While these sums were devoted to increasing the resources and improving the condition of the country, and in discharging its pecuniary obligations, those claims which were derived from what are termed the imperfect obligations of gratitude and humanity were not forgotten.
"More than five millions of dollars were appropriated to solace the declining years of the surviving officers of the Revolution; and a million and a half expended in extinguishing the Indian title, and defraying the expense of the removal beyond the Mississippi of such tribes as were unqualified for a residence near civilized communities, and in promoting the civilization of those who, relying on the faith of the United States, preferred to remain on the lands which were the abodes of their fathers.
"In the condition which we have described--in peace with all the world, with an increasing revenue, and with a surplus of $5,125,638 in the public treasury,--the administration of the Government of the United States was surrendered by Mr.Adams on the 3d of March, 1829." [Footnote: American Annual Register.] The "Georgia Constitutionalist" thus describes Mr.Adams' retirement from office:--"Mr.Adams is said to be to good health and spirits.

The manner in which this gentleman retired from office is so replete with propriety and dignity, that we are sure history will record it as a laudable example to those who shall hereafter be required by the sovereign people to descend from exalted stations.

It was a great matter with the ancients to die with decency, and there are some of our own day whose deaths are more admirable than their lives.

Mr.Adams' deportment in the Presidency was lofty and proud; but the smile with which he throws aside the trappings of power, and the graceful propriety with which he takes leave of patronage and place, are truly commendable.".