Processions, orations, bonfires, illuminations, attested the gratification of the people, and showed that, notwithstanding the general success which had attended our arms, they viewed peace as one of the highest blessings a nation can enjoy.
Recognizing in this important event the hand of a wise and gracious overruling Providence, the hearts of a great Christian nation turned in gratitude toward God.

President Madison issued the following proclamation for a day of thanksgiving:-- "The Senate and House of Representatives of the United States have, by a joint resolution, signified their desire that a day may be recommended, to be observed by the people of the United States with religious solemnity, as a day of thanksgiving and of devout acknowledgments to Almighty God, for his great goodness, manifested in restoring to them the blessings of peace.
"No people ought to feel greater obligations to celebrate the goodness of the Great Disposer of events, and of the destiny of nations, than the people of the United Slates.

His kind providence originally conducted them to one of the best portions of the dwelling place allowed for the great family of the human race.

He protected and cherished them under all the difficulties and trials to which they were exposed in their early days.
Under his fostering care, their habits, their sentiments and their pursuits prepared them for a transition in due time to a state of independence and self-government.

In the arduous struggle by which it was attained, they were distinguished by multiplied tokens of his benign interposition.