"This Society, while it is national and continental in the
scope of its investigations, strikes down its roots into the
soil of this locality, where its founder dwelt, and where its
collections are kept.
"For both these reasons we cherish our relations to Mr. Bancroft.
He was born within a few rods of this spot. He is descended
by the mother's side from an old Worcester County family who
were conspicuous in the administration of its public affairs
long before the Revolution. His father was one of the six
persons who petitioned for the act of incorporation of this
Society, and one of its first members. His brother by marriage,
Governor Davis, was your predecessor in the President' chair.
"These reasons would be enough to induce us to value our relation.
But he has filled a highly honorable and conspicuous place
in public life. He is, I believe, the senior person living
who has been a member of the Cabinet. He is the senior among
living persons who have filled important diplomatic stations.
He has represented the United States at Berlin and at St. James.
"His history is, and doubtless will be, the great standard
authority upon the important period which it covers.
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