of the Washington monument.

"In common with my fellow-citizens I rejoice at the successful
completion of this majestic testimonial of the reverence and
affection which the people of the United States, irrespective of
party, section, or race, cherish for the 'Father of his Country.'
Grand, however, and imposing as that testimonial may seem, it is,
after all, but an inadequate outward representation of that mightier
monument, unseen and immeasurable, builded of the living stones of
a nation's love and gratitude, the hearts of forty millions of
people. But the world has not outlived its need of picture writing
and symbolism, and the great object lesson of the Washington monument
will doubtless prove a large factor in the moral and political
education of present and future generations. Let us hope that it
will be a warning as well as a benediction; and that while its
sunlit altitude may fitly symbolize the truth that 'righteousness
exalteth a nation,' its shadow falling on the dome of the capitol
may be a daily remainder that 'sin is a reproach to any people.'
Surely it will not have been reared in vain if, on the day of its
dedication, its mighty shaft shall serve to lift heavenward the
voice of a united people that the principles for which the fathers
toiled and suffered shall be maintained inviolate by their children.

"With sincere respect, I am thy friend,
"John G. Whittier."

Another letter, received about two weeks earlier from General Grant,
seems to me worthy of a reproduction. It is as follows:

"New York City, January 27, 1885.
"Hon. John Sherman.

"Dear Sir:--I regret very much that my physical condition prevents
me from accepting the invitation of the commissioners, appointed
by Congress to provide suitable ceremonies for the dedication of
the Washington monument, to be present to witness the same on the
21st of February next. My throat still requires the attention of
the physician daily, though I am encouraged to believe that it is
improving.

"Very respectfully yours,
"U. S. Grant."

An engraved card of invitation was sent to a great number of civil
and military organizations throughout the United States, the regents
of Mount Vernon, relatives of General Washington and other
distinguished persons.

The commission invited Lieutenant General Sheridan to act as marshal
of the day, with an aid-de-camp from each state and territory.
This invitation was accepted, and arrangements were ma