Massachusetts spy and Worcester advertiser. [volume] ([Worcester, Mass.]) 1823-1825, 1824-12-08
Nov. 80, 1924.
Presentation of a Standard.

An elegant Standard of colours was
presented to the Independent Light
Infantry, on Tuesday, August 3lst, BY
the Ladies of Spencer.
The Company, under the command
of Capt. Willard Rice, though but re-
Gently raised, evinced by their appear
ance the fine martial spirit which they
possess.
The appearance of the Ladies', who
took part in the ceremony, clad in a
neat and uniform dress, was extremely
fine-there were ITO in number, and
they were conducted 10 the Meeting
House by Mr.. w. Livermore and Lieut..
Horace Rice, who had been designated
as Marshals for that purpose. The
Address by Miss Abigail Whittemore at
the time of presenting the Standard was
delivered in graceful and digrified
manner, and the Reply of Ensign Wal
ter w. White fully displayed his cor
rect taste and Judgment.
ADDRESS.
SIR
While perusing the page Of history, and
tracing the rise and fall OF States and Empires
I'VE find that the many revolutions which
have so often varied the face Of the world.
render it necessary that those who bear arms
in defence Of our country, should hold them.
selves in readiness to meet the invading foe.
Notwithstanding our country now enjoys the
blessings of peace, and is in prosperous and
happy condition, yet, we must expect to share
an allotted portion of the calamities and mis-
cries of other nations. 1t is, therefore, incum-
bent upon US in time of peace to prepare
for war
We are led TO consider, that the preserve
ton Of our country is depending upon wise
and judicious rulers of our government, and
the strength and gallantry of our militia.
Therefore, upon you, on you, our sex look for
protection, and as testimony of our conf
dence in your courage and patriotism, in be-
half of the ladies here assembled, | present
you this Standard, with full assurance that
| should il be raised before an enemy, it will
not be lowered but as a shroud for its defen-
ders. And when called upon to defend our
cities and towns, our affairs and dwellings,
| you will discharge your duty with honor TO
| yourselves and your country. Should the
prosperous appearance OF our country hereaf-
| Ter darken, and the voice of liberty call for as
| sistance to maintain her rights, may your I'M
dauuted courage prompt you TO be always
found very efficient and powerful branch in
the great body Of our militia. And should the
exigencies OF our country ever call you TO the
field Of battle, our best wishes will then at
tend you, and we will raise our prayers TO
! Him, who is able to give the conquest to whom
he peases, to protect you and give you VIC
tory.
REPLY.
| In consideration of the respect the Ladies of
this town have shown for the welfare OF the
Spencer Light Infantry, do in behalf of its
members, acknowledge the receipt OF this ele-
giant standard as token Of the high esteem
and respect they have manifested TO US, by
| presenting this emblem of the Independence
and Liberty of our country. Sensible Of the
duties incumbent on the true and patriotic
soldier, with sentiments of feeling we render
you our sincere and heartfelt emotions of graf
tude for the noble and generous spirit you
have at this time evinced. We who are de-
signated to march under its waving do pledge
ourselves, that in case Of invasion, though
now securely sheltered from the intrudins foe
not a moments hesitation shall debar US from
leaving what we now enjoy at home for the
preservation Of our country. But considering
The solicitations of the fair daughters Of Col
umbis, and beholding the inscriptions on this
banner, we shall need no other excitement to
urge US on TO battle, and there VIGOROUSLY
fight the good fight Of a hero, or die the honor
able death of a faithful soldier in the defence
Of bis country.