e marvelous genius and masterly pen gave form
to that immortal paper which proclaimed liberty to all mankind. These
are names never to be forgotten. These men were the founders of the
Republic. Their name and fame are secure, and in the centuries which are
to follow will be treasured by a grateful and loving people among their
choicest possessions. Mr. Speaker, the nation gladly accepts and will
sacredly keep this invaluable relic. The article itself may be
inconsiderable, but with this simple desk we associate a grand
achievement. Upon it was written the great charter of civil liberty,
the Declaration of American Independence. We pay to the heroic hand
who signed that wager of battle the honors which are paid to the
heroes of the battlefield. It was not valor alone which secured to us
self-government. The leaders in the revolt against the tyranny and the
established institutions of the old world had courage of opinion and
were full of mature wisdom and incorruptible patriotism. The men who
signed the paper pledging their lives, their fortunes and their sacred
honor in support of the Declaration, and who made their fearless appeal
to God and the world in behalf of the rights of mankind, were both
lion-hearted and noble-minded.

Upon this desk was written in words as pure and true as the word of
inspiration that document which opened up 'a new era in the history
of the civilized world.' Its fit resting place is with the nation's
choicest treasures. It is a precious memorial of Jefferson, more
eloquent and suggestive than any statue of marble or bronze which may
commemorate his deeds. In accepting it in the name of the nation we
recognize the elevated private character, the eminent virtue, the
profound knowledge, the lofty statesmanship, and the sincere patriotism
of Jefferson, and we honor him as the father of popular government and
as the great apostle of liberty.

To the pledge of safe custody with which we accept this gift, we join
the solemn promise that with still greater fidelity we will guard the
inheritance of free institutions which has come to us through the valor
of Washington and the wisdom of Jefferson, and that we will faithfully
transmit, undimmed and unbroken, their richest legacies--"Liberty and the
Union."

At the Republican State Convention held in Worcester, September 21,
1881, Congressman Crapo was chosen president, and made an address which
was regarded as a splendid defence of the Republican Par