this structure
shall endure it shall be to all mankind a steadfast token of the
affectionate and reverent regard in which this people continue to
hold the memory of Washington. Well may he ever keep the foremost
place in the hearts of his countrymen.

"The faith that never faltered, the wisdom that was broader and
deeper than any learning taught in schools, the courage that shrank
from no peril and was dismayed by no defeat, the loyalty that kept
all selfish purpose subordinate to the demands of patriotism and
honor, the sagacity that displayed itself in camp and cabinet alike,
and, above all, that harmonious union of moral and intellectual
qualities which has never found its parallel among men; these are
the attributes of character which the intelligent thought of this
century ascribes to the grandest figure of the last.

"But other and more eloquent lips than mine will to-day rehearse
to you the story of his noble life and its glorious achievements.

"To myself has been assigned a simpler and more formal duty, in
fulfillment of which I do now, as President of the United States,
and in behalf of the people, receive this monument from the hands
of its builder, and declare it dedicated from this time forth to
the immortal name and memory of George Washington."

The exercises at the monument concluded, General Sheridan and his
aids formed the procession, consisting of regular and state troops,
the Masonic fraternity, Grand Army posts, and other organizations,
with the invited guests, in carriages, and proceeded to the capitol,
while the cannon at the navy yard, at the artillery headquarters
and at Fort Meyer fired minute guns.

As previously arranged, the address of Mr. Winthrop, which has ever
since been regarded as equal to the occasion, was read by John D.
Long, in the hall of the House of Representatives, before a most
distinguished audience, embracing all the principal officers of
the government and the invited guests. John W. Daniel, of Virginia,
also delivered an eloquent oration.

Thus the Congress celebrated the completion of monuments in enduring
form to two of the greatest men in American history--Washington
and Marshall.

The Congress expired by limitation March 4, 1885.

On the same day, there was inaugurated the first Democratic President
of the United States since the time of James Buchanan. The election
of Cleveland, though not disputed, turned upon a very narrow majority
in New York, and th