Shooting from the lip

“The lure of profit… their false leadership, they… know only the rules of a generation of self-seekers. They have no vision, and when there is no vision the people perish.

“These dark days will be worth all they cost us if they teach us… the false belief that public office and high political position are (for) personal profit; there must be an end to… callous and selfish wrongdoing. Small wonder that confidence languishes, for it thrives only on honesty, on honour… This Nation asks for action, and action now.

“Our greatest primary task is to put people to work. This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously. It can be accomplished in part by… treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war… but it can never be helped merely by talking about it. We must act and act quickly… putting our own national house in order… to restore world trade…

“With this pledge taken, I assume unhesitatingly the leadership of this great army of our people, dedicated to a disciplined attack upon our common problems.

“Our Constitution is so simple and practical that it is possible always to meet extraordinary needs…

“For the trust… in me, I will (offer) courage and… devotion. I can do no less.

“We face the arduous days that lie before us in the warm courage of national unity; with… old and precious moral values… the stern performance of duty by old and young alike.

“The people… want direct, vigorous action.

“We humbly ask the blessing of God. May He protect each and every one of us. May He guide me in the days to come,” the leader prayed. Timeous words. By whom? Franklin D Roosevelt, on March 4, 1933 – edits from his speech, sworn in as the 32nd President of the US.

A leader to salute.