it may not prove the occasion of bloody contests, we shall rejoice to trace
its fruits in the gradual destruction of old despotic systems, and in the
general diffusion of knowledge among the people, and the enjoyment of those
equal and just rights, which mild governments are calculated to secure.

In our own beloved country, we can boast of many sincere patriots and
heroes besides our 'paternal chief,' the revered WASHINGTON, "who was first
in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen;" others
will be recollected, who devoted themselves to the cause of liberty and
their country, with a sincerity and zeal almost without a parallel in the
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 sacrifices of the Marquis LAFAYETTE
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 foreign 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 very ancient
and noble family, and inherited a large estate. The original family name
was Motier; but for several generations back had assumed the addition of
_Lafayette_. Some of his male ancestors were distinguished for military,
and some of the females for literary talents. His income was 200,000
francs. His property and influence were increased by a matrimonial
connexion with a lady of the truly illustrious house of NOAILES. He was
married at the age of eighteen.

MARIE-PAUL-JOSEPH-ROCH-YVES-GILBERT-MOTIER DE LAFAYETTE was born at the