" Here there was loud applause. "If you were a
few years older, I doubt not that your efforts would be added to
those of your fathers and brothers who are now encountering the
perils and suffering the privations of war. And with a little
practise I am proud to say that you would not need to be ashamed
of the figure you would cut in the field.
"I have little more to say. I recognize a fitness in the
selection of the work which you have given me. Napoleon is
without doubt the greatest military genius which our modern age
has produced. Yet he lacked one very essential characteristic of
a good soldier. He was more devoted to his own selfish ends than
to the welfare of his country. I shall value your gift for the
good wishes that accompany it, and the recollection of this day
will be among my pleasantest memories."
Mr. Morton here withdrew in the midst of hearty applause.
When he had left the hall a temporary organization for business
purposes was at once effected. Wilbur Summerfield was placed in
the chair, and the meeting proceeded at once to an election of
officers.
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