in re tirement. The son was a pleasing young man, and his wife engaging and interesting; the daughters were , charming women, entirely free from the insipid languor or wretched affectation, which in young ladies of fash ion so much destroys originality of character, and makes us find, in one of the fashionables, the prototype and pattern of -thousands. In a word, this amiable and happy family seemed united by- one bond of affection*, 124 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. and to desire nothing beyond the circle of their own tranquil mansion. - " The chateau and estate of La Grange, which'Ma* dame, who was an heiress, had brought with her, was> all that remained of his fortune. He had lost every thing besides in the madness of revolutionary confisca tion ; and had not yet been able to procure restitution or compensation. To add to the interest ofthe scene, General Fitzpatrick who had known La Fayette in America, and had vainly attempted, in the British house of Commons, to rouse the ministry to a sense of humanity and]| justice for him, joined the party at La Grange, at this time. 1 hat accomplished man was an addition to our society, and was received most affec tionately by the family of La Fayette. I have often contemplated with great pleasure, Mr. Fox, General Fitzpatrick and M. de La Fayette walking in the long shady grove near the chateau, speaking of past times, the war in America, and the revolution in France. The rare sight of three such characters was gratefol to any one who felt friendly to the cause of civil liberty, and valued men for their services to humanity, rather than for successful ambition. "La Fayette spoke a good deal of America; and we learnt from him something of his various and use ful services for that country, at the court of Louis, as well as of bis personal efforts, during the struggle for independence. His political career in France had not the same happy result, as in Ameiica; but it should be considered, that his situation in the former was arduous beyond measure. A friend to limited monarchy, and to the legitimate rights of the people, at a, time when the support of one was deemed hostility to the oth? MEM81RS OF LA FAYETTE. 125 'er, he found it impossible, consistent with his prin ciples, to follow the mania rk, proceeded the committee of arranger ments of the city, the officers of the United States army and navy,4he general officers of the militia, the com mittee of the Society of Cincinnati, &c. On board this steam boat, General La Fayette embarked at Staten Isl and, for the city, at about one o'clock. This was an nounced by a salute frorn the largest steam ship, man ned by the national troops, and from fovt La Fayette. The procession then moved for the city, and presented to its inhabitants a most beautiful and magnificent scene. About two o'clock the General landed at the battery, where'he was received by a salute from the troops, and the hearty and reiterated cheers ofthe immense throng which had assembled to welcome him to our short:?. "It is impossible' fully, to describe the enthusiasm cf joy which pervaded and was expressed by the whole multitude. Here the General had a fair specimen of the affection and respect, which is felt for him by eve ry individual of this extended country. He seemed much moved by these expressions of attachment, and bowed continually to the people who pressed about him-- After resting a few moments at the castle garden, he proceeded in an elegant*1 barouche drawn by four hor ses, escorted by the dragoons and troops, through Broad way to the City Hall. The windows, balconies, and even the roofs of the houses were filled with ladios, all- welcoming the General as he passed, by their smiles and waving of handkerchiefs. " At about 4 o'clock, the procession arrived at the City Hall, where General La Fayette was received by the Mayor and Common Council, and formally welcomed and congratulated on his safe arrival in the country. After receiving the marching salute of the troops ifl' 136 memoirs of la fayette. front of the City Hall^he was conducted to the City Ho tel, where he dined with the members of the corpora tion. In the evening, the front ofthe City Hotel, and many other adjoining buildings, were handsomely. illur minated. The theatres and public gardens displayed transparencies, fire-works and rockets in honor of the occasion." — The committee of the Cincinnati waited on General La Fayette, af Staten Island ; and were receiv ed by him with peculiar marks of affection and friend ship. The committee consisted of several field officers of the revolutionary army, some of whom were upwards of eighty years of age. The following is the address of the Mayor of New York, to General La Fayette, when he arrived at the city Hall : " In the name of the municipal authority ofthe city, I bid you a sincere welcome lo the. shores of a country, of whose freedom and happiness you will ever be con sidered one of the most honored and beloved founders. Your cotemporaries in arms, of whom indeed but few remain, have not forgot, and their posterity will never forget the young and gallant Frenchman, who consecrat ed his youth, his talents, his fortune and his exertions to their cause; who exposed his life, who shed his blood, that they might be free and happy. They. will recollect with profound emotions, so long as they re main worthy of the liberties they enjoy, and of the ex* erlions you made to obtain them, that you came to them in the darkest period of their struggle ; that you linked your fortune with theirs, when it seemed almost hope less;' that you shared in the dangers, privations and suf ferings of thaf bitter'struggle ; nor quitted them for a moment till it was consummated on the glorious field of MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 137 Yorktown. Half a century has elapsed since that great event, and in that time your name has become as dear to the friends, as it is inseparably connected with the cause of freedom, both in the old and in' the new world. "The people of the United States look up toyou as to one of their most honored parents — the country cher ishes you as one of the most beloved of her sons. I hope and trust, Sir, that not only the present, but the future conduct of my countrymen, to the latest period of time, will, among other slanders, refute the- unjust irnputation, that republics are always ungrateful to their benefactors. "Inbehalf of my fellow citizens of New York, and ' speaking the warm and ' universal sentiments of the whole people of. the United States, I repeat their wel come to our common country." To this address, General La -Fayette replied as fol-" lows : — " Sm,- " While I am so affectionately received by the cit izens of New York and their worthy representatives, I" feel myself overwhelmed with inexpressible emotions. The sight of the American shore, after so long an ab sence; the recollection of the many respected friends' and dear companions, no more to be found on this land ; the pleasure to recognize those who survive; the im mense concourse of a free republican population, who so kindly welcome me ; the admirable appearance of the troops ; the presence of a corps of thei national na vy; have excited sentiments, to which no language is" adequate. You have been pleased, Sir, to allude to the happiest times, tbe unalloyed enjoyment of my public" life. It is the pride of my heart to have been one of" 138 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. the earliest adopted sons of America. I am proud, also, to add, that upwards of forty years ago I was honored with the freedom of this city. I beg you, Sir ; I beg you, gentlemen, to accept yourselves, and to transmit to the citizens of New York, the homage of my pro found and everlasting gratitude, devotion and respect." On the two following days after his arrival in New York, General La Fayette received the gratulations of a great number of the citizens ; and on the latter, was addressed by coriimittees of the society of Cincinnati, and of the Historical Society ; and also visited the navy yard ofthe United Sjates. On board ofthe ship Wash ington, of 74 guns, his reception was very splendid, and a sumptuous repast was provided.. On Thursday, deputations from the Frenchmen resident in the city, and from the gentlemen ofthe Bar, waited on him, and presented congratulatory addresses. In his answer to the committee ofthe HistoricalrSo- ciety, he observed,: — " The United States are the first nation on the records of history, who have founded their constitution upon an honest investigation and clear definition of their natural and social rights. Nor can we doubt, but that, notwithstanding the combinations made elsewhere, by despotism against the sacred rights of mankind, immense majorities in other countries will not in vain observe the happiness and prosperity of a free, virtuous and enlightened people." To the gentlemen of the Bar, he replied — " Testi monies of esteem from so respectable a body as the Bar of New York, are highly flattering. I most deep ly sympathize, gentlemen, in your regret for the friend {Hamilton)»whose prodigious talents made him as emi nent in your profession, as he had been in our military, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE." 139 when he deserved Washington's most intimate confi dence. The truly republican form of the American constitutions, cannot but endear them to every citizen of the United States. Yet, to any one, who with an Amer ican heart, has had opportunities of a comparison -with other countries, the blessings of these institutions must appear still more conspicuous." The address ofthe French gentlemen in New York, was very affectionate and respectful, referring, in high ly complimentary style, to the services of La Fayette both in France and America-. His reply is indicative, at once, ofpatribtism, of attachment to the cause of ra tional freedom, and of his regard for the United States,' the land of his adoption. "It is a great happiness for me, on my arrival in this land of liberty, to receive the congratulations of my countrymen. At the moment of "my departure, the testimonials of affectionate attach ment of many of my fellow citizens, the parting accents from the shores of France, -left in my heart the most grateful emotions.. I delight to participate with you the feelings which I experienced in this happy Ameri can land, to which 1 am bound by so many lies. We also, patriots of 1789, sought to establish the national dignity, the security of property and the happiness of our beautiful France, upon the sacred foundations of liberty and equality. Notwithstanding our misfortunes, the cotemporaries of that epoch will inform you, that the revolution of 1789, has greatly ameliorated the condition of an immense majority of the people. Do not let us despair of the cause of liberty : It is still dear to the hearts of Frenchmen ; and we shall one day have the felicity of seeing it established in our beloved country." 140 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE During the four days he remained iri New York, all gentlemen and ladies of the most respectable families' werV individually introduced to him ; and he manifested' great pleasure at the cordial welcome, with which he was universally greeted. Splendid evening parties were given in honor of the " nation's guest," at which he met many individuals whom he had known more than forty* years before. His interviews with " the war-worn ve terans," with whom he had been associated in times of danger, for the liberties ofthe country, were peculiar ly interesting and affecting. He embraced them ; but his feelings were so powerful, that he could not give utterance to his sentiments for many minutes. After his arrival at New York, he early announced his intention to visit Boston, where he had been partic ularly invited by distinguished individuals, and by the' city authorities ; especially as the commencement at the University in Cambridge, the literary jubilee of the - State, was to be celebrated in a few days. While in Nevy York, he received invitations by committees or letters from Philadelphia, Albany, New Haven and some other cities, to make a visit to those places re spectively ; but his desire was first to visit Boston, if possible- Accordingly, he left New York, where his reception had been so very gratifying to his feelings, and where thecitizens were still eager to show him honorable civilities, on Friday morning, for Boston, through New Haven, New London and Providence. He was attended by a committee of the Common Coun cil, the Major General of militia and his suite, the Gen eral and field officers of the artillery and infantry, and ' by strangers and citizens of distinction on horseback, and escorted by the Huzzars of the 2d and 14th regi- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 141 ments, to Harlem, where he was saluted by the 3d re giment of infantry. On .leaving this place, he was sa luted by the La Fayette guards of the 2d regiment. The principal part of the troops then returned ; and the first regiment of horse artillery continued the es cort to the line of Connecticut. A salute was fired at a place called Putnam's hill, on account of the memo rable feat performed there by General Israel Putnam,. in the revolutionary war. The suite of La Fayette consisted of his son and M. Le Vasseur, who accompa nied him in his voyage from France, and four of the Aldermen of New. York. The city corporation had pro vided an elegant carriage to accommodate him in his journey to Boston, and deputed four of their number to attend him in his route. He travelled with great ra pidity, passing the distance of thirty miles in three hours. He appeared perfectly capable of enduring fa tigue, and discovered the activity, and sprigbtliness of vigorous manhood. They reached New- Haven about midnight, on his approach to which he was met by the governor's guard, and escorted into that city. Most of the buildings on the principal streets were illuminated, and a national ^salute was fired. " The night was almost turned into • day, and the scene was very brilliant and impressive." He vvas detained at all the villages on the road from New York to New Haven, through the eagerness of the citizens, to see and be introduced to this distinguish ed hero of the revolution. The public road was throng? ed with multitudes of both sexes and youth, who greet ed him with reiterated acclamations, and. continued. " welcome, welcome." They prepared sincere, though. simple offerings of respect to the man, " who fought 142 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETlEi tiot-for honor or for pay ;" but in imitationnf his polit ical, American parent, was devoted, life and property,- . to the cause of our country's freedom. After a public breakfast, a visit to the college, and calls upon Mrs. Trumbull, the widow ofthe late governor of the statef Hon. Mr. Daggett, senator in Congress, and some other eminent characters, he left New Haven, for New Lon don, Saturday morning, attended by the city authorities and escorted by a company of cavalry, a part of the distance, until met by another troop of horsq, by which. General La Fayette and suite were then attended to Saybrook, on Connecticut river, about forty miles from New' Haven. Part of the Sabbath was passed in New London ; and at this place, he attended public worship. He expressed a desire to avoid travelling on that day, as much as possible. At New London, and at most other places on his journey, he met some of his old revolutionary companions, who were delighted to see again in their own free and happy country, a man who had devoted his earliest days and_zealous efforts to se cure its independence. He reached Providence on Monday, the 23d, at 12 o'clock, haying been 'met at an early hour, on the boun dary line between Connecticut and Rhode Island, by the aids ofthe Governor of the last named state. When he arrived at the limits ofthe town of Providence, an immense crowd of citizens were assembled to bid him welcome, and to offer him their (hearty gratulations. The houses and streets in the western part ofthe town, where he entered, were filled with citizens, who greet ed him as he passed with reiterated cheers. " When he arrived in front of the State House, he alighted, and was received in a very interesting manner. The ay- MEMOIRS OF LA LAYETTE. 143 enue leading to the building was lined with female youth, dressed in white, holding in their hands branches of flowers, which they strewed in his path, at the same time waving, their white handkerchiefs. La Fayette appeared much gratified and affected by this simple, but touching arrangement. In the senate chamber, he was introduced to the Governor and many other distinguish ed characters ; among whom were several late officers •ef the revolutionary army. These he embraced with much affection ; and his emotions were so great, he was unable to address them. He recognized Captain Olney, the moment he saw him, among a crowd of citizens. This gentleman commanded a company under Geneial La Fayette, at the scige of Yorktown, and was the first to force the redoubts thrown up by the British troops, and carried by our light infantry, in a most brilliant manner, when led on to the assault by their comman der in person. At fhis interview, so affecting and in teresting, a thrill ran through the whole assembly, and not a dry eye was to be found among the throng of Spectators; while the shouts of the multitude, at first ' suppressed, and then uttered in a manner tempered by the scene, evinced the deep feeling and proud associa tions it had excited." Another respectable veteran, 9f eighty-five years of age, was found among the mul titudes assembled to render their affectionate homage lo La Fayette. He was a volunteer in the expedition on Rhode Island, in the autumn of 1778, and assisted in conducting the retreat from that place, under direction of the Marquis, when the militia were in great danger from the-superior number of the British forces. The .aged patriot was overwhelmed with joy, on beholding -once more, his.beloyed general. 144 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. On account of a previous engagerhent to be in Bos» ton, Monday night, or early on.Tuesday morning, Gen eral La Fayette was obliged, though reluctantly,, to leave Providence the afternoon ofthe day he arrived there. As he left the town he walked some distance, "in order to view the troops, which were drawn up in the public street leading towards Boston ; and then en tered his carriage, accompanied by the Governor and several other public characters ; and amidst the cheers ofthe people proceeded on his journey. He was also attended by the -society of Cincinnati of the State of Rhode Island, as far as Pautucket river, the southern bounds of Massachusetts. When some one expressed an apprehension, that he might be fatigued by his rap id travelling and the various scenes through which he passed in the course of the day, he quickly replied^ -that he experienced too great pleasure, to be sensible -of any fatigue. At Pautucket, he was met by the aids of Governor Enstis, the Chief Magistrate of the State of Massachu setts, who had been dispatched, the day before, to re ceive him at the line of the Commonwealth, and to es cort him on his way to the capital. Although it was now evening, at several places on the road, large bo dies of the mUitia were collected to salute him>; and assemblies of ladies and gentlemen were occasionally met, who offered this illustrious stranger, but respected friend of their Country, thfir tribute of applause and affection. He was too sensible of their sincerity and warmth of their felicitations, not to delay his journey* at several villages, and to reciprocatt their kind and ¦cordial salutations, lt was nearly midnight when he reached the town of Dedham, about ten miles from MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 145 Boston. Most of the houses in this pleasant village were handsomely illuminated ; and a great number of the inhabitants of both sexes were assembled to greet him. During the short pause he was able to make here, he was introduced to many of the principal citi zens ofthe town and vicinity, who had been anticipating his arrival for some hours. When he passed through Roxbury, at about 1 o'clock, he was accompanied by a large cavalcade of citizens of that place and from Bos- tori ; and a salute was , fired by the Roxbury corps of artillery. His arrival here was also- announced by the ascent of rockets from an eminence in the centre of the town ; and the note of preparation was thus given for the parade and pleasure of the succeeding day, which had been anticipated with uncommon interest and delight. La Fayette and suite proceeded to the mansion of his Excellency the Governor, to which they had been invited ; and the meeting between them was truly affectionate and cordial. On Tuesday the 24th the inhabitants of Boston hail ed the morning fight with peculiar emotions, and were abroad at an eaily hour, preparing, for the general tes timonies of, gratitude, and respect to be presented to the " nation's guest." Many ofthe older citizens recollected him in his youthful days ; when he visited the town, forty-six years ago, at the request of Congress and Washington, to prevail on the French admiral to co operate with his fleet in some contemplated attack uj.on the British forces. They had not .forgotten his zeal and ardor in the cause of America. ihey knew his great attachment to and respect for the immmt'rf chief ofthe American army,_and the confidence, .which Wash ington cherished for La Fayette. Here too were many <> N 146^" MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. revolutionary officers and soldiers, who had often wit nessed his unwearied activity and personal courage in seasons of difficulty and danger. The Society of Cin cinnati in this State contained many of his personal friends, who shared with him in the toils and honors of the war of independence ; they had assembled, also, to offer the hand of friendship and affection to their dis tinguished brother in arms ; and to tell him of the hap piness which he had been instrumental, with others, in securing to ten millions of freemen. The curiosity oltheyonng was awakened to hear ofthe generous deeds and meritorious services of this celebrated visiter from the old world. They were eager to learn his worth and his virtues. For they knew their grave and sober sires would not be so greatly moved by the ap proach of any ordinary character, whatever might be his title or his fame. The sensibility of the female breast was excited to a lively glow, in reflecting upon the character of this eminent foreigner, who had not only given proofs of great devotion to the cause of America, and to the interests of civil liberty, but whose moral and social virtues claimed for him the respect and admiration of all those who loved innocence or commiserated distress. And aU classes, without intend ing to lessen the pre-eminent services and virtues of Washington, who, under providence was the great and chief agent in achieving our independence, and in pre serving it, after it had been once established — or to undervalue the important efforts and courage of many other revered heroes and patriots, too numerous to be here named. All, all, were eager to join in the spon taneous offering of gratitude and affection to one so . justly celebrated and so greatly beloved. MEMOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. Mf He entered the city, the capital of the state, about 1 1 o'clock ; " and his reception was a triumph and a jubilee. The day was as bright as his laurels, and as mild as his virtues. The various bodies designated to compose the procession, and perform the honors ofthe day, assembled at an early hour, and at the time ap pointed." The cavalcade was formed*in Common street, at 9 o'clock. It was very numerous, and con sisted ofthe citizens of Boston, of all ranks and clashes, on horseback. Proceeding to the extreme southerly part ofthe city, near the line of Roxbury, they were joined by the Mayor and Aldermen, and members ofthe Common Council, the Society of Cincinnati, a_ great number of public civil characters and strangers of dis tinction,, all in carriages ; by the general and field of ficers ofthe first division of militia, and officers of the- army and navy of the United States. An innumerable concourse of people on' foot lined the side walks ofthe spacious street, where the procession was to be formed, the entrance to the city from Roxbury, and fortunately named Washington-street. The cavalcade then pro ceeded to the mansion of Governor Eustis, which is a short distance, within the town of Roxbury, and escorted General La Fayette and suite to the line, where the city authorities and others, who were to compose the procession, were in waiting to receive him. Here he was greeted by the immense assemblage of citizen", with repeated and enthusiastic acclamations, for sev eral minutes, when the mayor welcomed him with much feeling, in the following speech. " Sir — The Citizens of Boston welcome you on your return to the United States ; mindful of your early zeal in the cause of American Independence, grateful for 148 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. your distinguished share in the perils and glories of its achievement. — When urged by a generous sympathy^ you first landed on these shores, you found a people engaged in an arduous and eventful struggle for liberty with apparently inadequate means, and amidst dubious omens. After a lapse of nearly half a century, you find the same people prosperous beyond all hope and all precedent ; their liberty secure ; sitting in its strength ; without fear and without reproach. " In your youth you joined the standard of three mil lions of people,' raised in an unequal and uncertain con flict. In your advanced age you return and are met by ten millions of people, their descendants, whose hearts throng hither to greet your approach and rejoice in it. "This is not the movement of a turbulent populace, excited by the fresh laurels of some recent conqueror. It is a grave, moral, intellectual impulse. " A whole people in the enjoyment of freedom as perfect as the condition, of our nature permits, recur with gratitude, increasing with the daily increasing sense of their blessings, to the memory of those, who, by' their labors, and in their blood, laid the foundation of our liberties. "Your name, sir, — the name of La Fayette, is asso ciated with the most perilous, and most glorious peri ods of our Revolution; — with the imperishable names of Washington, and of that numerous host of heroes which adorn the proudest archives of American history, and are engraven in indellible traces on the hearts of the whole American people. " Accept, then, sir, in the sincere spirit in which it is offered, this simple tribute to your virtues. - " Again, sir, the citizens of Boston bid you welcome MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 149' to the cradle of American Independence, and to scenes consecrated with the blood shed by the earliest martyrs in its cause. "- General La Fayette then rose in his carriage, and in a most interesting and felicitous manner, replied as follows : — " The emotions of love and gratitude, which I have been accustomed to feel on my entering this city, have ever mingled with a sense of religious reverence for the cradle 6f American, and let me hope it will here after be said, of Universal Liberty. "What must be, sir, my feelings, at the blessed mo ment, when, after so long an absence, I find myself a- gain surrounded by the good citizens of Boston — where I am so affectionately, so honorably welcomed, not on ly by old friends, but by several successive generations; where I can witness the prosperity, the immense im provements, that have been the just reward of a noble stroggle,virtuous morals and truly republican institutions. " I beg of you, Mr. Mayor, Gentlemen of the City Council, and all of you, beloved citizens of Boston, to accept the respectful and warm thanks of a heart, which has, for nearly half a century,, been, particularly devot ed to your illustrious city." The reply of the General was received with new plaudits 'of the assembled people ; and " welcome, wel come La Fayette ! "friend of Washington ! friend of A- merica ! Friend of liberty !" was repeated again and again ; and the heights of Dorchester and Roxbury ech oed with the joyful acclamation. The procession was then formed, and pnssed-through Washington, Milk, Broads State, Court, and. Common- sheets, to, Boylston-street, adjoining thf? south part caC s 2 150 MEMOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. the Common, in the following order—" Three mar shals, the Boston corps of Light Dragoons, a battalion of Light Infantry, composed of the Fusiliers, Boston Light Infantry, Winslow Blues, Washington Light In fantry, New-England Guards. Rangers, and City Guards} and a full band of music. Then followed the chief marshal, attended by aids ; members ofthe City Coun cil, Committee of Arangements, the President of the Common Council and senior Alderman, all in carriages. Here was placed another marshal, immediately prece ding the elegant barouche, drawn by four beautiful white- horses, in which rode the distinguished guest of the city and of the nation, accompanied bj' the may or, with marshals also on either side. The son and friend of La Faj'ette, and gentlemen aldermen from New York, next followed in carriages ; and these were succe'eded by the society of the Cincinnati, public char acters, Judges and Legislators, and distinguished stran gers, in carriages also. Immediately after, two mar shals*; field ai id staff officers of the militia, mounted on horseback, and followed also by two marshals. The cavalcade of citizens, of all ranks and in great numbers,. with marshals atten ing, closed the voluntary but tri umphant procession. The dwelling houses and stores on the streets through whichthe procession was conducted, were crowded with inhabitants in every part. The ladies thus situated; caught the enthusiasm of the occasion, waved their white handkerchiefs, and, with smiles and gladness, greeted the veteran hero, who appeared affected and delighted by these demonstrations of a joyful welcome. The moment La Fayette arrived at the line ofthe city, the bells struck, and rang merry peals, while the pro cession was passing through the streets. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 151 Excepting the cavalcade, the procession passed through the Common,from Boylston to Park street, on the eastern margin, and between too lines of children ofboth sexes, belonging to the several schools in the city. Their ages were from about eight to twelve, and nearly three thousand in number. Their dress was neat and uniform ; the misses iri white, and the masters in white pantaloons and blue spencer*. They also wore ribbons in their breasts, stamped with a miniature like ness of La Fayette. As the carriage, in which the general rode, was passing, one of the misses darted from the line where she was standing, and begged to speak with him. She was handed into the carriage, and by the Mayor presented to La Fayette, who press ed an affectionate kiss on her blooming, yet blushing cheek. She had confidence, however, to address him, and toplacea wreath of flowers, which she held, on his head. -He made her a short but affectionate reply, and placed the wreath on the seat of the carriage. Attach ed to the wreath of flowers was a small piece of paper, carefully folded, which contained these lines : said to he composed by the mother of the child. " An infant hand presents these blushing flowers, Glowing and pure as childhood's artless hours, Where roses bloom, and buds of promise smile, Repaying with their charms the culturers toil. Oh ! take them father, they were culled/or you ! (Still bright with warm affection's sacred dew — ) 0 let them live in thy benignant smi'e, And o'er thy brow ofgloty bloom awhile ! 'Twined with the laurel Fame on thee bestowed When thy young heart with patriot ardor glow'd ; 152 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Self Exiled from the charmsjof wealth and love, And, home, aadfriends, thou didst our champion prove, And, by the side of Glorious Washington, Didst make our grateful country all thine own !l Go, fragile offering, speak the ardent joy Our bosoms feel, which Time can ne'er destroy !" Arches were thrown across several ofthe principal streets, through which La Fayette was conducted, cov ered with evergreens and flowers, and containing ap propriate mottos. There were two in Washington- street, the largest, and part ofthe distance,. the widest street in the City. — On one of these was very legibly written — " 1776 — Washington and La Fayette. Weh come La Fayette,— >-A Republic not ungrateful." On the other " Welcome La Fayette." " The Fathers in glory shall sleep, Who gather'd with thee to the fight ; But the sons will eternally keep The tablet of gratitude bright. We bow not the neck And we bend not the knee, But our hearts, La Fayette, We surrender to thee." ,The lines- were from the pen of a citizen of Boston,. whose poetic talents had often delighted the public, and who had received the highest praise from those capable of appreciating the productions of genius. When the possession arrived at the steps of the State House, near the head of Park Street, salutes were fired by a battalion of artillery, on the erninence on the MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 153' western part of the Common, and at the Navy Yard at Charlestown. Salutes were also fired by a battalion of artillery, placed on the heights of Dorchester,' ("now South Boston,) when General La Fayette reached the line of the city, at 1 1 o'clock. The President of the United States had caused an order to be issued, on the first arrival of La Fayette, at New York, requiring, that he be received by the military officers ofthe nation, at all public posts, with the salutes and honors due to one of the highest rank in the army. The Governor and Executive Council of the Com monwealth, were assembled in the spacious Senate Chamber to receive La Fayette in the name ofthe Re presentatives of the people, and in pursuance of their resolve of June preceding, as well as in accordance with their own personal feelings and wishes. His Excellen cy the Governor, here addressed him with great feel ing,* in the following concise and pertinent speech: " Sir, our friEnp, — " In the name ofthe government, and in behalf of the citizens of Massachusetts, I have the honor to greet you with a cordial, an affectionate wel come. "We thank God, that he has been pleased to pre serve yon through the scenes of peril and of suffering^ which have distinguished your patriotic and eventful life, and that we are indulged with this occasion of re newing to you our grateful acknowledgements for the 'important services which you have rendered to our common country. "In the last surviving Major General pf the Ameri- * Governor Eustis was so affected, that lie had to cajl on one o,f l»!3 aids to read the greater part of the address, 154 memoirs of la fayette. can revolutionary army, we recognize a benefactor and- friend, from a distant and gallant nation ; who, inspired by a love of liberty, subjected himself in his youth, to , the toils and hazards of a military life, in support of our rights. ' Under our illustrious Washington, you were instrumental in establishing the liberties of our country, while your gallantry in the field, secured to yourself an imperishable renown. " With the enjoyment of the blessings of indepen dence, we shall never cease to associate the name of La Fayette, and our prayer to heaven will be for his health and prosperity." To which the General, with much animation, repli ed : — " Sir, " When, in the name ofthe people and govern ment of this State, your Excellency is pleased so kindly to welcome an American veteran, I am proud to share the honors and enjoyments of such a reception with my revolutionary companions and brother soldiers. Sir, I am delighted with what I see, I am oppressed with what I feel ; but I depend upon you, as an bid friend, to do justice to my sentiments." Afterwards, a great number of gentlemen were intro duced to La Fayette, in the Senate Chamber; of whom were the Judges and other public officers of the United States, of the State and of the City ; members of the society of Cincinnati, with their venerable and distin guished President, Hon. John Brooks, late Governor of the- Commonwealth. La Fayette reeognized his old military and personal friend, at the first sight, and em braced him with great cordiality and affection. Some ether veterans of (he revolutionary.army^ who were MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 1 55 present, he also recollected ; and discovered strong e- motions as they approached him and took his hand. In deed, he was so eager to meet them, that he very gen erally first seized them, and clung to them with all the affection of a brother. The scene was inexpressibly "af fecting. There was not a heart untouched — not a cheek unmoistened by the falling tear. To weep then was not weakness ; . it was proof of gratitude and of a generous feeling, which is an honor to human nature. By particular request, and to gratify the wishes of the people, collected in front ofthe State House, Gene ral La Fayette appeared in the colonade of this superb edifice, where he was greeted with loud and continued -cheers. He was then conducted by the committee of arrangements, to the residence provided for him at the head of Park Street. A public dinner was given by the city authorities, in honor of their noble guest ; and the invitation was extended to Senators and members of Congress, the Governor and Ex-Governor of the'Com- monwealth, judicial and other public characters. A committee of the society of Cincinnati called upon General La Faytte at the residence ofthe Governor, in Roxbury, and before his entrance into Boston. They were anxious to offer him their congratulations at the earliest moment ; and to bid him welcome to the land they had unitedly struggled to defend. And a few days after his tirrival, the whole society waited on him, when their President made the following address : — " Sir, " The Society of Cincinnati of the State of Massa chusetts seize the earliest moment after your arrival in- this city, of extending to you the hand of friendship and "Affection, We offer you our most cordial eongrati%- J 56 MEMOIRS M* LA FAYETTE. lions on your safe arrival again, after the lapse of forty years, on the shores of our favored country, once the theatre of our united toils, privations, and combats, with a powerful foe, but' now the peaceful domain of a great, a-free, and independent people. We hail you, sir, in unison with the millions of our follow citizens; most respectfully hail you as a Statesman, as a Philanthro pes', and as the early, inflexible, and devoted- friend, not only of our beloved country, but of the sacred principles of civil liberty and human rights. But we greet you under more fender and hallowed associations ; in the endearing relation of a brother-soldier, whp, in the ardor of youth commenced in the field with us your career of glory, in the holy cause of Liberty and Amer ican Independence. " But here recollections crowd upon our minds too powerful for utterance. Words would but mock the deep emotions of our hearts should we attempt to ex press them, in contemplating the character, attributes, and services ofthe parental Chief, under whose auspi ces we trod together the field of hanor. To the pro found veneration and love for his memory thatpene- trates jour bosom, we refer you as to a transcript of -our own. It would be vain to imagine the joy that would swell the great mind of Washington, were he still living to recognize with our nation, the generous disinterestedness, the glowing ardor, the personal sac rifices, and the gallant achievements of his much loved Fayette. But it is equally vain to endeavor on this oc casion, to exclude such interesting reflections from the mind, or to deny it the melancholy pleasure of linger ing on the solemn reality, that not a single individual .of the General Staff of the army ofthe American Rev- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 1 57 nlution now survives'to participate in the joy that your. presence in the United States has awakened. " To us it is peculiarly grateful that you are permit ted after .a lapse of so long a period,, to witness the consummation ofthe principles of our revolution. You will perceive, sir, that the hopes and predictions ofthe wise and good men who were your particular associates in the arduous struggle, have been fulfilled and surpass ed. You will behold a great people united in their principles of jurisprudence, cemented together by the strong ties-of mutual interests and happy under the fos tering influence of a free and energetic government. •"You will, therefore, allow us to reiterate our feli citations on your safe arrival among us, and to welceme you onre more to the good land which your youthful valor contributed to elevate and distinguish. " Mny your future life be as tranquil and -happy as your past has been useful, uniform, and glorious." To which the General returned the following an swer : " Amidst the inexpressible enjoyments which press upon my heart, I could not but feel particularly eager and happy to meet my beloved brothers in arms Ma ny, many, I call in vain ; and at the head of them, our matchless paternal Chief, whose love to an adopted son, I am proud to say, you have long witnessed — But while we mourn together, for those we have lost, while I find a consolation, in the sight of their relations and friends, it is to me a delightful gratification, to recognizer my surviving companions of our revolutionary army— that army $o brave, so virtuous, so united by mutual con fidence and^affection. That we have been the faithful soldiers of independence, freedom, and equality, those O 1- 162 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. dience ; who responded to the sentiments with enthu siastic acclamations. Thursday and Saturday mornings, for several hours, he received the persona) compliments and congratula tions of a great number of the inhabitants of Boston and vicinity, of both sexes. They were presented to him, on the spacious area of the ground floor of the State House. The house provided for his residence while in the city, though unusually large, was not well adapt ed for such crowds of visitors as pressed to behold him. Many aged people were presented, who had served with him in the revolutionary war, or recollected e- vents of that period, which they were desirous to re late. Some were on crutches, and others bared their arms to show the honorable scars occasioned by the bayonet or ball of the enemy, in the "glorious fight" for freedom. Some could boast of having fought under his command, or by bis side, at Brandywine and Mon mouth ; and others, that followed in his path of peril and glory in Virginia, in 1781, and assisted in success fully storming the redoubt at Yorktown, on the memo rable evening of the 15th of October, which decided the fate of Cornwallis. He siezed the hands of these his old companions in arms, with great eagerness and emotion ; and while they, in the honest pride of their souls related their " hair-breadth escapes," which led the spectators al most to envy their claims to such honourable boasting, the veteran hero exclaimed, " O my brave Light In fantry ! My gallant troops !" — Several aged citizens who were personally engaged in opposing the British forces who marched to Lexington and Concord, for the pur pose of destroying the Provincial stores collected at MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 163 the latter place, were present at this interview. A gun was also shown lo General La Fayette, from which was fired the ball, which killed the first ofthe regular troops slain on that memorable occasion. These meet ings revived recollections important to be preserved, - and se'rved to remind the rising generations of the prin ciples and deeds of their fathers. ~ We trust they did not awaken any angry or hostile feelings towards an ancient enemy ; but served only to kindle our grati tude to Almighty God, for his gracious interpositions in our behalf, arid to perpetuate our "respect for the remains of those who offered up their lives for our freedom and welfare.. On Thursday, by particular request of the literary society of " Phi Beta Kappa," so called, in the univer sity, General, La Fayette attended the celebration of their anniversary at Cambridge. It was never known before, that any onevhowever distinguished either fort literature or virtue,, was invited- to dine with the soci ety, unless a member of some other branch of the as sociation. The departure in this case, from the inva riable usages and rules1 of the society, is proof of the very high estimation in which La Fayette is held, and ofthe disposition, in all classes of citizens, to manifest their respect for his character. He-proceeded to the university, about 1 o'clock, when he was again greet ed with the hearty cheers ofthe citizens, as he passed , the high-way, and when he arrived. The public per formances on this occasion, were an oration and a poem. The latter was prepared at very short notice, and had particular reference to the visit ofthe illustrious hero and philanthropist, 1 ,a Fayette. It purported to be the vision ofthe Genius of Liberty. It was a felicitous ef- 164 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. -fort of the poetic muse. The gradual but certain dis solution of ancient despotic systems was predicted , as by the spirit of inspiration ; and the blessings-and joys of well regulated freedom were described with a mas terly pencil, a^ extending and spreading in all parts of the civilized world, lt was the electrifying voice of genius speaking to hearts full of gratitude arid swelling with joyous emotions. The orator was not less happy in bis -subject, nor less ingenious and elpquent in its illustration. 'His object was to present, in all its force, the rnotive- to intellec tual and literary effort. He assumed the progressive- nature of the human mind ; referred to the advances al ready made in science and the arts, and in civil gov ernments ; noticed the tendencies in society to higher improvements; and glanced at the facilities for social happiness and intellectual and moral excellence, in this western world, under our mild and republican institu tions. It was an uncommon display of talent and re search, and of profound 'observations on the present improved and improving condition of man. He pointed ouHhe happy destiny which awaited the United States, which a powerful imagination had predicted, but which sober facts also authorize us to expect; ahd.called up on the literary and patriotic youth of our country to use all honorable efforts for hastening oh this glorious issue. In speaking ofthe wisdom, firmness and courage of our patriotic fathers, by whom our liberties were secured, •and; our independence established, he paid a just tribute to the disinterested and heroic services of La Fayette, who cherished and aided our cause in the most gloomy periods of the war. The reference was most appro priate ; and the statement of his zeal and efforts ia our MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. f65' behalfj produced such a deep conviction of his devotion to America, and of hishifluence in- obtaining the support of France, which, probably, saved our country from sub jugation, that a deep and strong emotion was produced in the whole immense concourse ; which,- subdued as it was for a time, burst forth, at last, in overwhelming and almost convulsive agitations. The orator seemed not to aim at such an extraordinary impression. He re minded his hearers indeed of" truths surpassing fiction;" he brought to their recollection past scenes of danger endured, the generous and heroic deeds performed — •• he spake ofthe " Paternal Chief," who was the guide and support of other brave spirits, now laid low in the silence of death — The effect was wonderful r the whole audience were melted into tears of mingled grat- itade and respect ; gratitude for such patriotic services, and of respect for the memories of men, who had secured the blessings of civil liberty to the immense and increasing population of this extensive country. La Fayette was very sensibly affected, by this unex pected expression of gratitude for his early services, and by the strong emotions manifes'ed by the assem bly, at the name of Washington The hours passed irir the dining hall were consecrated to reminisciences of the interesting events which occurred in the revolu tionary contest, to grateful recollections of the states men and heroes, who advocated' and defended the cause of freedom, and thus led the way in the glorious march of human improvement and happiness, which the present generation is so rapidly pursuing. Here were assembled the judges of the land, the ministers of religion, the legislators of the state and nation, several of the heroes of the revolution, and numerous 166 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. eminent literary characters from various parts of the United States, to unite with the younger sons of Har vard, in offerings of affectionate gratitude to a man, who had no gifts pf power or titles of honor to bestow ; but whose useful services and uniform course of honorable and benevolent purpose, in their estimation, claimed a higher tribute than was due to sceptered princes, or the most renowned conquerors of ancient or modern times. On Friday morning, committees from Portsmouth, Portland^ Newport, Haverhill, Newburyport,Plymouth, and from Bowdoin College, inviting him to visit those respective places; where the people were desirous t° see him, and to offer personally their welcome sal utations. He was unable to comply with these flatter ing invitations, as he had engaged to return to New- York, at an early day. But he received these testi. monies of attachment with great sensibility ; and ex pressed a hope to visit them before his final departure from the United States. He left his place of residence in Boston at 10 o'clock, accompanied by Governor Eus- ' tis and suit, Governor Brooks, the deputation from New-York, the Mayor and committee of arrangements of Boston, and proceeded to Charlestown, which he pre viously engaged to visit, at this time. As he passed through the streets in the north part of the city, the people pressed around him, testifying their regard, and cheering him on his way with repeated acclamations. Raised arches, wreathes of evergreen, and variegat ed colours added to the brilliancy of the scene. He was met at the centrel^oMhe hridge, which is the dividing line between Boston and Charlestown, by the Chief Marghaland his aids, and conducted to the square, where a committee of the citizens of-that town MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 167 was in waiting to receive him. A procession was then formed, headed by two marshals, and escorted by a re giment of light infantry, and a battalion of artillery, with martial music, consisting of the committee'of ar rangements, General La Fayette, his son and friend who accompanied him from France ; the Governor and suite, Governor Brooks and General Dearborn, Judges ofthe Courts and members ofthe Supreme Executive Coun cil of the State ; deputation from New York, Mayor and committee of Boston, officers of the army and navy ofthe United States, and pf the militia of the State; strangers of distinction, and civil officers ofthe town of Charlestown. lt proceeded to Bunker Hill, where the chairman of the committee of the town, addressed La Fayette as follows : — " Sra, ' "In behalf of the inhabitants of Charlestown, the committee of arrangements present their respectful sal utations to General La Fayette, and bid him a cordial welcome to this town. This joyful occasion revives high national feelings and recollections, and touches the springs of gratitude by reminding us of that interesting period of our history, which gave to our country a gal lant hero, and to the rights of mankind a steadfast cham pion. While we participate in the thrill of delight, which every where hails the visit of our illustrious friend, we cannot suppress the peculiar emotion of our hearts on'receiving you, sir, on the memorable heights of Bunker. On this holy ground^ immortalized by the dead, and sacred to the manes of revolutionary herOes : Over these heights, liberty once moved in blood and tears ;— her chariot on wheels of fire. Now she comes in, her car of peace and glory; drawn by the affections lgg MF.M0IU9 OF LAFAYETTE. of a happy people, to crown on these same heights, with civic honors, a favorite son, whose early strength was given to her sacred struggles, and whose riper years are now permitted to behold the splendor of her triumpns. In the fulness of our hearts we give thanks to Almighty God, who has guided and guarded your high career of peril and renown, ," Permit us, beloved- General, again to welcome you to our borders ; — to express our ardent hopes, that your valuable life may be prolonged to the utmost limits of earthly happiness ; — that the land which has been en riched with the dew of your youth, may be honored as the asylum of your old age ; — that the country which now blends your fame with the mild lustre of Washing ton, may henceforth hail you as a citizen of Washing ton's country ; — and that, during the residue of your years, you may live amidst the attentions, as you will forever live in the hearts of a grateful and admiring :people." To this address the General replied — " With profound reverence, sir, I tread this holy -ground, where the blood of American patriots— the blood of Warren and his companions, early and glori ously spilled, aroused the energy of three millions, and secured the happiness of ten , millions, and of many oth er millions of men in tunes to, come. That blood has called both American continents to republican indepen dence, -and has awakened the 'nations of Europe to a sense, and in future, I hope, to the practice of their rights. Such have been the effects of a resistance to oppression, which was, by many pretended wise men of the times, called rashness ; while it was duty, vir tue ; — and has been. a signal for the emancipation of mankind. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE, 1(59 " I beg you, sir, and the magistrates, and the citi zens of Charlestown, to accept the homage of my grat itude for 3'our kind welcome, and of those sentiments of affection and respect, which, for so many years, I have cherished toward their town." While on this memorable eminence, he was inform ed by Governor Brooks, of the recent association for erecting a monumental pillar on thai hallowed spot, to perpetuate the remembrance of the justly celebrated battle ofthe 17th-of June, 1775 ; when a few regiments of undisciplined militia, made a brave stand against a -large regular British force, commanded by generals of great experience and courage. This great event, so important in the annals of our country, as it convinced the English government of the resolution of the colo nies to maintain the liberty which they claimed, and of the daring courage of the American people. This e- vent is to be commemorated in June next, when fifty years will be completed, by an oration, and other pub lic appropriate service's and ceremonies- General La Fayette expressed great satisfaction of the proposal. •He requested that he might be considered a subscriber for the monument ; and assured the gentlemen present, that it would be his wish and endeavour to attend the celebration. General La Fayette availed of .this opportunity to visit the navy yard, in Charlestown, belonging to the United States, in compliance with a previous invitation from the officer commanding on the station : and he appeared highly gratified with the establishment in all its departments. He agrees entirely with those en lightened politicians of our own country, who have al ways considered a naval force of great advantage to P 1T0 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. America, if not absolutely necessary to our Indepen dence. He dined this day with his Excellency the Governor, in company with several revolutionary vet erans, and a large number of public characters of this and the neighbouring states, who were then on a visit to the -capital. Saturday, after receiving the salutations of the" citi zens, who were desirous of being presented to him, he set off for Medford, to visit his particular and valued friend, Governor Brooks. His reception in this beautiful village, is represented as very interesting. The citi zens had comparatively short notice ofthe visit to that place ; but they greeted him with great cordiality, and the honors bestowed were not unworthy of their distin guished guest. The main streets and the houses which he passed, before he reached the mansion of Governor Brooks, were filled with children and people, who re peatedly bid him welcome, with great cordiality, and expressed their gratitude and joy on beholding the man, who they had learned, had done so much for their be loved country; and who was the respected friend of- one among them, whom they always delighted to hon or. A company of artillery fired a salute, as he enter ed the village ; and several arches were thrown across the street, decorated with flags, and wreaths of flow ers and evergreens. Under one of them he was met by the selectmen, one of whom thus addressed him — •"Gkseral La Fayetie, " The selectmen of Medford^ as the representatives ofthe town^'deem it a grateful and honorable part of their duty to bid you welcome. ' " They are proud, sir, that Medford is the birth place of one of your companions in arms — a man, who. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 171 by his hravery in the field, his patriotism and civic vir tues, contributed to acquire as much glory.to our coun try, as honor to himself. " We rejoice, sir, that you both live to meet again, and to enjoy together the consolations fairly derived from your virtuous and heroic deeds. " The minds of our countrymen traced j'our course with anxious solicitude, through the French revolution, from your first success in the cause of liberty, until the fpirit of oppression confined you to a dungeon; and their hearts were gladdened, when, by the influence of our great and good Washington, their friend was at last set free. In the rich harvest you are now gathering of the expressions of esteem and gratitude of this nu merous people, whose freedom and happiness your ex ertions so essentially contributed to establish, we hope you will find some compensation for all your trials, sac- rifices and sufferings ; and we feel much complacency, that, in this respect you have gained so complete a tri umph over the monarchs of the world. " Again sir, we bid you a most cordial welcome ; and hope, the testimonials of approbation you are receiving from every heart and every>tongue, will forever re main an instructive lesson to mankind, that patriots who endure faithfully to the end, shall not lose their re ward." The General said in reply — " 1 am most happy in visiting my old brother soldier and friend, General- Brooks, to be received with so kind; a welcome. You speak of compensation, sir; the smallest part ofthe de light which I have experienced in America, .would more than repay me for all my services and all my sufferings." 172 . MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTfc. Several evening parties were given in honor ofLa- Fayette, while he was in Boston, by some of its most distinguished citizens. On these occasions, he mani fested great pleasure on meeting the children or rela tives of the patriots of our revolution, with many of whom he had a personal acquaintance. It was delight ful to observe the eagerness with which the ladies, old and young, pressed around him and the pride with which they boasted of having taken his hand. His countenance and manner discovered the joy which fill ed his heart, in cherishing recollections of past servi ces, which he might indulge without vanity ; andin per ceiving the gratitude, which a deep' sense of those services excited among all classes. He manifested a desire to attend the religious service of the Sabbath at the church in Brattle-street, where he had formerly joined in worship with Bowdoin, Hancock and Cooper ; he was accordingly conducted there, accompanied by the Mayor ofthe City and Chief Justice of the State. The sermon, by the learned and pious pastor of that Church, which was an occasional one, was happily calculated to direct and chasten the feelings of the au dience, He inculcated the sacred duty of confidence and joy in the providence and moral government of God, and of gratitude to those who had been raised up to be instruments of Extensive blessings to ourcountry. The most ardent were gratified, while the more sober and devout were pleased, that no complimentary panegyric was pronounced incompatable with the solemnity of the place and day. In the afternoon he visited Hon. John Adams at Quiocy ; the truly venerable patriot of 1775; a decided, zealous advocate for Independence in 1776 ; the able and faithful minister ofthe nation, at MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 173 foreign courts ; and sometime President of the United States. Mr. Adams is eighty-eight years of age, and his constitution much debilitated within a few years. But his powerful mind is still bright and vigorous ; and he dwells with great enthusiasm upon the glorious pros pects of our rising empire. His highly valuable ser vices to the country c:m never be forgotten. For no one, if Washington be excepted, amorisi the many firm asserters of our rights in the struggle for independence, could justly claim a greater portion- of gratitude and praise from the present generation. Desirous of offering all due honors to General Lr>. Fayette, and knowing his tavte for military exhibitions, the Governor ordered the militia of Boston, which con stituted a brigade, of the first division, and an equal number from Essex and Middlesex, which included the second and third divisions, to assemble on the Common in the city of Boston, on Monday, the 30th of Augush This was really a proud day, particularly for the citi zen soldiers of Massachusetts; but all classes of the people enjoyed this -imposing and honorable display; For our. militia are justly considered the ornament as well as the defence of the republic. Citizens of all professions take an interest in their appearance, their discipline and their reputation; The ranks are com posed of our valuable and industrious population ; and their officers are to be found among our; respectable mechanics, merchants and professional gentlemen. The exhibition was the most splendid of the kind recollected by the oldest inhabitants. There were above five thousand men armed and equipped, and their appear ance and movements-would have done credit to regular troops. Their officers are men of talents and ¦ambition; p tastefully ornamented, one bearing the name of the General in oaken characters, and the second a bust of Washington. " On \Y ashington-square the General passed between two lines of boys, about one thousand in number, array ed under their respective instructors, all bearing La Fayette badges. One of the gates of the square bore this inscription. — '« The children welcome with joy, the il lustrious benefactor of their fathers." And as the Gene ral passed, they shouted " Welcome La Fayette." MEM91RS OF LA FAYETTE. 179 "Notwithstanding the heavy rain, this youthful band could not be prevailed upon to leave the ground, but remained bravely at their post until- they had shared with their parents in the honor and happiness of greeting the nation's guest. "From VVashingfon-square the procession passed to the Coffee-House, now named La Fayette Coffee-House (late Essex ;) where, on a temporary stage, erected in front ofthe house, the Committee of Arrangements received their illustrkus'sjuest, and Judu;e Story, the President of the day, in the most 'interesting and eloquent manner, welcomed him in the following ad dress. : — " General La Fayctte. " Sir — Forty years have elapsed since the inhabit ants of this town had the pleasure to*we!come you with in its limits Many, who then hailed your arrival with. pride and exultation, have descended to. the grave, and cannot greet you on your long desired return. But, thanks to a go-d providence, mnny are yet alive, who recollect with grateful sensibility, the universal joy of that occasion. Your disinterested zeal in embarking in a cause, deemed aimost hopeless — your personal sacri fices in quitting a home, endeared by all the bessings with which affection and virtue can adorn life — your toils and perils in the conflicts""of war, and the vicissi tudes of a discouraging service — your modest .dignity and enthusiasm on receiving the homage of a free peo ple — these were ail fresh in their memories, and gave an interest to the scene, which cannot be described, but whicb time has hallowed with his most touching grace, I stand now in the, presence of some, venera ble, in age and character, who were the delighted wit- 180 MKMOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. nesses of that interview, and whose hearts again glow with the feelings of that happy day. " To us of a younger generation —the descendants of your early friends and companions in arms, a differ ent but not less interesting privilege-belongs. We are allowed the enviable distinction of meeting in his riper years, one, whom our fathers loved in their youth. We welcome you to -our country, to our homes, to our hearts. We have read the history of your achievements, your honors, and your sufferings! They are associat ed with all thaf-is dear, to us — with the battle-grounds, consecrated by the-blood of our heroes — with the ten der recollections of our departed statesmen — with the affectionate reverence of our surviving patriots. Can we forget that our country was poor and struggling a- lone in the doubtful contest for Independence, and you ^crossed the Atlantic at the hazard of fortune, fame and life, to cheer us in our defence ? That you recrossed it to solicit mival and military succours from the throne of ¦France, and returned with triumphant success ? That your gallantry checked in the southern campaigns, the inroads of a brave and confident enemy? That your military labours closed only with the surrender at Yorktown, and thus indissolubly united your name with the proud events of that glorious day ? We cannot for get these things if we would — We would not forget them if vve could. They will perish only when Amer ica ceases to he a nation. " But we have yet higher sources of gratification on the present occasion. You have been not merely the friend of America, but of France, and of liberty through out the world. During a long life in tbe most trying scenes, you have done no act for which virtue need. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 181 ! blush or humanity weep. Your private character has not cast a shade on your public honors. In the palaces of Paris and the dungeons of Olmutz, in the splendor of power, and the gloom of banishment, you have been the friend of justice, and the asserter of the rights of man Under every misfortune, you have never desert ed your principles. What earthly prince can afford consolation like this ? The favor of princes, and the applause of senates, sink into absolute nothingness, in comparison with the approving conscience of a life der voted to the good of mankind. At this very moment you are realizing the brightest visions of your youth, • in the spectacle of ten millions of people prosperous and happy under a frae government, whose moral strength consists in the courage and intelligence of its citizens. — These millions welcome your arrival to the shores of the west with spontaneous unanimity; and the voice which now addresses you, feeble as it is, re peats but the thoughts that are ready to burst from the -lips of every American." The General's reply was in his usual manner. — It •was brief, affectionate, and full of feeling. An impressive circumstance occurred in the delivr ery ofthe address.— When the Judge came to that part which says, " We could not forget them if we would; we would not forget them if we could;" the spontaneous as sent ofthe assembled people to the sentiment, was giv en by " No, never ;" repeated by thousands of voices, and accompanied by deafening shouts of applause. A great number of introductions to the General took place. Of them, were several revolutionary offi cers and soldiers. At Beverly and Ipswich he received from the assem- 0; 182 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE.' bled inhabitants, the same cordial welcome with which he had been greeted in other towns, through which he passed. The selectmen of these places waited on him, and offered him the congratulations of their fellow cit izens ; the people greeted him with repeated cheers of " welcome, welcome La Fayette;" and arches were e- rected at several public places, containing appropriate mottoes. The houses of the villages through which he passed, after the evening set in, were brilliantly illu minated. It was evening when he arrived at Ipswich, and the weather was very inclement. The inhabitants had, therefore, assembled in the meeting house to receive him. Thither he was conducted by a committee ofthe town; and on his entrance, he was greeted with great exultation and joy. One of the committee addressed him as follows : — " General La Fayette, " Accept from the people of Ipswich, theii cordial congratulations on your arrival in their country and within their own borders. To this ancient town, air, we bid you a joyful welcome. " Having devoted to our beloved country, in her weak and critical situation, the vigor of your youth and the resources of a mind intent on the cause of free dom and humanity, and committed to a common lot with her, your own destinies, — that country can never for get the services you rendered, and the sacrifices you incurred, for her defence and protection, when assailed by overbearing power. " We rejoice in having an opportunity of presenting i&urselves in this house, consecrated to the worship of the fiod »f oar fathers, who has kindly raised, up friends MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE." 188 and patrons ofthe cause of our country and of liberty, to pay to you our grateful respect for your eminent la bours. " Most of those who acted in, or witnessed" the great scenes in which you bore so conspicuous a part, have now descended to the tombs of their fathers The pre sent generation can rehearse only what they have heard with their ears, and their fathers have told them; But the name of La Fayette is not confined to any gen eration. While the liberties of America shall endure, it will descend from father to son, associated with those of the immortal Washington, and other heroes and sages of our revolution, as the friend of our country, of liber ty, and of man. " Illustrious benefactor — may the blessing of Heaven ever attend you, and may your remaining days be as happy, as your past have been perilous, useful and hotfr orable." To which the General made, the following reply :-— « Sir, " The attentions paid me by my American friends, I receive with inexpressible gratitude. I regret that so many of my friends here, should be exposed on mjir account to this storm. I have ever considered it my jtride and my honor, that I embarked in the cause of Independence in this country ; and I rejoiced when I found myself again landed on the American shores. You, kind sir, the people of this town, and all who are assembled in this solemn place, will please to accept my thanks for this expression of your attachment, and receive my best wishes for your individual prosperity and happiness." He reached Newburyport a little past ten o'clock, 184 memoirs of la fayette. where he passed the night. His lodgings were the* same which Washington occupied,. when he made his tour through the northern states, in 1789, the first year of his presidency. The following address was made to him, by the chairman of a committee of that town :— " General La Fayette, "¦ The citizens of Newburyport are happy in this opportunity of greeting, with the warmest welcome, a distinguished benefactor of their country. " The important services, which you rendered this people in the day of their distress ; the devotedness which you manifested in their perilous cause, and the dangers which you sought for their relief, are incorporated in our history, and firmly engraven upon our hearts. "We would lead you to our institutions of learning, charity and religion; we would point you to our hills and vallies covered with flocks, and smiling in abun dance, that you may behold the happy effects of those principles of liberty, which you was so instrumental in establishing. " Our children cluster about you to receive a patri ot's blessing. Our citizens press forward to showtheir gratitude. Our nation pays you a tribute, <*hkh must remove the reproach that republics are ungrateful. " As the zealous advocate for civil liberty, we bid you welcome ; as the brave defender of an oppressed people, we make you welcome ; as the friend and as sociate of our immortal Washington, we bid you wel come." General La Fayette replied in his usually courteous and animated manner, and evincing his great sensibility to the kind and friendly greetings with which he had been received. He here also met several veterans of MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 1*& ' the revolutionary army ; a gratification which he en joyed in almost every place he visited. Though the number is rapidly lessening, a few remain in most ofthe populous towns ofthe Commonwealth. He left Newburyport Wednesday morning for the capital of New-Hampshire. The escort contemplated to have attended on bis way to the bounds of the state, was prevented by the heavy rain. It was at his ur gent request that it was dispensed with. The com mittee ofthe town however, accompanied him to Hamp ton ; where he was met by a deputation from Ports- mouth,and conducted on his intended route. When passing through Greenland, a procession of the citizens was formed, by which he was attended through the villages. Here he was welcomed also by salutes from an artillery company, by civic arches and repeated ac clamations ofthe assembled people.. One-of the arches was supported by two young ladies, representing Lib^ erty and Peace. One presented him a wreath, adbrn- ed with flowers, and- said, " Venerable sire, condescend to receive this emblem of the hero's glory, as the token of « nation's gratitude and' love." The other presented him the olive branch, saying, " Good and faithful ser vant, peace and happiness- await you." He received these^with complacency, took each young lady by the hand, and made an affectionate reply. He then proceeded to Portsmouth, where he arrived about noon. He was conducted into this town by an escort on horseback, and a procession- of carriages, (the whole extending two miles) composed ofthe civil, judi* cial and legislative authorities ; officers of the United States and of New-Hampshire, &c. &c. The margins •f the avenue leading to the centre ofthe town,, was- q,2 186 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. lined with children, with the inhabitants of both sexes in the rear; who greeted him with their cordial wel comes and repeated acclamations. Salutes were fired,.. and the bells rang a joyous peal; and the streets through which the procession passed, were crowned with arches, decorated with wreaths of evergreen and garlands of flowers. The procession moved through' several streets to Franklin Hall : and here, when Gene ral La Fayette alighted, the chairman of the selectmen addressed him thus :— " Sir, " The selectmen of Portsmouth, in behalf of their fellow citizens, most respectfully and heartily bid you welcome. " Enjoying, as we do, the happiness of a free gov ernment, we cannot but -feel grateful to all, by whose exertions it was obtained. Those intrepid men among ourselves, who in the hour of danger stood forth in de- - fence of their country's rights, have a lasting claim up on our regard. But in contending for the liberty of their country, they were striving to secure their own happiness, and the prosperity of their children. They found a motive for exertion in their own interest ; which, while it derogates nothing from the value of their services, places in a strong light, the pure zeal and contempt of private advantage, which led you to our aid, from the shores of a foreign land. . Their love of liberty was necessarily the sentiment of patriotism ; yours was an ardent desire for. the general welfare of mankind. " After an absence of forty years from our country, most of which have been passed in scenes of unexam pled excitement and perplexity, it gives us peculiar MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 187' pleasure to find you still the firm and consistent friend of liberal principles. We have watched the progress of your eventful life, with unaffected sympathy ; and - whether at the head of the National Guards, in the dungeons of Magdeburg and Olmutz, or in the Cham ber of Deputies, we have found nothing to lessen our esteem for the early friend of Americai " Permit. us then to receive you as our guest ; and - observe such decided proofs of industry, sobriety andi R3- 1.98 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE*. prosperity — He begged the citizens to be assured of his affectionate and grateful recollection of their recep tion of him ; he thanked them for all they had mani fested towards him, for the kind expressions which had been offered him by the committee, and, in a feeling impressive manner, reciprocated their good wishes." Speaking to an individual of the attentions he had received, he observed, " It is the homage the people pay to the principles of the government, rather than to 'myself." The, inhabitants of Sturbridge and other places through which General La Fayette passed, on his way to Hartford, in Connecticut, assembled in their respec-- five towns, and presented him the ready homage of af fectionate and grateful hearts. Companies of artillery fired salutes ; ladies and gentlemen gathered ronnd him to bid him welcome to America, and to express their deep and lively sense of his past services ; and many veterans of the revolutionary army pressed upon him, without ceremony or introduction, expecting, as they found, a friendly and cordial reception. General La Fayette was received at Hartford, in Connecticut, where he arrived on Saturday morning, with similar marks oT affection and esteem to those so cordially bestowed on him in the towns he had already visited. He was expected by the citizens on Friday evening, and arrangements were made for a general illumination. He was escorted into the city by the military, and a large procession ofthe citizens receivs- ed him soon afier he entered within its bounds, and con ducted him to the State House, where he was addressed by the Mayor of the city, who assured him of the affec tionate welcome, with which the people received him, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 199 and referred to the past services of La Fayette, which were still highly appreciated. And he expressed gi'eat happiness in beholding so many proofs of the prosper ous state of the country, and in witnessing the invalua ble effects of eur free institutions. The greater part of the inhabitants of both sexes were personally pre sented to him ; and there was an assemblage of chil dren of about eight hundred, the misses all dressed in white, wearing badges with the motto, " Nous vous ai- mons La Fayettf.." A gold medal was presented him by one ofthe children, which was enclosed in a paper containing these lines. Welcome thou to freedom's clime, Glorious Hero ! Chief sublime ! Garlands bright for thee are wreath'd, Vows of filial ardour breath'd, Veteran's cheeks with tears are wet, " Nous vous aimons La Fayette." . Monmouth's field is rich with bloom, Where thy warriors found their tomb. Yorktown's heights resound no more, Victor's shout or cannons roar, Yet ot|r hearts record their debt, " We do love you La Fayette." Brandy wine, whose current roll'd Proud with blood of heroes bold. That our country's debt shall tell, That our gratitude shall swell, Infant breasts thy wounds regret, " We do love you La Fayette." zOv memsirs er la fayette. Sires, who sleep in glory's bed, Sires, whose blood for us was shedr Taught us, when our knee we bendj With the prayer thy name to blend ; Shall we e'er such charge forget ? No ! — " Nous vous aimons La Fayette. When our blooming cheeks shall fade, Pale with time, or sorrow's shade, When our clustering tresses fair Frosts of wintry age shall wear, E'en till memory's sun be set, " We will love you La Fayette." In comparison with the population of Hartford, a greater portion of his revolutionary companions - were here presented to him, than in any place he had visited The number was nearly one hundred. These marched before him j in the procession, in a connected column and attended by their own music. It is hardly necessary to say, that their beloved general gave them- amost cordial greeting. By one ofthe citizens, a sash and pair of epaulets were produced, which were worn by. La Fayette when he entered the American army. The sash was stained with blood from his wound receiv ed in the battle of Brandy wine. He left Hartford late in the afternoon, and1 proceeded to Middletown, where he embarked in a steam boat forNew-York. The citizens of this place regretted, that he could not pass Some time with them ; and receive the attentions, which their grateful feelings would induce them to be stow on a zealous and able friend of American inde>^ pendence. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYBTrE. 201 HIS RETURN TO NEW-YORK. General La Fayette reached New-York on the fol lowing day, about noon; and was conducted to the City Hotel by the committee of arrangements, who were in waiting to receive him,, when he arrived at the wharf. Multitudes assembled, who greeted his return, and re newed their joyful acclamations on meeting him again as a guest of their city. On Monday, the Cincinnati of the State of New-York gave a public dinner, in honor of" their old companion in arms," at which were also present several other persons of distinction, and the members of the City Council. This was the anniver sary ofthe birth of La Fayette ; and the circumstance increased the interesting associations of the interview. The hall of meeting was richly decorated with appro priate emblems, and portraits of some ofthe heroes of the revolution, and bearing the hallowed name of Washington. In the toasts given on this occasion, were allusions to the important events which occurred in the war ofthe revolution, and to many ofthe distinguished characters, who conducted it to a successful issue- Washington, Greene, Lincoln, Steuben, Knox, Gates, Clinton, Kosciusco, De Kalb, Hamilton and others. The first volunteer toast was by the President of the Society, and was, " Our distinguished guest ;'' when a transparent painting was suddenly illuminated and un veiled, and displayed a " Welcome;" and over the head of La Fayette a beautiful wreath of flowers was suspended. He rose and said, — " with inexpressible delight at our brotherly meeting, with my affection to you all, my very dear friends and companions in arms, I propose the following sentiment; The sacred prinet- 20S MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. pies for which we have fought and bled — Liberty, equal ity and national independence. ; may every nation of the earth, in adopting them, drink a bumper to the old con tinental army."* On the next day, he visited the public Schools, the College, the Hospital, and Academy of Fine Arts: and on Wednesday, embarked in a steam boat" to view the fortifications io the harbor of New-Y>rk. In the even ing following, he attended the theatre, and was re ceived with universal and repeated acclamations. Ma ny eminent persons from distant parts of the United States visited New -York, at this time, for the sole ob ject of meeting the celebrated friend of America.- Among these were Mrs, Lewis, a niece of General ? Some of (he toasts given by General • La Fayette on other •ccasions are her- recorded, as they are indicative i f the opinions and sentiments which probably predominate in his mind. At the public dinner in Boston, 0:1 the diy 01 his arrival — " The citi of Boston, the cr .die of liberty; may its proud Faneuii Hall ever stand a monument to teach ihe world that resistance to oppression is a duty, and will, under true republican institutions, become a blessing." In the College H 11 at the dinner of the Society of Phi Beta Kappa — " The Holy Mhunce of virtue, literature and patuoii-m: ti wil: prove too powenul for any coalition against the right- of man." At the military dinner on the Common in Boston, wuen (he bridi nt arade tooli place before mentioned — " The patriotic troops who oave paraded this day, they excite the adimratio'i of every beholder, and fi;l the heart with delight." At the dinner given by the citizens of Saltm — •¦" The town of Salem : may her increasing prosperity more and more evince the blessings of popular in-tuUtion-., founded on the sacred basis of natural and social rights." And at Portsmouth, he gavetha town, and added, " may the blessings of republican institutions furnish a refutation of the mistaken and selfish sophistry of Euro pean dtspotism." MEMOIRS «F LA FAYETTE. 203 Washington ; and Mr. Huger of South-Carolina, the brave and generous youth, who attempted the libera tion of La Fayette from the dungeon of Olmutz, at the imminent hazard of his»own life ; and who suffered a long and severe imprisonment for his disinterested inter ference. He also visited the widowed ladies ofGenerals Montgomery and Hamilton. Ofthe latter general, he was the personal and ardent friend. A public dinner was given to La Fayette by the French gentlemen resident in New-York ; many of whom were among the constitutionalists in France in 1789 ; and who manifested equal respect and veneration for this distinguished confessor of regulated liberty, as the citizens of America. Several of the \ldermen of the city also gave splendid entertainments to the guest of tie nation, who could justly claim to have acted an important part in the establishment of our freedom and independence. He consented to attend the examination of several of the free schools — and appeared highly gratified by the evidence- given of the improvement of the pupils. At one ofthe schools, consisting of 400 msses, after the examination, the following lines were chaunted by the pupils : Welcome, Hero, to the West,. To the land thy sword hath blest ! To the country ofthe Free, Welcome, Friend of Liberty! Grateful millions guard thy fame, Age and youth revere thy n^me, Beauty twines the wreath for thee. 4JJprious Son of Liberty I 204 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Tears shall speak a nation's love, Whereso'er thy footsteps move, By the choral paan met — Welcome, welcome, La Fayette ! The African free school was not overlooked.' While on his vhit here, one of the tru-tjes anuounced, that General La Fayette had been elected a member ofthe Manumission Society of New- York, The truly vene rable John Jay is President of this benevolent associa tion. One of the children stepped forward, and ex pressed their sense of the honor of the visit, and of their satisfaction in reflecting, that he was friendly to the abolition of slavery. But the most spiendid scene exhibited in this proud city, was the/eta at Castle-garden. 1 his was an even ing party and ball, at which six thousand ladies and gen tlemen were present. It was the most brilliant and magnificent scene ever witnessed in the United States. Castle-garden lies at a very short distance from Bat tery-street, which is a spacious and elegant promenade, on the south westerly part ofthe city. It was former ly a fort, and is about one hundred and seventy feet in diameter, of a circular or eliptical form. It has lately beoome a place of great resort in the warm season of the year. Every thing which labor and expence, art and taste could effect was done to render it convenient, showy and elegant. An awning covered tbe whole area of the garden, suspended at an altitude of seventy- five feet ; the columns which supported the dome were highly ornamented, and lighted by an immense cut glass chandelier, with thirteen smaller ones .ippended. The General, made his appearance about 10 o'clock » MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 206 when the dance and the song was at an end. The military band ' struc k up a grand march, and the Guest was conducted through a Column of ladies and gen tlemen to a splendid pavilion. Not a word was spoken of gratulation — so profound, and respectful, and intel lectual was the interest which his presence excited. The interior of the pavilion which was composed of white cambrick, ornamented with sky blue festoons, was richly furnished. Among other interesting objects was a bust of Hamilton, placed upon a Corinthian pillar, and illuminated with a beautiful lamp. In front ofthe pavilion was a triumphal arch, of about 90 feet span adorned with laurel, oak, and festoons, based upon pil lars of cannon fifteen feet high A bust of Washington, supported by a golden eagle, was placed over the'arch. as the presiding deity. Within the arch was a symbolic painting nearly 25 feet square, exhibiting a scroll in. scribed to Fayette, with the words : — " Honored be the faithful Patriot." Soon after the General entered, the painting just al luded to was slowly raised, which exhibited to the au dience a beautiful transparency, representing La Grange, the mansion of La Fayette. The effect was as complete as the view was unexpected and imposing. Another subdued clap of admiration followed this tasteful and appropriate and highly interesting display. Universal harmony and good feeling prevailed ; anl about half past one o'clock, the General left the Castle, and embarked on board the steam boat James Kent, in his excursion up the North River, amidst renewed and prolonged acclamations. Eighty sets of cotillions were frequently on the floorat the same time. . A writer concludes the account of this fete thus S MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 20S "Taking into view the immense space ofthe area, the gigantic ceiling of which was lined with the flags of all nations, festooned in a thousand varied shapes, and the whole most brilliantly illuminated, we can safely assert that there was never any thing to equal it in this country. " The seals now erected around the area will accom modate about 3000 persons. " There were 200 servants employed on this occa sion, dressed in white under clothe s, and blue coats, with red capes and cuffs." He did not arrive at West-Point until about noon having been detained some hours on the passage, by the steam boat getting on the flats in a thick fog. Be fore he reached this memorable spot, and as he passed near the banks of the Hudson, the people collected in great numbers, at several places, tendering him the hearty welcome of freemen, and expressing, by loud and long acclamations, their joy at his presence. On his arrival at West-Point, the whole establishment were jn readiness to greet him. He was received under a national salute. Generals ISrown and Scott of the ar my of the United States were also here, to bid him wel come, and bestow those honors due to the highest gen eral officer in the national service, as well as to one who justly merited the nation's gratitude. He passed several hours at this celebrated spot ; highly pleased with the appearance of the cadets, and with the evi dences exhibited of improvements in military science. Thp recollection of times long since gone by gave a deep interest to the visit at this memor.ible post, some time the Head-Quarters of the American army; and the place where the infamous Arnold attempted to MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE, 207 barter away the independence of the country. Some ofthe cidets wear the swords presented by La Fayette to a corps of American ti oops in the war of the revo lution. At a late hour in the afternoon, he proceeded up the river to Newburgh, where nearly 20,000 people were collected to greet him. They had been waiting his ap proach with great eagerness, and arrangements had been made to receive him with due honors, and expres sive of their unbounded affection and regard. The late ness of the hour prevented their being carried into full effect, A splendid ball was given, and a sumptoous re past prepared; and he was addressed in behalf of the town, by one ofthe principal citizens. Arches were thrown across the principal street, and most of the buil-' dings were illuminated. He regretted, that he had not more time at Newburgh; for this, too, is memorable as the residence of Washington, and a part of the con tinental army in 1781. He embarked on board the steam boat, at twelve o'clock, and proceeded up the river, on his way to Albany. He reached Poughkepsie at the rising of the sun. But the militia were assem bled, the banks of the river, and the wharves were crowded by a happy- population, impatient to pre sent their offerings of guatitude and esteem to their he. roic and benevolent visitor. 1 heir repeated cheers made the welkin ring. When he landed, he was re ceived by a battalion of the militia, in full uniform. A procession being foi med, he was conducted through the most populous part of the town, to the city hotel, receiving as he passed, the constant greetings of the people. The spacious hall in which breakfast was provided 208 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. for him, was tastefully ornamented, and in various pub lic places, inscriptions and mottos were displayed, which were expressive of the affection and respect of the in habitants for their distinguished guest. A number of his old companions in arms were presented to him, both at this place and at Newburgh ; among them was one who had served with much credit as an officer through the war, who was ninety-five years of age, with all his faculties unimpaired. The reception of La Fayette at Catskill, Hudson and Livingston's manor, was highly- gratifying to him, and honorable to the sensibility and patriotism of the peo ple. He was every where met with demonstrations of joy. The overflowing gratitude, the sumptuous hospi tality, the military pride, which were manifested wher ever he paused, if but for an hour, were new proofs of one universal feeling of affectionate attachment to the friend of Washington and adopted son of the nation. Very splendid preparations were made in Albany for his reception : and a great number of people had as sembled from all the neighbouiing towns. He did not enter the city till evening, which prevented in some measure, the brilliant honors which had been intended to be offered. A committee proceeded to meet him several miles from the city, and to conduct him on his way. The}' were attended by an escort of dragoons, and a great number of the citizens in carriages. The roar of cannon announced his approach, and the houses in the city were at once illuminated. The procession moved on to the capitol, amidst the cheers and welcomes of 40,000 people. General La Fayette was here ad dressed by the mayor of tbe city ; and being introduced to the governor, he also offered him the salutations o* i , MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 209 the state. A number ofthe revolutionary officers and soldiers were then presented to him. The interchange of greetings was most affectionate between the parties, and most interesting to the spectators. A standard of Gansevort's regiment, which had waved at Yorktown, under the command of La Fayette, attracted particular attention among the numerous decorations in the capi- tol. In the course ofthe evening, he was conducted to the splendid ball room, where the ladies appeared in all their attractions, and were anxious to show their respect to the far-famed hero, who almost fifty years ago,*had devoted his life and his all, to the cause of America. On the following day, many of the inhabitants of both sexes were introduced to him, at thecapitol. The old soldiers of the revolution were among them. One, when he took his hand, said, " General, I owe my life to you ; I was wounded at the battle of Monmouth. You visited' me in the hospital — you gave me two guineas, and one to a person to nurse me. To this I owe my recovery, and may the blessing of heaven rest upon'you." He afterwards visited Troy and the great canal, re cently made in the state of New York, the commence ment of which is not far from the city of \lbany. He- was accompanied by the governor, Hon. De Witt Clin-- ton, the chief projector and patron of this great wok, by a deputation of the city council, and sevetnl'other1 gentlemen of distinction. When passing to the canal,, if. was greeted with repeated welcomes by the people' who crowded the streets and the public roads. The*- steam boat which he entered, wasxommandedby a cap tain ofthe revolutionary army. nest solicitations of the peo ple, who were desirous of manifesting the grateful sense they cherished of his meritorious services and exalted worth. At Princeton, he w*s met by a deputation from Trentm, a place rendered memorable by the victory which General Wash ngton obtained over a hrge bo y ofthe British troops in December. 1776, when he had under his command a much smaller number, many of which were militia. He was escorted to that place by the citizens and a company of cavalry, as in other parts of his journey. When he arrived, he was addressed by MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. SIS the mayor, in a very affectionate manner. We can. Only furnish the following extract. " To receive upon this spot, where your Friend, our illustrious Washington, raised the first successful bar rier against the relentless tide of oppression, which, in the eventful period of seventy-six, was rolling over our country ; the hero who, in the succeeding stages of .our revolutionary struggle, acted so conspicuous a part, and contributed so essentially to its glorious termination, cannot fail to awaken the most agreeable sensations. Next to our beloved Washington, there is no name en twined with deeper interest in the hearts of Jerseymen, than La Fayette — None, which they will transmit to their posterity, encircled with a wreath of nobler praise, or embalmed with the incense of purer love, than that ofthe interesting stranger who embarked his life and fortune upon the tempestuous ocean of our revolution — and who fought at Brandy wine, at Monmouth and at Yorktown, to procure for Americans, those blessings you now see them so fully, and we trust, so gratefully enjoy." The following is the General's answer to the address. at Princeton : — *' Gentlemen, " While the name of this city recalls impor tant military remembrance, it is also connected with that ofthe illustrious college, which, in diffusing knowledge and liberal sentiments, has greatly contributed to turn those successes to the advantage of public liberty. Your libiary had been destroyed ; but your principles were printed in tbe hearts of American patriots. I feel much obliged, sir, to your kind recollection of the diploma, which the signature of my respected friend Doctor 214 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. Witherspoon, renders still more precious to me ; and I beg you, gentlemen, and you, interesting grand sons of my contemporary friends, to accept my affectionate ac knowledgments." The civic arch reared at Trenton to his honor, was the same, which 35 years before, was erected to re ceive the revered Washington. — -A sumptuous dinner was served up to him, his family, and the deputations which attended on him. He spent the evening with his brother-soldiers of the Cincinnati, and other revolution ary worthies. On the Sabbath he attended divine service in the forenoon, and visited Joseph Buonaparte in the after noon. The latter apologized for not making the first call, on the ground that it would necessarily involve him in public associations, which it was his duty and his wish to avoid. — He added, " / am in adversity and misfortune — You, General, are full of honor and glory, and, deserving of both." After passing the Delaware, thirty miles from Phila delphia, he was met by the Governor of Pennsylvania and suite, with an escort of two hundred and fifty cav alry. For his accommodation, a splendid barouche was provided, drawn by six cream coloured lofty steeds. " The guest of the nation entered its former capitol" about noon, on Tuesday, the 28th of September. W hen the Governor met La Fayette, as above men tioned, he welcomed him to the State in the following address : — " Gi.NKRAL La Fayette, " The citizens of Pennsylvania behold, with the most intense feeling and exalted regard, the illus trious friend and companion of Washington. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 215 •'With sentiments of the highest veneration and gratitude, we receive the early and great benefactor of the United States; the enlightened statesman, philan thropist and patriot of both hemispheres " The sincere and universal joy which your arrival has diffused .over the nation, is no where more deeply or enthusiastically felt, than in Pennsylvania ; whose fields and streams are rendered memorable by your a- chievements; whose citizens were the followers of your standard, and the witnesses of your sacrifices and toils, in the defence of American liberty. 1 he event ful scenes of vour useful life are engraven on our hearts. A nation has rejoiced at your successes, and sympathized with your sorrows. u With ardent pleasure we have ever observed your strenuous exertions as the friend of man ; and whilst your great services, rendered in the cause of humanity, have commanded our admiration, the purity of your motives has insured the love and affection of Ameri cans. " With the best feelings of the heart we now ap proach you, with the assurance that, if any thing could add to our happiness on this interesting occasion, it would be the hope of enjoying the distinguished honor of your permanent residence amon» us. and that a long and splendid life of usefulness may be closed in the State, whose soil has been moistened with your blood, generously shed in the cause of virtue, liberty and in dependence. Answer of General La Fayette. " On the happy mom -nt, long and eagerly wished for, when Ionce more tread the soil of Pennsylvania, I find in her affectionate ^welcome, so kindly expressed 216 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. by her first magistrate, a dear recollection of past fa vors and a new source of delightful gratifications. The very names of this state and her capitol, recall to the mind those philanthropic and liberal sentiments, which have marked every step of their progress. " Pennsylvania has been the theatre of most impor tant events ; a partaker in the arduous toils and meri torious sacrifices,~which insured the success of our glo rious and fruitful revolution. I particularly thank you, sir, for your gratifying mention of my personal obliga tions to the Pennsylvanian line ; nor will I ever forget, that on Pennsylvania ground, not far from this spot, I enjoyed, for the first time, the delight to find myself under American tents, and in the family of our beloved commander in chief _ Now, sir, Pennsylvania is in full possession, and reaps all the prosperities and happy consequences of that great national union, of those spe cial institutions,which by offering in a self-governed peo ple the most perfect example of social order that ever exist :d, have reduced to absurdity and ridicule the anti- popular arguments of pretended statesmen in other countries. In whatever way I may be disposed of by the duties and feelings, in which you have been placed to sympathise. I shall ever rank this day among the most fortunate of my life ; and, while I beg you. sir, per sonally to accept my cordial acknowledgements, I offer through you a tribute of profund gratitude and respect" ful devotion to the citizens of Pennsylvania.'' His entrance into. the fair city, founded by the wise and benevolent P> nn, is described as most magnificent in all its accompaniments. The population poured forth to meet him at an early hour. Carriages, horse men and pedestrians filled every avenue for a distaace MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 2H af five miles ; and the windows and stagings were thronged with ladies eager to welcome him. Just at the entrance ofthe city, a division of militia, composed •of cavalry, artillery and infantry, was drawn up in a hol low square, on apiece of land of about forty acres, to receive the Patriot Hero, whose approach was an nounced by a salute of 100 rounds of artillery. La Fay ette, uncovered and standing up in the barouche, was seen by the whole field.. The car of Saladin could not have exceeded that of La Fayette. The troops were nearly six thousand. After the review, which the ¦general made on foot, he received the saluting honors in his barouche. The line of march into the city was then taken up. It extended nearly three miles, and passed through numerous streets. More than six hours were consum ed in proceeding from Frankfort to the State House, a distance of about four miles. A full description ofthe procession, and the decorated arches, &c. under which it passed, would occupy too great a portion of this vol ume — We can only give the outline ofthe procession. "¦ A cavalcade of 100 citizens preceded ; followed by 100 general, field and staff officers. Then came a square of cavahy ; a band of music, mounted, and a corps of 160 cavalry. Next a brigade of infantry, with flank companies. Committee of arrangements. General La Fayette and Judge Peters, in the splendid barouche. Then followed four other baroui hes, drawn by four horses each, with Governors Shulze and Williamson, and suites,the general's family, and distingui-sijeil individuals. "Then three cars, of large dimensions, containing 120 revolutionary heroes and worthies, each car char-'' T 218 MEM61BS OF LA FAYETTE. acteristically decorated; bearing on their front "Washington," on the rear " La Fayette," and on the sides, " defenders of our country," " The survivors-of 1776." Then advanced 400 young men. After these the pro. cession of trades, led by a car, containing a body of prin ters at work at case and press — the latter striking off, and distributing, copies of an ode on the occasion — fol lowed by the typographical society, with a banner, with ' the inscription: " La Fayette — the friend of universal liberty, and the rights ofthe press." Then followed 200 cordwainers (with banners, bad ges, emblems, &c. The other trades were also dec orated ;) — 300 weavers; — 160 ropemakers ; — 150 lads, uniformly dressed;— 100 shipbuilders; — 700 mechanics of different professions, not enumerated ;— 150 coopers, with a car containing a cooper's shop, the Vvorkmen fitting staves and driving hoops : — Then came 150 butchers, well mounted and neatly dressed in their frocks ; — then 260 carmen, mounted, with a- prons trimmed with blue ; and a body of 150 riflemen, in frocks, dressed with plaids, leopard skins, 8tc. A company of artillery, with two pieces ; a brigade of infantry and the New-Jersey cavalry. A body of 300 farmers closed the procession. Besides the above, there were the Red Men ofthe State, the La Fayette Association, the True Republican Society, the V\ ashington and La Fayette Society ; and the German American Society. The appearance of the whole of this truly grand procession was august and imposing. As it passed, La Fayette ! La Fayette 1 sprang from the voices of a multitude that rolled on, and on, and on, like- wave MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 219 after wave of the ocean, in numbers we shall not pre sume to name, (but which were estimated at 200,000.) La Fayette beat in every heart — La Fayette hung on every tongue — La Fayette glowed on every cheek — La Fayette glistened on every swimming eye— La Fay ette swelled on every gale. The whole city and coun try appeared to have arrayed themselves in all their glory, and beauty, and strength, at once to witness and adorn the majesty ofthe spectacle ; and the fashionable part of the community seemed determined to exhibit the perfection of taste in the beauty of the decoration of their persons, and the richness of their attire. In Chesnut-street wreathes were cast into the barouche, as it passed, and many of them were from the fair hands of the Quakeresses. After the procession had passed through the princi pal street.s,the front halted at the old State-House, which contains the hall in which the Declaration of Indepen dence was signed in 1776. Here the general alighted, passed under a most mag nificent triumphal arch, and was conducted to the hall, which is 40 feet square and was d ecorated in the most splendid manner. Amongkhe decorations was a statue of Washington, and portraits of William Penn, Franklin, Robert Morris, Francis Hopkinson, Greene, Wayne, Montgomery, Hamilton, Gates, RochambeaO, Charles Carrol, M'Kean, Jefferson, Hancock, Adams, Madison, Monroe, and Charles Thompson. — The por trait of Washington, by Peale, occupied the first place, and was the most splendidly decorated. Here were as sembled the city authorities, the society of Cincinnati, the judges, officers of the army and navy, and the com mittee of arrangements, all seated on superb sofas. 228 MEMOIRS Of LA FAYETTE. The Governor of the Slate having been presentedj. General La Fayette, Judge Peters, and George Wash ington La Fayette were introduced, ,the company all standing. The Mayor of the city then welcomed th& guest, in the following address : — '¦ General, " The citizens of Philadelphia welcome to their Iiomes, the Patriot who has long been dear to their- hearts. " Grateful at all times for the enjoyment of a free gov ernment, they are, on this occasion, peculiarly anxious but unable to express a deep felt sentiment of pure af fection toward those venerated men whose martial and civil virtues, under Providence, have conferred upon themselves and their descendents, this mighty blessing* " Forty-eight years ago, in this city, and in this hal lowed hall, which may emphatically be called the birth place of independence, a convention of men, such as the world has rarely seen, pre-eminent for talents and pat riotism, solemnly declared their determination to assume for themselves the right of self-government ; and that they and their posterity should thenceforth assert Jheir just rank among the nations of the earth. A small, but -cherished band of those who breasted the storm and sustained the principles thus promulgated to the world, still remains — -In the front rank of these worthies, history will find, and we now delight to honor, General La Fayette, whose whole lifo has been devoted to the cause of freedom and to the support of the unalienable rights of man. "General — Many of your co patriots have passed -away, but the remembrance of their virtues and their services, shall never pass from the minds of this people j MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 221 their's is an imperishable fame, the property of ages yet to come. Bat we turn from the fond recollection of the illustrious dead to hail with heart-felt joy the illustrious living, and again bid welcome, most kindly- and e affectionately welcome, to the guest of the nation* . the patriot La Fayette." The general made the following answer : " My entrance through this fair and great city, amidst the most solemn and affecting recollections, and under all the circumstances of a welcome which no expression could adequately acknowledge, has excited emotions in my heart, in which are mingled the feelings of nearly. fifty-years. " Here, sir, within these sacred walls, by a council of wise and devoted patriots, and in a style worthy of the deed itself, was boldly declared the independence of these vast United States, which, while it anticipated the independence, and I hope, the republican -inde pendence, of the whole lmerican hemisphere has begun, for the civilized world, the-era of a new and of the only true social order founded on the una lienable rights of man, the practicability and advantages of which are every day admirably demonstrated by the -happiness and prosperity of your populous city. '¦ Here, sir, was planned the formation of our virtuous brave, revolutionary army, and the providential inspi ration received, that gave the command of it to our be loved., match! .ss Washington. But these and many other remembrances, are mingled with a deep regret for the numerous cotemporaries, for the great and good men whose loss we have remained to mourn. — It is to their services, sir, to your regard for their memory, to your knowledge ofthe friendships I have eoioyed, that T 2 222 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. I refer the greater part of honors here and elsewhere received, much superior to my individual merit. " It is also under the auspices of their venerated names, as well as under the impulse of my own sentiments, that I beg you Mr. Mayor, you gentlemen of both councils, and all the citizens of Philadelphia, to accept the trib ute of my affectionate respect and profound gratitude." General La Fayette remained in Philadelphia a Week; and the repeated and constant attentions shown him by public societies and by distinguished individual?, were such as might have been expected from the cel ebrated hospitality and civism of that city, and such as was not unworthy of their eminent guest.- The gov ernor ofthe state was attentive and courteous to him during his whole visit ; and other public functionaries, both civil and military, were eager of the honor of man ifesting their great respect for his character. 1 hat portion ofthe citizens, who belong to the religious so ciety of Friends, appeared equally cordial and happy in an opportunity to assure him of their esteem. It is not consistent with their principles to make a great par ade, or to prepare expensive and useless ceremo nies. They did not all approve ofthe plan of illumi nation. In the wish to have it general, some ardent • citizens censured the friends for declining to do it.— But this was a mistaken zeal. The religious opinions and conscientious scruples of all classes of people are entitled to respect. It would have been altogether un justifiable, had there been an attempt to force the friends into the measure. They are a very respectable class of citizens; and we trust, that for no purposes of parade or ceremony, they will ever be required to vio late their consciences, or be subjected to insult for any non-compliance.. MEM6IRS OF La'faYETTBv- ! * 323 The following lines were written by one of that re ligious society, on the occasion, and cannot fail to be acceptable to every liberal mind. TO LA FAYETTE. 0 ! think not our hearts void of gratitude's glow, For the friend of our country, for liberty's friend, Tho' we dp not with others loud praises bestow, The kind hand of friendship we freely extend. We welcome thee back to the land where thy name, In boyhood we lisp'd, and in manhood revere ; Tho' we bind not thy brows with the chaplet of fame, Accept, beloved guest, a warm tribute — a tear ! Yes — a tear of affection which starts to the eye, When tracing thy storm-beaten pathway through life ; That thy principles pure could ambition defy, Thy humanity prompt thee to stay the fierce strife, In thee we be', old not the chieftain whose sword Delighting in bloodshed is ever unsheath'd ; But the friend of mankind, whose mild actions afford- A proof that his lips no hypocrisy breath'd. T)V>n welcome once more to the land where thy name In boyhood we 1 sp'd, and in manhood revere ; Tho' we twine not thy brows * with the war-wreath of fame, Accept, beloved guest, a warm tribute — a tear. While in Philadelphia, General La Fayette visited the navy yard. The Governor accompanied him in this 22-f MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTF..' visit, and lie was also attended by a large escort and procession. He was addressed by commodore Barron, in a very appropriate and feeling manner. A great* number of'Iadies were, presented to him at the commo dore's quarters. On his return, he attended a splendid entertainment provided for him by the Fre-' Masons. A ball was also given in honor of La Fayette, while he was in Philadelphia, the most brilliant and the most numer ous ever known in the city. The Miss Bollmans, daughters of Dr. Bollman, who generously attempted the rescue of La Fayette from the prison at Olmutz,' were present. On one day, 2000 children assembled at the. State House to be presented to him ; and one of them addressed him. The scene was said to be uncom monly interesting. — The following was his reply to the address of the Frenchmen in Philadelphia :~ " My D".AR COUNTRYMEN, " Amidst the enjoyments with wh'cb my heart- is filled in this happy country, I rxperience a very great one in seeing myself surrounded by the testimo nies of your friendship It was in the Hall in which I now receive you, that the- sacred sovereignty of the people was rec- gnized by a French Minister, eleven years before it was proclaimed on the 1 1 th of July, 1789, in the bosom of the Constituent'Assembly. You are right in thinking that this first impulse of 1789, has, notwithstanding our misfortunes, greatly meliorated the situation of the French people. I participate in your wishes and your hopes for the freedom of our country. This hope is well f'ounded,These wishes will be fulfill ed. In the mean while I am happy in tendering to you this day the expression of my lively gratitude and tender affection." MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 226" We give here also the address of Captain Barron to La Fayette, when he visited the navy yard near Phila* delphia : — " General La Fayette, " To receive you -it this naval station with the highest honors, is not less in obedience to our in-i structions, than to the impulse of our hearts. " We rejoice in the opportunity of testifying to you^ and to the world, our gratitude to one distinguished a- mong that band of glorious heroes, to whom we are in debted for the privilege we now enjoy. "You, sir, whose whole life has been devoted to the extension of civil liberty, must at, this period be en riched by feelings which rarely fall to the lot of man; " Turning from the old world, whose excesses have been almost, fatal to the cause of liberty, to the new, where that cause has prospered to an unexampled de» gree, you see a proof, that political liberty is not vi sionary. " The soldier will here behold the nation for which - he has fought, not exhausted by his triumphs, nor sac rificed to idle ambition, but raised by his valor to liber ty and independence ; and while enjoying these bless ings themselves, securing them for the remotest pos terity. " The patriot will here see a people, not distracted Ly faction, nor yet regardless of their political rights, making the most rapid strides to true greatness, and displaying in their happiness and security, the wisdom and power of institutions engraved on their hearts. " To you, sir, the soldier and patriot, we offer this cheering picture ; and if ever you can be recompensed for your generous devotion to us in our revolutionary 220 MEMOIRS OS LA FAYETTE. struggle, it must be in the pleasure with which y«« witness our national happiness. " Permit me then, dear General,, to assure you that among the ten millions that bid you welcome, none de it with more sincerity than those ofthe navy." Answer of General La Fayette. " I. he extraordinary honors of which an American veteran is now the happy object, I consider as being shared in common with my surviving companions ; and" for the greater part, bestowed as an approbation ofthe principle, and a tribute of regard, to the memory ofthe illustrious patriots with whom I have served in the cause of America and mankind. '' It is with the most lively feelings of an American heart, that 1 have sympathised in all the circumstances relative to the United States' Navy, and proudly-glori ed in the constant superiority ofthe American-flag -over- an enemy, justly renowned for bravery and maritime skill. " I am happy, my dear Commodore, in your affec* tionate welcome ; but whatever may be my feelings of personal gratitude to the Navy ofthe United States, I feel myself under still greater obligations to them,. for the honor they have done to the American name in every part ofthe globe." The 5th of October, La Fayette left Philadelphia, on this journey to the south, by the way of Wilming" ton, Baltimore and Washington. He passed the Bran- dywine, and entered Wilmington, the capital of Dela ware, on- the 6th about noon. He was received with demonstrations of lively gratitude and joy ; and a sump tuous repast was provided for him. He then proceed ed, to Newcastle .in that state, and was present at the MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 227 •marriage of Colonel V. Dupont, formerly one of his aids in France. From this place he proceeded to Frenchtnwn, where he was received by the aids ofthe Governor of Maryland, with a battalion- of horse as an escort for their honorable guest. He was waited on, also, hy deputations both civil and military, from the city of Baltimore, each of which offered him their cor dial salutations in the name of those whom they repre sented. General Harper was at the head ofthe mili tary deputation ; and having given him a hearty wel come, introduced h;s brother officers, amounting to two fiundred. Seveial tevolutionary officers and soldiers, who had repairvd to this place for the pleasure of an early meeting, were also introduced to him. The joy ofthe meeting was reciprocal. Among the many for mer personal friends, he mef here with M. Du Bois Martin, who procured the ship in which La Fayette &rst caine to America in 1777. The interview must have been extremely interesting. La Fayette embarked at Frenchtown in the steam boat United States, for Baltimore, furnished for his ac commodation by that city. "On his arrival in the river, columns of smoke in the direction of Baltimore, an nounced to those on board, the approach of a squadron of steam boats ; and in three quarters of an hour the Virginia, the Maryland, the Philadelphia, &c. swept gallantly by, two on either side, crossed immediately under the stern of tie United States, and took their po sitions en echellon. The Maryland and Virginia then came close along side, their decks crowded with spec tators, who saluted the General with continued shouts, The whole fleet then proceeded slowly up the river, all ejegamly decorated with flags, closed into the cen- 228 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. tre as it passed the narrows opposite Fort M'Henry-, •and dropt anchor, forming a semi-circle near the north ern shore. Just a9 the anchor was let go a signal gun was fired, and a squadron of eight green and white barges, which had been awaiting the coming of La Fayette, shot a- cross the bows of the United States, and passing round in regular order under the stern, came along side to receive the passengers. The first was handsomely carpetted and cushioned, manned by masters of ves sels, and intended for La Fayette. The General embarked in this boat amidst the re peated cheering of all around, and pushing off made way for the others, which took on board the commit tees and proceeded in order to the wharf The General was received on the wharf by the com mander of the garrison, and proceeded to the star fort. The Governor of the State was here introduced to the General, who addressed him, to which the General made a feeling reply. He was afterwards conducted to the tent of Washington by Governor Stevens, within which he was received- by the society of Cincinnati. The scene was impressive. As soon as the fiist emo tions had subsided, the hero of the Cowpens, Colonel Howard, Piesident ofthe society, addressed the Gene- ral,-who, in reply, said language could not express his feelings. He then embraced his old companions in arms. The General and invited guests then retired to an adjoining marquee, and took refreshments ; after which he was seated in an elegant barouche, -attended by Mr Carroll, and Generals Smith and Howard, drawn -by four black horses, with two postillions in white silk jackets, blue sashes and black velvet caps, led by four MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 223 k grooms similarly dressed. At the outer gate, the proces sion was received by about 1000 cavalry. On passing Federal Hall, a salute was fired. Descending the hall, the procession passed under an elegant arch, and an other at the head of Market-street, where his friends left the carriage, and the General alone proceeded down the military line, in presence of thousands of both sexes. After this he descended at the Exchange, where he was received by the Mayor and Councils, with an ap propriate address and answer. He thence proceeded in his carriage to Light-street, across which, at the en trance into Market-street, an elegant pavilion had been erected, and where he was received Jjy a fine military assemblage. Here there was a truly splendid ceremo ny, in presentment by the Mayor, to the General, with Pulaski's standard, made during the revolutionary war by a Moravian Nun, at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, which belonged to Pulaski's legion, raised in Baltimore in 1778. In 1779, Count Pulaski was mortally wounded ¦at the attack on Savannah ; and these colors, at his de cease, in 1780, descended to the Major, who was sabred to death in South Carolina. The venerable Paul Ben- talou, Esq. now marshal of the district of Maryland, and at that time captain of the first troop of light drag oons, and senior surviving officer, inherited thestandaid of the legion, which he has preserved with great care to this day, with all the fond recollections and attach ments of the veteran soldier. In the evening, the city was brilliantly illuminated, and many of the public and private buildings exhibited appropriate transparencies. On Friday, hundreds of citizens were presented to U 230 MEM9IRS OF LA. FAYETTE. the General, in the Hall of the Exchange ; and in the afternoon he dined with the Mayor and Corporation. In the evening, he attended the ball and supper given to him by the citizens, which was truly splendid, and occupies many columns in the description. The General ' was also waited upon, and addressed in the most feeling manner, by the French residents, to whom he replied in the most affectionate manner. At seven o'clock in. the evening the General was re ceived at Masonic Hall, by the Grand Lodge of Mary land, in the presence of eight hundred brethren. The General dined with the Cincinnati on Saturday. On Monday he was presented with a medal from the young men of Baltimore, with inscriptions expressive of their gratitude. He afterwards presented several colors to the fifth regiment, under Colonel Stewart, in" his be- half, which were received with the highest military honors. The General then reviewed the regiment.: — At eleven o'clock he left his lodgings, and proceeded in his barouche to Whetstone Point, for the purpose of reviewing -the third division, under the command of Major General Harper. He partook of a splendid mil itary banquet. His honors on leaving the city were magnificent as those of his reception. He departed under escort on Monday, over the Washington turnpike. He was to pass the night 30 miles from Baltimore, and enter Washington city on Tuesday at noon." In no city which General La Fayette visited, had he met with a more cordial welcome, or a more splendid reception, than in Baltimore. All were desirous to do him honor and to express their feelings of gratitude and respect for the guest ofthe nation. Many interest ing recollections must have been brought to his m'nd, MEMOIRS ©F LA FAYETTE, 231 when in this city. It was here he passed some time in 1781, when he commanded the American light infantry in that quarter — when the British had a large army in the vicinity, and our troops Were destitute of clothing, • and in a state of great despondence. By his own per sonal influence and responsibility, he obtained a loan here for the use of his troops, which was necessary to their comfort, and served to render them in a measure contented with their situation. The address of his old friend Colonel Howard, in behalf of the Cincinnati of Maryland, who were assembled in the Tent of Wash ington to receive his adopted son, and their beloved brother soldier, was as follows : — " Genkral, " A few of your brother soldiers of Maryland, who remain after a lapse of forty years, and the sons of some of them who are now no more, are assembled in the Tent of Washington, to greet you on your visit to the United States; and to assure you of their affection ate and sincere regard. This Tent will call to your recollection many interesting incidents which occurred when you associated in arms with Washington, the pa triot and soldier, saviour of his country, and friend of your youth. " Accept, General, our cordial sentiments of esteem for you, and of gratitude for services rendered by you to our country — services which will never be forgotten by the free and happy people of the United States." To which General La Fayette replied — " The pleasure to recognize my beloved companions in arms ; the sound of names, whose memory is dear to me ; this meeting under the consecrated Tent, where we so often pressed around our paternal commander in 232 MFMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. chief; excite emotions which your sympathizing hearts will better feel than I can express. This.post also, no bly defended in the late war, while it brings the affect ing recollection of a confidential friend in my military family, associates with the remembrance ofthe illustri ous defence of another fort, in the war of the .revolu tion, by the friend now near me. [Colonel Smith.] It has been the lot ofthe Maryland line, to acquire glory in instances of bad as well as of good fortune ; and to whom can I better speak of that glory, than in address ing Colonel Howard ? My dear brother soldiers, my feelings are too strong for utterance. I thank you most affectionately." The meeting of this Society was rendered peculiar ly interesting, — there being present, besides many other worthy veterans of the revolutionary army, Colonel John E. Howard, the celebrated hero of the battle of the Cowpens, January 1781, to whom Congress present ed two medals, in testimony of his singular bravery — General (formerly Colonel) Samuel Smith, who brave ly defended Mud-fort, and many years senator in Con gress ; and Paul Bentalou, Esq. now marshal of Mary land district, who was the senior captain of light drag oons, belonging to Pulaski's legion, in 1778. Here al so the very venerable Charles Carroll, one ofthe sign ers ofthe declaration of independence, was introduced to La Fayette. We give also an extract from the address of Govern or Stevens, to the General. " Sir, " In bidding you a hearty welcome to the state of Maryland, whilst I gratify the feelings of my own heart, I express, though feebly, those of the people* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETrE. 233 whom it is my pride and pleasure, on this occasion to represent. Beneath this venerable canopy, many a time have you grasped the friendly hand of our illus trious Washington, aided his council with your animat ing voice, or shared with him the hardy soldier's meal. The incidents which the association so forcibly recalls, however inspiring, it were needless to dwell upon. The recollection of them fills the mind with gratitude; a foil measure of which is justly due to you, as the generous companion of our fathers, the gallant and dis interested soldier of liberty. — You are about to enter the city of Baltimore, which you have known in other days. In her growth and embellishment, you will be hold a symbol of our national prosperity, under popu lar institutions and a purely representative government. — Welcome^ thrice welcome, General, to the soil ef Maryland.- Nothing which we can do, can too strongly express to you the affection and respect which we en tertain for your person and your principles, or the joy with which we receive you among us, as a long absent father on a visit to his children." To this address La Fayette replied — " While- your Excellency is pleased so kindly to welcome me in the name of the citizens of Maryland, - the lively gratitude, which this most gratifying recep tion cannot fail to excite, associates in my heart, with a no less profound sense of my old obligations to this state, both as an American General and a personal friend. 1 am happy, sir, to have the honor to meet you in this fort, so gallantly defended in the late war, in- presence 'of the brave colonel ofthe worthy volun teers, whose glory on that occasion I have enjoyed with the proud feelings of an American veteran. It was by. u 2. 234 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. a Maryland colonel in the year 1777, that the British received, in the gallant defence of an important fort, one of the first lessons o~f what they were to expect from American valour and patriotism. The Maryland line, sir, in the continental army has been conspicuous, not only in days of victory, but on days either unfortu nate or dubious. This tent, under which I now answer your affectionate address; the monument erected to the memory of our great and good commander in chief; the column of a later date, bearing testimonies of a glo rious event.; my entrance into a city long ago dear to me, and now become so beautiful and prosperous ; fill my heart with sentiments, in which you have had the goodness to sympathize. " Accept, sir, the tribute of my respectful and affec tionate gratitude to the citizens of the state, and their honored chief magistrate." There was an incident connected with General La Fayette's escort to the boundary, of Baltimore, which deserves to be particularly noticed. The cavalry troop was commanded by Samuel Sprigg, Esq. who, two years ago, ended a full term of service in the capacity of Governor of the tate of Maryland, of which he was Captain-General and ( ommander in Chief Returned to private life, a wealthy planter, in the midst of all that can render life easy and pleasant, he is pi oud of resum ing his character of a citizen, and becoming a member of a troop ot horse, in which he enrols himself with his neighbours, who choose him their commander. In that capacity, he has had the pleasure of receiving Gen eral La Fayette at the boundary oMiis- county, and es corting him through it. This incident, we say, deserves to be noted as a fine practical illustration of the princi* pies of republican government. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 235 General La Fayette arrived in the city of Washing ton, according to previous arrangement, about 1 o'clock on Tuesday the 12th. About 9 o'clock, on Tuesday morning, the General and suit left Rossburg,.and proceeded to the District of Columbia, at tbe line of which he was met by the committee of arrangements from the city of Washing ton, and a number of revolutionary officers, escorted by a handsome troop of city cavalry, and a company of Montgomery cavalry. The meeting of the General with his revolutionary compatriots, and with the com mittee, was affectionate and impressive in the extreme. After many embraces were exchanged, the General was transferred to the elegant landau provided by the city for his use, drawn by four fine greys, in which he was accompanied by Major General Brown and Com modore 'I ingey, members of the committee ; and his son George Washington La Fayette, his Secretary, Col. Vassieur, and Mr. Custis, of Arlington, were placed in another carriage provided for the purpose. The whole then advanced to the city, Capt, Sprigg's company in front, the remaining-companies proceeding and flanking the carriages containing the General, his suite, the committee, &c. On rising to the extensive plain which stretches eastward from the capitol lo the Anacosta river, the General found himself in front of the most brilliant military spectacle which our city ever witness ed, being a body pf 10 or 1200 troops, composed en tirely of volunteer companies of the city, George town, and Alexandria, some ol them recently organiz ed, clad in various tasteful uniforms, and many of them elegant beyond any thing of the kind we have before seen. Brigadier Generals Smith and Jones were in the field with their respective suits, and the 236 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. field officers of the first brigade. These troops, together with the large body of cavalry, the vast mass of eager ' spectators which overspread thq plain, and the animation of the whole, associated with the presence of the venerated object of so much curi osity and affection, gave a grandeur and interest to the scene which has never been equalled here oh any for mer occasion. After the General had received the respects and welcome of our military chiefs, the-whole body of troops took up the escort, for the capitol, wheeling into column, in East Capitol-street, and then into line upon the leading division. The General and suite then passed this line in review, advancing to wards the capitol, and receiving the highest military honors as he passed. After the military procession had reached the east end of the market house, on Kast Capitol-street, which was handsomely adorned with proper emblems, and the Declaration of Independence, above which perched a living eagle of the largest size, the committee of ar rangements and General La Fayette and suite alighted from their carriages and preceded by the committee, the General and suite passed through the market house, which on each side was lined with anxious and delight ed spectators, to the east entrance ofthe Capitol Square, over, which was thrown a neat arch, decorated with evergreens and other ornaments, with appropriate la bels, expressive of the esteem and- gratitude of the ci tizens to the national guest; on the pinnacle stood an other eagle. On entering, the gate, the General was met by a group of 25 young girls, dressed in white, in tended to represent the 24 States and the District of Columbia, each wearing a wreath of flowers, and bear- MEMOIRS OF LAFAYETTE. 237 *ing in her hand a miniature national flag, with the name of one ofthe States inscribed upon it ; when the one representing the district advanced and arrested his progress, and, in a short speech, neatly and modestly delivered their welcome to the nation's guest. Afte'r which each of the young ladies presented her hand to the General, which he received in the most affection ate manner, and with the kindest expressions. Hfr then passed a double line of girls, properly dressed, from the schools, who strewed his way with flowers. Leaving the girls, he passed lines of the students of the colleges and seminaries, with their respective ban ners, and a company of Juvenile Infantry, dressed in uniform, and armed in a suitable manner ; and then the younger boys from the schools. All these form- . ed a numerous and highly interesting assemblage. Ar> riving at the north wing of the Capitol, the General was conducted by the committee of arrangement through the great door, up the grand staircase, into the central rotunda of the Capitol, which though of im mense size, was filled with ladies and gentlemen ; and, through it, received, on every side, demonstrations of the most ardent and grateful respect. On leaving the the rotunda, he passed under the venerable tent of Washington, also filled with ladies, revolutionary offi cers, and other gentlemen, to the front of the portico of the Capitol, neatly carpeted, on which was erected the tent. He was introduced to the Mayor, who in troduced him to the Mayor of Georgetown, the mem bers of the corporation, and other gentlemen pres ent, when advancing to the front ofthe portico, in the presence of many thousand spectators, the Mayor deliv ered an address, to which the General replied, -$3# MEM«IHS OF LA FAYETTE.* The General was then invited by the Mayor" o"f Georgetown to visit that town, in a chaste and neat ad dress. To which the General replied, in a few words, that -Georgetown was an old acquaintance of his, -where he ,had found many valuable and esteemed friends, and he would -sv-isit it with the greatest delight, and thank its citizens for their kind regards. After this, John Brown Cutting, Esq. at the request of the committee of arrangements, and in behalf of him self and other revolutionary officers, delivered a short address and complimentary poem, in a handsome and appropriate manner. After having made a reply to this address, the Gen eral was introduced to some other gentlemen ; -and wits then conducted by the Mayor, attended by the commit tee of arrangements,in the way by which he had ascend ed, to the front door of the north wing of the Capitol, where the military passed in review before him. saluting as they passed. Immediately after his reception in the portico, a grand salute was fired in the neighborhood of the Capitol, by a company of Alexandria artillery. The review being finished, the Mayor ascended the landau with the General, attended by Gen. Brown and Com. Tingey, and the procession was resumed in the same order as before ; and passing through Pennsylvania Avenue, proceeded to the president's house. In this passage the streets were lined With spectators ; but the most pleasing sight was the windows on each side of it filled with ladies, in their best attire and looks, bestowing, with beaming eyes, their benedictions. on the beloved Chief, and waving white handkerchiefs, as tokens of their happiness, MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE* 239' On passing the centre market, another salute was fired from a battery south of the Tiber, by a company Of artillery. The General, with his son, the Mayor, committee of arrangements, &c. thus es>corted, having reached the President's house, (distant fron' the Capitol more than a mile) passed into the gate of the enclosure, and thence .to the portico of the mansion. The General, on alight ing, was there received by the Marshal of the District. of Columbia, and, supported by Gen. Brown and Com- Tingey, and accompanied by the Mayor and others of the committee of ai rangemehts, was, with fiis son con ducted into the drawing room where the President was prepared to receive him. The President, stationed at the head of this circular apartment, had on his right hand the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury, on his left the Sec retary of War and the Secretary of the Navy, and, ranged on each side the room, were the other gentle men invited to be present at this interview. Thewhole number of distipguised persons present being fifty or sixty. On the General's reaching the centre of the circle, the President advanced to him, and gave him a cordial and affectionate reception, such as might have been ex pected from the illustrious representative ofthe Amer ican people, to one of those early friends of theirs, whom, like himself, they delight to honor. After the interchange of courtesies between the guest and the President, he was welcomed by the Heads of Departments. Between him and Mr. Craw ford, with whom he had in France an intimate ac- quaintance, the meeting was that of old and affectionate 340 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. friends : and by all he was respectfully and kindly greeted. Subsequently, the General was introduced in succession, by the Chief of each Department of the Government, to the officers attached to each. Liberal refreshments were then offered to tbe company, and fifteen or twenty minutes were spent in delightful con versation. After which the General took his leave, well pleased with his reception, and, remounting the landau, proceeded to rejoin his escort. Retiring from this affecting scene, the General pass ed in review, and was saluted by the whole body of troops, which had been wheeled into line, and extend ed from the President's square to the General's quarters. On his alighting he expressed his thanks to them for the honor bestowed, on him, and then another grand salute was fired by a company of artillery : after which, the military were dismissed. He retired, for a short time, to his private room ; and, when he returned into public, was^ with his suite, introduced to a great num ber of citizens, anxious to express their heartfelt res pect to the disinterested champion of their country's liberty. To an address from the Mayor, full of fine feeling, the General made the following reply : — " The kind and flattering reception with which I am honored by the citizens of Washington, excite the most lively feelings of gratitude ; those grateful feelings, sir, at every step of my happy visit to the United States, could not but enhance the inexpressible delight 1 have enjoyed at the sight ofthe immense and wonderful im provements, so far beyond even the fondest anticipa tions of a warm American heart; and which, in the space of forty years, have so gloriously evinced the su- MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE.' 24 1 periority of popular institutions, and self-government, over the too imperfect state of political civilization, found in every part ofthe other hemisphere. In this august place, which bears the most venerable of all ancient and modern names, I have, sir, the pleasure to contemplate, not only a centre of that constitutional Union so necessary to these States, so important to the interests of mankind ; but also a great political school, where attentive observers from other parts of the world may be taught the practical science of true so cial order. " Among the circumstances of my life, to which you have been pleased to allude, none can afford me such dear recollections, as my having been early adopted as an American soldier; so there is not a circumstance of my reception in which I take so much pride, as in shar ing those honors with my beloved companions in arms. Happy I am to feel that the marks of affection and esteem bestowed on me, bear testimony to my perseverance in the American principles I received under the tent of Washington, and of which I shall, to my, last breath, prove myself a devoted disciple. I beg you, Mr. May or, and the gentlemen of the Corporation, to accept my respectful acknowledgments to you and to the citizens of Washington." To the address and poem presented by John Brown Cuttiug, Esq. the General made the following reply : — " While I embrace you, sir, and make my acknowl edgments to those of our revolutionary comrades, in whose name you welcome me to this metropolis, be assured that I reciprocate those kind expressions of at tachment, which from them are peculiarly gratifying. And although, in doing this, it cannot be exnected that 242 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. I should command such beautiful language as you em ploy, yet I speak from the bottom of my heart, when 1 assure you that the associations of time and place, to which you allude, exalt the interest which I shall.ever feel in your prosperityrand that of every meritorious individual who belonged to the revolutionary army of the United States." After the ceremony of the procession, &c. a public dinner was provided, at which the Mayor of Washing ton presided, assisted by the -Presidents of the boards of Aldermen and the Common Council ; and at which were present, the heads of departments, revolutionary offi cers, military and naval officers of the United States, members ofthe City Council, and many distinguished characters from different parts of the nation. His reception by Mr. Monroe President ofthe United States, was most cordial and -honorable. He called on the President, the day of his arrival in Washington, as before mentioned. The next day he was with Mr. Monroe both at breakfast and dinner, and on Thursday, the President gave a public dinner in honor of La Fay ette, at which were present, the Heads of Departments, many distinguised public characters from various parts of the United States, and the principal officers of the army and navy. While in Washington, he also visited the Secretaries of State, ofthe Treasury, End of War, and Major General Brown, of the United States army. Gen. La Fayette rode over to Georgetown, on Thurs day, having been earnestly invited by the Mayor and corporation to visit the city. And the "citizens demon strated their gratitude and joy on the occasion, by a military escort, and a respectable procession. But the most acceptable offering was such as he had received MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE, 24^ in all other places, the spontaneous and cordial saluta tions of the whole people. On Friday, he visited the navy yard,, by invitation of the veteran Commodore* Tingey. His reception here was remarkably brilliant and impressive ; he was accompanied by many distin guished citizens and public functionaries ; and the at" tentionsof the naval veteran were honorable to himself and highly gratifying to General La Fayette. He dined again, this day (Friday) with President Monroe; and on Saturday proceeded on his proposed visit to Alex andria, and Yorktown. He was accompanied as far as the Potomac by the Mayor and committee of arrange ments from Washington, escorted by the Georgetown cavalry. On the south side of the river, he was re ceived by the deputation of Alexandria, attended by many other citizens, and several officers ofthe army and navy of the United States. He was received in Alexandria with the highest military honors, and es corted through the town amidst the welcomes and and shouts of many thousands of inhabitants. A pub lic dinner was given him ; and the highest regard man ifested by all classes of people for this disinterested friend of American freedom and independence. Sunday morning he visited the tomb of Washington, at Mount Vernon, accompanied by Mr. Custis, the near est male relative of that most distinguised patriot. La Fayette spent an hour at this hallowed spot, where, were deposited the mortal remains of his most res pected friend, whom he loved, venerated. and was ever desirous to imitate, lt was a moment of sacred recol lection ; and while the living patriot and hero reflected with mingled emotions of joy and sadness at the grave of one who was his leader and examplar, in youth, he 244 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. could not but anticipate, with deep solemnity, the ap proaching period of his own departure. Mr. Custis here presented him with a ring containing some of the hair of his immortal relative. General La Fayette then proceeded on his way to Yorktown, where he arrived on Monday ; and was received with great demonstra tions of respect and joy. A steam boat was dispatched from Yorktown down the river to meet the United States steam boat, which had La Fayette on board. He entered the former near the mouth of the river, where he was received by the committee from Yorktown, and conveyed to that place, attended by four other large boats, crowded with citizens anxious to see and wel come '•' the guest ofthe nation." One ofthe commit tee addressed him, in a very affectionate and impressive manner, as soon as he came on board of the Virginia steam boat. A great concourse of people from the neighbouring towns were collected, and many from far distant places, together with the' most distinguished public characters in the whole state of Virginia, There, were also present on this occasion, many officers of . high rank of the army and navy of the United States. Great preparations had been made by the citizens of Virginia, and by the state authorities, to celebrate the anniversary of the capture of the British army, under Lord Cornwallis, at this place, on the 19th' of October, 1781 ; an event, in which La Fayette took a very ac tive and useful part; perhaps no general in the siege, under Washington, was more active and useful — an event, also, which had great and immediate influence with the English government, to acknowledge our in dependence and offer terms of an honorable peace. General La Fayette had been invited, some weeks be* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 240 fore, to be present in Yorktown, at this time. The Ex-Presidents Jefferson and Madison, were also invited t6 attend, but they both declined. Mr. Madison's want of health prevented; and Mr. Jefferson declined on account of age and infirmity. We give his letter in reply to the ivitation. " Monticello, Oct. 9, 1824. "Sir, "1 received, on the 2d instant, your favor of Sep tember 27, conveying to me the obliging invitation of the volunteer companies of the state, to meet them and their distinguished guest, Gen. L:i Fayette, at York on the 19th instant. No person rejoices more than I do at the effusions of gratitude- with which our fellow-citi zens, in all parts, are receiving this their antient and virtuous friend and benefactor; nor can any other more cordially participate in their sentiments of affection to him. Age and infirmities, however, disable me from repairing to distant occasions of joining personally in these celebrations ; and leave me to avail myself of the opportunity which the friendship ofthe General will give by his kind assurance of a visit. He will here have the pleasure of reviewing a- scene wilich his mili- itary manoeuvres covered from the robberies and rav ages of an unsparing enemy. Here, then, I shall have the welcome opportunity of joining with my grateful neighbors inmanifestations of our sense of his protec tion peculiarly afforded to us, and claiming our special remembrance and acknowledgements. But I shall not the less participate with my distant brethren by sin cerely sympathising in their warmest expressions of gratitude and respect to their country's guest. " With this apology for my inability to profit ofthe v 2. 246 MEMOIRS 6F LA FAYETTE. honorable invitation of the volunteer companies, I pray you to accept for them and yourself the assurance of my high respect and consideration. TH : JEFFERSON." Hon. Mr. Marshall, the Chief Justice of the Uuited States, Major-General Taylor of the Virginia militia, Mr. Bassett, many years a member of Cougress from the state,' and a committee from Yorktown, went in the steam boat to meet General La Fayette. The address of one of the committee, on his ei.terin> the Virginia steam boat, was as follows : " We are deputed by our follow citizens now assem bled at Yorktown, to welcome you to Virginia. " We will not recount, in your presence, the real services you have rendered this republic, and the vir tues that so endear you to us, lesteven the simple voice of truth might pain the delicacy of a mind like yours. But the emotions we all feel, of gratitude, affection and veneration for you ; emotions rendered more intense in each, by the universal sympathy of others ; these we cannot suppress. In tbe numerous assembly, now anx iously awaiting your arrival, they are swelling in every bosom, and hanging on every tongue, and beaming from every eye. " Yes, sir, you " read your history in a nation's eyes," A whole people unite in one deep and glowing sentiment of respect and love towards you. Whereso ever you go, the old greet you as their leader in arms, and their companion in toil and danger; the partaker, too, of their triumph. f he young have been taught, from their earliest childhood, to honor and to bless your name.' The mothers and the daughters of the land shed tears of joy at your approach. Your name is1 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 217 associated in the memory of us all, with every name, and with m> st of the events in our annals, dearest to the American heart; with the illustrious and revered name of Washington, and with the mostglorious achieve ments of the revolution. " But, of all the state* in the Union — though we will not say that Virginia is tbe most grateful — yet she cer tainly owes you the largest debt of gratitude. This state was the chief scene of your services In the day of her greatest peril, in the darkest hour of her dis tress, when invading armies threatened to overrun the country, and all the horrors of war were pointed a- gainst our very dwellings ; Washington selected you, his youthful friend, for the chief command, and secure ly entrusted the defence of hisnatit e *tate to your cour age and conduct. How zealously you undertook, how well you fulfilled the arduous part assigned you, with what honor to yourself, and wiih what adtantage to us, no time shall obliterate the remembrance The gener ral ofthe enemy, in effect, pi onouncerl your euiogium, when conscious of his own abilities, and confiding in the superiorty of his forces, he vauntingly said, tl The boy cannot escape mc." History records, not only that i ur youthful general did escape him, hut that he held safe the far greater part of tbe country, in spite of his ut most efforts; and came at last lo yonder spot, to assist in the capture of his army; to witness the downfall of his hopes, the humiliation of his pride, and the last ef fort of British power against American frei'ilom And now, after the lapse of forty-three years, he visits the Same spot again — happy to renew there the gfor ous recollections ofthe past; and yet, happier, we hope, to see^how dearly we appreciate tie blessings of liber-, ty and independence which he assisted us to achieve* 248 MF.MOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. " On that spot, sir, we are most proud to receive you. We hail you as the hero of liberty and the friend of man. We greet you as the bosom friend of Wash ington. We greet you as one ofthe father's ofthe re public." General La Fayette answered — " I am happy, sir, to find myself again, after a long absence, and to be so kindly welcomed, on the beloved soil ofthe state ofVirginia; that state, to which I am bound by so many old ties of gratitude, devotion, and mutual confidence. It is to the patriotic support I found in the civil authorities of this state, whose gener ous spirit had already shone from the beginning ofthe revolutionary contest ; it is to the zeal, the courage, the perseverance of the Virginia militia, in conjunction with our small gallant continental army, that we have been indebted for the success of a campaign arduous in its beginning, fruitful in its happy issue. Nothing can be more gratifying to my feelings, than the testimonies 1 receive of my living still in the hearts of the Virgini ans ; and I beg you, sir, to be pleased to accept, and transmit to the citizens of this state, the cordial tribute of my grateful, constant and affectionate respect." Thebeach and the heights of Yorktown were filled with anxious spectators : the anticipation was intense. The Governor and Council were stationed on a tempo rary wharf, erected for the occasion,, to receive him. Judges, revolutionary patriots, officers of the army, in vited guests and citizens, were also in waiting, in a sep arate group. La Fayette landed with his companions-, and supported by Colonels hassett, Harvie, Peyton and Jones ; who introduced him to the Governor of the State. The latter received him with the following. speech : — MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTfe. 249 " General La Fayette, "Sir — On behalf of the people ofVirginia, I tender to you a most cordial and hearty welcome to our State. "In you we recognise the early, the stedfast, the consistent friend. Whilst the United States in general, owe you so large a debt of gratitude, for the liberal ten der of your purse, your person and 3'our blood in their behalf, the'state of Virginia, is, if possible, still more deeply indebted to you. — You were her defender in the hour of her greatest trial. At the early age of twenty four years, with an army greatly inferior in numbers, and still more in equipments and discipline, you conduct ed your military movements with so much judgment, that the ablest officer of the British army could never obtain the slightest advantage over you ; and whilst that officer spent his time in harrassing our distressed state^ you manoeuvred before him with the most unceasing caution and vigilance,, with a steady eye, to that grand result, which brought the war to a crisis on the plains of York. " Forty-three years from that period, we have the hapiness to find you in our country, the vast improve ment of which is the most conclusive evidence of the correctness of the principles for which you contended by the side of Washington. " I will conclude, sir, by the expression of a sentiment, which 1 believe to be strictly true ; — It is, that no man, at any time has ever received the effusions of a nation's feelings, which have come so directly from the heart." The General advanced, and grasping the Gover nor's hand, said, — " 1 am gratified sir, most highly grat ified, by the reception you have given me on the part of the state of Virginia. The happy conduct and the 250 memoirs of la fayette-. successful termination of the decisive campaign, in which you have the goodness to ascribe to me so large a part, were attributable much more t,o the constituted authorities and people of Virginia, than to the general who was honored with the chief military, command. 1 have the livliest recollection of all the scenes of my services in this state, and of all the men with whom it Was my happiness and honor to serve — and happy as I was to assist and witness the accomplishment of Ameri can liberty and independence, I have been yet happier in the assurance that the blessings which have flowed from that great event, have exceeded the fondest and most sanguine expectations." The,General was then successively introduced to the councillors, the judges, the revolutionary officers, and a number of citizens. The procession then advanced- Gen. La Fayette, the Governor, Chief Justice, and Mr. Calhoun, the Secretary of War, seated in the barouche. Next La Fayette's son and suite, and the Council, &c. &c. in regular succession. It advanced (the General's head uncovered) amidst the salutes from the artillery company stationed on the heights and from the steam boats and small craft — and amid the full swell of music. It passed through the long lines of citizens and old rev olutionary soldiers arranged in two columns. It wound up the hill, and fin ally terminated at the General's quar ters. — On entering the house (Gen. Nelson's) he was cheered by a crowd of citizens. The introduction of a number of ladies and citizens followed — receiving all with interest and the quiet dig nity of a spirit at peace within itself, and pleased with all the world. The most interesting of these inter views were with th e soldiers ofthe revolution. One Memoirs o* la fayettb. 251 t»'f them advanced, seized the General by the hand, exclaiming, u I was with you at Yorktown. I entered yonder redoubt at your side. I too was at the side of the gallant De Kalb, >our .issociate in arms, when he fell in the field." The tears streamed from the vete ran's eyes ; and La Fayette -howed by his countenance the sympathy he felt. " Yes, mv brave soldier, I am happy to have lived, to meet you once more." After a short time, La Fayette, respecting that ines timable spirit of equality which pervades ov.er free in stitutions, went forth to salute the crowd of citizens who stood in the street. He was stationed at the gate, and the long line of gratified spectators passed by him. Each person seized his hand as he passed him. To all La Fayette extended some mark of kindness and consideration. The spectacle was deeply impressive. The variety of manners in the different spectators was singularly striking. Some as they approached, fixed their eyes on his face, and lingered after they had pass ed, as if to drink in the last expression of its counte nance. Others advanced with the deepest feelings of awe, with their eyes cast upon the earth. On Monday. La Fayette dined with a select company of some 20 or 30, consisting of the revolutionary offi cers, &c. At night, some transparencies were exhibit ed over the door of his house, and under the Richmond marquee. In truth, the scene exceeded all rational expecta tion : The committee of arrangements deserve much encomium for their enterprising spirit and judicious ef forts. It is a scene which no man who saw it will ev er forget. The Virginians appeared in their true col ours.— The moral effects of this spectacle were sub- 2t>2 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. lime. There was an effect in it, which no words can describe. Tears streamed from an hundred eyes. The sentiments it diffused through several thousands of spec tators, were of the loftiest character. On this day, Monday 18th, the reception was purely civic, not a soldier appeared under arms. But on the 19th the military spectacle was imposing and brilliant. Soon after breakfast, La Fayette walked, from his quarters, to the tent of Washington, surrounded by the committee of arrangements and others. Numbers were then introduced to him — many ladies, the veteran soldiers ofthe revolution, citizens from other states and all quarters of Virginia. Col. Wm. I. Lewis, of Campbell, was introduced to him, and delivered the following address : — '' Gen. La Fayette, " The sons ofthe mountains join most cordially their low land brethren^ in welcoming your return to this country, they are the more delighted at this particular period, because after an absence of about forty years, •you will now be a witness of the happy effects of self government, founded on the natural rights of man — rights, which you so nobly contributed to establish. Lit tle did you think when in youthful age, you voluntarily put your life in your hand, and crossed the stormy bil lows ofthe deep, to fight and bleed for the independence of America, 'that the results would have been so won derful. At that period we were only a handful of peo. pie, for in every thing of military import, except an invincible love and attachment for liberty — we fought, and thanks to La Fayette and his native nation, we con quered ! — Now we see the result — we have nearly by the offspring of our own loins increased to more than MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 25$ 10,000,000 of people cleared the immeasurable forests of savages, and wild beasts, and in their places are cul tivating rich fields, building villages, towns, and cities ; ©ur commerce is spread over every sea, and our navy rides triumphant on the ocean. Such are the effects of free government, founded on equal rights, supported by wise and merciful laws faithfully executed! — There is but one alloy to our pleasure of meeting you — we dread your return to Europe. The despots of that countrv envy your increasing glory, founded on virtue, which they cannot imitate ; and their politi cal fears may again incarserate you in the grated walls of a dungeon ! Stay then with us} La Fayette— stay with us — here ia every house you will find a home and in every heart a friend — we will with filial affection rock with gen tleness the cradle of your declining age; and when it shall please the God of universal nature to call you to himself, crowned with (he blessings of at least one free and mighty nation, we will then with holy devotion bury your bones'by the side of your adopted and im mortal father, and moisten your tomb with the tears of love and gratitude." The costume and whole appearance of Col. Lewis were striking and interesting ; he had on the mountain dress. On the conclusion ofthe address, the General grasped him with both hands, and in the most touching manner, begged him to convey to his mountain friends his most affectionate acknowledgments for this testimo ny of their kindness. He recounted the services which their gallantry had formerly rendered him He dwelt with delight upon the interest they now manifested in his happiness. About 11 o'clock, the procession began to form for X 254 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. the triumphal arch, erected on the ruins of the Rock Redoubt, standing within six yards of the river's bank. The ceremony of the reception at that most interesting point, was pathetic beyond expression. The old Gen eral advanced up the hillock which leads to the redoubt, limping and supported by the Governor, with his aids and members of the committee of arrangement. A large column of officers and citizens followed them. W hen La Fayette had reached the triumphal arch, General Taylor stepped from the simicircular group, which was formed near the river's bank, saluted him with profound respect, and addressed him in the fol lowing manner : " General, " ' .'n behalf of my comrades, 1 bid you wecome. They come to greet you, with no pageantry, intended to surprise by its novelty, or dazzle by its splendour; But they bring you, 'General, an offering which wealth could not purchase, nor power constrain. On this day, associated with so many thrilling recollections ; on this spot, consecrated by successful valour, they come to offer you this willing homage of their hearts. " Judge, General, of their feelings at this moment by your own. Every thing around them speaks alike to their senses and sensibilities. These plains, where the peaceful plow-share has not yet effioed the traces of military operations ; these half decayed ramparts, this ruined village, in which the bombs' havoc is still every where visible, tell us ofpast warfare ; and remind us of that long, arduous and doubtful struggle, on the issue of which depended the emancipation of our country. ' *' On yonder hillock, the last scene of blood was closed by the surrender of-an army? and the liberty* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 255 our nation permanently secured. With what resistless eloquence does it pursuade our gratitude and admira tion for the gallant heroes, to whose noble exertions we owe the countless blessings which our free institutions have conferred upon us ? " The spot on which we stand was once a redoubt occupied by our enemy. With how rapid a pencil does imagination present the blooming chieftain, by whom it was wrested from his grasp. Can we be , here and forget, that superior to the prejudices which then enchained even noble minds, he perceived in the first and almost hopeless struggles of a distant and obscure colony, the movement of that moral power, which was destined to give a new direction and char acter to, political institutions, and to improve human happiness. Can we forget, that, deaf to the solicitations of power, of rank, and of pleasure, with a noble prodi gality, he gave to our country his sword, his treasure, and the influence of his example. " And when in the aged warrior who stands before us, we recognise that youthful chieftain, with what rapid ity does memory retrace the incidents of his eventful life ? With what pleasure do we see his manhood real ize the promise of his youth ? In senates or in camps, in the palaces of kings, or in their dungeons, we behold the same erect and manly spirit. At one time temper ing the licentiousness of popular feeling ; at another restraining the extravagance of power, and always re gardless of every thing but the great object of his life, the moral and political improvement of mankind. " General — In the brightest days of antiquity, no arti ficial stimulus of rank or power, or wealth, was requir ed to excite noble minds to acts of generous daring. A 256 MKMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. wreath of laurel, or of oak, was at once the proof and" the reward of illustrious merit. For this, statesmen meditated, warriors bled, and eloquence soared to its sublimest heights. The prize was invaluable ; for, it was won only by merit. It detracted, however, some what from its worth, that it was conferred by the par tiality of compatriots, and in the fervor of admiration inspired by recent success. " Your life, General, illustrious throughout, in this also is distinguished. — Time which dims the lustre of •rdinary merit, has rendered yours more brilliant. Af ter a lapse of nearly half a century, your triumph is decreed by the sons of those who witnessed your ex ploits. " Deign then, General, to accept the simple but ex pressive token of their gratitude and admiration. Suf fer their leader to place upon your veteran brow the enly crown it would not disdain to wear, the blended emblems of civic worth and martial prowess. It will Eot pain you, General, to perceive some scattered sprigs of melancholy cypress intermingled with the blended leaves of laurel and oak. Your heart would turn from us wish {generous indignation, if on an occa sion like this, amid the joyous acclamations which greet you, every where, were heard no sighs of grate ful recollection for those gallant men who sharedyour battles, but do not, cannot share your triumph. The wreath which our gratitude has woven to testify our love for you, will lose nothing of its fragrance, or its verdure, though time hang upon its leaves some tears of pious recollection of the friend of your early youth : In war the avenger, in peace, the father of his country. 41 In behalf then, of all the ehivalry of Virginia; on MEMOIR*. OF LA FAYETTE. 257 this redoubt, which his valour wrested from the en emy at the point of the bayonet ; I place on the head of Major General La Fayette this wreathe of double triumph : — won by numerous and illustrious acts of martial prowess, and by a life devoted to the happiness ofthe human race. In their names, I proclaim him alike victorious in arms and acts of civil polity. In ban nered fields,- a hero — in civil life, the benefactor of mankind.'1 La Fayette was deeply affected. There .was a sol- - emn earnestness in his manner,, a touching sensibility in his whole countenance which most deeply impressed every observer. Many wept— all were moved. When Gen. Taylor had closed his address, he was about to fix the civic wreath upon the General's head. But the considerate veteran, always himself, always attentive to the slightest proprieties of word and action, caught the hovering wreath as it approached his brow with- his right hand, and respectfully bowing, dropt it to his side, when he thus replied : - " I most cordially thank you, my dear general, and your companions in arms,.for your affectionate welcome, your kind recollections, and the flattering expressions of your friendship. Happy 1 am to receive them on these already ancient lines, where the united arms of America and France have been gloriously engaged in a holy alliance to support the rights of American In dependence, and the sacred principle of the sovereignty of the people, Happy also to be so welcomed on the particular spot where my dear light infantry comrades acquired one of their honorable claims to public love and esteem. You know, sir, that in this business of- storming redoubts, with unloaded arms and fixid-bayo-- x 2 258 MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. nets, the merit of the deed is in the soldiers who exe cute it, and to each of them, I am anxious to acknowl edge their equal, share of honor. Let me, however, with affection and gratitude, pay a special tribute to the gallant name of Hamilton, who commanded the at tack, to the three field officers who seconded him, Gimat, Laurens and Fish, the only surviving one, my friend now near me. In their name, my dear general, In the name of the light infantry, those we have lost as well as those who survive, and only in common with them, I accept the crown with which you are pleased to honor us, and I offer you the return of the most grateful acknwledge- ments." When he had closed, he gave a new proof of the- rapidity of his conceptions, the generosity of his soul, the uniform modesty of his character. The very mo ment he concluded, (never having been prepared for such a scene, never having seen the address, never hav ing suspected the presentation of the wreath) he turned round and drew Col. Fish to the front. " Here he exclaimed, "half of this wreath belongs to you." " No sir, it is all your own." " Then" said La Fayette, putting it inty Col. Fish's hand, take it and preserve it as our common property." The whole scene was strongly marked by the moral sublime. This ceremony over, the grand review com menced. La Fayette stood near the arch, and the vol unteer companies, and the U. S. troops passed him in regular succession, with flags flying and music floating In the air. The troops then formed themselves again in line, and La Fayette on foot, passed down the line. He was carried to the obelisk, situated on the spot where Vimionel had stormed the second redoubt. — The MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTF. 259 i-eview over, and La Fayette having seen, and been seen by all the troops, he mounted his barouche in com pany with the governor, and was followed by the oth er carriages. The whole body of military and citizens then moved to the field, near to which the British troops had grounded their arms in 1781. Between these, and the amphitheatre, where at least one thousand ladies sat, the barouche passed on near to the ladies, who con tinued to wave their white handkerchiefs as he slowly moved on. "Ladies, receive my warm thanks for your kind welcome," was constantly upon his lips. The whole scene defies description. Here were the fields, which forty-three years ago, had witnessed the tread of a conquered enemy ! A thousand associations of this description rushed upon the mind. Now, filled with an animated and joyous throng of from 10 to 15,000 persons. The spectacle surpassed all expectation ; all expression. , When at the tomb of Washington, (see page 243) Mr. Custis addressed him as follows : — " Last ofthe generals ofthe army of Independence ! At this awful and impressive moment, when forgetting the splendour of a triumph greater than Roman consul ever had, you bend with reverence over the remains of Washington, the child pf Mount Vernpn presents you with this token, containing the hair of him, whom while living you loved, and to whose honored grave you now pay the manly and affecting tribute of a patriot's and a soldier's tear. " The ring has ever been an emblem of the union of hearts from the earliest ages of the w orld ; and this will unite the affections pf all the Americans to the per son and posterity of La Fayette, now and hereafter. 260 l!«M0IRS UF LA FAYETTE. And when your descendants of a distant day shall be hold this valued relic, it will remind them of the hero ic virtues of their illustrious sire, who received it, not. iq the palaces of princes, or amid the pomp and vani ties of life, but at tbe laurelled grave of Washington. "Do you ask,,— Is this the Mausoleum befitting the ashes of a Marcus Aurelius, or the good Antonios ? I tell you, that the father of his country lies buried in the hearts of his countrymen ; and in those of the brave, the good, the free, of all ages and nations. Do you seek for the tablets, which are to convey his fame to immpitallity ? They have long been written in the freedom and happiness of their country. These are the monumental trophies of Washington the great ; and- will endure when the proudest works of art have " dis solved and left not a wreck behind." " Venerable man ! Will you never tire in the cause of freedom and human happiness ? Is it not time that you should rest from your labours, and repose on the bosom of a country, which delights to love and honor you, and will teach her children's children to bless your name and memory? Surely, where liberty dwells, there- must be the country of La Fayette. "Our fathers witnessed the dawn of your glory, par took of its meridian splendour ; and oh, let their chil dren enjoy the benign radiance of your setting sun. And when it shall sink in the horizon of natune, here, here with pious duty, we will form your sepulchre ; and, united in death as in life, by the side of" the great chief you will rest in peace, till the last trump awakes the slumbering world, and calls your virtues to their great reward. " The joyous shouts of millions of freemen hailed MEMOIRS «F LA FAYETTE. 26 i your returning foot-print on our sands. The arms of millions are opened wide to take yeu to their grateful hearts j and the prayers of millions ascend to the throne- of the Eternal, that the choicest blessings of heaven may cheer the latest days of La Fayette." General La Fayette having received the ring, press ed it -to his bosom, and replied — " The feelings, which at this awful moment oppress my heart, do not leave the power of utterance. I can only thank you, my dear Custis, for your precious gift. I pay a silent homage to the tomb of the greatest and best of men, my paternal friend." General La Fayette was escorted to his quarters by the troops, and a sumptuous dinner provided for him, and the distinguished civil and military characters who were present on the occasion. The following morning» the officers of the volunteer companies present, prepar ed a military breakfast. The table was spread in the tent of Washington, which was pitched at the volun teer's encampment. He left York Wednesday after noon, and reached Williamsburg in the evening, where he was received with open arms by the citizens. Hence he proceeded to Norfolk, where he had been previously invited, and where great preparations were made to receive him according to his distinguished merit, and his highly important services to the country. From Norfolk he was to proceed to Richmond ; and thence farther south through North and South Caroli na, to Georgia. Invitations have been given him to visit Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio ; but it is proba ble he will decline them. For he intends returning to Washington in December, and to spend most of the 23* MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. winter season in that city. Early in the spring, he will probably visit the northern states again ; and em bark for France, at Boston, some time in June or July* There is a strong and very general desire that La Fayette should pass the remainder of his life in the United States; and that the national government should provide a respectable establishment for him and his family in this country. That the representatives of the people will be ready to grant an honorable stipend, there cannot he a doubt. But France is his native country and his home. There are his children and his grand children. There, it is natural, he should desire to pass his few remaining years. And such an inten tion, we believe, he has expressed. What will be his final resolution on the subject, we will not conjecture. From the New York Commercial Advertiser. LA FAYETTE. 0 deep was the gloom on our sad land descending, And wild was the moan from the tempest's dread form, While the heroes and sires of our country were bending Their souls to their God, and their brows to the storm. Who bounds to the shore from the dark bosom'd ocean, In the sparkle and pride of his beauty and youth ? His ardent mind burning, his soul all devotion, To the high cause of liberty, justice and truth ? He joins the bold band, who, with spirits undaunted, Strive to guard and to win, all man's bosom holds dear; It is done ! they have triumph'd ! and heaven has granted Fair freedom to crown their majestic career. MEMOIRS OF LA FAYETTE. 208 How lovely the land where the bright sun is flinging The purple and gold from his throne in the west ! There millions of hearts in their gladness are singing, There finds the poor exile contentment and rest. The eagle that rush'd on a torn, bloody pinion, And soar'd to the sky 'mid the clamors of fight, Now wings his proud way in untroubled dominion, While the nations all silently gaze on his flight. Who comes o'er the billow with head bent and hoary, With full throbbing heart, and with glistening eye? Past years roll before him— the scene of his glory Fills his heart with emotions, deep, solemn and high- Great man ! thy lov'd name to the skies is ascending, A name whose remembrance no time can destroy, While gladness and grief are within us contending, For all thou hast suffer'd, and all we enjoy. We will rank thee with him, who was sent us by heaven ; Ye shall meet in our hearts as in glory ye met : Spread, ye winds, the glad news ! to our wishes is give* The friend of our Wa-shington, brave La Fayette. TO LAFvYETTE. " We'll search the earth, ai.