blesses our country; our fiscal policy is fixed by law, is well grounded, and generally approved.  No threatening issue mars our foreign intercourse, and the wisdom, integrity, and thrift of our people may be trusted to continue undisturbed the present assured career of peace, tranquillity, and welfare.  The gloom and anxiety which have enshrouded the country must make repose especially welcome now.  No demand for speedy legislation has been heard.  No adequate occasion is apparent for an unusual session of Congress.  The Constitution defines the functions and powers of the executive as clearly as those of either of the other two departments of the government, and he must answer for the just exercise of the discretion it permits and the performance of the duties it imposes.  Summoned to these high duties and responsibilities, and profoundly conscious of their magnitude and gravity, I assume the trust imposed by the Constitution, relying for aid on Divine guidance and the virtue, patriotism, and intelligence of the American people.

* * * * *

As President Arthur read his message his voice trembled, but his manner was impressive, and the eyes of many present were moistened with tears.  The first one to congratulate him when he had concluded was Chief Justice Waite, and the next was Secretary Blaine.  After shaking him by the hand, those present left the room, which was closed to all except the members of the Cabinet, who there held their first conference with the President.  At this cabinet meeting the following proclamation was prepared and signed by President Arthur, designating the following Monday as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer:—­

     By the President of the United States of America;

     A proclamation: 

Whereas, in his inscrutable wisdom, it has pleased God to remove from us the illustrious head of the Nation, James A. Garfield, late President of the United States; and whereas it is fitting that the deep grief which fills all hearts should manifest itself with one accord toward the throne of infinite grace, and that we should bow before the Almighty and seek from him that consolation in our affliction and that sanctification of our loss which he is able and willing to vouchsafe: 

Now, therefore, in obedience to sacred duty, and in accordance with the desire of the people, I, Chester A. Arthur, President of the United States of America, do hereby appoint Monday next, the twenty-sixth day of September, on which day the remains of our honored and beloved dead will be consigned to their last resting-place on earth; to be observed throughout the United States as a day of humiliation and mourning; and I earnestly recommend all the people to assemble on that day in their respective places of divine worship, there to render alike their tribute of sorrowful submission to the will of Almighty God and of reverence and love for the memory and character of our late Chief Magistrate.

     In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
     of the United States to be affixed.