very civilized land and the free intercourse and intercommunication
of such societies, the existence of such a spirit of comradeship between
them that they can freely give and take the results of their labors, of
their experience, and of their skill.

This is of immense practical importance in the administration of
government and the progress of ordered liberty in the world; for, after
all, the declaration of political principles is of no value unless laws
are framed adequate to bring principles down to the practical use of
every citizen, and the framing of such laws in every land is the work of
the jurists of the land. It is because I may be associated with you in
doing what little a lawyer can do toward helping to the accomplishment
of this great, beneficent, and necessary work for civilization, that I
find the greatest pleasure in accepting your election as a member of
this Academy, and find cause for gratification beyond that of mere
personal vanity or personal feeling.

Permit me to express the warmest good wishes for the continued activity,
prosperity, and usefulness of this distinguished body which has so
greatly honored me by this election.

BANQUET OF THE AMERICAN AMBASSADOR

SPEECH OF AMBASSADOR THOMPSON

October 5, 1907

Probably not before has there been such a gathering of distinguished men
as are tonight seated at this table at the foot of the famous Castle of
Chapultepec. The honored Secretary of State of the American nation is
here, the guest of the great Mexican Republic, with such honors showered
upon him as should not and will not soon be forgotten by a friendly and
appreciative people, nor by the immediate recipient of Mexico's
greeting.

Personally, I feel, I am sure, no less satisfaction than Mr. Root on
this occasion, a dinner given by me in honor of chiefs of the Mexican
nation and other distinguished Mexicans, for the purpose of
demonstrating, as best I can, my regard for them, not only because of
the very great honor Mexico is doing my country and my chief, but in
part for many kindly and friendly acts of the past. That the chiefs of
staff of the Mexican President, and many other high officials of nation
and state, have responded to an invitation with their presence on this
occasion, thus further honoring my country, Mr. Root, and myself, calls
for an expression of good-will that I offer as a toast to Mexico and its
illustrious President, General Diaz.

RESPONSE OF VICE-PRESIDEN