The Wilmingtonian, And Delaware Register

FOURTH OF JULY IN PRISON.—Amongst the numerous accounts of the recent celebration of the anniversary of our independence, the following cannot fail of attracting notice. The poor debtors confined in Worcester jail, Mass. celebrated the day in the following manner, as described in a Boston paper—Portland Argus.

By the kindness of the keeper, the unfortunate tenants of the jail in Worcester. were permitted to assemble in the debtor's room: we cannot say to celebrate their own Freedom, but the Independence of their fellow citizens. We are not informed whether they sat down to a sumptuous entertainment, whether their room was "tastefully ornamented" with paintings, portraits, evergreens, &c. or whether the "flowing glass" went merrily around; but we are assured, that however long they may have been immured in the close and dreary walls of the jail, or have been deprived of that for which their fathers fought and bled. and for which their brethren throughout the Continent were at that moment offering their tribute of praise and Thanksgiving— they had lost none of the spirit of '76. The altar of liberty was still standing firm in their hearts, though they were not permitted to mingle its incense with that of their brethren—the flame of Patriotism was not extinguished in their bosoms, though unfortunately it was smothered by the damp walls of a dungeon. As proof of what we have asserted, we give some of their sentiments:-

New England—A land where "liberty abroad walks unconfined," and the debts of the unfortunate—how easily paid

Liberty—Secured by bolts and bars, we fear not the loss of it.

Our Legislative Body—While they support imprisonment 'for debt, they are not unconscious that "Liberty alone can give the power of life its beauty and its sweetness."

Our present Mansion—Where thieves do not break in to steal.

Freedom—A sly fellow—nothing but locks, keys, bolts, and fetters, can insure his safe keeping.

The Sheriff of this County—May he this day partake of as good a dinner as we do. and feel as independent as we in fact are.

Independence—Dearly purchased by our fathers, and richly inherited by us their children.

The Day we celebrate—"No arrangements are made for spirituous liquors."

This day, within the rugged walls,
May peace and hope abound,
To-morrow, may we roam abroad
And tread on freedom's ground.

The Eagle of Liberty—Place her here, and fear nothing for her safe keeping.

Our Militia—The sound of their music has this day given us auricular proof of their correct discipline.

Massachusetts—The cradle of Liberty—she rocks too hard for the repose of poor debtors.