France, the Moon that controls the tides of the world.'
"As Mr. Franklin arose to respond to the toast—the United States—all eyes were upon him. The French minister had taken up the gage thrown down by the Premier of England and had responded fittingly as to the position of France among the nations of the earth. What would Mr. Franklin say? Would he properly acquit himself for the United States?
"At the close of an able response, suitable to such an occasion, Mr. Franklin placed his hand on his wine-glass, and lifting it to a level with his eyes, said. 'Now drink with me again to the United States, the Joshua that commanded the sun and moon to stand still, and they stood still.' [Applause.]
"Had Mr. Franklin had the ears of all the people of the United States on that occasion, one universal acclaim would have resounded throughout this land.
"If we had an administration and Congress now, that would say to England 'Stand still'—one glad shout would be heard in this country from Sea to Sea and Lakes to Gulf, proclaiming the second independence of the United States." [Long continued applause.]
Coin had finished. The audience had risen to its feet, and the applause was tumultuous and continued. Those on the stage were shaking the little statesman's hands, and many others were crowding around the platform.
As the tumult subsided a fine-looking gentleman appeared on the platform with his hands raised to command attention. It was Mr. J. L. Caldwell, president of the First National Bank of Huntington, West Virginia. As soon as he had secured attention he said:
"I am the president of a national bank, and I want to first say to you people that all national bankers do not
