Virginia Argus

Extracts from a sermon, delivered at Wallingford, Connecticut, March 11th, 1801, by STANLY GRISWOLD, A. M.

"If we recur to our forefathers we shall find them republicans from the beginning. The spirit of freedom drove them from their native land, and brought them to this, then howling wilderness. Genuine principles of liberty were conspicuous in all their proceedings. These principles they carefully handed down to their sons, and in every period of the country's progress they have been conspicuous. They broke out in full splendour in 1775 and 76, of which the declaration of independence, is an illustrious proof. Again they shone forth with effulgent lustre in 1787 and 88--and the unparalleled constitution of the United States was their fruit. These ancient, deep-rooted, republican principles of the country must be most sacredly regarded; for, be assured every variation from them will be resisted and bring on convulsions. Give me leave to say further you will not mistake the will and pleasure of the country, if you give all your friendship, all your best wishes, and all the support in your power to the incomparable constitution of the United States. This constitution was adopted by a fair expression of the public will. It is the government of the country and the ordinance of God. When we examine its merits, we find it but another edition of the genuine principles of republicanism, equal rights its foundation, and the welfare of the people its object. The precious maxims of the declaration of independence are transplanted into the constitution. And as under the former, the country marched to victory, so under the latter she may advance to prosperity. Let the constitution then, be esteemed the Palladium of all that we hold dear. Let it be venerated as the Sanctuary of our liberties and all our best interests. Let it be kept as the ark of God. Obey the laws of government; be genuine friends of order. By thus devoting yourselves to the principles of our excellent constitution, and to the existing laws of government, you will be sure to do the pleasure of the country. Let this character be invariably maintained. On no occasion, and on no account let it sink into the low regions of party. Stoop not to the extreme littleness, far from such despicable things be your conduct. Let the American character be borne aloft. Let it soar like the eagle of heaven, its emblem, bearing the scroll of our liberties through fields of azure light, unclouded by the low-bred vapours of faction. Let the spirit of our fathers come upon us. Be men:--rise:--let another race of patriots appear. Let America once more be the admiration of the world."