The Democrat

July 4th, 1869.—This day, we are told is the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, or something of that kind—or words to that effect—but as we were unfortunately taken from school before we had an opportunity to dive into the mysteries of ancient history, we can only say so from what other people say; which may be true, or not, and if not, why not? We are informed that on the 4th of July, all people who love this—the best government the world ever saw—(some people say this is a hoax) fire off crackers and their mouths, and sich like fire-works, and commemorate and keep alive the “spirit of '76.” We are one who look upon these “doings” as extravagant and extraordinary, or they show an utter waste of powder and other combustibles, and further, they illustrate to an extraordinary degree what a fool a man is capable of making of himself when he is filled with old rye “patriotism,” and boiling over with love for the “best government,” etc. We have not yet heard of any preparation in Weston for the celebration of this so-called “national natal day,” and should any develop themselves, we pray that they be this time inspired by patriotism—not Bourbon whiskey.