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SHERIFE’S OFFICE.
Puinapetrnra, JuNE 28, 1844.
SIR :—
In the present excited state of popular feeling, it is possible that some accidental cause may pro-
duce disturbance on the approaching Anniversary of our National Independence. Should such an event un-
happily occur, it is to be feared, that it may lead to seriously-mischievous results, unless means.can be pro-
vided for its immediate suppression. In addition, therefore, to the ordinary Police force of the City and
County of Philadelphia, which might not prove sufficient for the occasion, it is desirable that the citizens
themselves should be prepared to assist the constituted authorities, in any efforts they may be called upon to
make, in maintaining the supremacy of the laws.
For the purpose of accomplishing this object, I request that you will invite those citizens of
your Ward upon whose temper, discretion and firmness you can rely, to associate themselves, under your di-
rection, so that upon the first symptom of danger, they may be ready to act. Such a body, composed of men
interested in the Welfare of the community, and clothed with all the power which the Civil Magistrate can
delegate, would undoubtedly prove valuable auxiliaries to those whoso more immediate duty it is to protect
the public peace; and it is unnecessary that I should urge upon you the importance of effecting the proposed
organization,
To facilitate, so far as I can, your action in this matter, I have had prepared a circular invitation
to the citizens—copies of which are herewith furnished—which, after filling the blanks with the time and
place you may designate for the meeting, you will be good enough to address to those persons you may think
proper to select. These Circulars may be served by the Constable of the Ward, to whom I will make com-
pensation for his trouble.
As Tam extremely anxious that nothing should be done, which would be likely, needlessly to
agitate the public mind, I respectfully ask that this communication may be so far regarded as confidential,
that its contents shall not—if it can be avoided—find their way into the newspapers. The reason of this
Frecaution must be obvious. There may be no disturbance, and it is my carnest hope there will be none; so
that while it is well to be prepared for difficulty should it come, it is also well to take no step which may
tend to promote or excite it.
Very Respectfully Yours,
MORTON Mc MICHAEL,
SHERIFF.
P. S. Please report to me, at this office, the number of your Civic Police, and your proposed place of rendezvous.