A complete history of the Marquis de Lafayette, major-general in the American army in the war of the revolution. Embracing an account of his tour through the United States, to the time of his departure, September, 1825. By an officer in the late army.

GENERAL LAFAYETTE. 347
miles round, visited this town, to see and pay their respects to
Lafayette. He left Stamford at six, intending if possible to
reach New-Haven that night.
The Connecticut troop which met the General at the line,
accompanied him through Stamford, and proceeded until they
met the escort provided further east.
All business was suspended during the day on the whole
route;-all persons were arrayed in their best attire, and many
remained for hours upon the road, waiting for the cavalcade.
Many old revolutionary soldiers met him on the route, and
held hasty discourse on scenes and subjects which they never
can forget.
He arrived at Norwalk, at 8 o'clock P. M. where his arrival was announced by a salute from the heights, and discharges
of musketry. Two companies of uniform militia were in waiting to salute him. An arch was formed across the bridge, with
the following inscription:-" Welcome Lafayette," in large letters, on a white ground. On one side of the arch, the American flag was displayed, and on the other a French flag. As
the General had been expected from about 11, A. M. Norwalk
was filled with people from the surrounding country, at an early hour in the day, who remained anxiously waiting until the
time of his arrival. All business in the town was suspended.
Among those assembled, were several revolutionary heroes,
with bosoms beating high, at the thought of shaking by the hand
their old and beloved comrade, whose memory was associated
with periods of trial and endurance, which few who experienced them, now remain to relate. Gaptain Gibbs, an old revolutionary officer, about the same age with the Marquis, and who
was with him in the revolution, joyfully seized his old friend by
the hand, and introduced him into the village hotel. The
General easily recognised him, although so great a length of
time has elapsed since they have seen each other. Mr. Betts,
who was also in the revolutionary service, had the honour of an
introduction. The ladies and gentlemen of Norwalk, immediately repaired to Cook's Hotel, to bid the Marquis welcome.
The Marquis departed about 9 o'clock at night, leaving the
open barouche, and taking the close carriage.
At Saugatuck the militia were prepared throughout the day,
to fire a salute; but owing to the lateness of the hour when the
cavalcade approached, it being 10 at night, the villagers could
do no more than give their loud huzzas, as the General passed.