Kentucky Gazette And General Advertiser

LEXINGTON, NOVEMBER 22.

When the free navigation of the Mississippi was withheld from the citizens of the Western Country, we petitioned, we remonstrated, we offered to risk our lives and fortunes to acquire our natural right. When that right was secured to us by treaty, we sat down and contemplated with pleasure the growing importance of our country. But when the port of Orleans was again shut by the Spanish Intendant, we felt the indignation of injured and insulted freemen; and our confidence in the justice of the General Government only restrained us from immediate acts of violence. We were not disappointed in the prompt attention and exertions of that Government. By a treaty with France, New Orleans and the Province of Louisiana were ceded to the United States. Spain has refused to deliver them up—and we must abandon them or fight.

The President has authorized our Governor to hold in readiness 4000 men, to march and take possession. The government has done its part, it now remains for you, Citizen Soldiers to perform yours. You have waited with patience the result of negotiation. You have expressed your confidence in the General Government. You have pledged your lives and fortunes to support it in such measures as the honor and interest of the United States may require. Your country calls to arms—You must step forward and assert your rights.

To arms, to arms ye brave,
The avenging sword unsheath,
March on, march on, all hearts resolved
On Victory or Death.