That it is to be struck by this hand, I invite you to witness .-- [Here the stroke of the spade.] [Footnote: Attending this action was an incident which produced a greater sensation than, any other that occurred during the day.

The spade which the President held, struck a root, which prevented its penetrating the, earth.

Not deterred by trifling obstacles from doing what he had deliberately resolved to perform, Mr.
Adams tried it again, with no better success.

Thus foiled, he threw down the spade, hastily stripped off and laid aside his coat, and went seriously to work.

The multitude around, and on the hills and trees, who could not hear, because of their distance from the open space, but could see and understand, observing this action, raised a loud and unanimous cheering, which continued for some time after Mr.Adams had mastered the difficulty.] And in performing this act, I call upon you to join me in fervent supplication to Him from whom that primitive injunction came, that he would follow with his blessing, this joint effort of our great community, to perform his will in the subjugation of the earth for the improvement of the condition of man--that he would make it one of his chosen instruments for the preservation, prosperity, and perpetuity of our Union--that he would have in his holy keeping all the workmen by whose labors it is to be completed--that their lives and their health may be precious in his sight; and that they may live to see the work of their hands contribute to the comforts and enjoyments of millions of their countrymen.
"Friends and brethren: Permit me further to say, that I deem the duty, now performed at the request of the President and Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, and the Corporations of the District of Columbia, one of the most fortunate incidents of my life.