The Congregationalist

For The Congregationalist.

Mr. Editor,—The anniversary of our nation's independence, was so spent pleasantly in this village, that we cannot refrain from asking you, to give to a brief account of it, a place in your paper: That our friends may rejoice with us, and that those who have not tried the experiment, may be stimulated to observe the day in like manner.

At two o'clock, the Sabbath Schools of four denominations of Christians, met at the Congregational church, where all united in prayer and singing, and listened to the reading of a portion of scripture and an appropriate address from one of our ministers, after which, we proceeded to a pleasant grove, accompanied by a band of music, comprised mostly of our own citizens. At the grove, we prayed and sung praises, partook of simple refreshments, and listened to an address; the ministers of all denominations, taking part, and appearing like so many brothers. Sir, it was a delightful time. All appeared happy. It was more like the happiness which Christians anticipate in another world, from any thing before witnessed in this village. There was no distinction of party or name, no burning of gun powder, no wine to inflame: consequently, no political or other jealousies were fostered, no spirit of war excited, and no drunkenness created or encouraged, the drink which a kind Providence has provided, being the only kind of which we partook. And the lessons taught the rising generation, both by precept and example, were those of union, peace and sobriety. May we not expect good results from such celebrations? Are they not bright spots in our nation's history? The hopes of our country, and the world, are in the rising generation. Will not such scenes be more likely to make them good citizens, yea, and good Christians, than those scenes which they have been accustomed to witness on that day? Would it not rejoice the heart of the philanthropist and the Christian, if the day could be thus observed in every city and village in our land? Will not our friends who have not done so, try it, if they are spared another year?

New Britain,

W.