* v "W. *' . fc&-\;:. ,*W#>V ~* i» *i %rv •** «;r Surgeon General's Office H i^ tjec&'cn, ......... D No...~..........--./. / DISCOURSE BEFORE THE HUMANE SOCIETY. / A DISCOURSE, DELIVERED BEFORE THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THB COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, June 10, 1806. 4L-. :: BY THADDEUS MASON HARRIS, Minister of the church in dorchestkr^ Boston: PRINTED BY E. LINCOLN, WATER STREET. 1806. At a semiannual Meeting 6/the Humane Society, June 10, 1806, VoxED,-That Samuel Eliot, Esq. the Rev. Mr. McKean, and Deacon Morrill, be a Committee to wait upon the Rev. Mr. Thadde- us M Harris, and thank him for his ingenious Discourse tins day de- livered before the Society, and request a copy thereof for the press. True Copy. Attest, Edward Gray, Rec. Sec'y. protem. Dorchester, June 12,1806. Gentlemen, I gratefully acknowledge the honor conferred on me by the Hu- mane Society in their appointment to deliver the Discourse, which I yield to their request for publication ; And am, with much respect, Your friend and humble Servant, T. M. HARRIS A DISCOURSE. ---—mm«- ® 4U- «■»---- jljlT the request of the Humane Society, on an occasion peculiarly interesting, I rise to plead a cause, which needs only to be fairly represented in order to be generously supported. With regard to the effect of my humble endeavors I need feel no dif- fidence, for it is impossible to conceive any appeal more likely to excite your tender sympathy, or call into exercise your active beneficence, than that which is now submitted to your attention. As the theme of my discourse I select the fourth verse of the third chapter of the Gospel according to Mark. MARK III. 4. IS IT LAWFUL TO DO GOOD ON THE SABBATH DAYS, OR TO DO EVIL ; TO SAVE LIFE, OR TO KILL ? WITH this retort did Jesus silence the cavils and disconcert the insidious designs of the Pharisees, who sought to charge him with a profanation of the Sabbath in healing a man with a withered hand. He vindicated himself by asserting the superior excel- lence of moral virtue to ceremonial duties, assuring his accusers that, acts of mercy must not be neglect- 6 cd, though the performance of them should interfere with the most sacred positive institutions. He in- formed them, particularly, that the Sabbath was ap- pointed for the advantage of man, and that therefore to hurt men by mean's of a pretended observance of it, was directly to counteract its end. The Deity had long before declared that he re- quired mercy and not sacrifice.* No man can be profitable to God; but he who is wise may be profitable to himself, and he wha is hu- mane and beneficent may be profitable to others. " To do evil," in the sense of the text, js to be unkind or injurious to our fellow creatures. Alas! that in any such a disposition should be found ! Human life is so full of cares and troubles, and man is so feeble and helpless, that, deprived of the sympathy and assistance of others, he must feel all the disadvantages of neglect and the wretchedness of destitution. If, besides this, he meets with injury, and is not only deserted by those who should help and comfort, but oppressed by the overbearing and attacked by the cruel, his complaints must be aggra- vated and his sufferings increased. We may blame the reluctant and censure the in- jurious ; but what should be our opinion of those, who, though they inflict not evil, yet " imagine a mis- chievous device," and endeavour to prevent the good which the charitable would confer ? Such were the malevolent Pharisees. They watched Jesus with jealous eyes, to see whether he would exert his mi- * Hosea vi. 6. 7 raculous kindness in behalf of a poor sufferer on the Sabbath day, that they might accuse him of a viola- tion of its sanctity ; and were " filled with madness" when he had conferred the benefit. I. To do evil at any time is a breach of the laws of humanity and the laws of God ; but to do evil on the Sabbath day, when every good affection should be called into exercise, would discover base depravity. " Do they not err who devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good." II. Our obligations to do good arise from the very condition of our nature; and hence the discharge of them is emphatically styled humanity. They are dictated, also, by the principles of reason, and en- joined by the requirements of religion. The least observation will shew us, that, as social beings, we are mutually dependent on each other; that none are so exalted in station, or rich in posses- sion, as to be independent of others ; and none so humble in condition, or destitute in circumstances, but they may perform many deeds, as well as receive many favors, of assistance and kindness. From the Christian dispensation these social and relative duties receive high sanction; while in the ex- ample of our blessed Lord they are exhibited by the most pleasing illustration, and recommended in the most impressive manner. As men, dien, and as Christians, we are bound to do good to all as we have opportunity, and by every mean in our power relieve the distress, supply the necessities, and advance the welfare of all around us. 8 III. To kill, is an act of violence and cruelty; but to save life, though the public offices of re- ligion are interrupted for the" purpose, is not only lawful, but commendable; not only kind to man, but approved of God. To kill, did I say ? are there then in the human frame dispositions hostile to human existence ? Does man ever assault and slay his brother man ? If an individual has committed such outrage, can it be supposed that he would find associates in the work of death ? Will numbers combine, armed with the implements of destruction, to wage a direful contest ? Alas! fell revenge has slain thousands j and insa- tiable ambition, the pride of power, and the lust of conquest, have at times taught those hands which should sustain the weak and relieve the helpless, to plunder and fight and destroy tens of thousands. In- deed the history of mankind, from the earliest ages, is little else than a narrative of fierce contentions and desolating wars! Even now nation is rising up against nation ; and every battle of the warrior is with confused noise and garments rolled in blood. The mind saddens at the contemplation, and we turii shuddering from the scenes- of carnage to rejoice that in these regions of peace, remote from the con- tests which make Europe one vast aceldama, we can cultivate those arts, and encourage those institutions, whose design is to alleviate the sufferings, meliorate the condition, and increase the happiness of man. IV. To save life, is a primary duty, enjoined by the concurrent dictates of humanity, reason, and religion. 9 Every man should nourish and cherish his own life, which, under all the inconveniences he feels or troubles he may meet, must be unspeakably valuable and dear. With solicitous readiness should he exert himself in the preservation of the lives of others ; and be active to afford rescue, if, by some sad accident a fellow be- ing be involved in imminent danger. Then to ransom a life from destruction, with all the ardor of loving kindness, and every exercise of tender mercy, is one of the most commendable methods of doing good. Where the benevolent intentions or exertions of an individual are insufficient, or might be rendered more effectual by the co-operation of others, it is very de- sirable that, either by mutual consent or express agreement, combined assistance should be afforded. Upon this principle have been established those charitable institutions which comprize and use the means of many. Among the plans of this kind which the benevolent have devised and the bountiful carried into effect, that, whose anniversary we now celebrate, stands high in estimation. Other charitable associations have for their principal object the relief of the necessitous. Their liberality assits such as are reduced by calamity or oppressed by misfortune ; and their chief expecta- tion and highest ambition are, by well directed exer- tions, to alleviate the sufferings of the mortal condi- tion. The Humane Society has for its aim the restoration of life itself, on which all other charities, and opportunities, and comforts depend* B 10 If to'furnish lodging for the houseless wanderer be Itospitable and kind ; how considerate is that benevo- lence which erects on the desolate coast, for the ship- wrecked mariner, exhausted with fatigue, drenched with the waves, and overcome with the inclemency of the weather, " a hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest?" To the former benefactor is presented the thanks of the stranger that he took in; on the latter descends " the blessing of him who was ready to perish." If to provide a home for the hapless orphan, be bounty well applied ; what is the charity of those who restore to his own house him, whose wife but for such timely succour Tiad been a disconsolate widow, and whose children would have unexpectedly become most miserable orphans ? If to sooth the sorrows of the afflicted, supply the wants of the indigent, visit the chambers of the sick, and close with weeping tenderness the eye-lids of the dying, be offices of kind attention and sympathetic re- gard ; how great a favour do they confer who rescue (perhaps . at the imminent hazard of their own lives) from untimely death, and replace in all the privileges of life and health and usefulness, those for whom the shroud was spread and the grave was ready ? Let it not be supposed that this is an invidious com- parison. Far be it from me, my friends, to discour- age your compassion for the afflicted, to withdraw your support from the infirm, to lessen your attention to the aged, or delay your visits to the sick. God for- bid that any thing I have suggested should diminish 11 the sympathy which feels so freely for the numerous class of sufferers who find relief from your kindness and receive assistance from your bounty ! " God for- bid that what is meant to excite charity should create a jealousy of interest, or an interference of claims among Institutions which have one common object in view, the succour of distress, the alleviation of hu- man misery in whatever shape it appears!" I have not the most distant intention of detracting from the necessity or importance of other charitable institutions. No! Their's be all the merit which disinterested benevolence deserves, all the encouragement which ardent philanthropy can offer, all the happy effect which active generosity intends, and all the recoiru pence which the God of love delights to bestow on those who are the almoners of his bounty and the imitators of his goodness ! My intention only was to show that he who saves a soul from death, who res- cues a fellow creature from untimely dissolution, and preserves a life important to the individual, endeared to his connexions, useful to the community, and in- calculably valuable in reference to eternity, performs A DEED OF MATCHLESS CONSEOJJENCE. Thus to interpose in circumstances most critical and alarming, is the express intention and effort of the Humane Society. The annual reports which are published, fully evince the importance and usefulness of this Institution, and recommend it to the continual encouragement of the benevolent and liberal. To these records I refer for satisfactory proof that much good has been done. You will there read of several, who, $o all appearance, had fallen victims to premature 12 death, by a timely and generous interposition snatch- ed from destruction. You will imagine the exquisite emotions felt by disconsolate relatives and friends on the indications of returning life. You will participate the transports of joy expressed and interchanged with the son who was lost and found again, and the father who was apprehended to be dead but afterwards re- stored Jo life. You will find those, who were thus almost miraculously recovered, undertaking with new assiduity, the employments and duties of their sta- tion ; engaged for the commercial emolument or nav- al defence of their country; comforting and assisting their relatives and friends; and improving, as we de- voutly hope, their prolonged probation in preparation for eternity. As you peruse the interesting details, with tears of joy you will thank God for the discovery which led to the resuscitative art, by which he has allowed men in some degree to share in his own special prerogative. While you regret that some cases were unsuccessful, you will be glad that all which humanity COuld devise was attempted with alacrity, and that every effort which medical skill has directed was tried with per- severance. You will experience unalloyed satisfaction in every instance of success. You will feel more than ever disposed to encourage every future attempt. You will look forward with enlivened hope to what may yet be done. And you will no%\>, with cheerful liberality, contribute to the means and the success of an Institution so humane in its purposes and so saluta- ry in its effects. Finally. Let us all be ready to every good work; and never grow weary in well doing. Let us use all 13 means for the preservation of our own lives, and wil- lingly and promptly do all in our power to preserve and make happy the lives of others. To the arrests of death, indeed, all must at length submit; and no humane attentions, or skilful efforts can provide a ransom, or procure a discharge. Of this solemn truth we are daily reminded. It is now pathetically repeated by yon funeral knell, which an- nounces the obsequies of our venerable and worthy Secretary ;* an early, active, and important member of this Society. His name stands conspicuous in " the records of Humanity" on earth, and by Virtue and Piety has been inserted in "the book of life" in heaven. We loved him for his goodness, we honored him for his virtues, we respected him for his integrity, we prized him for his services, and that we now weep is that the intercourse of benevolence is interrupted, not that it is closed. For, though " we must needs die, and are as water spilt upon the ground, which cannot be gathered up again, yet God hath devised means by which his banished shall not be expelled from him;"f " The operation of him who raised up Je- sus from the dead," shall be effectual to resuscitate our mortal bodies, to disappoint death of his suppos- ed conquest, and forever destroy his power. Then may we all, with the ransomed of the Lord, trium- phandy shout, " thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!" Amen ! * John Avery, Esq. whose interment was immediately after the de» livery of the discourse. 12 S amuel xiv. 14- APPENDIX. *:w: THE LIFE BOAT. a poem* BY A MEMBER OF THE HUMANE SOCIETY. The bles-iin-j of Lira that was ready to perish came upon me. Job xxix. 13. TO THE PRESIDENT, THE VICE PRESIDENT S> AND TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE ^a$0ac!)U0ett# humane ^ocietp, THIS POEM IS RESPECTFULLY INSCRIBED, BY A MEMBER OF THE SOCIETY. THE LIFE BOAT. A POEM. Yet Providence, that ever waking eye, Looks down with pity on the feeble toil Of mortals lost to hope. Thompson. ARGUMENT. Exordium—South Shields noticed—The Boat described—Afifieal to Humanity in behalf of designated exfiosed Situations— Shipwrecks described—Ice Islands and loss of the Jupiter no- ticed^Eulogium on Humanity—.Evening at Sea—View of Isle of Sables—Conclusion. TO useful arts our homages we pay, On mercy's altars grateful tributes lay. Shields I thou hast seen, amidst the doubtful strife, Thy first invention save the precious life ! When murky clouds the face of heaven deform, The life boat joyous, triumph o'er the storm. The curvy keel, of downward convex sweep, On broken waves shall still the balance keep ; In doubled leaves, along the moulded waist, With art elusive, lighter cork is placed ; While copper-lamina o'er this extends A polish'd surface, closing at the bends ; Staunchion'd, and double-bank'd, the thwarts are five, While iron thole pins bid the rowers strive. Ten shortened oars in circled graumets play, On quick emergence traverse either way ; A longer oar, amid the billowy whelm, Gives to the Steersman's hand a steadier helm : 20 At either end the Boat complying steers, Heads the strong sea, nor fronted danger fears." Let now, Humanity, like gifts display Along the shores of Massachusetts Bay ; Exult, when Greathead's blest invention saves, While breaks the Londoner—or roar the Graves. Where Great JVahant uprears his sea wreath'd head, Or bays of Ipswich broader basons spread, Or wKere Plumb Island hears the frequent voice Of ship-wreck'd seamen—-be the better choice; 'Tis equal—unregarded be the Muse, So may the pausing mind, judicious, choose. Where Scituate' cliffs, mid elemental strife, Lift their bold heads, preserve the sinking life ; Or where Cohasset's castled rocks emerge, Redeem the victim from the whelming surge. Extend thy just regards, with fond relief, Where Marshfield terminates in ledgy reef f So when the barque, at winter's shorten'd day, For Plymouth's leeward haven bears away, The stranded mariner, his fears increas'd, By sleety tempest, from the bleak north-east, Shall see, directed by the dauntless brave, The Life Boat buoyant o'er the baffled wave, Within, where Gurnet, or where Sayquish shew, Dread sunken islands—breaking on the view. E'en now, the wreck'd Hiberniais\ sighs complain, Where the long beach advances from the main. Or onward seek the breasted Clayey Pounds, Where, with prophetic voice, the deep resounds ; Nor unavailing, haply, hints like these, Where Brant Point stretches to expanding seas. * See Willich's Domestic Encyclopedia, article Boat. t Ship Hibernia, outward bound from Boston, was lost on Plymojitli Beach, J anuary, 1805. 21 Scenes of distress, that boreal rigours bring, Say, shall the pensive Muse digressive sing ? Dismantled barques, yon whiten'd cliffs disclose, Remain the beacons of disastrous woes. Lo ! hapless Brown .'* whom cloudless skies beguile, Unmoors at morn, mid winter's treacherous smile, On faithless seas at eve adversely tost, Mourns his fond hopes, by frowning fortune cross'd. Presageful murmurs sigh along the shores, With threat'ning voice the rising tempest roars ; Lone birds, returning, rest their wearied wing ; Forewarn'd of woes, to whistling cordage cling ; The thoughtful seaman views the changeful clouds With silent gaze—alone ascends the shrouds : Along the deck the fearful rumour steals ; The Steersman oft the creaking rudder wheels ; The musing pilot, lonely, seeks the prow ; While the rough boatswain calls, with sullen brow. With dire commotion swelling ocean heaves, With ruthless grasp the scatter'd spoil receives ; The shivering sailors crowd the parted deck, While Death and Terror triumph o'er the wreck. The dauntless Chief, by mighty griefs oppress'd, To whelming surges yields his manly chest, While dying Comrades fall along the strand, Bewilder'd, wanders mid the pathless sand ; No friendly roof—no light's glad beam appears, No glowing hearth dissolves his freezing tears ; Alone he sinks, amid the drifted snows, While the keen north wind unrelenting blows. So manly Farrell— near my native home, Thy fortune bade thee, like Ulysses, roam, For thee rude winter smooth'd the stormy wave, Serene the skies—nor dubious omens gave. * The Brutus, Ulysses and Volusia, outward bound Ships from Salem, were wrecked on Cape Cod, February, 1803. 22 For Indies freighted, drest in streamers gay, By favouring breezes wafted on your way, Too falsely fair ! ere evening veils the skies, Dash'd on the shore, thy scatter'd vessel lies ! Uproars the deep, the sullen surges scowl, The rocks re-bellow, and the sleet winds howl. While yonder beach, which glowing fires illume, Shews friendly succours mid terrific gloom; Heart-piercing sea shrieks load the troubled air, While dying seamen yield to chill despair : Now fainter cries with sad forebodings fill The list'ning ear awhile, then, " all is still." See dauntless strangers mount the riven deck, Bear the chill'd victim from the silent wreck ; Young—who alone survives the piteous doom, That sunk his shipmates in one common tomb, Buoy'd by the rope, as backward billows part, Feels the warm life-pulse swell his grateful heart.§ The lone Commander—gloomy perils past, By Hope supported, climbs the naked mast; The faithful Picture,^ pledge of manly bloom, That fears the threat'ning of oblivious doom, Borne to his breast, with mantling life-blood warm, Survives for friendship—lives beyond the storm. In strength of years, from smiling prospects torn, " By strangers honor'd, and whom strangers mourn," Wreck'd on yon shelvy beach, here Farrell lies, Far from his native clime, his kindred ties. Where icy islands stretch along the pole, Stupendous scenes appal the human soul! Like continents they seem, by Hecla hurl'd, Avulsiye fragments of the polar world, \ A miniature picture of Capt. Farrell, found in his waistcoat. He had ascended the mast, and when found, his breast was still warm. § See the account of this shipwreck annexed to the Anniversary Dis. •ourse, delivered before the Humane Society, June, 1805. 23 Onward they move, in huge chaotic pilesj And threaten terror to Azores' Isles ; The tepid airs of tropic regions fill With humid vapour, and with icy chill. Late, there, with London's freight, intrepid Law* These dread phenomena unwelcome saw : High o'er the mast the boundless fields impend, Grind the ribb'd timbers, massive anchors bend, Wedge the bold prow, the seamy planks dispart. While icy horrors rive the seaman's heart. Now blank despair each tearful eye bedims, The Life Boat launches—providently swims ; More favour'd ye, whom milder fortunes bless, What chosen pencil shall your joys express, When first appear'd—or sail—or native coast ? " He best can paint them, who can feel them most." Blest be the deeds by Powars§ humanely done, Who bore the helpless strangers one by one: Behold yon skiff-—and hear the mother's sighs, The father's sorrow—lisping infant's cries : See, while the famish'd group for blessings call, The cruise and barrel yield repast for all. Confiding still, of Providence the care, Ye miserable hope, ye fortunate beware. Ye blood-stain'd Despots—scourges of the globe, Abash'd, before humanity disrobe ; Her pure Medallions, stamp'd in Virtue's mint, Survive the legends Glory shall imprint; Meeds incorruptible, to merit given, Plead the blest " well done" of approving Heaven. Borne on the vernal season's softer gales, Yon gallant ship unfurls her pinion'd sails ; * See an account of the loss of the ship Jupiter, Capt. Law, on passage from London to New York, 1805. § Part of the crew and passengers (in two boats) were met with relieved by fishermen from Marblehead. 24 Sooth'd by the stellar host, the sailor's soi?g Propitious airs invokes, the still night long ; Meekly, the paly moon her milder ray Sheds, and the breamy waves reflective play : Unfelt, the rapid current's devious force Withdraws the vessel from her midway course. Sudden chill mist envelopes all the skies ; Lone Isle of Sables' foggy vapours rise ; Instant the surge infuriate force assumes, And whelms the riches of a thousand looms. The pensive merchant, sunk in gloomy thought* Sees all his buried treasures vainly sought. High o'er the desert strand, the beacon'd pole Invites to amities, that cheer the soul. Such are the blest pursuits of virtuous fame, Reflecting lustre on her injur'd name ; For glory's votaries gorgeous wreaths be twin'd, For wiser Wentworth, " love of human kind." Speed my fond verse ; thy venturous theme untri'd, Live with the life boat, float along the tide, Massachusetts, April, 1806. 25 Marblehead, July 3, 1805. To SAMUEL PARKMAN, Esq. Sir, THE scattered situation of the people saved from the long boat of the ship Jupiter, on their arrival at this port, and the vessels which brought them having sailed before I received your request, rendered delay in compliance therewith unavoid- able—shall enclose a list of the skippers' and vessels' names as far as I have been able to collect them. The circumstances under which they were first received on board the fishermen, be- ing generally considered the most interesting, as they strikingly develope the character of this useful class of citizens, will be sketched as briefly as possible. Skipper William Powar of schooner Eleanor first discover- ed, and received on board, the entire crew of the long boat, consisting of thirty nine, men, women and children. The extreme debility of the women and children, and a part of the men ren- dered them incapable of getting on board without assistance, to effect which, he immediately slung himself with a rope, got over the quarter, and thus lifted them all on board. Just as he had finished, the schooner Plough Boy, Archibald S. Dennis, skipper, observing the boat, bore down, and as soon as informed of the circumstances offered to take half of them. While mak- ing this division, the schooner Minerva, John Powar (brother to William) skipper, hove in sight, and on signal bore down ; when informed of the fact, directed them to make an equal part for him. Those circumstances, which demonstrate so fully the ready benevolence of the skippers, I conceived ought not to be omitted ; a disposition (I am peculiarly happy to find) manifested, with but one exception, on all the numerous but necessary changes of situation from one vessel to another, and the utmost cheerfulness in imparting their provisions, in many cases highly necessary, particularly in respect to William Powar, who had a few days before taking up this boat's crew, D 26 given one eighth of his whole stock to a brig, which he met, bound from England to Halifax, in extreme distress. An act of Skipper John Powar deserves the most h onourable record j finding his stock of provisions inadequate to the full supply of his own crew, and those he had taken on board, he allow- anced his crew, while his famished passengers received a full supply, without communicating to them the circumstances. There is another, and the most numerous part, (the crew) who have heartily cooperated in the benevolence of the skippers ; but who cannot be noticed by any corporate body. Does not the cause of humanity require, as a future stimu- lus, an indemnification for those, whose circumstances are sen- sibly depressed by this exertion ? But this I mention with def- erence for your more correct decision. If I succeed in collect- ing the list, will forward it immediately ; in the interim am very respectfully, your obedient, humble servant, WILLIAM REED. > Boston, January 23, 1806. To the Members of the Honourable Humane Society. Gentlemen, WE, the subscribers, being fully sensible of the many use * ful improvements made by your humane institution for the preservation of the lives of our fellow creatures, and the pro- tection of our property, beg leave to solicit your attention to a part of our coast, where many of our friends have lost their lives, and many valuable ships are annually lost; viz. the coast above alluded to, is that from the Gurnet light house at the en- trance of Plymouth (northward) to Branch's Point in Marsh- field, the distance of six miles, where no inhabitant resides, and we are sorry to say, no provision made for our fellow creatures who are so unfortunate as to be shipwrecked on that coast;— •n we, the the subscribers, therefore beg the attention of your honourable Society to consider the necessity of building one or more houses ; in our opinion there should be at least two. At the same time, if it is agreeable to the Society, we, the subscribers, would be happy to join you in your humane institution, being, *s above said, fully sensible of its usefulness and necessity. Your obedient servants, WILLIAM KEMPTON, JACOB WESTON, JUDAH ALDEN, SAMUEL A FRAIZER. At a meeting of the Trustees, Feb. 3, 1806, Voted, That said communication be committed to Dr, Aaron Dexter Rev. Dr. Eliot and Mr. Elisha Sigourney, to consider the subject of said letter; and said committee are authorized, if they should find it expedient, to erect one or more huts pointed out in said letter with all convenient speed. JOHN AVERY, Secretary. Quincy, Jan. 29, 1806. To the Corresponding Secretary of the Humane Society at Boston. ON the 6th day of this month, my son, of ten years old, with other boys, was sliding on the mill pond, and he broke through the ice where the water was between seven and eight feet deep ; the other boys immediately gave the alarm, and the neighbours ran to the place and found him to be about two rods from the shore. He had then been down and come up the second time, and they immediately threw him a rail, which he got hold on ; but the ice between him and the shore was too 28 weak to bear, and too strong to be broken by a man when swimming, and they were obliged to break the ice from the shore to where he was with rails and stones. But before this could be done, the boy was so much overcome by his own ex- ertions and chilled by the cold, that his countenance changed, and he let the rail go and gradually sunk out of sight. When the ice was broken, two attempts were made to recover the body, but the danger of getting under the ice, and the difficulty of getting along among the cakes of ice, obliged those, who made the attempts, to return to the shore, when Mr. Benjamin Page took a pole that had a hook on the end of it in his hand, and went into the water, and with great difficulty p;ot near to the rail, and by feeling after the body with his pole, he had the good fortune to stick the hook into the boy's great coat, and with uncommon exertions dragged the body to the shore after it had been in the water at least eight minutes from the time he first broke in, and two from the time he sunk last. The boy was then taken up, and carried to the house of Mr. Micajah Adams (who gave all the assistance in his power) and had his clothes stripped off; he was put into warm blankets, yet no signs of life were then to be seen ; but by keeping his body warm, and continuing to rub his arms and legs with salt, in about ten minutes he was observed to gape and catch his breath, and gradually recovered, and in about twenty four hours he could stand alone, and is now nearly as well as ever he was. If the established rules of the Humane Society will allow Mr. Page any reward for the service, which he rendered to humanity on this occasion, it is my sincere wish that he should have it. I am, with respect, your humble servant, NOAH CURTIS. Dear Sir, The above account of the recovery of a fine boy, in my neighbourhood, by a Mr. Page of this town (with the excep- 29 tion of not having placed in so strong a point of view, the ex- ertions of Mr. Page, and the extreme hazard of losing his life) is, without doubt, strictly true. The parent of the child is a selectman of the town, and a very honest, respectable man. The person, who rescued the lad, is a very industrious young mechanic. Your most humble servant, J. BARRETT. WiscassEt, June 5, 1806. Dear Sir, THE following relation, I think deserving the notice of the Humane Society ; and doubt not that they will order some suit- able mark of commendation for the persons, who, in provi- dence, were instrumental, at the hazard of their own lives, in rescuing two of their fellow men from the jaws of death. On Monday, the 26th of May last, as Messrs. Joseph Boyntcn, James Handley, and Martin Coffin were passing down Sheepscut river from this town to Boothbay, in a light sail boat, in beating against a strong easterly breeze, they were unfortunately up- set, about 8 o'clock in the evening. They held by the boat, though more than a foot under water, until the tide had carried them down the river five or six miles, when their cries for as- sistance, at about midnight, alarmed Mr. Ebenezer Rowe, junr. who lives near the banks of the river in Georgetown. He im- mediately ran to the house of Mr. Shubael Seley, his nearest neighbour, and awoke him from sleep. They were convinced there were people in distress in the river, though unable to dis- cover them. Rowe had no boat, and Seley had only a small punt or skiff, of a size less than the common canoe, scarcely suf- ficient to transport three persons in smooth water. But this circumstance did not discourage them. They put off in this small boat, though in their own opinion at the time, and is the 30 judgment of others since, they were in the most imminent dan- ger. For there was considerable wind, and the waves unusual- ly high.* Directed by the groans and cries of the persons clinging to the boat, they shaped their course ; and at the dis* tance of three quarters of a mile from the shore came up with the unhappy sufferers. Twenty minutes after, probably, would have been too late for the safety of either of them. Handley, who was the least exhausted, with some difficulty they took in* to the skiff. The other two, Boynton and Coffin, they kept by the sides of their little boat; rowing or paddling with one hand, and supporting the persons in the water with the other. In this situation, they held up Boynton and Coffin until they reach- ed the shore of the outermost of the Five Islands, (so called) in Sheepscut river, which are uninhabited. The breakers were high and sufficiently powerful to destroy persons in full strength, without great caution and activity. It is considered very remarkable that the skiff was not immediately filled with water or dashed to pieces upon the rocks. Add to this, the banks of the river are of very difficult ascent ; almost perpen- dicular. Handley was in some measure able to help himself. He climbed up a few feet among the rocks and held by some bushes. Boynton and Coffin were taken up from the water as soon as possible ; but not without great difficulty, being entirely exhausted, and apparently dead. But by unwearied exertions, Boynton was restored, so that he was able to speak in about three hours. In Coffin, no symptoms of life were discovered. Soon after the boat upset, he lost all courage, and was prevent- ed from losing his hold, and sinking, by the alternate exertions of Boynton and Handley, until Rowe and Se- ley came to their relief. For some time before the boat came up, he had not spoken ; yet his companions suppose, that at that period he was alive. Every thing was done on their part to preserve him. But after getting to the island, upon examina- tion it was found he was gone beyond recovery. His body was brought up to this town, and decently interred on the Wednesr day following. * This was near the mouth of the river, where it is nearly three miles over. 31 Whether we consider the circumstances of their preserving their hold of the boat for so long a time, of their cries arousing a man from sleep at the distance of more than half a mile, or of their reaching the island in so small a boat, exposed to the violence of the waves, the events are of that kind, for which we cannot account, without having recourse to a particular Providence. The resolute and successful exertions of Rowe and Seley are certainly entitled to the highest praise ; and their conduct is recommended to the notice of the Humane Society, whose benevolent object it is to encourage and reward such attempts to preserve the life of man. With sentiments of personal consideration and attachment, I am yours, &x. ALDEN BRADFORD. Hon. William Spooner, Corresponding Secretary of the Humane Society, Boston. Premiums adjudged from June 1805, to June 1806. Daniel Lock for saving the life of Mr. Nuttage - - $4 Hendrick Harret for taking up a child in danger of drowning - - - - - - - 2 Joel Conant for saving a child of Mr. Thomas Lillie - 5 Cyrus Thomas for his exertions in saving the life of Stephen Spear.......3 Henry Dunnels for a similar exertion of humanity - 3 Dodrick Hendrick for his care of the body of a dead man, Sec. 3 Stephen Twist and John Sickles for their exertions in saving the life of John Langley ... 8 The Captains of Marblehead schooners who took up the people in the Jupiter's long boat, each a piece of plate 80 Leonard Brooks for his exertions in saving a boy - 2 To R. Farrar for saving the life of a man who fell over- board from the brig Pallas.....7 glT7— 32 Brought over 117 Benjamin Page for his signal exertions in saving the life of a son of Mr. Noah Curtis - - - - 10 J. Dunnels for taking up a negro ... 5 Moses Gardiner for assisting in getting one Christie out of the water -------2 William Coleman for saving the life of Edmund Soper 5 Samuel James for saving the life of a child that fell down a well above 30 feet to the water, and that was 12 feet under water - - - - - 10 Thomas Harriden and Robert Morrison, $10, each, and Thomas Annibal $5, for going off in a boat, and sav- ing the life of a person who was perishing upon a i*aft which had floated away from the South Bridge, in a dark evening of the month of May - - - 25 Briant and Lincoln for their exertions in saving five per- sons who were in a fishing-boat that was sinking - 16 Francis Robbins for preserving a child from drowning - 3 Charles O'Neal for saving Benjamin Brazier from drown- ing - - - - - ... 2 Rowe and Seley for their extraordinary services - 40 Boynton and Handley for their endeavours to save Mar- tin Coffin, $5 each......10 g245 Expenses of the Society. Semi-annual meeting §7 10 Mr. Sprague's account for printing Mr. Gray's sermon, &c." 55 Mr. Benjamin Russell's account for advertising meetings for a number of years 16 Account for binding in marble several of Mr. Gray's discourses l 80 Messenger 35 Building several huts on the islands in Boston harbour, agreeably to the following v@te 232 58 §347 48 33 At a Meeting of the Humane Society, December 2, 1805__• Voted, That Doctor Aaron Dexter, James Scott, Esq. and the Treasurer be a Committee to examine into the state of the Huts in the Harbour of Boston, and to furnish them with such articles as are necessary for the relief of ship-wrecked seamen ; and to erect a Hut on Lovell's Island, if they shall find it practica- ble this season ; and to make such repairs as they shall think ex- pedient. An extract from the records of said Society. JOHN AVERY, Secretary. FUNDS—THE PROPERTY OF THE HUMANE SO- CIETY. Certificates of United States ?«...„ 6 per cent, stock, £551442 \7- Deduct principal paid 426 111 $1016 6 $1016 6 Ditto 3 per cent. Ditto 8 per cent. Massachusetts State notes Union Bank stock West Boston bridge, 2 shares Maiden bridge fund 708 83 800 3068 64 1800 417 17 694 58 $8503 28 WE, the subscribers, appointed a Committee, by the Hu- mane Society of Massachusetts, at their meeting, June, 1805, to examine the accounts of Rev. John Eliot, Treasurer of said Society, find all the articles in his accounts vouched, the same right cast, and the evidence of the property above men- tioned. December 15, 1805. SAMUEL PARKMAN, JOHN HANCOCK. E 34 OFFICERS OF THE HUMANE SOCIETY. JOHN WARREN, M. D. President. Rev. John Lathrop, D. D. Vice President. Aaron Dexter, M. D. 2d Vice President. Rev. John Eliot, Dv D. Treasurer. William Spooner, M. D. Corresponding Secretary, ... i Recording Secretary. TRUSTEES. Nathaniel Balch, Esq. Jeremiah Allen, Esq. Samuel Parkman, Esq. James Scott, Esq. Edward Gray, Esq. William Phillips, Esq. MEMBERS DECEASED SINCE THE LAST PUBLI- CATION. John Avery, Esq. Mr. John Cushing, Nathaniel Fellows, Esq. Mr. Samuel Janes, Mrs. Hannah Rowe, Daniel Sargent, Esq. HONORARY MEMBERS. Rev. John Kemp, Edinburg. Hon. John Pickering, Esq. Portsmouth. MEMBERS ADDED SINCE THE LAST PUBLI- CATION. Rev. William Channing, Rev. Joseph Buckminster, Capt. Nathaniel Goodwin, Hon. D. A. Tyng, Esq. 35 Stephen Higginson, jun. Esq. Charles Cushing, Esq. Mr. Jacob Tidd, Mr. Samuel Coverly, Mr. Abraham Wild, Mr. David Hinckley, William Thurston, Esq. Mr. William Kempton, Mr. Jacob Weston, Mr. Judah Alden, Mr. Samuel A. Fraizer, John Pitts, Esq. Mr. James Thwing, Mr. James H. Foster, Mr. Samuel Sanger, Mr. Jonathan TJavis, Mr. Samuel M. Thayer, Mr. Samuel Jackson Prescott, Mr. Nathaniel Merriam, Mr. Samuel Salisbury, jun. Mr. Abraham Touro, Daniel Weston, Esq. Eastport. CATALOGUE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE HU. MANE SOCIETY. Names and Pla A His Excellency John Adams, late President of the United States, Judah Alden, Duxbury. Jeremiah Allen, Esq. Mr. William Allen, Mr. Thomas Amory, Mr. Thomas C. Amory, Mr. Jonathan Amory, jun. John Andrews, Esq. Mr. James Andrews, Mr. John Trecothick Apthorp, tees of Abode. Jonathan L. Austin, Esq. B Adam Babcock, Esq, Nathaniel Balch, Esq. Loammi Baldwin,Esq. Woburn. Luke Baldwin, Esq. Brookfield. Rev. Thomas Baldwin, D. D. Mr. John Ballard, Rev. Thomas Barnard, D.D. Salem. Mr. John Barrett, Quincy. Dr. Josiah Bartlett, Charlestown, 36 Mr. George Bartlett, do. Dr. Thomas Bartlett, Dr. Zacheus Bartlett, Plymouth. Mr. Shubael Bell, Mr. Asahel Bigelow, Mr. Edward Blake, Mr. George Blanchard, Samuel Blodget,Esq. Haverhill. Mr. William Boardman, jun. Mr. Kirk Boot, Hon. James Bowdoin, Esq. John Boyle, Esq. Ward Nicholas Boylston, Esq. Roxbury. Mr. Dudley A. Bradstreet, Major John Bray, Samuel Breck, Esq. Philadel- phia. 3 : 33 Mr. William Breed, Mr. Thomas Brewer, Mr. John Brewer, No. 4, Pas- samaquoddy. Mr. Oliver Brewster, Hon. E. Bridge, Esq. Chelms- ford. Mr. Andrew Brimmer, Henry Bromfield, Esq. Har- vard. Mr. William Brown, Rev. Joseph Buckminster, Mrs. Caroline Bullard, Med- field. Mr. Jeremiah Bumstead, jun. Mr. Josiah Bumstead, Rev. Jonathan Burr, Sandwich. Benjamin Bussey, Esq. Peter C. Brooks, Esq. C Honorable George Cabot, Esq. "Mr. William Cabot, Concord. Mr. Joseph Callender, jun. Mr. Benjamin Callender, Samuel Carey, Esq. Chelsea. Mr. Edward Cazneau, Mr. Gardner L. Chandler, Rev. William Chaiining, Benjamin Clark, Esq. Mr. William Cleland, Mr. Joseph Coolidge, Samuel Cooper, Esq. Mr. Samuel Coverly, Mr. Allen Crocker, Capt. Nathaniel Curtis, Mr. Thomas Curtis, Hon. William Cushing, Esq. Scituate. Hon. Nathan Cushing, Esq. Scituate. Rev. John Cushing, Ashburn- ham. Charles Cushing, Esq. Benjamin Clark Cutler, Esq. Roxbury. Samuel Clap, Esq. D Hon. Francis Dana, Esq. Cam- bridge. . 3 : 33 Hon. Samuel Dana, Esq. Gro- ton. Mr. John Dabney, Salem. Mr. William Dall, Peter Roe Dalton, Esq. Dr. Thomas Danforth, Mr. Isaac Davenport, Amasa Davis, Esq. Hon. John Davis, Esq. Mr. Samuel Davis, Plymouth. Mr. William Davis, Plymouth. Joshua Davis, Esq. Mr. Jonathan Davis, Hon. Thomas Dawes, Esq. Hon. Thomas Dawes, jun. Esq. Thomas Dennie, Esq. Hon. Elias H. Derby, Esq. Sa- lem. Richard Devens, Esq. Charles- town. Hon. Samuel Dexter, Esq. Mendon. 2 : 25 Aaron Dexter, M. D. 37 Mr. Thomas Dickason, London. Rev. Timothy Dickenson, Hol- liston. Mr. Ebenezer Dorr, Samuel Dunn, Esq. John Derby, Esq. E Rev. Joseph Eckley, D. D. Samuel Eliot, Esq. Rev. John Eliot, Justin Ely, Esq. West-Spring- field. Rev. William Emerson, F Mr. Richard Faxon, John Fleet, M. D. Mr. Thomas Fleet, Hon. Dwight Foster, Esq Brookfield. Mr. James H. Foster, Hon. Samuel Fowler, Esq. Westfield. Mr. Samuel A. Fraizer, Dux- bury. Rev. James Freeman, Dr. Nathaniel Freeman, Sand- wich. Mr. Caleb Gannett, Cambridge. Rev. John Sylvester John Gar- diner, Hon. Elbridge Gerry, Esq. Cambridge. Mr. Benjamin Goddard, Nathan Goodale, Esq. Nathaniel Goodwin, Esq. Ply- mouth. Capt. Nathaniel Goodwin, Capt. Ozias Goodwin, Mr. Samuel Gore, Stephen Gorham, Esq. Mr. Moses Grant, Mr. Benjamin Gray, Edward Gray, Esq. Francis Greene, Esq. Medford. Mr. Gardner Greene, Joseph Greenleaf, Esq. Daniel Greenleaf, Quincy. David S. Greenough, Esq. Roxbury. Rev. William Greenough, Newton. Richard Green, H Mr. Nathaniel Hall, Chelsea. Joseph Hall, Esq. William Hammett, Esq. Ebenezer Hancock, Esq. Mr. Thomas Hancock, Mr. John Hancock, Mr. Moses Bullen Harden, Medfield. Rev. Thaddeus M. Harris, Dorchester. Mr. James Harrison, Charles- town. Doct. Lemuel Hayward, Doct. Nathan Hayward, Ply- mouth. Mr. Barnabas Hedge, Plymouth. Hon. Samuel Henshaw, Esq. Northampton. Hon. Stephen Higginson, Esq. Stephen Higginson, jun. Esq. Henry Hill, Esq. Mr. David Hinckley, Hon. Benjamin Hitchborn, Esq. Hon. Samuel Holden, Esq. Danvers. Maj. Samuel Howard, Augusta. Dr. John Clark Howard, Mr. Joseph Howe, Jonathan Hunnewell, Esq. Hon. E. Hunt, Esq. Northamp- ton. Mr. Samuel Hunt, Mr. Henry Hunter, Mr. Joseph Hurd, Charlestown. Dr. Isaac Hurd, Concord. Mr. Zacheus Hussey, Nantuck- et. J Hon. Jonathan Jackson, Esq. Henry Jackson, Esq. Mr. John JaGkson, Charlestown. Edward Jackson, Esq. Patrick Jeffrey, Esq. 10. Milton. Mr. John Jenks, Salem. Mr. Joseph W. Jenkins, Hon. John Coffin Jones, Esq. Mr. Thomas K. Jones, Dr. John Joy, Mr. Benjamin Joy, Mr. William Jackson, K Rev. John T. Kirkland, D. D. Mr. Josiah Knapp, Mrs. Susanna Kneeland, Mr. Jacob Kuhn, Mr. John Kuhn, Mr. William Kempton, Rev. James Kendall, Plymouth. Mr. John King, Abington. L Mr. William Lambert,Roxbury. Rev. John Lathrop, D. D. Mr. Samuel C. Lathrop, Mr. Caleb Leach, Plymouth. Mr. Ebenezer Lewis, Hon. Benjamin Lincoln, Hing- \ ham. James Lloyd, M. D. James Lloyd, jun. Esq. Mr. Caleb Loring, Isaac Lathrop, Esq. Plymouth. Mr. Joseph Lovering, John Lucas, Esq. Brookline. M Capt. Mungo Mackay, Rev. Joseph M'Kean, Mr. Edward M'Lane, Mr. John M'Lean, Mr. John Marston, Hon Jonathan Mason, Esq. Hon. Ebenezer Mattoon, Am- herst. Col. John May, Col. Joseph May, Rev. John Mellen, Cambridge. Mr. Nathaniel Merriam, Capt. Daniel Messenger, Mr. James Morril, Rev. Jedidiah Morse, D. D Charlestown. Rev. John Murray, Thomas Melville, Esq. N Mr. John Nicholson, Medfield. O Dr. Cushing Otis, Scituate. Mr. John Osborne, P Hon. Robert T. Paine, Esq. Mr. William Paine, Hon. Nathaniel Paine, Esq. Worcester. Mr. John Parker, Samuel Parkman, Esq. Eliphalet Pearson, L. L. D. Cambridge. Mr. John Peck, Newton. Mr. Ebenezer Pemberton, Bil* lerica. Hon. Thomas H. Perkins, Esq. Thomas Perkins, Esq. Charles Phelps, Esq. Hadley. William Phillips, Esq. Hon. John Phillips, Esq. An* dover. Mr. Joshua Pico, Mr. Isaac Pierce, Mr. Joseph Pierce, 39 lohn Pitta, Esq. I Rev. John Pipon, Taunton. Mr. Joseph Pope, Mr. William Pratt, Mr. Ebenezer Preble, Rev. Thomas Prentis, Medfield. Mr. Samuel, J. Prescott, James Prince, Esq. Edward Proctor, Esq. R Col. Paul Revere, Chandler Robbins, Esq. Hal- lowell. Mr. John M. Russell, Major Benjamin Russell, S His Excellency Caleb Strong, Esq. Mr. Francis Sales, Mr. Samuel Sanger, Mr. Samuel Salisbury, Mr. Samuel Salisbury, jun. Daniel Sargeant, Esq. William Scollay, Esq. James Scott, Esq. Doct. Charles L. Segars, Nor- thampton. Hon. William Seaver, Esq. Kingston. Hon. David Sewall, Esq. York. Hon. Samuel Sewall, Esq. Mar- blehead. Doct. William Sheldon, Spring- field. Hon. William Sheppard, Esq. Westfield. William Sherburne, Esq. Mr. Elisha Sigourney, William Smith, Esq. Abiel Smith, Esq. Dr. Nathanael Smith, Mr. Barney Smith, Mr. Samuel Snelling, William Spooner, M. D. Mrs. Esther Sprague, Dedham. Mr. Zebina Stebbins, Sfiring* field. Hon. William Stedman, Esq. Lancaster. Rev. Samuel Stillman, D.D, Ebenezer Storer, Esq. 2 Mr. Bradstreet Story, John Stoughton, Esq. Spanish Consul. Mr. Russell Sturgis, Hon. James Sullivan, Esq. William Sullivan, Esq. Mr. John L. Sullivan, Mr. George Sutherland, T Rev. Thomas Thacher, Ded- ham. Doct. James Thacher, Ply- mouth. Doct. Thomas Thaxter, Hivg- ham. Mr. Obadiah Thayer, Dr. Stephen Thayer, Mr. Samuel M. Thayer, Hon. Joshua Thomas, Esq. Ply- mouth. Dr. Joshua Thomas, William Thurston, Esq. Mr. James Thwing, Mr. Jacob Tidd, Mr. John Tileston, Mr. Abraham Touro, Mr. Isaac Townsend, John Tucker, Esq. Mr. Edward Tuckerman, Mr. Edward Tuckerman, jun. Rev. Joseph Tuckerman, Chel- sea. Hon. William Tudor, Esq. Hon. Dudley A. Tyng, Esq. W Rev. B. Wads worth, Danvers. Ebenr. Wales, Esq. Dorchester. 40 Thomas Walley, Esq. 3 Mr. William Walter, Col. Joseph Ward, Newton. Hon. A. Ward, Esq. Charles- town. John Warren, M. D. Henry Warren, Esq. Plymouth. John C. Warren, M. D. Mr. John Waters, Hon. Oliver Wendell, Esq. Rev. Samuel West, D. D. Mr. David West, Mr. Jacob Weston, Daniel Weston, Esq. Eastport. Mr. James White, Nathaniel Adams, Esq. Ports- mouth. Dr. Oliver Baron, Calcutta. Rev. Andrew Brown, D. D. Edinburg. Thomas Bulkley, Esq. Lisbon. Ammi Ruhamah Cutter, M. D. Portsmouth. Capt. John Calef, St. Christo- phers (West Indies.) Hon. Oliver Ellsworth, late Chief Justice of the United States. Anthony Fothergill, M. D. Bath. Edward Goodwin, M. D. Bath. William Hawes, M. D. London. Hon. Jedidiah Huntington, New London. John C. Lettsom,M. D. London. Kilborn Whitman, Esq. Pem- broke. Mr. Ezra Whitney, Mr. Samuel Whitwell, Mr. William Whitwell, Mr. William Williams, E. Williams, Esq. Wcst-Stock- bridge. Thomas Williams, jun. Esq. Roxbury. Dr. Charles W. Windship, Roxbury. Dr. Isaac Win slow, Marshfield. Thomas L. Winthrop, Esq. Capt. John Foster Williams. His Excellency John Lang- don, Esq. Portsmouth. Hon. Thomas Fraser, .Esq. London. Dr. John Osborne, Middletown, (Connecticut.) Hon. Timothy Pickering, Esq. Salem. Dr. Benjamin Rush, Philadel- phia. William Russell, Esq. Middle- town, (Connecticut.) Right Hon. Earl of Stamford, London. Hon. James Sheaffe, Esq. Portsmouth. Hon. Samuel Tenny, Esq. Ex- eter. Rev. Timothy Alden, Ports- mouth. HONORARY MEMBERS. FINIS. f 4 Mad. Hist WZ H3/4d 1304 <■■) -'"• " •:ts'ili>'^i' ***£-w