AMERICAN LEGION BOYS' STATE 307

In the last analysis, this essence of individuality and character which
governs the Governor will, in turn, govern the State. For it dictates
and determines the quality and the quantity of leadership which a
Governor will contribute to the State.

Will the Governor consistently demonstrate leadership? Or will he
allow the General Assembly or the State bureaucracy or the current
climate of public opinion to lead him? Will he know when he must
compromise and when he may not? Will he be too daring in his desire
to innovate, too ambitious in his desire to reform? Or will he be too
timid, or too reluctant to make decisive changes in State policy? Will
he be dedicated to pursuing excellence or will he complacently accept
the status quo? Each of these characteristics will have a great influence
and a profound impact upon the responsible execution of the duties
and functions of his office.

The character of the Governor can and often does become the
character of his administration. The spirit, integrity and confidence
of a Governor can be injected into his administration. The state of
mind which a Governor brings to this office can influence and change
the State of Maryland.

This week you are here to participate in a drama of political leader-
ship which parallels the very real experience going on in the State,
county and municipal governments at this moment. It is, or it can be,
much more than an amusing interlude in your summer vacation, if
you have gained an ounce more knowledge and insight and dedication
through this experience. Your participation in Boys' State indicates
your interest in one day taking up residence in the State House, or
a county office building or a city hall. However, regardless of where
that may be and no matter what the textbook definition of the role
and responsibility of your office will be, your character will be the ulti-
mate and determining factor in how that role is performed and the
way in which those responsibilities are met.

Therefore, if your interest should develop into aspiration and am-
bition you will do well to prepare yourself in advance. For everything
that you can learn along the way will enhance your chances to succeed
and the State's chances to be administered by a competent and quali-
fied leader. Hopefully, by the time one of you would assume my office
as Governor, the State administration will have been reorganized to
provide a more manageable structure than the 240 separate agencies,
departments, commissions and bureaus which presently report directly
to the Governor. However, even with the most efficient, economic and