One hundred and thirteen years ago, at this precise hour of 12 o'clock, Cornwallis surrendered to the combined forces of Washington and Rochambeau ; peace was declared, and independence secured. To the achievement of these blessings which we are now enjoying, the men whose names are to-day upon our lips with silent veneration and gratitude, these men contributed, and the Sous of the Revolution are proud to bear witness to their valor, which is now a part of the history of our country and to commemorate whose virtues we dedicate this monument. Indeed, the constitution of the Society imposes such a duty upon its members in keeping before the public mind the men and events of the Revolution, and inspiring among the people, and especially among the descendants of the officers and soldiers of the Revolution, a patriotic feeling. But no monument that human hands could raise would equal in grandeur and magnificence the monument your presence erects in your enthusiastic admiration of the men whose memories we honor to-day. I see around me men of Revolutionary lineage ; the General Government and the .State Government are represented ; strains of martial music and the roar of cannon tell of your enthusiasm. The scene is purely American, and whatever may be the nationality of some who listen to me, you all united in the prayers which have been made to Almighty God to continue his blessings to our people and to our laud.

The love of freedom is a distinguishing trait of our people, and we are grateful to-day to meet together to renew our allegiance to our Government and to express our gratitude to the heroes to whom we erect this monument, and for the liberty we enjoy. What would we give if they could be among us to tell us of their trials and ask us to share in their triumphs.