438 PROCEEDINGS, &C. 



clnef end it is to collect, arrange, and disseminate the productions of mind and art. 

 The want of such an association in the United States for the whole Un.on 

 became manifest, and out of that conviction has arisen the National Institute^ 

 Congress, impressed with its importance, has given it a corporate existence ; and 

 the attention of the world, as is proven by the voluntary contributions which d>s. 

 tant countries have already made to its collections, has been turned to it. That .t 

 has interested in its behalf the men of science of the United States, actively and 

 zealously, this assemblage fully demonstrates. The Government itself, I doubt 

 not. so far as it is authorized by the instrument of its own creation, will continue 

 to it a fostering care. Where can it find a safer depository for the fruits of its 

 expeditions, fitted out to explore distant and unknown regions, than the National 

 Institute' What can it bettor do for the "increase and diffusion of knowledge 

 amon<r men," than by patronizing and sustaining this magnificent undertakmg ? 



But"! must here cease. When I rose, it was simply my intention to have 

 returned you my thanks for the honor of having been requested to preside over 

 your deliberations to day; and I will no longer detain you from tho banquet which 

 awaits you. I now present to you the Hon. Mr. Walker, of Mississippi, who 

 will deliver the introductory address. 



