In connection with the idea, which I have presented of the early sentiment of community independence, I will add the very striking fact that one of the colonies, about the time that they had resolved to unite for the purpose of achieving their independence, addressed the colonial congress to know in what condition they would be in the interval between their separation from the government of Great Britain and the establishment of the government for the colonies.  The answer of the colonial congress was exactly that which might have been expected—­exactly that which state rights democracy would answer to-day, to such an inquiry—­that they must take care of their domestic polity, that the congress “had nothing to do with it.” [Applause.] If such sentiment continued—­if it governed in every state—­if representatives were chosen upon it—­then your halls of legislation would not be disturbed about the question of the domestic concerns of the different states.  The peace of the country would not be hazarded by the arraignment of the family relations of people over whom the government has no control.  In harmony working together, in co-intelligence for the conservation of the interests of the country, in protection to the states and the development of the great ends for which the government was established, what effects might not be produced?  As our government increased in expansion, it would increase in its beneficent influence upon the people; we should increase in fraternity; and it would be no longer a wonder to see a man coming from a southern state to address a Democratic audience in Boston. [Applause, cries of “good, good.”]

But I have referred to the fact that, at an early period, Massachusetts stood pre-eminently forward among those who asserted community independence.  And this reminds me of an incident, in illustration, which occurred when President Washington visited Boston, and John Hancock was Governor.  The latter is reported to have declined to call upon the President, because he contended that every man who came within the limits of Massachusetts must yield rank and precedence to the Governor of the State; and only surrendered the point on account of his personal regard and respect for the character of George Washington.  I honor him for it,—­value it as one of the early testimonies in favor of State Rights, and wish all our governors had the same high estimate of the dignity of the office of Governor of a State as had that great and glorious man. [Applause.]

Thus it appears that the founders of this government were the true Democratic States Rights men.  That Democracy was States rights, and States rights was Democracy, and it is to-day.  Your resolutions breathe it.  The Declaration of Independence embodies the sentiment which had lived in the hearts of the people for many years before its formal assertion.  Our fathers asserted that great principle—­the right of the people to choose the government for themselves—­that