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this country； on the practical demonstration it was about to exhibit；
of the happy truth that man is capable of self…government； and only
rendered otherwise by the moral degradation designedly superinduced
on him by the wicked acts of his tyrants。
I have much confidence that we shall proceed successfully for
ages to come； and that； contrary to the principle of Montesquieu； it
will be seen that the larger the extent of country； the more firm its
republican structure； if founded； not on conquest； but in principles
of compact and equality。 My hope of its duration is built much on
the enlargement of the resources of life going hand in hand with the
enlargement of territory； and the belief that men are disposed to
live honestly； if the means of doing so are open to them。 With the
consolation of this belief in the future result of our labors； I have
that of other prophets who foretell distant events； that I shall not
live to see it falsified。 My theory has always been； that if we are
to dream； the flatteries of hope are as cheap； and pleasanter than
the gloom of despair。 I wish to yourself a long life of honors；
health and happiness。