PERMIT me, my fellow citizens, to congratu­late you on the return of this DAY—A day which completes another year of freedom to our favored land—A day on which were laid, by the venerable patriots of America, under the all go­verning hand of JEHOVAH, those foundations of peace, liberty, and independence, which we enjoy—A day, therefore, in many respects, one of the most interesting that ever marked the annals of the world.

The twentieth year of the important aera, which we now commemorate, hath, this morning, dawn­ed upon us. After this long experience, we have still reason to hail its return, and to rejoice in those events, which the season recals to our view. After a lapse of time, in which the fervour of re­volutionary [Page 6] feelings, has given way to rational enquiry, and calm conviction; we have still am­ple, nay, increasing ground to rise up and call it blessed. We have still reason to say, with joy, This day shall be unto us for a memorial; we will keep it a feast of gladness, throughout all our gener­ations.

The day mentioned in our text, is that on which the children of Israel were delivered from Egyptian slavery, and escaped from the oppressive hands of the tyrant Pharaoh. The history of their injurious and cruel bondage, and of their happy deliverance are too familiarly known, by all whom I address, to need a formal recital at present. Nor shall I detain you by attempting to state the obvious analogy between their liber­ation, and that which we this day commemorate. Let it suffice to observe, that if they were bound by the express command of God, to keep as a sacred memorial, the day on which they came up out of Egypt; we are bound by reason, by reli­gion, by patriotism, by every solemn tie, never to forget the DAY, which proved the commencement of so many distinguished blessings to our land.

A memorial is something which recals, in a di­rect and forcible manner to the mind, the cha­racter [Page 7] or transaction to which it refers. Now although the splendid and glorious scenes which this day brings to our view, are too interesting, and too important to be ever wrapped in total oblivion, by beings capable of reflection; yet it is proper to do something more than barely to remember them. It is pleasing, and it is useful, at stated seasons, to bring them home to our bosoms, and in a deliberate and solemn manner to recognize their importance. This is not only an employ­ment highly grateful to the patriotic mind, but it is much more; it is a tribute which we owe to our GOD; it adds new life to a flame, which gratitude commands us to keep always burning; it cherishes and extends the influence of a spirit, which should forever animate the breasts of freemen.

Let this day, then, be to us a memorial in two respects.—Let it serve to recal to our minds, and practically to impress on our hearts, a sense of our national BLESSINGS, and of our national DUTY.

I. Let this day be a memorial of our national BLESSINGS.

In taking a view of these, you might be led back to the important period, when our venera­ble [Page 8] fore-fathers left the unhallowed shores of op­pression—braved the dangers of the ocean—sur­mounted all the hardships of an howling wilder­ness—and reared, in the forests of this western world, the first mansions of liberty. You might be presented with a view of their numerous and complicated sufferings, and the manifest interpo­sitions of providence for their support and pre­servation. You might listen to a recital of the various steps, by which small and dispersed set­tlements rose to extensive, compact, and happy societies; and, nurtured by the divine benefi­cence, grew into consideration and eminence. You might be led, in short, to review the whole history of this growing country, from the earliest period of its population by Europeans, to the memorable time, when a place was given us among the independent nations of the earth.

But this would be taking two wide a field for the limits of the present address. It will be ne­cessary to confine our attention to those events, and those distinguished blessings, which stand in more immediate connection with the anniversary which we celebrate. These may be summed up under two general heads.—Our emancipation from Britain—and the numerous important ad­vantages, which have flowed from that grand event, as their source.

[Page 9] When the people of the United States, in Con­gress assembled, affixed their hands and their seals to the solemn DECLARATION OF INDEPEN­DENCE which has been just read in your hearing, the world beheld them with amazement▪ and even many of our own citizens, under the influence of a natural timidity, trembled at the sight! Who could behold, without the highest solicitude, a few infant colonies rising up to oppose an herculean foe; and daring to engage the gigantic greatness of a wealthy and a haughty power? Unskilled in the "disgraceful science of human butchery;" unfurnished with the instruments of carnage and death, and unsupported by any other arm, than that of the MIGHTY ONE OF ISRAEL, they croud­ed to the banner of freedom; proclaimed defi­ance to the thunder of their enemies; and repel­led without dismay, the cruel invaders of their inestimable rights.

To trace the progress of this contest, through all its varied and irregular steps, is neither ne­cessary nor possible, at present. It were unpar­donable, however, to omit observing, that the instances of divine interposition in our favour▪ through the whole course of the arduous strug­gle, were too signal and illustrious to be forgot­ten [Page 10] by the most careless; and too numerous, not to fix in grateful astonishment, the most unfeel­ing mind. For seven years, our land exhibited a succession of scenes, equally unexpected, won­derful and glorious. You saw a glow of enthu­siasm, which language fails to describe, pervad­ing and actuating every bosom. You saw an army enduring every imaginable hardship, with­out relaxing in its attachment to the cause for which it was suffering. You saw the counsels of our enemies infatuated, and their wisest plans disconcerted, in a manner almost miraculous. You saw the life and health of the illustrious COMMANDER IN CHIEF remarkably and gra­ciously preserved. You saw powerful FRIENDS AND ALLIES raised up for us, on terms of un­expected advantage. You saw us rise, like An­toeus, vigorous from every fall. You saw us led on from time to time, to conquest and triumph; until, at length, the fair fabric of freedom was completely reared over the tomb of tyranny.

But why do I detain you with this exulting review? Many of those who are this day indul­gently listening to the speaker, were sharers in the toils, and actors in the triumphs, which have been mentioned. Many who are now within these walls, could describe, in the glowing language of [Page 11] experience and of actual vision, what has been so feebly and superficially noticed. Tell us, ye ve­nerable Assertors of the rights of man! tell us, for YOU alone can properly tell, how ardent the sacred flame, which, at that eventful period, pos­sessed and governed your souls! Paint to us, whose age forbade us to be agents in the impor­tant scene, what you felt, and what you saw; what noble principles inspired your bosoms, and what heroic exertions you were enabled to dis­play. That, like you, should the voice of nati­onal danger call us, we may prove ourselves worthy of the descent which we boast.

Large, indeed, is our debt to all those, whom GOD hath honored to be the INSTRUMENTS of securing our independence and national felicity. Many of them, alas! fell as martyrs in the cause, and sealed our glorious emancipation with their blood. But a large proportion have lived to taste the blessings for which they fought; and to enjoy those inestimable rights, for which they risked their all. Let us never suffer this day to pass over our heads, without calling to mind their services and their virtues. From the high­est and most conspicuous, to the lowest and most obscure, they have all DESERVED WELL OF THEIR COUNTRY. They are entitled to our affectionate [Page 12] remembrance and regard. Their names, and their heroic exploits shall never be forgotten, while gratitude has a place in the bosoms of Americans; or while this land continues to be the abode of free men, who know how to value, what has been so dearly purchased.

But we proposed to consider this day as a me­morial, not merely of our emancipation from the tyranny of an unnatural parent; but also of the numerous rich blessings to which that grand event has given rise.

There is, indeed, a propensity in the human mind, to ascribe to particular favorite events, much more than really stands in connection with them. We are too apt to view an interest­ing aera, or a signal transaction, as involving more numerous, and more important consequen­ces, than there is just ground to admit. But in the case before us, we can scarcely go too far; or attribute more to the event in question, than the closest enquiry will warrant. The most impartial mind will readily grant, that a large share of our happiness as a people; and the whole of our national dignity and rank, flow from the proceedings of that glorious day, when the venerable sages of America rose, and pronoun­ced her INDEPENDENT and FREE.

[Page 13] It is owing, under providence, to this bold, but necessary separation, that the UNITED STATES have assumed a high and honorable place among the nations of the earth; or rather, have, in many respects, risen above them all. It is to be ascribed to this, that they have made such rapid advances, in every thing that tends to promote the welfare and happiness of civil soci­ety. However great our natural advantages, they would all have been in vain, had the shack­les of British power continued to bind and res­train us. Like a promising youth, whose genius and talents are cramped by a cruel and selfish parent, we must always have continued a spi­ritless and groveling people. Industry would have been discouraged; and like labourers in a vineyard not our own, we should have lived under the contracted views, and unaspiring hopes of hirelings and slaves.

But behold the happy effects of freedom shining resplendent throughout every part of our land! no sooner was the struggle over, by which the galling yoke was broken in piec­es, and cast from our indignant necks, than these, before gloomy colonies, began to as­sume a new and promising aspect. Fruit­ful [Page 14] fields appeared, where thorns and briars lately grew; and beautiful villages were spread over those plains, which until then, had only served as miserable mementos of our poverty and thraldom. And although the relaxation and debility of the political body, which soon suc­ceeded to the violent struggle it had made dur­ing the war, gave rise to many discouragements, and shewed the inefficiency of the plans which were originally formed; yet these evils were as short-lived as the causes which gave them birth. By the peaceable and deliberate adoption of a more effectual CONSTITUTION, and by the hap­py influence of this excellent government, the tottering fabric of public confidence has been repaired; the salutary bonds of social union have been strengthened; the administration of impartial justice has been restored; and every avenue to national importance, and the felicity of individuals opened wide.

In short, from the period of our separation from Britain, we may date the commencement, and distinctly trace the progress of most of those blessings which we enjoy as a people. Then were sown the seeds of that elevated expansion of mind, and that ardent love of freedom, which have ever since distinguished and adorned the [Page 15] American character. From that moment, com­merce listed her drooping head, and looked for­ward with joy to the prosperous times which she has since experienced. Then agriculture, and the mechanic arts, were placed upon a basis, upon which they have already risen to a high degree of improvement, and still promise much higher advances. Then the interests of science emerged from the clouds, which until that hour had sat thick and deep upon them, and began to shine forth with new and encreasing brightness. Then, in a word, were established that EQUALITY OF RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS; that civil and reli­gious freedom; that reign of law; and all those genuine republican principles, which are calcu­lated to call forth the best energies of man; to make the wisest application of the human facul­ties; and to build up the fabric of national happiness.

This recital of the happy consequences of our separation from Britain, is not designed, either to feed our vanity as a people, or to fill us with bit­terness towards the nation from which we have withdrawn. Nothing more is intended, than, that, on the day consecrated as a memorial of the blessings which have been recounted, we should realize their existence, and feel their value. [Page 16] Nothing more is wished, than to bring into view every circumstance which tends to enhance the value of these distinguished favors, that your gratitude for them may be the more fervently excited. Americans! if you would be faithful to yourselves—if you would be faithful to your posterity—if you would be faithful to your God, keep in your breasts a lasting monument of these things. Never forget, and especially on THIS DAY, never forget, the various dangers from which you have escaped—the numerous difficul­ties which you have been enabled to surmount, and the grievous oppression from which you have been rescued. But while you cherish an habitual remembrance of your deliverance from these evils; cherish also, a spirit of forgiveness toward the author of your injuries. Let no malignant passions rise, to tarnish your devout gratitude, or to defile your patriotic joy.

But, THIS DAY should not only remind us of our national BLESSINGS—We proposed also to consider it,

II. As a memorial of our national DUTY.

Unto whomsoever much is given, said our Lord, of him shall much be required. This declaration is applicable, as well to communities as to indivi­duals. [Page 17] In proportion to the number and value of the blessings heaped upon us, and the privi­leges we enjoy as a people, are the solemnity and weight of our obligations to a suitable conduct. How much more may be rationally expected, and justly demanded from US, than from the subjects of an African, or Asiatic tyrant, who, under chains, drag out a few miserable days, or sleep their lives away, without properly under­standing, and therefore, without truly estimating their rights! They know not the sweetness of liberty, for they have never tasted it. They can judge but feebly of the horrors of despotism▪ for they have never seen any thing with which to contrast the odious object. They, of conse­quence, must have very indistinct conceptions of political duty; for rights and duties always go hand in hand. But with regard to us, my fellow citizens, the case is widely different. The light which we enjoy, and the privileges with which we are surrounded, give rise to a variety and ex­tent of duties, which there is neither time to de­lineate, at full length, nor ability to urge with sufficient force. A few of the most obvious and interesting shall be selected, and offered to your consideration.

[Page 18] The FIRST duty of which the annual return of this day should serve as a memorial, is, to REAL­IZE AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE SOURCE, from whence the national blessings, which we celebrate, have flowed. Who first put it into the hearts of our venerable and illustrious patriots, to cast off the yoke of oppression, and to oppose the en­croachments of a haughty power, with such firm­ness and decision? Who nerved the arms of our brave citizens in the conflict? Who inspired our legislators and commanders with wisdom and with valour? Who gave us powerful ALLIES—en­couraged our suffering army—crowned them with signal victories—and conducted us to a glo­rious peace? Of whom is it that we are THIS DAY surrounded with so many blessings; and are permitted to keep it as a memorial, with joy and gladness? Surely these are all the LORD'S DOINGS. It is true, these great events have been brought about through the medium of human instruments, and second causes: but while we regard them with becoming gratitude, let us look beyond them, to the PRIMARY AGENT. Sublime and heroic as their exertions were, they would all have been in vain, without the support and direction of HIM who sits as governor among the nations. Promotion cometh neither from the East, nor from the West, nor from the [Page 19] South; but God is the Judge; he putteth down one, and setteth up another. ^* Give unto the Lord, there­fore, O ye kindreds of the people! give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name. ^†

Americans! never forget Him who made you what you are. Never suffer yourselves to lose sight of the hand, that has been so often made bare for your salvation. Jehovah will not re­linquish the honor of his government, nor will he give his glory to another. If you forget him, he will forget you. If you slight the Omnipo­tence, which has been your shield and buckler, you will be made to bend before it, by a weight of wrath. For pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. ^‡ Let us, then, take good heed to ourselves, that we love the Lord our God. Let us avoid all arrogance and presumption; and look to Him as our SUPPORT, PROTECTOR and GUIDE. For all our success and prosperity, let us give Him the glory. In every undertaking, instead of resting in an arm of flesh, let us go for strength and wisdom to His throne. And in all our ways, let us acknow­ledge [Page 20] His sovereign rule. ^* Thus may we ex­pect a continuance of his blessing, and confide in his preserving care. For, behold, the eyes of the Lord are upon them that fear him; upon them that hope in his mercy.

ANOTHER duty, of which the return of this day should remind us, is SUITABLY TO ESTI­MATE THE NATIONAL BLESSINGS WHICH WE ENJOY: With regard to most of the favors which a bountiful God bestows upon his crea­tures, it may be said, that their true value is rare­ly realized until they are withdrawn, and the consequences of their loss appear. When the most precious jewels become cheap and common, they sink in our esteem; and the fairest objects in creation, fade in the eye that is admitted to familiar and unrestrained vision. This is too much the case with our national blessings; they are so rich, plentiful and common among all classes of citizens, that few consider their intrinsic [Page 21] importance. But remember, that Liberty with her large train of attendant blessings, disdains to dwell among those who respect her not. She will never tarry long with a people, who venture to slight her dignified character.

Would you know then, my fellow citizens, the value of our national privileges and blessings? Consider, for a moment, what they cost us▪—a tedious war—immense treasures—and the rich­est blood of our countrymen. Think, also, how high they have already raised us, among the na­tions of the earth. Under their auspices, we have made advances in political grandeur and felicity, more rapid than the world ever witnes­sed before. Think, moreover, with what ardour our fellow creatures have struggled for them in all ages, and how much they have suffered, to obtain even a distant view of such glorious ob­jects. But, above all, if you would realize the true value of these blessings, look round on the state of other nations, and behold them distract­ed with the din of arms—overflowing with blood—or shaken from their foundations with inter­nal discord! Behold the greater part of the Eu­ropean world, either groaning under the horrors of war, or else withdrawing from the field, through inability any longer to continue the des­tructive [Page 22] conflict! Behold, in short, three-fourths of the human race▪ bound in chains, and sub­mitting their necks to the feet of idiots and mon­sters, who feast on the miseries of man; and who blush not to claim a divine authority, thus to scourge and trample on their fellow creatures! Behold these things! and then say, whether the blessings which we this day commemorate, do not shine with additional lustre? Contemplate this feint picture of human misery; and then say, whether you do not return with tenfold more delight and exultation, to these peaceful shores, where every man sits under his own vine, and under his own fig-tree, and has none to make him afraid?

A THIRD duty of which the return of this day should be to us a memorial, is, QUIETLY TO ENJOY AND WISELY TO IMPROVE the political blessings which have been conferred upon us. However excellent our form of government;—however numerous and rich the privileges under which we live; they will avail but little, unless they are used in a temperate, virtuous, and be­coming manner. Political happiness will be sought in vain, either where liberty is turned into licentiousness, or where the rights and privileges of free men are not asserted, and used with be­coming [Page 23] dignity. Innumerable mischiefs will arise here, if we turn either to the right hand or to the left. They who will not submit to equitable laws and strengthen the hands of a wise government, stab the vitals of the body politic, and undermine all social happiness; while those who can sit, with a cold indifference, and see their rights infringed; or who seek not redress, when it can be obtained in a constitutional manner, deserve to be stigmatized as traitors to their country.—Now, wisely to enjoy and improve our national blessings, is, to avoid both these extremes. It is to use that liberty to which we have been called not as a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servant of God. It is to cultivate principles and manners conformable to the republican government of which we boast. It is, in one word, to assert and maintain our rights in such a manner as will most effectually tend to promote the good order, peace and happiness of society.

Political prosperity resides, not in the words and letters of the Constitution; but in the temper, the habits, and the practices of the people. The one may exhibit a fair and promising aspect; while the other may present a view humiliating and odious in the extreme. Behold the striking con­trast between the MAGNA CHARTA of Great [Page 24] Britain, and the actual administration and [...] of that kingdom! In the one, the noble [...] dignified front of Freedom appears—but when we turn to the other, we are astonished to fi [...] Oppression standing in triumph, and almost every political grievance in its train!

With us it rests, then, to make the rich gifts of Heaven, which we this day commemorate, con­tribute to our real happiness; or to pervert them to the worst and most destructive purposes. With us it rests, either, by a wise choice of pub­lic officers—by a ready submission to wholesome laws—by moderation, industry, and every re­publican virtue, to promote the true welfare of society; or else, by an opposite course, to con­vert blessings into curses; and the most delicious nectar, into gall and wormwood.—With us it rests, to convince the world, by fair experiment, that enlightened freemen can govern themselves; or to furnish the enemies of freedom with an oc­casion to speak reproachfully, and upbraid us as the contrivers of visionary schemes.

THE LAST duty that shall be mentioned here, of which the annual return of this day should remind us, is, to WATCH OVER THE INESTIMABLE [Page 25] PRIVILEGES WE ENJOY, AND ENDEAVOUR TO TRANSMITTHEM, NOT ONLY UNTARNISHED, BUT HIGHLY IMPROVED, TO THE LATEST POSTERITY.

In this happy country, sovereign power resides with the people. It is theirs to pull down and build up, to construct and to destroy. This being the case, it belongs to the body of citizens at large, under Providence, to keep safely the treasury of Freedom, and, of all that has been given us, to lose nothing. So that, if privileges be abused; if power be usurped; or if our go­vernment become corrupt and oppressive, we have none but ourselves to blame. Ours is the task to cherish and confirm the blessings of peace, liberty, and independence, which we enjoy; to defend them against the attacks of open enemies, and the machinations of secret foes; and to guard against every thing that is calculated to diminish their influence.

Would you, my fellow-citizens, fix heaven­born Liberty for ever in the land she has chosen? Then cultivate the same principles, and always keep in operation the same causes, which origi­nally gave her birth. Liberty is a living prin­ciple. She lives in the temper and disposition, [Page 26] in the sentiments and feelings of the people. As long as she exists and flourishes there, she will rise superior to the powers of the world▪ and bid calm defiance to the fury of every foe. But when she ceases to maintain this residence, what­ever props and contrivances may be used for her detention and support; whatever plans may be devised to conceal her decay, we may bid her farewell for ever. In order, then, to preserve and transmit uncorrupted to your children, the blessings of liberty, in which you this Day re­joice; be virtuous, industrious, and upright, in your respective stations. Fly from yourselves, and discourage in others, every species of cor­ruption, faction, and party rage—by which so many fair political edifices have been humbled to the dust. Seek social peace, harmony, and love, by every means in your power. Frown into an­nihilation vice in every form, and pursue, with unremitted ardour, that righteousness which ex­alteth a nation. For, believe it, without the ge­neral prevalence of virtue and good morals, among all classes of citizens, it would require an "annual course of miracles" to preserve your freedom.

But whatever may be the prevailing character of the people at large; still, if the seats of go­vernment [Page 27] be filled with corrupt and unprincipled, men, there is no less danger of destruction to our Republican Fabric, If we, implicitly, and with­out observation or enquiry, commit the manage­ment of our public affairs, to the selfish, ambi­tious and designing; there will soon be an end of genuine freedom, and of all political happiness. Let every member of the community, then, esteem it his duty, to watch with care the conduct of all those to whom power is entrusted.—Bear in mind, that in this imperfect and depraved state, the most exalted human characters are to be con­sidered as fallible; and therefore should always be treated as if they were capable of doing wrong. Be attentive, then, to the conduct of every officer in government. Carefully avoid, indeed, giving indulgence to suspicion or mistrust of any, but upon the most satisfactory evidence; as few things have a more unhappy influence on the peace and comfort of society, and I may add, on the exis­tence of republican government, than this. But never give up your right to keep a watchful eye on the servants of the public. As long as this right is used in a becoming manner, it will be a terror to bad men only, who hate the light, neither will come to the light, least their deeds should be reproved. And when you observe any to abuse the trust committed to them; when you perceive them [Page 28] to sport with your inestimable rights, or to sacri­fice the public good, to their own aggrandize­ment—assert the sovereignty of the people, by de­priving them, in a constitutional manner, of their perverted power; by degrading them, with the calmness and dignity of freemen, from those seats which they are found unworthy to fill.

And let the Magistrates and Legislators of America remember, that to them, in a particular manner, are intrusted the rights of their fellow-citizens, and the happiness of their country. Let them remember, that in their hands are deposited the sacred treasures of Freedom; and that upon their official conduct, under Providence, in a great measure, depend our national prosperity, and the perpetuity of our free government. Let them remember, that he who sacrifices the pub­lic good, at the shrine of his own popularity or fortune; he who sports with a single right, or barters away a single privilege of his constituents, is not only unworthy of their confidence; but is also, thereby, striking at the root of his country's happiness; and may be preparing, though in a remote manner, and though he realize it not, chains and misery for millions yet unborn.

Again; in order to the security and perpetuation of Liberty, in these flourishing Republics, it is of [Page 29] the highest importance that there be a GENERAL DIFFUSION OF KNOWLEDGE among all classes of citizens. The daemon of slavery delights in the horrors of darkness—before the light of truth, he flies precipitate; and when knowledge shines around, he hides with shame his odious head. Let each successive generation, then, be carefully in­structed in the rights and duties of man; and this enemy of social happiness will attack you in vain. ^* Educate your children in the manners, the feel­ings, the principles, and manly ardor of Ame­ricans; and they will always be able and disposed to trample down the risings of arbitrary power. Train them up in the knowledge and practice of that religion, which is calculated to produce and secure both spiritual, and political Liberty; and they will always know how to estimate the bles­sings of freedom. ^† Often recount to them the [Page 30] wonderful works of the Lord, and the great de­liverance which he hath wrought out for us; and they will know where to look for future safety and happiness. Teach them to despise the crowns and sceptres, the haughty pretensions of family and blood, and all the pageantry of power, with which little minds are carried away; and they will always rise against their introduction to these republican climes. Teach them to re­vere the God of Heaven as their King; and they will despise submission to earthly despots. In a word, instil into their minds that noble enthusiasm in favour of freedom, which animated the breasts of American patriots, at the period which we now commemorate; and they will ever be free!

Upon the whole; let me repeat the im­portant truth, that it depends upon ourselves, un­der God, how long we enjoy that liberty, and preserve inviolate those rich blessings which we possess. If we become a corrupt and vicious [Page 31] people, I foresee all the horrors of monarchy fast approaching: I foresee the odious insignia of slavery coming forward at no great distance: I hear the rattling of chains, forging for my be­loved countrymen: I see the genius of Liberty retiring to weep over our ruin. ^* But if, on the other hand, we suitably estimate, and wisely im­prove the blessings of which we are put in pos­session, we may reasonably indulge the highest expectations of a continuance and daily encrease of our national felicity and glory. We may con­fidently anticipate the period, when we shall rise to a degree of political eminence, which states­men have long contemplated in theory, but never yet beheld.

The present aspect of the world is wonderful, and above description affecting! We behold na­tion rising up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. We behold the minds of men, espe­cially in Europe, in a state altogether unprece­dented, and producing events the most amazing. [Page 32] All human calculation about the consequences, seems to be utterly at an end. What designs the Governor of the Universe is carrying on, we know not▪ The christian patriot, however, can­not help indulging the confident hope, that all these things are designed to banish tyranny from the earth; to establish the reign of civil and religious liberty; to second the exertion of those who are struggling for their rights; to support the banner of freedom not only in those TWO REPUBLICS which have lately cast off the yoke, but also throughout all lands; and to hasten the universal prevalence of righteousness and peace. But, whatever may be the event, The Lord reigneth, let the earth re­joice. Our duty, as a people, in these circum­stances, is incontrovertible and plain. It is to FOLLOW PEACE WITH ALL. It is quietly to en­joy, and wisely to improve our precious rights; but boldly to resist every impious invader. It [...] to pray for, and to seek our own happiness, and the happiness of all mankind.

Finally, my fellow-citizens, remember, that though not in our national capacity, yet as indi­viduals, we are all candidates for eternity. In a few days, empires, kingdoms, and republics, with all their boasted greatness, shall be swept off the stage of time, and be seen no more for ever. [Page 33] But we have immortal souls: We have a spiritual part, which shall survive the general ruin, and outlive all the ravages of time. There is a king­dom which is not of this world, offered and se­cured to all the faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. There is a glorious exaltation tendered them, without money, and without price. To this felicity and glory, then, let each of us aspire! And while we despise earthly royalty, let it be our highest ambition, to be kings and priests unto God, even the Father, through riches of free grace in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer.

AMEN!