The President before the International Congress of Students, at the Executive Offices

I have only to extend to extend to you a very simple but a very hearty word of welcome. Just a few minutes ago, I took part in a little meeting which indicated a different sort of international intercourse, by presenting a cup won in a yacht race; but even more interesting than the international competition in sport is the international competition in mind and in character. I feel that the modern world is engaged in a sort of competition to see which will produce not only the greatest manufacturers and the most extended trade but the men of most elevated and capable character and intellect. I think that this little gathering represents one of the most promising things of modern life, namely, the intimate intercourse of men who are engaged in studying those things which have nothing to do with international boundaries but have only to do with the elevation of the mind and the spirit. I am sincerely obliged to you for giving me this pleasure.