A presidential address reflects on the growth of national institutions and urges a balanced approach to reform: vigorously expose political and economic wrongdoing, yet avoid sensational or untruthful attacks that erode public trust and deter capable service. Employing the muck-raker metaphor, the speaker praises honest investigators while warning that indiscriminate character assaults produce cynicism, enable knavery, and dull moral discrimination. The address calls for sober, truthful criticism and measured public conduct that combine resolute opposition to corruption with recognition of the many forces of good in society.