or later convince my countrymen, that I
could have no sinister views in delivering, with so little reserve,
the opinions contained in this address.

"There are four things which I humbly conceive are essential to the
well-being, I may even venture to say, to the existence of the
United States, as an independent power.

"1st. An indissoluble union of the states under one federal head.

"2dly. A sacred regard to public justice.

"3dly. The adoption of a proper peace establishment. And,

"4thly. The prevalence of that pacific and friendly disposition
among the people of the United States, which will induce them to
forget their local prejudices and politics, to make those mutual
concessions which are requisite to the general prosperity, and in
some instances to sacrifice their individual advantages to the
interest of the community.

"These are the pillars on which the glorious fabric of our
independence and national character must be supported. Liberty is
the basis, and whoever would dare to sap the foundation, or
overturn the structure, under whatever specious pretext he may
attempt it, will merit the bitterest execration and the severest
punishment which can be inflicted by his injured country."

With close and admirable logic he expatiated upon these four heads; and
with the earnestness of most profound conviction, he urged the
importance of union, and the vesting of the federal Congress with
greater power. He then made a warm and generous plea for the army, while
treating upon the subject of public justice. Concerning proposed
half-pay and commutation, he observed:--

"As to the idea, which I am informed has, in some instances,
prevailed, that the half-pay and commutation are to be regarded
merely in the odious light of a pension, it ought to be exploded
for ever; that provision should be viewed, as it really was, a
reasonable compensation offered by Congress, at a time when they
had nothing else to give to officers of the army, for services
then to be performed: it was the only means to prevent a total
dereliction of the service; it was a part of their hire. I may be
allowed to say, it was the price of their blood, and of your
independency; it is, therefore, more than a common debt, it is a
debt of honor; it can never be considered as a pension or gratuity,