The Life of Harman Blennerhassett; Comprising an Authentic Narrative of the Burr Expedition and Containing Many Additional Facts Not Heretofore Published (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1853. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XV. Remarks on the life of Blennerhassett--Mrs. Blennerhassett's destitute situation--Resolves to visit the United States to procure indemnity for spoliations--The reasonableness of such a demand--Visits New York--Presents her petition to Congress--Petition--Robert Emmett's aid--Letter to Mr. Clay--Mr. Clay presents the petition--Report of the Hon. William Woodbridge--Death of Mrs. Blennerhassett---Is buried by Irish females. Thus has it been attempted to portray the life and character of Blennerhassett. From youth to age, and finally to the grave, we have followed his footsteps, with an interest excited more through our sympathy than our admiration of the man. In his life, there is really nothing remarkable. His scientific acquirements never gave to mankind one single truth, nor devised a plan by which to ameliorate the condition of his race. His is not that fame which bedecks with laurels the brow of the hero; or springs from those actions that the world regards as great and glorious. Of these, indeed, he was never emulous. His native country afforded him the finest fields for military notoriety, and, as for political pre ferment, the times in which he lived were propitious to the aspirant. The names of many of his compeers will descend to posterity in living colours, as long as down-trodden Ireland shall retain a place on the page of history. That celebrity which attended his name was not of his seeking. His was the peculiar temperament, fitted better for the enjoyments of private life, than the battle-field or the political arena. For this, he resigned magnificence and ease, for obscurity in a western wilderness; and it was here he enjoyed, for a time, that uninterrupted repose which had so long attracted his fancy. There, too, he would have d...