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ought we, perhaps, to complain, that after a record of brave and patriotic achievement has been honorably made for him in his earlier years, a statesman should wish the security and comfort of regular and stable party relations, should wish no controversy which might drive from him some or many of those who would otherwise hold him in respect or reverence. If, however, denying himself this natural indulgence, he fill his later years with persistent and fruitful labors for his countrymen, like those contributed by Carl Schurz to the cause of Civil Service Reform, he reaches a peculiar distinction, and deserves the supremest gratitude and honor of those he serves. Such a distinction was achieved by the American President, whose grandson presides over us to-night; and the same distinction in overflowing measure belongs to our honored guest. May his future years in that work be many, very many. May we have for many, many years to come, the same service in this great cause of political reform, the same eloquence, the same wise and creative energy, the same belief that the world can, and the same resolution that the world shall, be made better,—that belief without which no great thing is ever done for a nation.
