cannot be compared with the means by which most governments have
been established, without some return of pious gratitude, along
with an humble anticipation of the future blessings which the same
seems to presage. The reflections arising out of the present crisis
have forced themselves strongly upon my mind. You will join me, I
trust, in thinking that there are none under the influence of which
the proceedings of a new and free government are more auspiciously
commenced.


In his Farewell Address, Washington contends in part:

(1) For the promotion of institutions of learning;

(2) for cherishing the public credit;

(3) for the observance of good faith and justice toward all nations....

At no point in his administration does Washington appear in grander
proportions than when he enunciates his ideas in regard to the foreign
policy of the government:

Observe good faith and justice toward all nations; cultivate peace
and harmony with all; religion and morality enjoin this conduct.
Can it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it? It will be
worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no distant period, a great
nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of
a people always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence.

* * * * *