4 



General confidence continues to sustain the character for- 

 med, and to encourage increased efforts in the great pur- 

 suits in which we are engaged. , In view of the blessings 

 we are made the instruments of diffusing, let ns take 

 courage, and persevere in the execution of our benevo- 

 lent purposes. Societies for ameliorating the condition 

 of the human race, are rapidly rising in consideration, 

 and acquiring a decided influence over the general feeling. 

 The best matured opinion inclines to their general sup- 

 port ; and the policy which guides our coimtry in its prog- 

 ress from rustic nature, to polished life, is imperative. 

 Gentlemen — 

 In a community, whjch has assumed as the basis of 

 every measure, and the cpmpass to direct every pursuit, 

 an elevated degree of mental cultivation, and an active spir- 

 it of enquiry, the office of being the organ of their com- 

 munications, confers great dignity, and is most interest- 

 ing to the benevolent mind. Hence we observe a pecul- 

 iar attention bestowed in the x'^merican Republic on every 

 exertion to improve the general welfare. The field of 

 usefulness is as extensive as the habitations of man — the 

 task as interesting as the value of human felicity-— the glo- 

 ry only exceeded by the imperishable benefits conferred. 

 Such is tlie condition of man, that his benevolence can- 

 not execute all the liberal purposes which ii \varm heart 

 and a sound head may conceive. Hence the Saees of our 

 Republic have adopted the policy of prescribing limits to 

 human action, commensurate with the means of human 

 power. IMuch wisdom is dispia} cd in these social com- 

 binations, and their benefits are written in legible charac- 

 ters wherever the footsteps of man ai'e found. These are 

 now the approved mediums by wliich enlightened and be- 

 ]icv6lent men are operating on the great family of man. 

 '1 hese efforts will redeem our race from the darkness of 

 unlettered ignorance — reclaim them from the altars of cri^- 



