[53]

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now its usefulness is cramped and limited for want of present means.

The Report of the last year's proceedings; and the record of its daily labours in the cause of mercy & civilization, should satisfy all thoughtful people of its importance to the community. Millions of money are given annually to mankind, by themselves; and human advocates are [ever?] at hand to defend our own race; but speechless dumb creatures have no other legal protectors in this Hemisphere, than those generous men, who, more than two years ago, called this Society into existence -- including those that have emanated from our example.

I feel that this vast distinction ought not to exist, for we are indebted to the inferior animals for more than half the wealth & enjoyment we possess, nor, should the financial duties of the institution be added to my numerous others. Not only during the day time is my watchfulness required; but frequently at a late hour of the night -- when the members of the association are quietly sleeping -- I am impelled by a sense of necessity to visit remote quarters of the town in quest of that cruelty, which dares not show itself by day.

Notwithstanding this -- and I utter it more in the sense of regret than reproach -- I often find myself embarrassed to provide for claims, which morally appertain to the public, as much as to myself.

I have the honor to be your most obt servant

Henry [underlined] Bergh [underlined]