"The sons of the mountains join most cordially their low land brethren in welcoming your return to this country, they are the more delighted at this particular period, because after an absence of about forty years, you will now be a witness of the happy effects of self government, founded on the natural rights of man--rights, which you so nobly contributed to establish. Little did you think when in youthful age, you voluntarily put your life in your hand, and crossed the stormy billows of the deep, to fight and bleed for the independence of America that the results would have been so wonderful. At that period we were only a handful of people, for in everything of military import, except an invincible love and attachment for liberty--we fought, and thanks to Lafayette and his native nation, we conquered!--Now we see the result--we have nearly by the offspring of our own loins increased to more than 10,000,000 of people cleared the immeasurable forests of savages, and wild beasts, and in their places are cultivating rich fields, building villages, towns, and cities; our commerce is spread over every sea, and our navy rides triumphant on the ocean. Such are the effects of free government, founded on equal rights, supported by wise and merciful laws faithfully executed!--There is but one alloy to our pleasure of meeting you--we dread your return to Europe. The despots of that country envy your increasing glory, founded on virtue, which they cannot imitate; and their political fears may again incarcerate you in the grated walls of a dungeon! Stay then with us, Lafayette--stay with us--here in every house you will find a home and in every heart a friend--we will with filial affection rock with gentleness the cradle of your declining age; and when it shall please the God of universal nature to call you to himself, crowned with the blessings of at least one free and mighty nation, we will then with holy devotion bury your bones by the side of your adopted and immortal father, and moisten your tomb with the tears of love and gratitude." The costume and whole appearance of Col. Lewis were striking and interesting; he had on the mountain dress. On the conclusion of the address, the General grasped him with both hands, and in the most touching manner, begged him to convey to his mountain friends his, most affectionate acknowledgments for this testimony of their kindness. He recounted the services which their gallantry had formerly rendered him. He dwelt with delight upon the interest they now manifested in his happiness.