All we can decide is whether we shall meet them in a way that will redound to the national credit, or whether we shall make of our dealings with these new problems a dark and shameful page in our history.
From his speech on the strenuous life, this passage outlines the moral imperative for a nation to address its responsibilities honorably, rather than shamefully.
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The fate of the leader for the time being is of little consequence, but the cause itself must in the end triumph, for its triumph is essential to the well-being of the American people.
Like all other good citizens, I accept the result with entire good humor and contentment.
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