Having performed duty oft and well, as preachers of righteousness, as missionaries of peace, they, as Liberia's pioneer women, are now called on to experience the greatest battle in the history of the country in which women were participants. When in this crisis the women rallied the men retreating from the stockades, brought a cannon to bear upon the plunderers, which was fired by Mrs. Newport, wdiose memory is yet fresh in the minds of and will ever be preserved in the casket of precious recollections by every true Liberian. The Newport Guards, a military company of Monrovia, has, ever since her hazardous but decisive fire of cannon, perpetuated her memory by bearing her name. This woman, with other noble heroines, heading a charge as the natives hesitated, panic-stricken, by sudden and unexpected discharge of cannon, drove them, crestfallen, to the cover of the forest, and Liberia was saved.
"The oak grows stronger
By the winds that toss its branches."
It will not be putting the remark too strongly to repeat with emphasis, that from the very foundation of Liberia woman, with her modest demeanor and decision of purpose, has made as great and as glorious an impress upon the pages of Liberian history as have the most illustrious of their sterner companions; yes, she has wrought equal with others to achieve glory for, and to enhance the grandeur and magnificence of the country.
Among the sainted women who were present and assisted in laying the foundations broadly and deeply on
