And now, in conclusion, allow me to make a national and patriotic, as
well as individual application of the motto which you bear upon your
banner. You remember the origin of palms. They were first given to
those among the Romans who were victorious in their games. It was done
in imitation of the Grecian practice of rewarding the victor in the
Olympic feats. And the reason why the palm-tree was made choice of for
the purpose, is because in its growth, it would raise itself above any
weight that might be placed upon it. Indeed the palm-tree is said by
some writers to flourish most when most oppressed. And the palm-tree
may be associated by a most appropriate and beautiful simile with the
American character. Behold it rising from the soil in its strength,
making its way through every opposing obstacle, pushing even the huge
rocks aside, and shooting its head through the air, until it stands in
its majesty, a giant in size and in power, defying the wind and the
storm, and yet bowing gently before the breeze that moves among its
branches. See the tall trunk and proportioned foliage showing the tree
to the sun, a thing of beauty as well as of majesty,――of grace as well
as power. Need I make the application? Turn your thoughts to the years
when the iron hand of oppression lay heavily upon the fathers of this
nation. See how they rose above the power that oppressed them; how
they removed the difficulties that surrounded them; how they pushed
aside the mountain barriers that hung over them; and, how the proud
head of the American came up. See how, amid toil, and tears, and blood,
the glory of the American character arose and shone. See how, in its
majesty and in its might, it appeared before the world, that wondered
at its dignity and grace, while it trembled at its power.