Hutchinson's words, "in a perfect frenzy." It was, however, the general
disposition, volcanic as were the elements, to act with caution,
deliberation, and in a spirit of unity, and, doubtless, with the
consideration that the eyes of the friends of their cause were upon
them, and the name and fame of Boston were at stake. The hours passed,
and no warrant appeared calling a town-meeting; when, at eleven o'clock,
the town-records say, "the freeholders and other inhabitants" held a
meeting, "occasioned, by the massacre made in King Street by the
soldiery." The town-clerk, William Cooper, acted as the chairman. This
true and intrepid patriot held this office forty-nine years, which
speaks for his fidelity to duty, intelligence, devotion to principle,
and moral worth. "The Selectmen," his clear, round record reads, "not
being present, and the inhabitants being informed that they were in the
Council-Chamber, it was voted that Mr. William Greenleaf be desired to
proceed there and acquaint the Selectmen that the inhabitants desire
and expect their attendance at the Hall." This was virtually a command,
and the Selectmen immediately repaired thither. Thomas Cushing was
chosen the Moderator. He was now the Speaker of the House of
Representatives; and though not of such shining abilities as to cause
him to be looked up to in Boston as a leader, and of the moderate class
of Patriots, yet, by urbanity of manner, a high personal character,
diligent public service, and fidelity to the cause, he won a large
influence. It was next voted that Constable Wallace wait upon the
Reverend Dr. Cooper and acquaint him that the inhabitants desired him to
open the meeting with prayer. This great divine was a brother of the
town-clerk, and the pastor of the Brattle-Street Church. He was devoted
to the Patriot cause, and on the most confidential terms with the
popular leaders; and besides being rich in genius and learning, he had,
says Dr. Eliot, a gift in prayer peculiar and very excellent. He
complied with the request, but no reporter has transmitted the words of
this righteous man, or described this solemn assembly, as fervent prayer
now went up for country.

The meeting next voted to invite any citizen to give information of the
massacre of the preceding evening, "that the same might be minuted by
the town-clerk"; whereupon several persons related details of the
tragedy. One said he heard a soldier, after the firing, say, that "the
Devil might gi