44 Mr. PROSPER M. WETMORE called the meeting to order, read the call for the meeting, and also the following letter from Mr. PELATIAH PEJIIT, who had been designated by the Committee of arrangements to preside over the stand. LETTER OF P. PERIT. NEWHAVEN, July 14th, 1862. John A. Stevens, Jr., Esq., Secretary Chamber of Commerce, N. Y. : MY DEAR SIR, I have been favored to-day with your telegraphic note of this date informing me that I have been appointed to preside at the stand of the Chamber of Commerce, at the public meeting to be held to-morrow. Having been confined to my bed by sickness since my return from New-York, 1 am quite unable to proceed to the city, and shall thus be prevented from taking part in the great demonstration. That the meeting will be large and enthusiastic, I cannot doubt, and I trust it will be as powerful in its' influence for good as was that which followed the attack on Sumter. I shall be present with you in feeling though not in person. Very truly, yours, P. PERIT. Mr. WETMORE nominated for Chairman Mr. A. A. Low, second Vice-President of the Chamber of Commerce, who was unanimously elected. Mr. A. C. EICHARDS read the list of Vice-Presidents and Secretaries which had been prepared by the Committee, and which was adopted with unanimity. ADDRESS OF A. A. LOW, ESQ. FELLOW-CITIZENS, I share with you in your regret that the much respected gentleman, who was expected to preside over this meeting, is prevented by illness from being present. The honor naturally belonged to one who has, so often, by his cheering presence, imparted grace and dignity to our public gatherings ; and I know with what pleasure he has answered every expectation when the interests of this community have been involved. In the absence of Mr. PERIT, to whom I have just referred, and in the absence of the first Vice-President of the Chamber of Commerce, it devolves upon me, in obedience to your vote, to announce the object of this meeting. Indeed, it needs no announcement. There is but one call that brings together men of all parties, of all professions, and of every name. It is the call of our country. The existing emergency is too well understood to require any labored explanations. Your response to the summons which has brought you here has been too hearty and enthusiastic to warrant a passionate appeal to your patriotism.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM4ODY=