Letter to Editors, 6 May 1841

I wish, through the medium of your paper, to make known, that on Sunday last, I had the honor of receiving a visit from the Hon. , Justice of the Supreme Court and Judge of the fifth Judicial Circuit of the State of , and Esq. of , who expressed great pleasure in visiting our , and were astonished at the improvements which were made. They were officially introduced to the congregation who had assembled on the meeting ground, by the ; and they severally addressed the assembly. , expressed his satisfaction of what he had seen and heard respecting our people and took that opportunity of returning thanks to the citizens of , for confering upon him the freedom of the city, stating that he was not aware of rendering us any service, sufficiently important to deserve such marked honor; and likewise spoke in high terms of our location and the improvements we had made, and that our enterprise and industry were highly creditable to us indeed.

spoke much in favor of the place, the industry of the citizens &c. and hoped they would continue to enjoy all the blessings and priveleges of our free and glorious Constitution, and as a patriot and a freeman he was willing at all times to stand boldly in defence of liberty and law.

It must indeed be satisfactory to this community to know, that kind and generous feelings exist in the hearts of men of such high reputation and moral and intellectual worth.

has ever proved himself friendly to this people; and interested himself to obtain for us our several charters, holding at that time the office of Secretary of State. also ranks high, and has long held a standing at the bar, which few attain, and is considered one of the most able and profound jurists in the .

The sentiments they expressed on the occasion, were highly honorable to them as American citizens, and as gentlemen.

How different their conduct, from that of the official characters in the state of , whose minds were prejudiced to such an extent, that instead of mingling in our midst and ascertaining for themselves our character, kept entirely aloof, but were ready at all times to listen to those who had the “poison of adders under their tongues,” and who sought our overthrow.

Let every person who may have inbibed sentiments prejudicial to us, imitate the honorable example of our distinguished visitors, ( & ) and I believe they will find much less to condemn then they anticipated, and probably a great deal to commend.

What makes the late visit more pleasing, is the fact, that Messrs. & , have long been held in high estimation as politicians, being champions of the two great parties that exist in the ; but laying aside all party strife, like brothers, citizens, and friends, they mingle with us, mutually disposed to extend to us courtesy, respect and friendship, which I hope, we shall ever be proud to reciprocate.

I am, very respectfully, yours &c.