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4 [103] to a convenient distance from the allurements of a great city; and adapted to the actual condition of the people for whom it is intended. lu this quarter, the inhabitants are principally ol two descriptions, who speak the French and the English as their vernacular dialects. A course of education to form but one character, should be predicated on this circumstance: to conciliate mutual prejudices, and soothe mutual pride, the two languages ought to be taught in common to the rising generation; and the public seminaries of the country should afford in each the requisite means of instruction. In this manner, before many years shall have elapsed, the young pupils will grow up with the same dialects, and an identity of character. They will appear on the theatre of life, as members of the same community; they will press forward in one path, as statesmen, citizens, warriors; they will pant with the same hopes, and be actuated by the same feelings. Identified, as they would be, in manners, habits, and language, all jealousies will subside, and their prejudices become lost in the paramount character of Ameriean citizens. Such are the views, and such the motives, which have induced a number of respectable citizens to combine their efforts in establishing a College at the Bay of Saint Louis, in the state of Mississippi. The position is on the Florida shore of the Gulf of Mexico; is salu-brious, and pleasant; and is about six hours sail from the city of New Orleans, and twelve from Mobile. It is a common retreat, in sum-mer, from the diseases of the cities; and unites all advantages for the purposes of education. But the institution, emanating from these motives, and affording, with proper endowments, the highest pledges of future utility, must languish, and perhaps fail, if such endowments are withheld. The state of Mississippi does not possess the adequate funds; and, although disposed, in the most favorable manner; cannot render to it the requisite encouragement. The public lands situated in the state, are a part of the national domain; and to the representatives of the nation, does this institution now appeal for health and vigor. The object in view is high, and holy, and honorable. To impart the lights of science; to establish a character for morals; to form, in a rising and extensive country, the human mind, and develop its powers in honorable pursuits; are of more importance to society* than all the pomp of victory, or the enthusiasm of triumph. To objects so essential in their character and consequences, the patronage of an enlightened Congress is solicited; and thev are entreated, by every consideration which combines or embellishes society, to aid in the great and arduous woik Should the prayer of your memorialists be granted, they feel a confidence, that a new impulse will be given to the character of this part of the nation; regenerating in its influences, and lasting in its effects. Under the auspices of a well endowed institution, devoted to the great purposes of science and morality; a pubiic opinion would be
Hancock College Memorial 1819 (3)