of man.

Oration on the Death of General Washington.

Winter; the storm raged; the Delaware rolling furiously with floating ice, forbade the approach WASHINGTON, Self-collected, viewed the tremendous scene; his country called; unappalled by surrounding dangers, he passed to the hostile shore; he fought; he conquered. The morning sun cheered the American world. Our country rose on the event; and her dauntless Chief, pursuing his blow, completed in the lawns of Princeton what his vast soul had conceived on the shores of Delaware.

Thence to the strong ground of Morristown he led his small but gallant band; and through an eventful Winter, by the high efforts of his genius, whose matchless force was measurable only by the growth of difficulties, he held in check formidable hostile legions, conducted by a chief experienced in the art of war, and famed for his valor on the ever-memorable Heights of Abraham, where fell Wolfe, Montcalm, and since our much-lamented Montgomery, all covered with glory. In this fortunate interval, produced by his masterly conduct, our fathers, ourselves, animated by his resistless example, rallied around our country's standard, and continued to follow her beloved Chief through the various and trying scenes to which the destinies of our Union led.

as was our WASHINGTON in war, and much as did that greatness contribute to produce the Ameri can Republic, it is not in war alone his pre-eminence stands conspicuous; his various talents combining all the capacities of the statesman with those of the soldier, fitted him alike to guide the councils and the armies of the nation. Scarcely had he rested from his martial toils, while his invaluable parental advice was still sounding in our ears, when he, who had been our shield and our sword, was called forth to act a less splendid but a more important part.

Possessing a clear and penetrating mind, a strong and a sound judgment, calmness and temper for deliberation, with invincible firmness and perseverance in resolutions maturely formed, drawing information from all, acting from himself, with incorruptible integrity and unvarying patriotism; his own superiority and the public confidence alike marked him as the man designed by Heaven to lead in the great political as well as military events which have distinguished the era of his life.

The finger of an overruling Providence, pointing at WASHINGTON, was neither mistaken nor unobserved; when, to realize the vast hopes to which our Revolution had given birth, a change of political system became indispensable.

Who is there that has forgotten the vales of Brandywine, the fields of Germantown, or the How novel-how grand the spectacle! indeplains of Monmouth? Everywhere present, wants pendent States stretched over an immense terriof every kind obstructing, numerous and valiant tory, and known only by common difficulty, clingarmies encountering, himself a host, he assuaged ing to their Union as the rock of their safety, deour sufferings, limited our privations, and upheld ciding, by frank comparison of their relative conour tottering Republic. Shall I display to you dition, to rear on that rock, under the guidance of the spread of the fire of his soul, by rehearsing the reason, a common Government, through whose praises of the hero of Saratoga, and his much-commanding protection, liberty and order, with loved compeer of the Carolinas? No; our WASH- their long train of blessings, should be safe.to INGTON Wears not borrowed glory. To Gates-themselves, and the sure inheritance of their posto Green-he gave without reserve the applause due to their eminent merit; and long may the Chiefs of Saratoga and of Eutaw receive the grateful respect of a grateful people.

terity.

This arduous task devolved on citizens selected by the people, from knowledge of their wisdom and confidence in their virtue. In this august Moving in his own orbit, he imparted heat and assembly of sages and of patriots, WASHINGTON, light to his most distant satellites; and combining of course, was found; and, as if acknowledged to the physical and moral force of all within his sphere, be the most wise, where all were wise, with one with irresistible weight he took his course, com- voice he was declared their Chief. How well he miserating folly, disdaining vice, dismaying trea- merited this rare distinction, how faithful were son, and invigorating despondency, until the aus- the labors of himself and his compatriots, the picious hour arrived; when, united with the intre-work of their hands and our Union, strength and pid forces of a potent and magnanimous ally, he brought to submission the since conqueror of India; thus finishing his long career of military glory with a lustre corresponding to his great name, and in his last act of war affixing the seal of fate to our nation's birth.

prosperity, the fruits of that work, best attest.

But to have essentially aided in presenting to his country this consummation of her hopes, neither satisfied the claims of his fellow-citizens on his talents, nor those duties which the possession of those talents imposed. Heaven had not infusTo the horrid din of battle sweet peace suc-ed into his mind such an uncommon share of its ceeded; and our virtuous Chief, mindful only of the common good, in a moment tempting personal aggrandizement, hushed the discontents of growing sedition, and surrendering his power into the hands from which he had received it, converted his sword into a ploughshare, teaching an admiring world that to be truly great you must be truly good.

Were I to stop here, the picture would be incomplete, and the task imposed unfinished. Great

ethereal spirit to remain unemployed, nor bestowed on him his genius unaccompanied with the corresponding duty of devoting it to the common good. To have framed a Constitution, was showing only, without realizing the general happiness. This great work remained to be done, and America, steadfast in her preference, with one voice summoned her beloved WASHINGTON, unpractised as he was in the duties of civil administration, to execute this last act in the completion of the na

Oration on the Death of General Washington.

and seize the only course; continuing to us all the felicity enjoyed. He issued his proclamation of neutrality. This index to his whole subsequent conduct, was sanctioned by the approbation of both Houses of Congress, and by the approving voice of the people.

To this sublime policy he inviolably adhered, unmoved by foreign intrusion, unshaken by domestic turbulence.

"Justum et tenacem propositi virum,
"Non civium ardor prava jubentium,
"Non vultus instantis tyranni
"Mente quatit solidâ."

tional felicity. Obedient to her call, he assumed the high office with that self-distrust peculiar to his innate modesty, the constant attendant of preeminent virtue. What was the burst of joy through our anxious land on this exhilarating event, is known to us all. The aged, the young, the brave, the fair, rivalled each other in demonstrations of their gratitude; and this high-wrought delightful scene was heightened in its effect by the singular contest between the zeal of the be stowers, and the avoidance of the receiver of the honors bestowed. Commencing his administration, what heart is not charmed with the recollection of the pure and wise principles announced by Maintaining his pacific system at the expense of himself, as the basis of his political life. He best unno duty, America, faithful to herself, and unstained derstood the indissoluble union between virtue and in her honor, continued to enjoy the delights of happiness, between duty and advantage, between peace, while afflicted Europe mourns in every quarthe genuine maxims of an honest and magnani- ter, under the accumulated miseries of an unexammous policy, and the solid rewards of public pros-pled war; miseries in which our happy country perity and individual felicity; watching with an equal and comprehensive eye over this great assemblage of communities and interests, he laid the foundation of our national policy in the unerring, immutable principles of morality, based on religion, exemplifying the pre-eminence of free Government, by all the attributes which win the affections of its citizens, or command the respect of the world.

"O fortunatos nimium, sua si bona norint !"

Leading through the complicated difficulties produced by previous obligations and conflicting interests, seconded by suceeeding Houses of Congress, enlightened and patriotic, he surmounted all original obstructions, and brightened the path of our national felicity.

The Presidential term expiring, his solicitude to exchange exaltation for humility returned with a force increased with increase of age, and he had prepared his Farewell Address to his countrymen, proclaiming his intention, when the united interposition of all around him, enforced by the eventful prospects of the epoch, produced a further sacrifice of inclination to duty. The election of President followed; and WASHINGTON, by the unanimous vote of the nation, was called to resume the Chief Magistracy. What a wonderful fixture of confidence! Which attracts most our admiration—a people so correct, or a citizen combining an assemblage of talents forbidding rivalry, and stifling even envy itself? Such a nation ought to be happy; such a Chief must be

forever revered.

War, long menaced by the Indian tribes, now broke out; and the terrible conflict, deluging Europe with blood, began to shed its baneful influence over our happy land. To the first, outstretching his invincible arm, under the orders of the gallant Wayne, the American eagle soared triumphant through distant forests. Peace followed victory, and the melioration of the condition of the enemy followed peace. Godlike virtue! which uplifts even the subdued savage.

To the second he opposed himself. New and delicate was the conjuncture, and great was the stake. Soon did his penetrating mind discern

must have shared, had not our pre-eminent WASHINGTON been as firm in the council as he was brave in the field.

Pursuing steadfastly his course, he held safe the public happiness, preventing foreign war, and quelling internal discord, till the revolving period of a third election approached, when he executed his interrupted but inextinguishable desire of returning to the humble walks of private life.

The promulgation of his fixed resolution stopped the anxious wishes of an affectionate people from adding a third unanimous testimonial of their unabated confidence in the man so long ention like this exhibited on earth? Turn over the throned in their hearts. When, before, was affecrecords of ancient Greece; review the annals of mighty Rome; examine the volumes of modern Europe-you search in vain. America and her WASHINGTON only afford the dignified exemplifi

cation.

The illustrious personage called by the national voice in succession to the arduous office of guiding a free people, had new difficulties to encounter; the amicable effort of settling our difficulties with France, begun by WASHINGTON, and pursued by his successor, in virtue as in station, proving abortive, America took measures of selfdefence. No sooner was the public mind roused by prospect of danger, than every eye was turned to the friend of all, though secluded from public view, and grey in public service; the virtuous veteran, following his plough,* received the unexpected summons with migled emotions of indignation at the unmerited ill-treatment of his country, and of a determination once more to risk

his all in her defence.

The annunciation of these feelings, in his affecting letter to the President accepting the command of the army, concludes his official conduct.

hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none First in war-first in peace-and first in the in the humble and endearing scenes of private life; pious, just, humane, temperate, and sincere ;

* General WASHINGTON, though opulent, gave much of his time and attention to practical agriculture.

Mississippi Territory.

uniform, dignified, and commanding; his example was as edifying to all around him, as were the effects of that example lasting.

To his equals he was condescending, to his inferiors kind, and to the dear object of his affections exemplarily tender; correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence, and virtue always felt his fostering hand; the purity of his private character gave effulgence to his private virtues.

His last scene comported with the whole tenor of his life. Although in extreme pain, not a sigh, not a groan escaped him; and with undisturbed serenity he closed his well-spent life. Such was the man America has lost; such was the man for whom our nation mourns.

hands of three or four individuals, who have but a partial interest in common with the people; an. further, that the immense power thus conceded had neither been exercised with liberality not beneficence, and that in some instances the provisions of the ordinance had been unattended to and the Constitution of the United States violated

To remedy these inconveniences, and to extend the fundamental principles of civil liberty, the pe titioners solicit an amelioration of their present political system, and that Congress will enact that the ordinance of one thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven may immediately operate in its second grade in the Mississippi Territory, meaning that the people thereof may be allowed a Legis

Methinks I see his august image, and hear fall-lative Assembly. ing from his venerable lips these deep sinking words:

Upon mature consideration of the premises, the committee are of an opinion that an amelioration of the present existing Government is dictated by justice and policy.

"Cease, sons of America, lamenting our separation; go on, and confirm by your wisdom the fruits of our joint councils, joint efforts, and com- That the political maxim, so generally practised mon dangers; reverence religion; diffuse know-upon in the United States, "that the citizen should ledge throughout your land; patronize the arts have a voice, by himself or his representative, in the and sciences; let liberty and order be inseparable framing of laws, and imposing of taxes," ought to companions; control party spirit, the bane of free be extended to the Mississippi Territory. Governments; observe good faith to, and cultivate peace with, ali nations; shut up every avenue to foreign influence; contract rather than extend national connexion; rely on yourselves only; be American in thought, word, and deed: thus will you give immortality to that Union, which was the constant object of my terrestrial labors; thus will you preserve, undisturbed, to the latest posterity, the felicity of a people to me most dear; and thus will you supply (if my happiness is now aught to you) the only vacancy in the round of pure bliss high Heaven bestows."

MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY.

The committee find that, by the act of Congress, passed on the seventh of April, one thousand seven hundred and ninety-eight, entitled "An act for an amicable settlement of limits with the State of Georgia, and authorizing the establishment of a Government in the Mississippi Territory," the boundaries of the said Territory were defined, and the President of the United States authorized to establish therein a Government in all respects similar to that now exercised in the Territory Northwest of the river Ohio, excepting and excluding the last article of the ordinance made for the government thereof, by the late Congress, on the thirteenth of July, one thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven.

That the President, soon after the passage of the act aforesaid, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate of the United States, appointed a Governor, Secretary, and three Judges, for the Mississippi district, who have entered upon the duties of their respective offices, and proceeded to the organization of the Government.

[Communicated to the House of Reps., Feb. 18, 1800.] Mr. CLAIBORNE, from the committee to whom was referred the petition of Cato West and others, styling themselves "a committee, regularly chosen by the inhabitants of the Mississippi Territory, for the purpose of petitioning for a redress of griev-mentioned act of Congress, the committee find the ances," made, in part, the following report:

That in the ordinance referred to, in the before

following provisions:

The petitioners state, that, from the vast interval which separates the Territory from the seat there shall be appointed, from time to time, by "Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid, That of the General Government, a knowledge of their Congress, a Governor, whose commission shall interest and wishes being difficult to be ascertain-continue in force for the term of three years, unless ed, partial and inaccurate statements were too apt to acquire credit, and that of this stamp were the representations which have been made, in the name of the people, soliciting a Government similar to one which had been established in the Territory Northwest of the river Ohio.

sooner revoked by Congress; he shall reside in the district, and have a freehold estate therein, in one thousand acres of land, while in the exercise of his office."

"There shall be appointed, from time to time That the Government which Congress had en- continue in force for four years, unless sooner reby Congress, a Secretary, whose commission shall acted for the Mississippi Territory was bad in the-voked; he shall reside in the district, and have a ory and still worse in practice; the Executive, Le- freehold estate therein, in five hundred acres of gislative and Judicial authorities, so carefully se- land, while in the exercise of his office; it shall be parated and limited by the constitutions of the his duty to keep and preserve the acts and laws elder States, are here mingled together in the passed by the Legislature and the public records

Mississippi Territory.

of the district, and the proceedings of the Governor in his executive department, and transmit authentic copies of such acts and proceedings, every six months, to the Secretary of Congress. There shall also be appointed a court, to consist of three Judges, any two of whom to form a court, who shall have a common law jurisdiction, and reside in the district, and have each therein a freehold estate in five hundred acres of land, while in the exercise of their offices; and their commissions shall continue in force during good behaviour. The Governor and Judges, or a majority of them, shall adopt and publish in the district such laws of the original States, criminal and civil, as may be necessary and best suited to the circumstances of the district, and report them to Congress, from time to time; which laws shall be in force in the district, until the organization of the General Assembly therein, unless disapproved of by Congress, but afterwards the Legislature shall have authority to alter them, as they shall think fit. The Governor for the time being shall be commander-in-chief of the militia, appoint and commission all officers in the same, below the rank of general officers; all general officers shall be appointed and commissioned by Congress, previous to the organization of the General Assembly; the Governor shall appoint such magistrates and other civil officers, in each county or township, as he shall find necessary for the preservation of the peace and good order in the same; after the General Assembly shall be organized, the powers and duties of magistrates and other civil officers shall be regulated and defined by the said Assembly, but all magistrates and other civil officers not herein otherwise directed shall, during the continuance of this temporary government, be appointed by the Governor. For the prevention of crimes and injuries, the laws to be adopted or made shall have force in all parts of the district; and for the execution of process, criminal and civil, the Governor shall make proper divisions thereof; and he shall proceed from time to time, as circumstances may require, to lay out the parts of the district in which Indian titles shall have been extinguished, into counties and townships; subject, however, to such alterations as may hereafter be made by the Legislature.

ple, two hundred acres of land within the same: Provided, also, That a freehold in fifty acres of land in the district, having been a citizen of one of the States, and being resident in the district, or the like freehold, and two years' residence in the district, shall be necessary to qualify a man as an elector of a representative.

"The representative thus elected shall serve for the term of two years; and in case of the death of a representative, or removal from office, the Governor shall issue a writ to the county or township for which he was a member, to elect another in his stead, to serve for the residue of the

term.

"The General Assembly, or Legislature, shall consist of the Governor, Legislative Council, and a House of Representatives. The Legislative Council shall consist of five members, to continue in office five years, unless sooner removed by Congress; any three of whom to be a quorum; and the members of the Council shall be nominated and appointed in the following manner, to wit: As soon as representatives shall be elected, the Governor shall appoint a time and place for them to meet together, and, when met, they shall nomiate ten persons, resident in the district, and each possessed of a freehold in five hundred acres of land, and return their names to Congress, five of whom Congress shall appoint and commission to serve as aforesaid; and whenever a vacancy shall happen in the council, by death or removal from office, the House of Representatives shall nominnate two persons qualified as aforesaid for each vacancy, and return their names to Congress, one of whom Congress shall appoint and commission for the residue of the term. And every five years, four months at least before the expiration of the time of service of the members of Council, the said House shall nominate ten persons, qualified as aforesaid, and return their names to Congress; five of whom Congress shall appoint and commission to serve as members of the Council five years, unless sooner removed. And the Governor, Legislative Council, and House of Representatives, shall have authority to make laws, in all cases, for the good government of the district, not repugnant to the principles and articles in this ordinance "So soon as there shall be five thousand free male established and declared. And all bills having inhabitants of full age in the district, upon giving passed by a majority in the House, and by a maproof thereof to the Governor, they shall receive jority in the Council, shall be referred to the Govauthority, with time and place, to elect represent-ernor for his assent; but no bill or Legislative act atives from their counties or townships, to represent them in the General Assembly, provided that for every five hundred free male inhabitants there shall be one representative, and so on progressively with the number of free male inhabitants, shall the right of representation increase, until the number of representatives shall amount to twenty-five; after which the number and proportion of representatives shall be regulated by the Legislature: Provided, That no person be eligible or qualified to act as a representative unless he shall have been a citizen of one of the United States three years, and be a resident in the district, or unless he shall have resided in the district three years; and, in either case, shall likewise hold in his own right, in fee sim6th CON.-42

whatever shall be of any force without his assent. The Governor shall have power to convene, prorogue, and dissolve the General Assembly, when in his opinion it shall be expedient."

The committee further report, that they have not been enabled to ascertain with certainty the number of citizens residing within the limits of the Mississippi district, but there are supposed to be about six thousand free people of all descriptions; that the free male inhabitants of full age, not being sufficient in number (under the ordinance) to authorize a General Assembly, the Legislative authority (subject to certain prescribed restrictions) is at this time vested in and exercised by the Governor and Judges.

Mississippi Territory.

A Legislative Assembly organized upon the 1st. By what authority were Cato West and plan contemplated by the ordinance, when the others chosen a committee? if by the people. at what number of free male inhabitants of full age amount-period, in what manner, and for what purpose?" ed to five thousand, would, it is presumed, remove the principal cause of uneasiness, and be promotive of the general good.

A meeting was held by a number of the principal inhabitants, on the 6th day of July last, in order to confer upon the unhappy situation of the For information as to the extent of population country, and, if possible, to devise a remedy. The in the Mississippi Territory, the quality, quantity, result of this meeting was a circular letter drawn and value of the exports, the wishes of the people up by the conference, recommending to the seve for a change of government, and their supposed abil-ral districts the scheme of a committee, which ity to meet the expense incident to a General As- was to meet, with written instructions from their sembly, the committee beg leave to refer the House constituents, in order to inform the Governor of to two letters from Mr. N. Hunter hereto subjoin- the true situation of the country, and petition for ed, (Nos. 1 and 2;) the petitioners prayed that a redress of grievances. I have a copy of the cirMr. Hunter might be accredited as their agent, cular letter, and the letters of instructions from and viewed as a character in whom entire confi- the several districts. dence may be placed.