the American people when there were fewer people and less wealth.
The average American must realize that with a more complex civilization and government the duties that devolve upon him individually are more important than before. He must take a broader and better view. He must not consider the law a crutch to take the place of a direct and personal responsibility that our system of government places upon him. He should realize that he is one of many who make government in this country and determine whether it shall be lax or efficient. The law is only the expression of the sound public opinion of many individuals.
During a hundred years Americans have taken a pride in the extent of the country, in its great natural wealth and resources, in its development, and in the large machinery of business and industry that has grown up under their hands. We have been proud that we are big; so much so that we have exposed ourselves sometimes to the smiles of foreigners, who have thought us boastful.
