CAPITAL PUNISHMENT UNLAWFUL. Capital punishments have never been so few in England as in the reign of Alfred the Great; and, it is said, the effect produced was a very general, and, for those times, a most remarkable security from outrage. Whereas, during the reign of the infamous Henry VIII, seventy-two thousand thieves were brought to execution, being an average of forty every week, the very same crimes all the while rapidly increasing. The case of Russia, referred to by the Reviewer, is striking. "The empress Elizabeth, on ascending the throne, pledged herself never to inflict the punishment of death, and throughout her reign of twenty years she kept her promise. So satisfactory was the result, that Catherine, her successor, says, in her "Instructions for framing a new Code of Laws for the Empire, 'experience demonstrates that the frequent repetition of capital punishments has never yet made men better.'" The testimony of the French ambassador, on his return from St. Petersburg, 1791, is most satisfactory. He states that 'Russia under the operation of this law was one of the countries in which the least number of murders were committed." The testimony of Howard respecting various places on the Continent is to the same effect. "Here, then," says the Reviewer, "we have a mass of most unquestionable evidence, gathered from almost every part of the world, in support of our assertion, that gibbets are in no degree necessary in a State, but may be abolished, not only with perfect safety, but with a certain and large advantage." It is stated, in one of the publications of the Society for the diffusion of information on this subject, that in France, with a population double that of England and Wales, only twenty-five persons were executed; while in the latter the number of executions in the same year (1831) amounted to fifty-two, being four times as numerous as in France. In Prussia, during ten years ending with 1827, but eighty-seven persons underwent this punishment, while the number of those who suffered in England and Wales, during the same period, was 806; or, allowing for the difference of population, about eight times as many as in Prussia. In Holland and in Austria, as well as in the German States, sanguinary punishments are exceedingly rare; and in Belgium, since the year 1830, although, some crimes are still nominally capital, the scaffold has been laid aside as a remnant of national barbarism. The Parliamentary Returns prove that, in London and Middlesex, during the three years 1827-28-29, when the committals for six offences were 672, forty-two persons were executed; while, for the same offences, during the three years 1830-31-32, only five were executed, and yet the committals diminished to 618. These facts prove that severity is not the most effectual in suppressing crime. The case of Tuscany is well known to every Some crimes, it is true, have continued one who has made the least research on the sub-to increase since capital punishment has been ject. In 1765, the Grand Duke Leopold, at the abolished, but these very crimes increased in a instance of the Marquis Becarria, entirely abol- far greater ratio while they remained capital. ished the punishment of death in his dominions, The following important statements are found even for murder. After this experiment had ed on Parliamentary Return, No. 618, 1843, extended over twenty years, the Grand Duke for Middlesex and London. "Taking the thirtysays, "Instead of increasing the number of two years ending 1842, and dividing them into crimes, it has diminished that of smaller ones, two periods of sixteen years each, we get the foland rendered those of an atrocious nature very lowing striking results:-In the first sixteen rare." During the whole period, only five mur-years, all who were convicted of murder, thirtyders were committed; "while," the Reviewer remarks, "in Rome, where death was inflicted with great pomp and solemnity, no fewer than sixty murders were perpetrated in the space of three months." On the repeal of this enactment in Tuscany, by Napoleon, crime rapidly increased; and it was only when the gibbet began to be withdrawn that murders became rare again. four in number, were executed. Notwithstanding this inexorable rigor, 188 persons were committed for murder during this period. In the second period, clemency began to prevail, and during the sixteen years of the experiment, out of twenty-seven persons convicted, only seventeen were hanged; and yet there were but ninety persons committed for murder during the whole period. With only 63 per cent. of executions, The example of Belgium is no less remarkable. instead of 100 per cent., the crime diminished After a most successful experiment of abolition, more than one-half, although the population was upon a return to capital punishment the convic-greater." tions for murder rose, within five years, fifty-five From the same Parliamentary Return is deAmerica confirms the same conclu-rived another illustration :-"During thirty years, ending with 1842, the years 1815, 1817, per cent. sion. Commitments for Murder and Attempts to Murder, in each of the five years ending 1826. 1831. 1836. 1841. 1846. 770 1,023 1,221 1,459 The extent of this kind of evidence available on behalf of our views, must not be judged of by the very limited quotations adduced. The materials of proof, in the shape of statistical facts, are not only ample but superfluous; they are, however, accessible to almost every one-it is, therefore, unnecessary to support this part of our argument at any greater length. 1818, and 1829, were the only years that wit-, nessed the execution of all who were convicted of murder in England and Wales-sixty-six in number; and in the years respectively following each of these years, the crime of murder collectively increased 12 per cent. In four other years, 1836, 1838, 1840, and 1842, in which the greatest proportion of commutations happened, only thirty-one were executed, out of eighty-three condemned; and in the years respectively succeeding these, the crime collectively diminished 17 per cent. Thus, when you hang all without mercy, you increase the crime; when you save above half, you materially lessen it." From the same source we extract the follow-rate to deter some from the perpetration of muring even more striking result:-"1. From der, it will be found that the crime still increa1834 to 1841 (inclusive), in the counties where ses, because of the inefficiency of the law upon those who should have been chiefly kept in view in its formation. While the punishment threatened might ope all who were convicted of murder were executed, the number of murders in the years following after executions remained as nearly as pos- death increases the crime, and that a diminution If experience proves that the punishment of sible the same. 2. In counties were commutations of the extreme penalty took place, (during and further, that these results occur in the reof murders follows the disuse of the gallowsthe same period), the years following the com-lation of cause and effect-it is absurd to speak mutations exhibited a diminution of murder of of the necessity of criminal executions. The 35 per cent. 3. In the counties where a large above statistics, however, by no means show the proportion of the persons committed were ac- actual decrease of crime consequent upon the quitted on the ground of insanity, the commit- discontinuance of capital punishment, since, ments for murder diminished in the succeeding while the law was capital, a large number altoyears 32 per cent. And, 4. In the counties gether escaped even prosecution, from the relucwhere there were no commitments, and no convictions at all, the commitments in the following years were collectively fewer by 23 per cent. "Thus," says another commentator on these Returns," it appears, on the authority of these official tables, that the crime of murder flourishes most under a system of invariable executions; that it prospers more then, than when the mercy of the crown interposes with commutations of sentence; that it prospers more than under acquittals on the ground of insanity; and lastly, that it even thrives better than under a total failure of justice, through the acquittal of all who stand charged with the crime." One more fact is added to those already stated: "In the three consecutive years-1834, 1835, and 1836, no executions whatever took place for crimes in London and Middlesex, and these were the only years in which no conviction for murder occurred." See Parliamentary Return, No. 21, 1846. These statements show, most clearly, that a diminution of the number of executions is followed by a proportionate diminution of murders. Experience at various periods, and in all countries, is against the punishment of death. Crime has always flourished most under the most sanguinary laws. How fearfully the crime of murder has increased under the operation of the death penalty, the following table will show : "The Punishment of Death Reviewed," by Frederick Rowton, Esq. tance of witnesses. Were it not for a lingering impression in the minds of our statesmen and the majority of Christian ministers, that the ancient law against murder, resting on Divine authority, still remains in force, it would be difficult to account for the pertinacious doubts, and even obstinate resistance, with which they continue to meet the statistical evidence derived from past experience, in favor of abolition. Supposing their judgment to be entirely free from prejudice on scriptural grounds, we might naturally expect to find them ready to join issue with the abolitionist on something like the following terms:-"Let it be but proved to us, from the history of past legislation, that the substitution of other penalties for that of death, answers only just as well as when it is in any extent enforced, and we are prepared to surrender the point. We ask not that you should produce any balance of facts in favor of abolition, but simply show that one is as efficacious as the other." Instead of any such reasonable challenge as this, however, the abolitionist, after obtrusively and persistently volunteering the deposition of evidence which would place his cause in a greatly advantageous position compared with mere weight for weight, is met by something not unlike complacent or even supercilious affectation of forbearance toward the doubtful character of data supposed to be pressed into the service of an enlightened and mistaken benevolence. The time has arrived when our leading jour nals, secular and religious, might, we think, | violent and undistinguishing, that it was judged without compromise of their really high preten- necessary to remove the Christian Indians who sions and character, give a more prominent place were then residing on or near the Lehigh, under to this controversy about the law of murder. the instruction of the Moravians, to Philadelphia. And are there not multitudes of Christian men Although these Indians, as well as those on the and ministers, having influence at command, who Susquehanna, were entirely peaceable in their treat the subject with such a slighting notice, or conduct, and totally averse to war, they were not curt disregard, as could only be justifiable if they permitted to remain at their quiet habitations. possessed some secret information from heaven The Christian Indians residing on the Lehigh, which supported them, but whom, as the argument stands, there is reason to suspect, it would be- being joined in the 11th month by John Papunehove to do otherwise? Truth will conquer, nev-hang and twenty one Indians from the Susqueertheless, to the comfort and reward of those who are in the right. To be continued. FRIENDS' REVIEW. PHILADELPHIA, SEVENTH MONTH 15, 1854. The letter from Friends of Philadelphia, addressed to certain Indians of the Delaware tribe, which appears in the present number, with the response, is supposed to be now published for the first time. At the head of these Indians we find John Papunehang, who appears to have been a man of exemplary piety. In the account which John Woolman has left of a visit which he paid to to the Indians residing on the Susquehanna, above where Wilkesbarre now stands, in the summer of 1763, he mentions being at a meeting among them, in which it appears he was very imperfectly supplied with interpreters, at the close of which he remarks, "Before the people went out, I observed Papunehang (the man who had been most zealous in laboring for a reformation in that town, being then very tender) spoke to one of the interpreters; and I was afterwards told that he said in substance as follows; 'I love to feel where words come from." After a subsequent meeting he remarks, "When the last mentioned meeting was ended, it being night, Papunehang went to bed; and one of the interpreters sitting by me, I observed Papunehang spoke with an harmonious voice, I suppose a minute or two; and asking the interpreter, was told that he was expressing his thankfulness to God for the favors he had received that day; and prayed that he would continue to favor him with that same, which he had experienced in that meeting. Though Papunehang before agreed to receive the Moravians, and join with them, he still appeared kind and loving to us." Before John Woolman set out on this visit, tidings were received of hostilities having been resumed in the western parts of Pennsylvania ; and while on his journey other rumors of a similar character were heard. But in the autumn of that year, the alarms became so great, and the antipathies of the people towards the natives became so hanna, they were conducted to Philadelphia, and after some difficulty they were located at Province Island, a few miles below this city. It was near the end of that year, 1763, that a small band of inoffensive natives, residing at Conestoga near Lancaster, were inhumanly massacred by a lawless horde from Paxton and Donegal. And though neither these people, nor their Christian brethren who had joined the Moravians, administered any cause of offense, so ferocious and violent was their antipathy, that a considerable force marched towards Philadelphia, with an avowed intention of butchering all the Indians who were there under the protection of the Government. The citizens of Philadelphia, however, made such preparations for their reception, that these rioters found it most prudent to abandon the murderous attempt. The humane inhabitants of the city, among whom the members of our society took a conspicuous part, exerted themselves to protect and relieve these suffering people. These Indians were afterwards frequently heard to say, that during their troubles, the sight of a Quaker made them feel happy. With a view of finding an asylum for these poor persecuted people in New York, they were sent across New Jersey, under a strong military escort, to Amboy. But when about to embark, orders were received forbidding their entrance into the territory of New York. They were therefore compelled to return to Philadelphia, where they were placed under a guard both by day and night. This journey to Amboy and back was performed in the First month, the most inclement season of Governor, expressive of their gratitude for favors received, we find the name of John Papunehang. The poor Indians were not permitted long to enjoy their quiet settlement on the Susquehanna, for the Six Nations who professed to hold authority over the Delawares, sold a tract of land to the English, in which their settlement was included; and though the Governor of Pennsylvania endeavored to secure them in the possession of their land, they soon found their condition so pleasant, that they concluded to abandon their improvements on the Susquehanna, the result of seven years labor, and remove to the north west un of the Ohio. A settlement was accordingly formed on the Muskingum, about 200 miles from its mouth, to which the name of Shonburn or Welhiek Thuppeck was assigned. It was about the time of this removal that the letters alluded to were written. J. Papunehang died there near the end of 1775. "Let not ambition mock their useful toil, DIED,-At her residence in Vermillion Co., Indiana, on the 29th of Fourth month last, SARAH, wife of William B. Walthall, an esteemed elder and member of Vermillion Monthly Meeting, aged 36 years. In this city, on the 5th inst., RUTH SMITH, relict of the late Giles Smith, of New Bedford, Mass., in the 91st year of her age; a member of New Bedford Monthly Meeting. In this city, on the 7th of Ninth month last, ANN SMITH, daughter of the above-named Friends, and member of Baltimore Monthly Meeting, in the 57th year of her age. MANNERS. Their Good manners add lustre to virtue. object is to oblige, and pay proper attention to others. In order therefore to inspire children with such a disposition, we should endeavor early to infuse the spirit of that precept "Honor all men ;" and teach them, that kindness and civilty are due to all: that a haughty, positive, or contemptuous manner, is not only ill bred, but unchristian; and especially to he avoided in our behaviour to servants, or those in inferior stations in life. To these they should never be suffered to behave with haughtiness, nor even to speak with a commanding tone of voice; as it will have a direct tendency to cherish pride and self importance. It is also necessary to guard children against vulgar habits, as loud talking and laughing Whispering in company does not comport with good manners, and mimicry is the favorite good manners, and mimicry is the favorite amusement of low minds. Speaking, when it interrupts reading or conversation, and the habit * See Heckewelder's narrative. of contradicting others, are improper, and should be checked. At meals, children of suitable age should be admitted to table with the family, when convenient. This privilege will improve their manners, and tend to prevent bashfulness and awkwardness.-J. Mott. METHOD AND ORDER. Method is the hinge of business; and it requires order and punctuality. These we must teach our children principally by example. Let them see that we rise early, have regular hours, day; that we are careful to do one thing at a as much as may be, for the employments of the time, and every thing in its right time; that we stick to the business we have in hand, as far as unexpected incidents allow; that we adopt the maxim, "a place for every thing, and every thing in its place." Let them be taught also, that what is worth doing, is worth doing well. It is for want of method and order, that some people, who have much to do, get but little done. They are frequently in a hurry, have many things begun, but none finished. Whatever children hear read, or spoken of in terms of approbation, will give a strong bias to their minds. Hence the necessity of guarding conversation in families, as well as excluding books and companions that have a tendency to vitiate the heart.-J. Mott. To Papunehang, and others of the Delaware nation who lately lived on the Susquehanna, and are now removed to settle on the Ohio. remember the old friendship which was estabBrethren, Your friends at Philadelphia often lished between your fathers and ours, and hath been maintained between you and us at all times, and even when thick clouds hung over our heads, and it was so dark we could scarce see each other. Brethren,-We are glad these clouds are now hear you are set out on a long journey, and inscattered, and the sun shines clear upon us. We tend to settle in a country very distant from us. We desire you may hold fast the chain of friendship, and keep it bright on your part, as we shall be careful to do on our part, so that our childas brethren, and may, when we die, be incited ren may see our love and regard to each other by our example to maintain the old friendship. Onas and our fathers had for your fathers, was Brethren,--The love and friendship which Jesus Christ, in their hearts, which constrained the effect of the love of God, through our Lord them to desire and pray for you, that you might come to the knowledge of the gospel of Christ by obedience to the teachings of his Holy Spirit, a manifestation of which is given to every man, to lead and instruct them in the way of eternal life and happiness; and it hath given much true friends. Welhiek Thuppeck, the 21st day of March, 1773. pleasure and thankfulness to us, to see and hear main your true brethren in Christ and bounden that some of you have been made sensible of this. We fervently desire you may grow in grace and in this saving knowledge; then you will be as light to the people among whom you may live, and they, seeing your good works, may be brought to the same happy experience, and give glory to God, and live in peace and good will with you and with one another. John Papunehang, John Martien, Joseph Pepi In the name and on the behalf of all the Christian Indians, moved from Susquehanna over Alleghann river. For Friends' Review. Brethren,-We consider the journey is long, and that, when you get to the Alleghany, you will want some refreshments and provisions to enable you to travel further. We have there- EDUCATION IN THE FREE AND SLAVE STATES fore directed one hundred dollars to be paid to John Etwain, and desire that he with it purmay chase whatever will be most useful and necessary for you and your wives and children. Brethren, We heartily wish and pray for your happiness, both in this world and that which is to come, and shall rejoice to hear that the blessing of God attends you. Signed on behalf of Friends in Philadelphia, the 8th day of Eighth month, 1772, To Israel Pemberton, John Reynell, James BELOVED BRETHREN,-Your very kind letter was read to us by Dr. John Etwain, on Beaver Creek, and by David Liseberger, at Welhiek Thuppeck, (Good Spring,) where we are now settled in love and peace. The chiefs and head men of the Delawares received us very kindly with our teacher, and seem well inclined to the Christian religion; many come to hear the word of God, and we wish with you that we may be a shining light unto them. Brethren,-Not only we who had so many instances of your friendship and love, which we never will forget, but all our nation, know that you and your fathers have always been kind and good friends to us and our fathers. We thank you heartily for all your favors, but particularly the last present of one hundred dollars, which John Etwain has left to the care of John Papunehang and our missionary, and which, by our consent, hath been laid out for corn and divided We remember you as often as we among us. eat of it. Brethren,-You may be assured that we esteem and love you; continue to pray for us and the other poor Indians, and we will pray God for you, to bless you in this world and the world to come, and we will, by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, not only continue in unshaken friendship with you and your children, but re COMPARED. Pursuing the comparison which we commenced in our last number, we find in the six Eastern States, Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont, 1,498,158 white persons over twenty years of age, of whom 50,911 are reported as unable to read and write. This makes one in 29.4 of the adult white population unable to read and write. But we find in these six States, 305,404 white persons including all ages, born in foreign countries. These foreigners furnish, no doubt, more than their proportion of uneducated. In the same six States we find 13,476 free colored persons of twenty years and upwards, with 1878 adults, who cannot read and write. This is about one in seven. From this and the facts stated in our last number, it appears that the adult colored population in New England do not furnish so large a ratio of totally uneducated, as the whites of Virgiaia and North Carolina; and fall a little, and but a little, below the whites of South Carolina. The three States, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contain whites over twenty years of adults who cannot read and write. This is one age, 2,911,041, among whom are 172,469 in 16.9. The white foreigners in these three States, number 1,018,133. The free colored of twenty years old number 68,624, of whom 21,190, or one out of 3.2, are reported as unable to read and write. This shows a great want of education among this class. There is, however, no law in either of these States to prohibit their instruction. It can afford no rational consolation to them or their friends, to learn that the whites in North Carolina and Arkansas appear to be almost equally neglected. The six new free States, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Iowa, have whites over twenty years of age, 2,084,235, of whom 194,017, or one in 10.7, cannot read and write. Of these Indiana furnishes the greatest relative number of uneducated of any free State in the Union. The white foreign. ers in these States, number 571,528. The free colored over twenty years, are 33,084, of whom 8,883, or one in 3.7, cannot read and write. The old slave States, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and |