Page:The World's Famous Orations Volume 10.djvu/284

 THE WORLD'S FAMOUS ORATIONS

are brought more and more in touch with each other, the less occasion is there for misunder- standings, and the stronger the disposition, when we have differences, to adjust them in the court of arbitration, which is the noblest forum for the settlement of international disputes.

My fellow citizens, trade statistics indicate that this country is in a state of unexampled prosper- ity. The figures are almost appalling. They show that we are utilizing our fields and forests and mines, and that we are furnishing profitable employment to the millions of workingmen throughout the United States, bringing comfort and happiness to their homes, and making it possible to lay by savings for old age and disa- bility. That all the people are participating in this great prosperity is seen in every Ameri- can community and shown by the enormous and unprecedented deposits in our savings banks. Our duty in the care and security of these de- posits and their safe investment demands the highest integrity and the best business capacity of those in charge of these depositories of the people's earnings.

We have a vast and intricate business, built up through years of toil and struggle in which every part of the country has its stake, which will not permit of either neglect or of undue selfishness. No narrow, sordid policy will sub- serve it. The greatest skill and wisdom on the part of manufacturers and producers will be re- quired to hold and increase it. Our industrial 244

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