Gazette Of The United States And Daily Evening Advertiser

From the FEDERAL ORRERY.
Published in Boston.

Mr Paine,
Thursday the 19th day of February 1795:

ANTICIPATED.

This day all the religious societies and denominations, and all persons whomsoever, within the limits of the United States of America, in obedience to a requisition from the President of the Union, were assembled together, for the solemn purpose of celebrating a federal thanksgiving; in which they seriously reviewed the calamities that afflicted so many other nations, and contrasting the present flourishing condition of the United States therewith, were deeply impressed with the devoutest feelings of gratitude. One circumstance added a lustre to the solemn and affecting scene, which has never been surpassed in ancient days, and perhaps will not be equalled again in the memory of man. The circumstance was as follows.

The ministers and people of every denomination, deeming the present, the most favorable opportunity for the redemption of their brethren in slavery at Algiers, accordingly dedicated the after part of the day, to the most glorious effort of human benevolence; and although we are not authorized to say, that a sufficient sum was collected, for the full redemption of these unfortunate victims; yet, we are happy to hear, that a spark from the altar of charity has kindled the flame of benevolence throughout the continent, & that such measures are adopting, as will eventually tend to the perfect liberation of every prisoner.

It gives us the most distinguished pleasure to remark, that the town of Boston alone came up fully to the expectations of a HERACLITUS, a philanthropic writer, in the Federal Orrery of November 20, 1794; who stated that her inhabitants were willing and able to redeem 1 captain and 8 privates, rating the first mentioned at 4000 dollars ransom, and the last mentioned at 2000 dollars each.

The residue of the towns in this commonwealth; recollecting that 5 vessels to wit, 1 ship, 2 brigs, and 2 schooners, were captured out of their ports, gave liberally, beyond all example; and when we remember, that Virginia, who has lost but 1 schooner, has furnished a very generous contribution, we sincerely hope that the surplus of one state will supply the deficiencies of another.

Since thanksgiving, it has been confidentially whispered that Congress have determined to make up any remaining sum, and that Col. Humphries will receive orders to immediately negotiate the full liberation of our prisoners.

It is but justice to add, that the various temples, dedicated to the Most High, were never before so amply crowded; and our fair country-women, who could not command immediate cash, made an immense but cheerful sacrifice of rings and jewels. to a very great amount,

Many of the opulent planters in Virginia, and the southern states did honor to themselves, by giving from 100 to 150l. a piece; and a gentleman, in this town, who never suffers himself to be distanced in the cause of benevolence put into the contribution-box ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS, IN BANK BILLS.