established.

In 1775, at the beginning of the war, New York declared for
independence, but in 1776 it fell into the hands of the English, who
retained possession until 1783, when they finally evacuated it.

In 1788 New York celebrated the adoption of the Constitution--the great
Constitution under which we live to-day and enjoy our freedom. A ship,
representing the Ship of State, was drawn through the streets of the
city by ten milk-white horses.

Alexander Hamilton had done so much to convince the State of the wisdom
of adopting the Constitution, that in recognition of his great services
the platform upholding the Ship of State was inscribed in large letters
with his name.

New Yorkers must never forget that it was in their city that the first
President was inaugurated, and that that President was George
Washington. To New York belongs the greatest honor any American city can
boast, in having placed the sceptre of government in the hands of the
greatest man the country has ever produced.

On March 4th, 1789, the new Constitution went into operation, but it was
not until April 30th that the President took the oath of office.

Standing on the balcony of a building in front of Federal Hall, where
Congress met, and in the presence of an immense multitude, George
Washington took the following oath:

"I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of