The Rhode Island American, And General Advertiser

COMMODORE PERRY
The Common Council of the city of New York held an extra meeting on the 14th instant, and in pursuance of a resolution heretofore passed, the Freedom of the City was conferred on the Hero of Lake Erie—when his Honour the Mayor delivered the following elegant and appropriate address: —
"Sir—The illustrious achievements of individuals, in science, and in arms, constitute the glory of nations;—patriotism, therefore, unites with policy, in conferring those honours and rewards which are due to distinguished merit. After we have signalized ourselves, in conquering the enemy of our country, a task, perhaps more difficult, remains to attain;—a victory over ourselves. He who in the moment of triumph, and in the full career of glory, reposes himself with humility, upon the Supreme Being: exercises the duties of humanity to the vanquished, and displays that modest deportment, which is ever the companion of elevated minds, exhibits an example of virtue worthy of all imitation and honourable to human nature.
I shall not, sir, on this occasion, from motives of delicacy, expatiate upon the important naval events which took place under your auspices, upon the waters of Lake Erie; but I must be permitted to say, that your subsequent conduct, and particularly your endeavours by more than fraternal attentions, to soothe the afflicted spirit, and to restore the wounded frame of your brave and magnanimous antagonist, have given you the strongest additional claims upon the regard and affections of your country.
I now proceed, sir, to perform one of the most pleasing acts of my life, in conferring upon you the highest honours in the power of this city to bestow."
His Honour then administered the usual oath, and presented the Certificate of Freedom—when the Commodore made the following reply:
"Sir—The honour conferred on me by this respectable body, would, at all times call forth the liveliest emotions of gratitude; but at this moment, when the citizens of this city have given such distinguished proof of their patriotism, it adds much indeed to the gratification, to have my name enrolled among them as a freeman."