Having accomplished all in his power to establish the Independence of our country La Fayette prepared to return to the bosom of his anxious family in France. He had served more than six years and expended _one hundred and forty-seven thousand dollars_ in the glorious cause he had nobly, ardently, successfully espoused. He asked no pecuniary emolument at the commencement of his services--he demanded no pay--presented no account at their termination. He had a richer reward, more precious than gold--more valuable than rubies--_the gratitude of the American nation_ deeply felt and strongly expressed. He had the invaluable satisfaction of having contributed largely towards preparing a nursery for freemen--an asylum for the oppressed. His conduct stood approved at the dread tribunal of conscience. "The man who stands acquitted at that fearful bar Holds the first round prize the world has to give. 'Tis like Heaven's sunshine--PRICELESS." At his departure he received the highest tokens of respect from Congress, the officers of the army and our nation at large. The richest blessings of a kind Providence were invoked for him. He was received with great enthusiasm on his arrival at home. He was hailed as a prominent hero of the new world--the tried friend of Liberty--the unyielding advocate of universal Freedom--the spotless patriot--the brave and skilful officer--the hope of the down-trodden and oppressed in the old world. The success of the United States in shaking off the yoke of bondage had its influence on the nations of Europe as a natural consequence. That the people of France felt it _most_ is not surprising. The French army had drank freely at the fountain of Liberty that had gushed out in the United States. The holy flame of freedom was burning in their bosoms and was soon communicated to their brethren at home. The insulating fire of patriotism ran through the mass and the too resolved to be free. Unfortunately for the cause of human rights they seized upon the abstract principles of Liberty without learning the art of self-government. They plucked the fruit before it was ripe--it disorganized their system producing a raging fever and wild delirium. So rapidly did the excitement rise that it was found necessary to convene the States General--an assembly that had slumbered 172 years--the dernier resort of that nation to suppress internal commotion. It consisted of deputies chosen by the nobility, clergy and common people. So terrific was the storm of passion that this august body trembled like a reed shaken by the wind. Anarchy mounted its desolating car--mad ambition rolled its mountain waves over reason and justice--malicious jealousy sought its victims in every avenue--Jacobinism reared its hydra head--the fountain of mercy was dried up--the bloody guillotine did its fearful work. Civil war raged in all the plenipotence of exterminating revenge--cruelty ceased only for the want of victims--the streets were