I am actually taking the day off today, so today's column will be brief. As a matter of fact, this may be the briefest column ever seen on this site.

Because we celebrate the birthday of George Washington today, I offer up for your reading pleasure the briefest of his speeches. This, in its entirety, was Washington's second inaugural address -- which set a brevity record that has never been touched since. In this spirit (and in the spirit of taking today as a holiday), this will constitute the entirety of today's column, as well. In his own words, here is President George Washington:

Fellow-citizens: I am again called upon by the voice of my country to execute the functions of its Chief Magistrate. When the occasion proper for it shall arrive, I shall endeavor to express the high sense I entertain of this distinguished honor, and of the confidence which has been reposed in me by the people of united America.

Previous to the execution of any official act of the President the Constitution requires an oath of office. This oath I am now about to take, and in your presence: That if it shall be found during my administration of the Government I have in any instance violated willingly or knowingly the injunctions thereof, I may (beside incurring constitutional punishment) be subject to the upbraidings of all who are now witnesses of the present solemn ceremony.

-- Chris Weigant

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