The daily union. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1845-1857, 1853-11-30

About one year and hall after the declaration OF
American Independence, Captain Cook made known
these islands TO the commercial world. Humboldt claims
that they were discovered in 1912, by Spanard but
whether this be true not Captain Cook enjoys the
kind The mountain peaks OF these volcanic for
nations have since been often hailed by many longing
eye, and their fortunes have taken humble place in
The affairs OF the world American missionaries began
their labors among them in 1920, ard since that time
their progress IN civilization and pety has been
ampled. A few months since, the supervision OF our
missionary board was discontinued and the Islands.
elevated 10 the enjoyment of small degree OF nle-
gence and refnemen resigned TO their e!igi
Gus management The general supposon now is, that
these islands, redeemed from the worst horrors of barba
ism, will seek admission into our Union Public opinion
avors their plea. Connected with us by many inter-
esting ties participating IN our cyizalon institutions,
and commerce; and related to us in position BY lBeir
para,iye proximity TO California the heart of the
try will not fail to welcome them whenever they wish
to be incorporated into our national system. Past expe-
rences will certainly facilitate this union The memory
of France and French brandy yet fresh enough for in
spra,ion and their advantages from American sympathy.
trade. and example. will stimulate their tendencies TO-
wards our coniederacy
No man can doubt that these islanders have the bone
and sinew of men in them They capable OF vas,
improvement. They have shown prompt and hearty
interest in the arts and sciences Of rational life No
more have been brought bear them than are
common in mission Efforts and yet they have progressed
in oil social dignity thai stands without paral
lei in The records OF Thirty years after Christi
aniy had penetrated the heart OF the Roman empire how
little had been done towards aresDg the corrupons OF
the metropolis Thirty years alter the Franks and Brit
had heard OF the doctrines OF the RedeeBer, how
fierce their temper and violent their life! Though
much time has been consumed on China, India. and
other scenes OF sacrificing moral industry, yet only
faint light quves their dakened and depraved mil
hons. But in these Pacific islands, faith may challenge
sense, and wonders preserve the glory Of mira
cles
And now, one thing remains TO consummate the iri.
umph OF tAis marvellous history. They have native
strength they have art commerce. shipping they have
homes schools churches And bringing these with their
miniature coral continents, they will soon ask tor an
adoption into our household. Sunk lately in the
depths Of barbaTIsm-a prey TO themselves and
TO each o,her-bey stand al side in the vindi-
Gated claims oil common humanity, and covet raterna
communion with States. Here theme for Thanks
giving Day Here eIoqucnce for pen and pulpit Here
achievement for republican philosophy and republi
can Christianity worthy OF lofty celebration And when
large part OF the nation mee,s-as II did but few
days sncs-in il, consecraed temples, TO return It's
acknowledgements for fruitful harves,s and peaceful homes
what submer spectacle could be presented than millions
of upiited hands, and millions of earnest voices Il
honor this latest and nobes triumph Of truth and virtue