The New York Packet

On Inscriptions of the Cincinnati, 1784.

An old man in the shade of obscurity, presents, with the utmost diffidence, the following remarks. They are not, he knows, of much consequence, but as they are well meant, he hopes they will be received with candor by those whom they concern; and for whose benevolence, and liberality of sentiment, he entertains the highest respect.

To design, and to adapt mottos or inscriptions, require different qualifications; and these qualifications are more seldom the possession of any individual, than is generally imagined. Whether the subject of these remarks supports my position, I shall not attempt to determine. But the inscriptions of the Cincinnati appear to have been most unhappily elected. Adapted they are by no means to the design.

An inscription of this sort, should be 'brevis et locuples;' short but rich—comprehensive and emphatic. To which I would not hesitate to add something of the poetic boldness. When the subject is grand, every thing respecting it should be great.

Cincinnatus is one of the most respectable characters. His situation is delicate in the extreme, and interesting. His domestic sensibility, exquisite: and the love of his country made more ardent, by her calling on him for aid. Upon this review of things, how tame and flat is the expression?

'Omnia reliquit servare rempublicam.'

Instead of which, suppose something like one of these. 'Vincit amor patriae. Patria vincit, or vicit vincit is the best. Patriam prætulit omnibus. Patria pro omnibus illi.'

'Virtutis præmium' has the first essential; but not the last.

Besides, there is nothing great in premium applied to virtue. I think, indeed, the reverse; and condemn the expression, as improper. I know there is one authority, which some imagine justifies the application; but I think that very authority, supports my opinion. Omnipotente alone can reward virtue.

I would prefer a declaration, that this was the fruit, consequence, or effect of virtue. Such as these—'Virtutis honos. Virtute debitum, or datum.'

'Evo perpetua' is short, but extremely rapid.

Are not the following better? 'In aeternum vivat. Semper floreat. Tempori superstes.'

On 'Societas Cincinnatorum instituta' I shall but just observe that it sounds extremely rough and grating to my ear; and that I wish they had taken the name of Washington. For not adopting that name, I suppose they had their reason; though I cannot conceive any good ones.

SEXAGENARIUS.