It was true, that this equestrian statue would not express any of the great events of Washington's civil life, but, of these, we have already many honorable testimonials; the first in order, and which he hoped would be the last in durability, was the Constitution of the United States; to this instrument his name was annexed, and would be noticed with gratitude by the lovers of freedom in every age and every clime; this city is another memento of his civil life, and, if it should be the residence of all that piety, wisdom, and magnanimity, which was so devoutly prayed for by each branch of the Legislature, at the commencement of the present session, this city would remain an honorable testimonial of the civil virtues of its great founder.
There was no doubt, said Mr. C., but that many gentlemen were also solicitous that the body of General Washington should be deposited within the walls of the Capitol; of this number Mr. C. was one, and was desirous that a plain but neat apartment should be speedily prepared for its reception. But over his remains, instead of an expensive monument, Mr. C. thought it most advisable to place a plain but neat tomb-stone, of American marble, and prepared by an American artist. And in order to convey to posterity, in impressive language, the feelings of the American nation, when the loss of our patriot, sage, and hero, was first announced, Mr. C. wished to see engraved upon this tomb the addresses of each House of Congress upon this occasion to the President of the United States, together with the President's replies thereto.
Mr. C. concluded by moving the instructions stated in the commencement of his speech.
Mr. Claiborne was followed by Messrs. Craik and Nott.
The instruction to the committee, moved by Mr. Claiborne, with a slight modification, was agreed to.
Monday, December 15.
Another member, to wit, Thomas Pinckney, from South Carolina, appeared, and took his seat in the House.
Thursday, December 18.
Another member, to wit, James Sheafe, from New Hampshire, appeared, and took his seat in the House.