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18 If we want political information to direct our suf- frages, we want practical science to give us bread. In every department of industry, knowledge is power. Indus try alone cannot compete with industry directed by skill. In the contention of Interests, he who lacks intelligence may lack a roof to shelter his head. Knowledge is the birthright of the Freeman. The knowledge which pertains to his calling is the condition of his success in life. The means of acquiring it should if possible be diffused as freely and widely as the sun light and showers: for there can be no equality of condition, where there is not equal intelligence. This wide and equal diffusion of knowledge touching the industrial interests of a nation is a duty of the Government. To enlighten a great people requires resources which the supreme power only can command. And yet we shall be told that the Consti tution confers no power to legislate in the premises. If it be so, the constitution itself is vicious, and the Gov ernment framed upon it is divested of one of its most important functions - the power to elevate the condition of the people, by means of a comprehensive support of Education.