From Diary of the American Revolution, Vol II. Compiled by Frank Moore and published in 1859.
Yesterday, being the anniversary of the birth of her royal Majesty, the queen, the same was celebrated with great rejoicing in New York. A correspondent in Rivington’s Gazette, gives the following account of the evening’s entertainment: “As the loyalty even of individuals ought at this time to be properly encouraged, you will infinitely oblige the public and a number of your readers, by inserting a description of the grand and elegant illuminations at the King’s Head Tavern, on last evening, in honor of her Majesty’s birthday; and it is the desire of the public, as Messrs. Loosely and Elms have ever shown their attachment to the British government, and a detestation of the present rebellion, that through the channel of your much esteemed paper their conduct may be known and approved of in Europe, as well as by the loyalists in New York. The tavern was illuminated with upwards of two hundred wax lights. In the centre were the royal arms of Great Britain, and above it, statues of the present King and Queen under a canopy of state elegantly decorated, which shone like their Majesties’ virtues— conspicuous to the world. The view of the reduction of Mud Fort (on one side) by his Majesty’s ships, Roebuck and Vigilant, gave that joy which Britons always feel on the success and honor of their country. On the other side, their generous indignation was roused by a view of those men (the Congress) whose ambition has almost ruined this once happy country, and reduced its inhabitants to the greatest distress. It was very apropos of the painter to place the devil at the president’s elbow, who tells him to persevere with so significant a grin as seems to indicate his having no manner of doubt of their making his house their home in the infernal regions. The statue of Mr. Pitt, without its head, was placed near the Congress, as being one of their kidney, and gave a hint of what ought long ago to have been done. The verses over the tavern door were very proper on the occasion, and well illuminated. In short, every thing was well conducted, and the tout ensemble had really a fine effect; much is due to Messrs. Loosely and Elms for their patriotic spirit, which merits the approbation of every man who is a friend to his King and country.” 1
1 Rivington’s Gazette, January 24.