A Tragedy’s Lesson

     The closing of the Czolgosz tragedy brings a sense of relief to the American people.
     Law and organized free government have been vindicated. Having committed a terrible crime which caused profound grief and aroused strong indignation in the hearts of the whole nation, there was not an act of violence, but the law was permitted to take its course. The wisdom and patience of a great free people and their faith in and devotion to free institutions were demonstrated.
     There is cause for congratulation in this fact. There is also cause for congratulation in the orderly and effective manner in which the processes of the law were carried out.
     The tragedy was deprived of all significance except as a horrible and foolish crime. Free government is strengthened and the devotion of the people to their institutions of government is intensified.
     But the crime has conveyed a lesson. It has sharply defined the difference between liberty and license, legitimate agitation and dangerous incitement to violence. It has emphasized by the death of a beloved and kindly chief magistrate the malign character and influence of the teachings of anarchy, even in the home of freedom.
     The people understand now better than ever what true freedom and progress are and what they mean. They value more than ever the civilization which has been wrought out in this republic.