Gazette Of The United States, & Philadelphia Daily Advertiser

MUSEUM, January 5th. 1797.

Mr. Fenno,

Feeling myself happy in being the instrument of relieving the distresses of the unfortunate, I with heart-felt pleasure inform the citizens of Philadelphia, that I have already received from the sale of tickets on Wednesday, the sum of one hundred and forty four dollars, which I have delivered to the post master general, for transmission to the sufferers by fire at Savannah.

By a little labour, I have bought more knowledge of human nature, in several instances, such as I shall remember with pleasure. To enumerate every trait of liberality is unnecessary; suffice it to say, that many contributed in a very becoming manner—And here, I present my grateful thanks to my fellow citizens; who have enabled me to become one of their agents, in an act of humanity, and especially I am thankful to those printers who have generously published my advertisement on this occasion without charge. Sir, your publishing this, with the annexed anecdote, will oblige

C. W. PEALE.

A middle aged woman with modest address, approached the museum door; her dress bespoke that her wants were supplied by industry; at that moment a small company came forward presenting their tickets for admission. The good woman wished to let them pass, and then most courteously demanded, what was the price of entrance? only one quarter of a dollar—here said she, holding out her hand, with two quarters; It is my mite, and was turning away. But, madam, won't you walk into the museum,—not now, he replied, there is company enough there without me and I will find a quarter to pay for seeing it some other day, and retired uttering pathetic benedictions.