86
given to the President of the United States to increase the army to 62,448 men; but notwithstanding the enthusiasm with which the people were inspired, by the persuasion that the Republick took up arms only to defend their commercial rights and the liberty of the seas—notwithstanding all the efforts and artifices that were employed to obtain volunteers and recruits; and notwithstanding the premium of 150 dollars for enlistment, and 150 acres of uncultivated land, offered to every soldier at the conclusion of the war, they were unable to enlist, by these means, in 1814, more than 13,898 men, and during the heat of the war, which was in 1815, the whole army did not exceed 32,160 men. This proves, how difficult it is to induce the inhabitants of that country, to quit the conveniencies and pleasures of domestick life to take up arms, even in cases of the highest importance, and such as would seem most calculated to rouse their self love and their national pride. This little army, however, cost the United States, in the year 1815, the exorbitant sum of 29,423,763 dollars, according to the statement of the War minister, including 600 thousand dollars for the expenses of fortifications, 2500 for books and plans, &c. required for the War Department, and 7,500 for the military Academy.
The highest rank they yet have in the Anglo-American army, is that of Major general; next to that is the Brigadier general, and the Adjutant and
