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.

366 THE TOUR OF
field with us your career of glory, in the holy cause of Liberty
and American Independence.
", But here recollections crowd upon our minds too powerful for utterance. Words would but mock the deep emotions
of our hearts should we attempt to express them, in contemplating the character, attributes, and services of the paternal
Chief, under whose auspices we trod together the field of honour.
To the profound veneration and love for his memory that penetrates your bosom, we refer you as to a transcript of our own.
It would be vain to imagine the joy that would swell the great
mind of Washington, were he still living to recognise with our
nation, the generous disinterestedness, the glowing ardour, the
personal sacrifices, and the gallant achievements of his much
loved Fayette. But it is equally vain to endeavour, on this
occasion, to exclude such interesting reflections from the mind,
or to deny it the melancholy pleasure of lingering on the solemn reality, that not a single individual of the General Staff
of the army of the American Revolution now survives to participate in the joy that your presence in the United States has
awakened.
C" To us it is peculiarly grateful that you are permitted after
a lapse of so long a period, to witness the consummation of the
principles of our revolution. You will perceive, sir, that the
hopes and predictions of the wise and good men who were
your particular associates in the arduous struggle, have been
fulfilled and surpassed. You will behold a great people united
in their principles of jurisprudence, cemented together by the
strong ties of mutual interests, and happy under the fostering
influence of a free and energetic government.
"You will, therefore, allow us to reiterate our felicitations
on your safe arrival among us, and to welcome you once more
to the good land which your youthful valour contributed to elevate and distinguish.
"May your future life be as tranquil and happy as your
past has been useful, uniform, and glorious."
To which the General returned the following answer:-.
" Amidst the inexpressible enjoyments which press upon my
heart, I could not but feel particularly eager and happy to meet
my beloved brothers in arms. Many, many, I call in vain;
and at the head of them, our matchless paternal Chief, whose
love to an adopted son, I am proud to say, you have long witnessed-But while we mourn together, for those we have lost,