It is often charged that participants in assemblages of this character
are apt to exaggerate the importance of the occasion they commemorate,
and after the manner of one of our poets, sing in chorus: "I celebrate
myself." Perhaps I can speak of the Wyandotte Convention and its work
without being accused of this self-gratulation; for I was more of an
observer of its proceedings than a participant in them. I recorded what
was done, but I had no part or lot in the doing. If its work had been
crude or weak, I could not fairly have been held responsible for the
failure. As it was strong, efficient and enduring, I can felicitate you,
the survivors of those who wrought this great service for Kansas,
without a suspicion of self-praise.