men who had never before heard their own
voices in a public meeting, discussed nice points of law and
constitution in a manner that would have done credit to any
legislative assembly. A deep religious tone of loyalty to God and
Freedom pervaded the entire meeting. It was an occasion not soon to be
forgotten. Women of all ages were assembled there, from the matron of
threescore years and ten to the fair girl whose interest in the war
had brought to her a premature sadness and high resolve. But of all
who mourned the loss of husbands, brothers, sons, and lovers, no word
of fear, regret, or doubt was uttered. All declared themselves ready
for any sacrifice, and expressed an unwavering faith in the glorious
future of a true republic. The interest in the meeting kept up until
so late an hour that it was decided to adjourn, to meet the next
afternoon.

EVENING SESSION.

The evening session was held in Cooper Institute, Mrs. Stanton
presiding. An address to the President was read by Miss Anthony, which
was subsequently adopted and sent to him.

_The Loyal Women of the Country to Abraham Lincoln, President of
the United States._

Having heard many complaints of the want of enthusiasm among
Northern women in the war, we deemed it fitting to call a
National Convention. From every free State, we have received the
most hearty responses of interest in each onward step of the
Government as it approaches the idea of a true republic. From the
letters received, and the numbers assembled here to-day, we can
with confidence address you in the name of the loyal women of the
North.

We come not to criticise or complain. Not for ourselves or our
friends do we ask redress of specific grievances, or posts of
honor or emolument. We speak from no considerations of mere
material gain; but, inspired by true patriotism, in this dark
hour of our nation's destiny, we come to pledge the loyal women
of the Republic to freedom and our country. We come to strengthen
you with earnest words of sympathy and encouragement. We come to
thank you for your proclamation, in which the nineteenth century
seems to echo back the Declaration of Seventy-six. Our fathers
had a vision of the sublime idea of liberty, equality, and
fraternity; but they failed to climb the heights that with
anointed eyes they saw. To us, their children, belongs the work