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31

The Report of 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 and humane protections in this Hemisphere, than those generous men, who, more than two years ago, called this society into existence -- includig those that have emanated from our example. I feel that this vast distinction outght 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 this association are quietly sleeping - I am impelled [by?] a [sense?] of necessity, to visit remote quarters of the town in [quest?] [illegible] cruelty, which dares not show itself by day. Notwithstanding this - and I utter it more in the spirit of regret [than?] reproach - I offer, as at present, find myself embarrassed to provide for claims, which morally appertain to the public, as to myself.

I have the honor to be your most obedient servant

Henry [underlined] Bergh [underlined]

[illegible]