It was said that the great fire of 1776 was the work of the patriots, who had resolved to burn New York, and drive the invaders from their safe resting-place. The question of its origin has never been decided. It may have been altogether accidental, or possibly the work of design. But it was followed by a singular succession of other fires, during the period of the British ascendency, that seem to show some settled plan to annoy and discourage the invaders. The newspapers of the time are filled with accounts of the misfortunes of the garrison and the royalists.
TO MY VALENTINE.
BY M. M.
In love and hope
These blossoms fair
I lay at your dear feet!
Deep-folded
In the rose's heart
You'll find my secret, sweet!
