Excerpt from Inaugural Address Delivered at the Annual Commencement of Knox College, Galesburg, Ill: June 25, A. D. 1863

Gentlemen of The Board of Trustees:

After an absence of twenty-five years, with the exception of nine months and occasional visits, I find myself in the State of Illinois. Under her serene and brilliant heavens, my youth passed into manhood. Along her quiet streams, through her beautiful groves, and over her broad prairies, I have roved, when life was fresh as the flowers of spring that met my eye, and restless as the grass that waved around me in the gentle breeze. Some of my happiest recollections are of her. Some of my purest and sweetest associations are with her. Into life"s texture she has woven many a golden thread, and imparted many a brilliant color. Here not only youth put on physical strength, but within the walls of one of her literary institutions she taught my mind to think, and sent me forth to gather honors in the walks of science, literature, and professional life. And here, too, I trust, I found that jewel of the heart, which is above all price - the pearl of eternal life. I owe ranch to this State. I would discharge the obligation.

Gentlemen: You have elected me to the Presidency of Knox College; a position of dignity and responsibility, enabling me to complete life"s work where its foundation was laid. I acknowledge the honor. I feel fully the magnitude of the trust. The only drawback upon the present hour is the deep consciousness of my limited ability to accomplish all the good I desire.

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