But for too long all the arts have had an uncertain footing in our society.

We are extremely proud of you for that.

We know more than man has ever known before.

When this measure is signed, it will be one of the most historic enactments of any Congress in this century.

And we think, as Emerson once put it, 'that our civilization is near its meridian, but we are yet only at the cock crowing and the morning star.'

For much too long we have denied at our nation's capital the principles of representative government for which we stand throughout the world.

I am not disturbed by what some describe as the restlessness among young Americans today, because I share that feeling with you.

If you want to change what you have seen this summer, and if you want to improve upon it, and if you believe this Government can and should do a better job for all the people, then I am proud of you.

This is no less than a national disgrace.

As it was 189 years ago, so today the cause of America is a revolutionary cause.

Big government is not the end that we seek.

I am the man who turns out the lights around this house.

This country can be very proud of you young people.

I cannot emphasize too strongly my conviction that this action by the Senate must not meet the fate of home rule bills passed by the Senate in previous Congresses.

If you feel like protesting, I hope you will.

So under times and conditions such as those in which we live, I believe it is imperative that America's arts be encouraged and be supported more actively.

We have declared war on ignorance and illiteracy, we have declared war on poverty, we have declared war on disease, and we have declared war on tyranny and aggression.

I am very indebted to you for this attractive silver bowl and I shall remember this occasion with a great deal of pleasure.