For more than half a century, during which kingdoms and empires have fallen, this Union has stood unshaken. The patriots who formed it have long since descended to the grave; yet still it remains, the proudest monument to their memory. . .

I would not be the mere President of a Party. I feel bound to administer the government untrammeled by party schemes.

I am not a party candidate, and if elected cannot be President of a party, but the President of the whole people.

In conclusion I congratulate you, my fellow-citizens, upon the high state of prosperity to which the goodness of Divine Providence has conducted our common country. Let us invoke a continuance of the same protecting care which has led us from small beginnings to the eminence we this day occupy

In the discharge of duties my guide will be the Constitution, which I this day swear to preserve, protect, and defend.

I regret nothing, but I am sorry that I am about to leave my friends.

Let us invoke a continuance of the same protecting care which has led us from small beginnings to the eminence we this day occupy.