robably not have
lasted six months; certainly the invasion of Canada would not have been
attempted.

The reverses which met the American army in the first year of the war,
slackened even the enlistment that was going on and imperiled the safety
of the country, and the defences of the most important seaports and
manufacturing states. Battle after battle had been lost, the invasion of
Canada abandoned, and the British had turned their attention southward.
The war in Europe had been brought to a close, and Napoleon was a
captive. England was now at liberty to reinforce her fleet and army in
America, and fears were entertained that other European powers might
assist her in invading the United States. The negro soldier again loomed
up, and as the British were preparing to attack New Orleans with a
superior force to that of Gen. Jackson's, he sought to avail himself of
every possible help within his reach. Accordingly he issued the
following proclamation:

GENERAL JACKSON'S PROCLAMATION TO THE NEGROES.

HEADQUARTERS, SEVENTH MILITARY DISTRICT,
MOBILE, September 21, 1814.

_To the Free Colored Inhabitants of Louisiana_:

Through a mistaken policy, you have heretofore been deprived
of a participation in the glorious struggle for national
rights in which our country is engaged. This no longer shall
exist.

As sons of freedom, you are now called upon to defend our
most inestimable blessing. As Americans, your country looks
with confidence to her adopted children for a valorous
support, as a faithful return for the advantages enjoyed
under her mild and equitable government. As fathers,
husbands, and brothers, you are summoned to rally around the
standard of the Eagle, to defend all which is dear in
existence.

Your country, although calling for your exertions, does not
wish you to engage in her cause without amply remunerating
you for the services rendered. Your intelligent minds are
not to be led away by false representations. Your love of
honor would cause you to despise the man who should attempt
to deceive you. In the sincerity of a soldier and the
language of truth I address you.

To every noble-hearted, generous freeman of color
volunteering to serve during the present contest with Great
Britain, and no longer, there will be paid the same bounty,
in mon