The New Hampshire Gazette

COMMUNICATED.

CAPTAIN MORRIS:

This highly esteemed officer, who commanded on this naval station for two years past, has left town for Washington city, to enter upon the duties of his appointment at the Board of Navy Commissioners. We had ever felt a deep interest in his name from the recollection that to him, more than any other individual, were we indebted for that first brilliant victory, which dissolved the charm of England's naval "invincibility"—that while the deck of the Constitution was flowing with his own blood, his eye still directed the guns and his voice gave the command, that sealed the proud Guerriere's fate. But it is since he has come amongst us as a citizen, that the charms of his private virtues, his amiable manners and highly cultivated mind, have occasioned us to feel most sensibly the loss that we sustain by his removal.

Previous to his leaving town, a very full meeting of citizens was holden, and the Hon. John F. Parrott being appointed Chairman, it was voted, that a public dinner be given to Capt. Morris—and the following note was sent:—

To Capt. Charles Morris,

SIR—At a large meeting of citizens of this town, holden this evening at the Athenaeum, we were directed to communicate to you their unanimous request, that you will do them the honor to partake with them of a public dinner at Franklin-Hall, on Monday the 22d inst. In making this request, sir, we cannot but be sensible that any public demonstration of our respect, must very imperfectly express our deep regret at your contemplated departure—our vivid recollections of your public services, and cordial wishes for your future prosperity and happiness. But as our country has called you from this station to higher duties, we are desirous, before you leave us, of this opportunity of renewing to you personally assurances of that affectionate regard, which will long be felt and cherished by the citizens of Portsmouth. We are respectfully your obedient servants.

ICHABOD BARTLETT,
ABRAHAM SHAW,
ENOCH G. PARROTT.
Portsmouth, Sept. 19, 1823.

The following reply was received from Capt. Morris:—

Gentlemen—I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of last evening, informing me of the request of a number of the citizens of this place to partake with them of a public dinner on Monday next. I regret that necessary arrangements for an earlier departure than I had anticipated, will not leave it in my power to accept this polite invitation, but I beg leave through you to assure the citizens of Portsmouth, that I feel sensibly the honor they have conferred upon me, and that I shall always entertain a grateful recollection of the kindness and attention I have received from them during my residence upon this station. With much respect, I am gentlemen, your obedient servant.

C. MORRIS.

To Ichabod Bartlett, Abraham Shaw, Enoch G. Parrott, Esq'rs.
Portsmouth, Sept. 20, 1823.