It is very much to be deplored that the subject of slavery in our country has become such a paramount interest in politics, as nearly to drive away from consideration other topics of general political interest, which the welfare of the country demands to be up for discussion. We ought now to take measures to remedy the present financial crisis and business embarrassment, and adopt measures to guard in the future against similar disasters.
The duty of sustaining our government in the present contest, has taken the strongest hold upon the public mind in all the loyal States. The progress of the rebellion and the advance in preparations to put it down, serves to increase rather than diminish the sentiment, that, at all sacrifices, we must strangle and tread under foot this slimy, deadly-fanged serpent, hatched in the atmosphere of Southern skies.
As we go to press the exercises attending the dedication of the Soldiers’ Memorial at Cottage City are in full progress. The fine weather, accompanied by a cool breeze from the northward, together with the noble aim of the events of the day, has brought together the largest body of people Cottage City has seen for years.
At 1 o’clock the several posts assembled at Grand Army Hall, Lake avenue. The line formed for parade on Siloam and Kedron avenues, right resting on Lake avenue, in the following order:
While the dedication of the Confederate Memorial tablet was planned as a part of the Oak Bluffs Celebration, it seemed that the fates must have willed that a day be set apart for the ceremony alone, as the heavy electrical storm on Friday prevented the carrying out of any other part of the day’s program, other than the Fireman’s Parade which took place just before dark.
Owing to the sudden death of Judge Hillman, Herbert N. Hinckley was chosen as master of ceremonies, and read the speech which the Judge had prepared for the occasion.
Despite the protest of Grand Army Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Wilfred A. Wetherbee against the placing of a Confederate veteran’s name on the Soldiers’ Monument at Oak Bluffs, representatives of the surviving member of the Henry Clay Wade Post, and the Woman’s Relief Corps, declare that the plan shall be carried out, and regard the commander’s objection as ridiculous and shameful.
President Johnson recently remarks: - “Mercy has been slain. Let us now take care that Justice is not slain also.”
Another mercantile firm of New York, has added its proffer of $10,000 toward the half million fund proposed to be offered for the capture of Jeff Davis, which makes $30,000 already proffered.
It is proposed to raze Ford’s Theatre, and to raise on its site a monument to President Lincoln.
Last Saturday at Edgartown marked the beginning of a new paragraph in a chapter of Vineyard history which was begun 30 years ago. At the close of the public exercises, patriotic orders including the G. A. R., W. R. C. and the American Legion met in the town hall for refreshments and friendly discussion.
