itting. Its
very name breathes the spirit of its French ancestry to whom we
are so greatly indebted, and its geographical situation is
preeminently satisfactory.

To guard our shores, to make impregnable our southern border
against foreign assault, and to enlarge the scope of our
commerce and liberty was the controlling thought of Thomas
Jefferson and his compatriots when the "Purchase Territory" was
added to the American Union. Fifteen millions of dollars
represented the purchase price, and by a happy coincidence which
may not have been altogether accidental, $15,000,000 represented
the basic sum by which this exposition first became
possible--$5,000,000 contributed by the city of St. Louis,
$5,000,000 raised by popular subscription, and $5,000,000 given
by the National Government. Missouri has since appropriated
$1,000,000, that her resources may be fittingly exploited, while
your States have in turn liberally set apart amounts which will
lend the magnificence of their products to the scene.

To-day closes the celebration incident to the dedicatory
exercises of the exposition, and in the hour of greeting we are
reminded that soon we must part for a time. The panoply of war
in the execution of our regular and citizen soldiery has joined
with the pomp and pageantry of civil life. Their commingling is
further proof of the pride of the people in all the institutions
of our country. Civilian and soldier have given the weight of
their influence to make more impressive the scenes attendant on
this display, and will be equally enthusiastic when the gates of
the great exhibition are formally opened. Months will pass
before that event, but in the meantime an army of the employed
will perfect the scheme which, in its full fruition, will herald
abroad the triumph of this wonderful exposition.

In conclusion, permit me to say, the welcome of every true
Missourian is yours, and in parting a cordial adieu is wafted
with the hope expressed for a safe return to your homes and to
your people.

Fourth. Music by the Marine Band.

Fifth. Response by Hon. Benj. B. Odell, jr., governor of New York, as
follows:

The past, with all of its achievements, with all its successes,
is to us but an incentive and guide for the future progress of
our country. America still beckons to the oppressed