In so doing the younger generation did but complete the
work of Washington, for he it was who first trod the path and marked
the way for a true American policy in the midst of men who could not
understand his purposes.
Bitter and violent as had been the attacks upon Washington while he
held office, they were as nothing compared to the shout of fierce
exultation which went up from the opposition journals when he finally
retired from the presidency. One extract will serve as an example of
the general tone of the opposition journals throughout the country. It
is to be found in the "Aurora" of March 6, 1797:--
"'Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace,' was the
pious ejaculation of a pious man who beheld a flood of happiness
rushing in upon mankind. If ever there was a time that would
license the reiteration of the ejaculation, that time has now
arrived, for the man who is the source of all the misfortunes
of our country is this day reduced to a level with his
fellow-citizens, and is no longer possessed of power to multiply
evils upon the United States. If ever there was a period for
rejoicing, this is the moment. Every heart in unison with the
freedom and happiness of the people ought to beat high with
exultation that the name of Washington ceases from this day to
give currency to political insults, and to legalize corruption. A
new era is now opening upon us, an era which promises much to the
people, for public measures must now stand upon their own merits,
and nefarious projects can no longer be supported by a name.
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