nt religious denominations, respectfully
represent--

"That by existing arrangements for the sailing of the Cunard
line of steamers between Boston and Liverpool, it becomes
necessary for them to leave this port on the Sabbath, whenever
that happens to be the regular day appointed for sailing; and
that this occurs a number of times in the course of a year. That
the sailing of a steamer on that day is a source of deep regret
to many good citizens, who are compelled, whenever the event
happens, either to defer their departure to a future day, or to
yield to an arrangement which violates their Christian feelings.
And what is still more to be lamented, as a consequence growing
out of the present regulation, is that aside from the tumult
necessarily attendant on the sailing of these vessels on the
Lord's day, it furnishes an occasion for the needless
profanation of the day by thousands who assemble as spectators
on our wharves to witness their departure.

"The undersigned regard a proper observance of the Sabbath as
vital to the general peace, good order, and welfare of society;
and they are deeply impressed with the belief that nothing of a
secular or worldly nature should be done on that day by
individuals, by governments, or by any of their departments,
Which is not in the strictest sense a work of necessity or
mercy; and they most respectfully represent, that they are
unable to perceive any reasons which render the sailing of
steamers from this port on the Lord's day such a work. And
believing as they do, that it will be the pleasure of your
lordships at all times to cherish and promote, so far as you may
be able, a due observance of the Sabbath, they respectfully and
earnestly request your lordships so to vary the present
arrangements as to the times for the sailing of these steamers,
that their departure from this port shall be changed to another
day, whenever the appointed day for sailing shall fall upon the
Christian Sabbath. And they venture to express their confident
belief that not only the public welfare, but also the private
advantage of individuals concerned in the enterprize, would be
ultimately promoted by the arrangements here prayed for.

"The undersigned cannot conclude their memorial without
adverting to the high and responsible station that has been