The 14th of December will be the One Hundredth Anniversary of the death
of Washington. For a hundred years the Republic has had the priceless
advantage of the lofty standard of character and conduct which he
bequeathed to the American people. It is an inheritance which time,
instead of wasting, continually increases and enriches. We may justly
hope that in the years to come the benignant influence of the Father of
his Country may be even more potent for good than in the century which
is drawing to a close. I have been glad to learn that in many parts of
the country the people will fittingly observe this historic anniversary.
Presented to this Congress are great opportunities. With them come great
responsibilities. The power confided to us increases the weight of our
obligations to the people, and we must be profoundly sensible of them
as we contemplate the new and grave problems which confront us. Aiming
only at the public good, we cannot err. A right interpretation of the
people's will and of duty cannot fail to insure wise measures for the
welfare of the islands which have come under the authority of the United
States, and inure to the common interest and lasting honor of our
country.
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