with this memorial. It expresses not only the gratitude and reverence of
the living, but is a testimonial of affection and homage from the dead.

The comrades of Washington projected this monument. Their love inspired
it. Their contributions helped to build it. Past and present share in
its completion, and future generations will profit by its lessons. To
participate in the dedication of such a monument is a rare and precious
privilege. Every monument to Washington is a tribute to patriotism.
Every shaft and statue to his memory helps to inculcate love of country,
encourage loyalty and establish a better citizenship. God bless every
undertaking which revives patriotism and rebukes the indifferent and
lawless! A critical study of Washington's career only enhances our
estimation of his vast and varied abilities.

As Commander-in-chief of the Colonial armies from the beginning of the
war to the proclamation of peace, as president of the convention which
framed the Constitution of the United States, and as the first President
of the United States under that Constitution, Washington has a
distinction differing from that of all other illustrious Americans. No
other name bears or can bear such a relation to the Government. Not
only by his military genius--his patience, his sagacity, his courage,
and his skill--was our national independence won, but he helped in
largest measure to draft the chart by which the Nation was guided; and
he was the first chosen by the people to put in motion the new
Government. His was not the boldness of martial display or the charm of
captivating oratory, but his calm and steady judgment won men's support
and commanded their confidence by appealing to their best and noblest
aspirations. And withal Washington was ever so modest that at no time in
his career did his personality seem in the least intrusive. He was above
the temptation of power. He spurned any suggested crown. He would have