"The Committee of arrangement for the dinner for Gen. Lafayette," Washington, D.C., to James Monroe, 1825 January 1

Washington 1st. Jany. 1825.
The Committee of arrangement for the Dinner to Gen. Lafayette presents their most respectful compliments to the President of the U. S, and inform him that in consequence of their not being aware that they would have the pleasure of his company, they have been deprived of the opportunity of extending timely invitations to his Family—The President will he so good therefore as to assure these Gentlemen that their presence at the dinner will be peculiarly acceptable to the Committee. The Committee take this opportunity of enclosing a toast which is intended to be given on the occasion.
Toast
The President of the U. States, our respectability abroad, & prosperity at home are the best eulogy of his administration.
[Monroe's draft reply below is included with the invitation]
I cannot but be deeply affected, by the generous sentiments, which you have express'd, in favor of my conduct, in the high trust., which I have so long held from my country. In our respectability abroad and prosperity at home, no one can take, a more profound interest, than I do. It is to the virtue, and intelligence of our fellow citizens, that we owe this success; & I see in it the most decisive proof, of the excellence, and stability, of our republican institutions. That I have exerted my best faculties, in a long course of public service, to support these institutions, & to promote the welfare & happiness, of our union, is most certain. To receive this public acknowledgment, from so distinguished an assembly, collected on an occasion, so highly interesting & honorable to the nation, affords me a gratification which I shall for ever cherish.