The republic. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1849-1853, 1851-04-03

msnt of that adjustment established by the last
Congress. II not every thing that all could wish,
it is as much - the rational could hope for
trust to your own perception to see the great de-
gree OF cheerfulness prevailing in society around
you and the general progress of all interests under
the influence of the industry of your people; and
ask you whether do not meet you under the better
auspices for you and for me, for united liberty,
for established determination among governments
OF the same republican faith than would have
met you year since.
1t is not my purpose, and do not wish to weary
you by discussing any political question. This is an
age OF discussion, and people OF discussion;
and all know has been said so often that am afraid
to repeat it, But have come here to present in
person, and to repeat what had endeavored to
press by letter, my profound acknowledgements to
the Legislature of your State for the kind manner
in which they were pleased to take notice of a
cent act of my official life. 1t is compliment the
remembrance of which shall carry with me to the
grave.
II has appeared, and does appear, that the time
has come in the progress OF affairs, in view of the
growth OF the country, its vastly increased popu-
laton, and highly elevated character in the scale
of Improvement, when we, the descendants of those
who achieved the independence and established the
Constitution of this country, are bound to speak
out to the whole world Of mankind, and bear testi
mony to the cause of popular republican govern
ment. Tremendous applause.]
Let other governments do they will it il not
duty to traverse the earth and make proseytcs Our
business is to make proselytes by our example-to
connect mankind to Republicanism by showing
what Republicanism do in promoting the true
ends OF Government. Prolonged applause By
this we can do more than by a thousand emissa-
rics--more than ten thousand Peter the Hetmits
We will place in the political armament n sun,
bright glowing and cheering, the warming influ-
ences of which all shall feel and know
Our destiny is great, and any man falling short
Of its full comprehension is not fully competent to
conduct the affairs Of Government. Our situation
| is peculiar. We remote from other countries;
and, if we were not, we have power, thank God,
to defend ourselves [Cheers.l And while enjoy
ing the benefits and seeing and knowing the glo-
rious results of our political system, we afraid
| to compare il with any other in the world? Afraid
to compare the security of life property, industry,
and reputation, as witnessed in the United States
and the several States, with their preservation I'M
der any other government of the earth. Revolu-
tions cannot shock US. We have no dynasties to
overturn, we have none to erect in their stead.
But the great, broad, general current of useful
ness flows by us like your noble river until it min
giles with the mighty ocean.
But look no further. do not contemplate what
might happen to Pennsylvania when separated
from her neighbors. She may stand alone; nor will
it be forced upon me- except by the reality of fact.
look TO long existence of general prosperity
and republican liberty. For myself, believe that
ages hence the United States will be free and re-
| publican, still making constant progress in gen.
eral confidence, respect, and prosperity. 1t will
| be to me the greatest soace of my life to
be abo to say, when my career on earth may end,
that l have done something through lfe-some-
thing, though little-towards preserving the glori-
Gus institutions Of my country.
Mr.. WEBSTER took his seat amidst thunders Of
applause, and shortly after Mr.. Speaker Cess
MA adjourned the House.
Mr.. WEBSTER was then conducted by the
committee back TO Hers hotel, where SPLEEN
did supper had been prepared, and at which
Governor JOHNSTON presided.