49 
The mathematical and physical sciences are taught in the high 
school; it possesses a very good philosophical cabinet. We heard 
one class examined in arithmetic, and another in analytic geo¬ 
metry. In the former I saw that much attention was paid to 
mental calculation, and was surprised at the quick and correct 
solutions of difficult arithmetical questions. In the higher class 
the teacher proposed a question, and all those immediately arose 
who thought they could answer it. One was designated by the 
teacher to solve it, and if another thought the answer not exactly 
correct, he raised his hand, without interrupting the first, and 
corrected him when called upon. I was pleased both with the 
kind manners of the teachers, and the modest, correct, and easy 
deportment of the scholars. The boys generally had handsome 
faces, and were all of an animated physiognomy. With this they 
combine, as I was frequently convinced, the greatest respect for 
their parents and teachers. It appears to me impossible that young 
people, who receive so liberal an education* can grow up to be bad 
or malicious men. I was indeed affected when I left the schools, 
and could not but congratulate Mr. Quincy from the bottom of 
my heart, on such a rising generation! Captain Ryk, who accom¬ 
panied us, participated in my views and feelings. 
From the schools we went to the state-house or capitol, of the 
exterior of which I have already spoken, but the interior arrange¬ 
ment I had not yet seen. Besides the offices belonging to 
the state government, it contains the assembly rooms of the 
three bodies which govern the state, the council of the governor, 
the senate, and the representatives. These rooms are spacious; 
still, however, it is evident, that thirty-seven years ago, when 
this building was erected, every thing was done in haste, and 
that architecture had not then made the progress which it since 
has. All the steps are of wood. A trophy is erected in one of 
the chambers, composed of Brunswick arms, which were taken 
at the battle of Saratoga. One hundred and sixty-eight steps lead 
to the lantern of the cupola, which is of wood, and covered with 
copper. Notwithstanding the excessive heat, we went up, and 
our labour was richly recompensed by a splendid prospect. The 
dome is the highest point in the vicinity, and affords a view not 
only of the whole city and the bay, but also of a great extent of 
ground beyond, in every part of which a number of neat dwel¬ 
lings may be observed. 
Thus passed almost fourteen days, in an uncommonly pleasing 
and instructive manner. In general my state of health allowed 
me to enjoy every new and interesting object with serenity of 
mind; I was indisposed but two days, and this was probably 
owing to the excessive heat. Even the intermediate hours, which 
could not be dedicated to the inspection of public institutions, 
Vol. I. 7 
