s? In the war of the Revolution, though the
strength of our State was wasted and paralyzed by the unfortunate
divisions which existed among ourselves, yet it may be said with general
truth, that every citizen was in the field, and acquired much of the
qualities of the soldier.

It is true that this advantage will be attended with its compensating
evils and disadvantages; to which we must learn to submit, if we are
determined on the maintenance of our institutions. We are, as yet,
hardly at all aware how little the maxims and practices of modern
civilized governments will apply to us. Standing armies, as they are
elsewhere constituted, we cannot have; for we have not, and for
generations cannot have, the materials out of which they are to be
formed. If we should be involved in serious wars, I have no doubt but
that some sort of conscription, requiring the service of all citizens
for a considerable term, will be necessary. Like the people of Athens,
it will be necessary that every citizen should be a soldier, and
qualified to discharge efficiently the duties of a soldier. It may seem
a melancholy consideration, that an army so made up should be opposed to
the disciplined mercenaries of foreign nations. But we must learn to
know our true situation. But may we not hope, that made up of superior
materials, of men having home and country to defend; inspired by higher
pride of character, of greater intelligence, and trained by an
effective, though honorable discipline, such an army will be more than a
match for mercenaries. The efficiency of an army is determined by the
qualities of its officers, and may we not expect to have a greater
proportion of men better qualified for officers, and possessing the true
spirit of military command. And let it be recollected that if there were
otherwise reason to apprehend danger from insurrection, there will be
the greatest security when there is the largest force on foot within the
country. Then it is that any such attempt would be most instantly and
effectually crushed.

And, perhaps, a wise foresight should induce our State to provide, that
it should have within itself such military knowledge and skill as may be
sufficient to organize, discipline, and command armies, by establishing
a military academy or school of discipline. The school of the militia
will not do for this. From the general opinion of our weakness, if our
country should at any time come into hostile collision, we shall b