mpt to name a civilized country whose sons
and daughters have not contributed to the glorious triumphs of
peace recorded here. In vain will you seek a more cosmopolitan
and at the same time a more homogeneous population than that of
the Louisiana territory. The purchase facilitated by the
exigencies of European war, and made in a season of darkness and
peril, has proven a boon not only to the grantor and the
grantee, but to humanity at large, for here the nations have
commingled, and the brotherhood of man has become a demonstrated
possibility.

As a means of giving expression to the universal appreciation of
what has been accomplished for humanity within this field during
the century, the Louisiana Purchase Exposition was organized
under authority of an act of Congress. With the aid of the
United States Government and the city of St. Louis, the
Exposition Company, through its officers, agents, and employees,
has erected the majestic exposition buildings whose massive
proportions and classical outlines excite the wonder and
admiration of the vast multitude assembled within and about
their walls.

To everyone present is accorded the privilege of assisting in
the dedication of these buildings to their intended use. The
President of the United States honors us by being present to
extend his greetings and to voice the approving sentiments of
his countrymen.

Moved by a broad and generous spirit, the nations of the earth,
from the empire of most ancient origin to the republic of
twentieth-century creation, dignifies the occasion by the
presence of their accredited representatives. Our home folks
from all the States, Territories, and districts betoken by their
numbers and enthusiasm the interest of the body of the people in
the exposition and the great historic event it is intended to
commemorate.

In the name of the National Commission, directed by Congress to
provide for the dedication ceremonies, I extend to you all a
cordial welcome, and as responsive to this inspiring scene of
peace and generous feeling, I call upon the chorus to favor us
with Beethoven's Creation hymn.

Those best informed will, by unanimous consent, yield to Hon.
David R. Francis, president of the company, the highest measure
of praise for the organization of the exposition and the