souls. It was easily perceived that it feelingly mingled in the interest
which we took in America and in the public vows which we preferred for
your liberty.

At last the hour of the French has arrived. We love to think that the
citizens of the United States have not regarded with indifference our
steps toward liberty. Twenty-six millions of men breaking their chains
and seriously occupied in giving themselves a durable constitution are
not unworthy the esteem of a generous people who have preceded them in
that noble career.

We hope they will learn with interest the funeral homage which we
have rendered the Nestor of America. May this solemn act of fraternal
friendship serve more and more to bind the tie which ought to unite two
free nations. May the common enjoyment of liberty shed itself over the
whole globe and become an indissoluble chain of connection among all
the people of the earth. For ought they not to perceive that they will
march more steadfastly and more certainly to their true happiness in
understanding and loving each other than in being jealous and fighting?

May the Congress of the United States and the National Assembly of
France be the first to furnish this fine spectacle to the world! And
may the individuals of the two nations connect themselves by a mutual
affection worthy of the friendship which unites the two men at this
day most illustrious by their exertions for liberty--Washington and
Lafayette!

Permit me, Mr. President, to offer on this occasion my particular homage
of esteem and admiration.