Ben Harrison: “By virtue of the power in me vested by the statutes hereinbefore mentioned, I do hereby declare and make known that all…”

That event is interesting in itself, but its interest to me is in the fact that this ship is the type and precursor of many others.

I believe we have reached an epoch in our development when we may successfully begin the work of carrying our share of the world's commerce upon the seas.

As these vacancies could not be filled immediately, the business of the courts would seriously suffer.

It gives me pleasure to consummate here to-day, by the act of lifting this flag, the efforts in support of a principle to which I give my hearty support.