66 



for want of support. While almost every other state has an histori- 

 cal society, shall it be said that Pennsylvania wants one? Under the 

 auspices of its illustrious founder, William Rawle, it has produced 

 interesting and valuable memoirs; the honour of the state requires 

 that the work should be continued. I recommend to them to increase 

 the number of their members, and, perhaps, to raise the annual sub- 

 scription to five dollars. I would also recommend to them to apply 

 for aid to the Legislature : no one would be better able than a com- 

 mittee from their body to continue the publication of our ancient re- 

 cords so honourably begun, and which appears to be suspended. 

 Science and literature are the glory of a state ; canals and rail roads 

 are perishable. The noble aqueducts, temples, roads, of the Greeks 

 and Romans, have perished, but their literary fame will last forever. 

 If England were sunken into the ocean, her fame would be per- 

 petuated by the works of her admirable historians, philosophers, 

 and poets. Let those, whose minds are impressed with these feel- 

 ings, exert themselves and act. 



I hope the annual celebration of the landing of the great William 

 Penn will not be discontinued, and that the Society will revive under 

 better auspices than have for some time attended it. Might it not be 

 remodeled and united to the Historical Society 1 



The American Philosophical Society have only to pursue their 

 present honourable course. 



The above objects being very near my heart, I have ventured to 

 give vent to my feelings upon them. Perhaps it is out of place, but 

 my heart is full, and I could not help it." 



The following gentlemen were elected members of the So- 

 ciety: — 



Samuel S, Haldeman, of Lancaster County, Pa. 

 George W. Norris, M.D., of Philadelphia. 

 Joseph Carson, M.D., of Philadelphia. 



