One has all the best of the past, the other foreshadows a better future; and the men who wrote them are the only men who have written of the subject with that perfect frankness and perfect knowledge and perfect poise whose other name is genius.
Washington reflects on the duality of historical perspectives and future possibilities, emphasizing the importance of genuine insight and knowledge.
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If my life in the past has meant anything in the lifting up of my people and the bringing about of better relations between your race and mine, I assure you from this day it will mean doubly more.
The great human law that in the end recognizes and rewards merit is everlasting and universal.
This country demands that every race shall measure itself by the American standard.
How shall we make the mansion on yon Beacon Street feel and see the need of the spirits in the lowliest cabin in Alabama cotton-fields or Louisiana sugar-bottoms?