National Sovereignty

The growth and development of our country and its marvelous progress in every direction have been dwelt upon so constantly in what our critics characterize as a spirit of boastfulness and over­ weening national self-conceit, that almost any reference to this stupendous theme seems trite and commonplace. If we compare our country as it existed when the Federal Constitution was adopted, in extent of territory, in population and in wealth, with our present situation, the retrospect is astounding and overwhelming. It is not my purpose to rehearse the epic story of this mighty nation, inspiring and exalting as it is. I desire only as the basis for what I have to say to you today, to refer briefly to certain tendencies which have marked our growth and development and which, while they have not escaped the attention of statesmen and lawyers, have not been allowed that full expression in our political and governmental system to which they are undoubtedly entitled, and which inevitably they will yet command.