I have great satisfaction in stating that our relations with France, Russia, and other powers continue on the most friendly basis.

It is only when the people become ignorant and corrupt, when they degenerate into a populace, that they are incapable of exercising their sovereignty.

During the darkest days of the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress and George Washington - I call him the first George W. - (laughter and applause) - urged citizens to pray and to give thanks and to ask for God's protection.

The right of self-defense never ceases. It is among the most sacred, and alike necessary to nations and to individuals.

I enter on the trust to which I have been called by the suffrages of my fellow-citizens with my fervent prayers to the Almighty that He will be graciously pleased to continue to us that protection which He has already so conspicuously displayed in our favor.

If we look to the history of other nations, ancient or modern, we find no example of a growth so rapid, so gigantic, of a people so prosperous and happy.

I have great satisfaction in stating that our relations with France, Russia, and other powers continue on the most friendly basis.