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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Famous American Statesmen, by Sarah Knowles
+Bolton
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: Famous American Statesmen
+
+
+Author: Sarah Knowles Bolton
+
+
+
+Release Date: February 29, 2012  [eBook #39012]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Darleen Dove, Julia Neufeld, and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images generously made
+available by Internet Archive (http://www.archive.org)
+
+
+
+Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this
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+
+
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive. See
+      http://www.archive.org/details/famousamericanst00bolt2
+
+
+Transcriber's note:
+
+      Text enclosed by underscores is in italics (_italics_).
+
+      Small capital text has been replaced with all capitals.
+
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN
+
+by
+
+SARAH K. BOLTON
+
+Author of "Poor Boys Who Became Famous," "Girls Who
+Became Famous," "Famous American Authors,"
+"Stories from Life," "From Heart and Nature," etc.
+
+
+"A nation has no possessions so valuable as its great men,
+living or dead."--HON. JOHN BIGELOW.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+New York
+Thomas Y. Crowell & Co.
+No. 13 Astor Place
+
+Copyright, 1888, By
+Thomas Y. Crowell & Co.
+
+Electrotyped
+By C. J. Peters and Son, Boston.
+
+Presswork by Berwick & Smith, Boston.
+
+
+
+
+  To
+
+  THOMAS Y. CROWELL.
+
+  RESPECTED AS A PUBLISHER
+  AND
+  ESTEEMED AS A FRIEND.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+"With the great, one's thoughts and manners easily become great; ...
+what this country longs for is personalities, grand persons, to
+counteract its materialities," says Emerson. Such lives as are sketched
+in this book are a constant inspiration, both to young and old. They
+teach Garfield's oft-repeated maxim, that "the genius of success is
+still the genius of labor." They teach patriotism--a deeper love for and
+devotion to America. They teach that life, with some definite and noble
+purpose, is worth living.
+
+I have written of Abraham Lincoln, one of our greatest and best
+statesmen, in "Poor Boys Who Became Famous," which will explain its
+omission from this volume.
+
+                                                    S. K. B.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+                          PAGE
+
+  GEORGE WASHINGTON         1
+
+  BENJAMIN FRANKLIN        38
+
+  THOMAS JEFFERSON         67
+
+  ALEXANDER HAMILTON       99
+
+  ANDREW JACKSON          133
+
+  DANIEL WEBSTER          177
+
+  HENRY CLAY              230
+
+  CHARLES SUMNER          268
+
+  ULYSSES S. GRANT        307
+
+  JAMES A. GARFIELD       361
+
+[Illustration: G. Washington signature]
+
+
+
+
+GEORGE WASHINGTON.
+
+
+The "purest figure in history," wrote William E. Gladstone of George
+Washington.
+
+When Frederick the Great sent his portrait to Washington, he sent with
+it these remarkable words: "From the oldest general in Europe to the
+greatest general in the world."
+
+Lord Brougham said: "It will be the duty of the historian, and the sage
+of all nations, to let no occasion pass of commemorating this
+illustrious man; and until time shall be no more will a test of the
+progress which our race has made in wisdom and virtue be derived from
+the veneration paid to the immortal name of Washington."
+
+At Bridge's Creek, Maryland, in a substantial home, overlooking the
+Potomac, George Washington was born, February 22, 1732. His father,
+Augustine, was descended from a distinguished family in England--William
+de Hertburn, a knight who owned the village of Wessyngton (Washington).
+He married, at the age of twenty-one, Jane Butler, who died thirteen
+years afterward. Two years after her death he married Mary Ball, a
+beautiful girl, of decided character and sterling common-sense. She
+became a good mother to his two motherless children; two having died in
+early childhood.
+
+Six children were born to them, George being the eldest. The
+opportunities for education in the new world, especially on a
+plantation, were limited. From one of his father's tenants, the sexton
+of the parish, George learned to read, write, and cipher. He was fond of
+military things, and organized among the scholars sham-fights and
+parades; taking the position usually of commander-in-chief, by common
+consent. This love of war might have come through the influence of his
+half-brother Lawrence, who had been in battles in the West Indies.
+
+When George was twelve, his father died suddenly, leaving Mary Ball, at
+thirty-seven, to care for her own five children, one having died in
+infancy, and two boys by the first marriage. Fortunately, a large estate
+was left them, which she was to control till they became of age.
+
+While she loved her children tenderly, she exacted the most complete
+obedience. She was dignified and firm, yet cheerful, and possessed an
+unusually sweet voice. To his mother's intelligence and moral training
+George attributed his success in life. She would gather her children
+about her daily, and read to them from Matthew Hale's "Contemplations,
+Divine and Moral." The book had been loved by the first wife, who wrote
+in it, "Jane Washington." Under this George's mother wrote, "and Mary
+Washington." This book was always preserved with tender care at Mount
+Vernon, in later years. Such teaching the boy never forgot. When he was
+thirteen, he wrote "Rules of courtesy and decent behavior in company and
+conversation," one hundred and ten maxims, which seemed to have great
+influence over him.
+
+At fourteen, he desired to enter the navy, and a midshipman's warrant
+was procured by his brother Lawrence. Now he could see the world, and
+was happy at the prospect. All winter long, the mother's heart ached as
+she thought of the separation, and finally, when his clothing had been
+taken on board of a British man-of-war, her affection triumphed, and the
+lad was kept in his Virginia home; kept for a great work. However
+disappointed he may have been, his mother's word was law. Those who
+learn to obey in youth learn also how to govern in later life. George
+went back to school to study arithmetic and land-surveying. He was
+thorough in his work, and his record books, still preserved, are neat
+and exact.
+
+It is never strange that a boy who idolizes his mother should think
+other women lovable. At fifteen, the bashful, manly boy had given his
+heart to a girl about his own age, and it was long before he could
+conquer the affection. A year later he wrote to a friend, "I might, was
+my heart disengaged, pass my time very pleasantly, as there's a very
+agreeable young lady lives in the same house; but as that's only adding
+fuel to fire, it makes me the more uneasy, for by often and unavoidably
+being in company with her revives my former passion for your Lowland
+Beauty; whereas, was I to live more retired from young women, I might in
+some measure alleviate my sorrows, by burying that chaste and
+troublesome passion in the grave of oblivion."
+
+Years afterwards, the son of this "Lowland Beauty," General Henry Lee,
+became a favorite with Washington in the Revolutionary War; possibly all
+the more loved from tender recollections of the mother. General Lee was
+the father of General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army, in the
+Civil War.
+
+At sixteen, the real work of Washington's life began. Lord Fairfax of
+Virginia desired his large estates beyond the Blue Ridge to be surveyed,
+and he knew that the youth had the courage to meet the Indians in the
+wilderness, and would do his work well.
+
+Washington and a friend set out on horseback for the valley called by
+the Indians Shenandoah, "the daughter of the stars." He made a record
+daily of the beauty of the trees--every refined soul loves trees almost
+as though they were human--and the richness of the soil, and selected
+the best sites for townships. In his diary he says, "A blowing, rainy
+night, our straw upon which we were lying took fire, but I was luckily
+preserved by one of our men awaking when it was in a flame." For three
+years he lived this exposed life, sleeping out-of-doors, gaining
+self-reliance, and a knowledge of the Indians, which knowledge he was
+soon to need.
+
+Trouble had begun already in the Ohio valley, between the French and
+English, in their claims to the territory. No wonder a sachem asked,
+"The French claim all the land on one side of the Ohio, the English
+claim all the land on the other side--now, where does the Indians' land
+lie?"
+
+Virginia began to make herself ready for a war which seemed inevitable.
+She divided her province into military districts, and placed one in
+charge of the young surveyor, only nineteen, who was made adjutant
+general with the rank of major. Thus early did the sincere, self-poised
+young man take upon himself great responsibilities. Washington at once
+began to make himself ready for his duties, by studying military
+tactics; taking lessons in field-work from his brother Lawrence, and
+sword exercise from a soldier. This drill was broken in upon for a time
+by the illness and death of Lawrence, of whom he was very fond, and whom
+he accompanied to the Barbadoes. Here George took small-pox, from which
+he was slightly marked through life. The only child of Lawrence soon
+died, and Mount Vernon came to George by will. He was now a person of
+wealth, but riches did not spoil him. He did not seek ease; he sought
+work and honor.
+
+Matters were growing worse in the Ohio valley. The Virginians had
+erected forts at what is now Pittsburg; and the French, about fifteen
+miles south of Lake Erie. Governor Dinwiddie determined to make a last
+remonstrance with the French who should thus presume to come upon
+English territory. The way to their forts lay through an unsettled
+wilderness, a distance of from five hundred to six hundred miles. Some
+Indian tribes favored one nation; some the other. The governor offered
+this dangerous commission--a visit to the French--to several persons,
+who hastened to decline with thanks the proffered honor.
+
+Young Washington, with his brave heart, was willing to undertake the
+journey, and started September 30, 1753, with horses, tents, and other
+necessary equipments. They found the rivers swollen, so that the horses
+had to swim. The swamps, in the snow and rain, were almost impassable.
+At last they arrived at the forts, early in December. Washington
+delivered his letter to the French, and an answer was written to the
+governor.
+
+On December 25, Washington and his little party started homeward. The
+horses were well-nigh exhausted, and the men dismounted, put on Indian
+hunting-dress, and toiled on through the deepening snow. Washington, in
+haste to reach the governor, strapped his pack on his shoulders, and,
+gun in hand, with one companion, Mr. Gist, struck through the woods,
+hoping thus to reach the Alleghany River sooner, and cross on the ice.
+At night they lit their camp-fire, but at two in the morning they
+pursued their journey, guided by the north star.
+
+Some Indians now approached, and offered their services as guides. One
+was chosen, but Washington soon suspected that they were being guided in
+the wrong direction. They halted, and said they would camp for the
+night, but the Indian demurred, and offered to carry Washington's gun,
+as he was fatigued. This was declined, when the Indian grew sullen,
+hurried forward, and, when fifteen paces ahead, levelled his gun and
+fired at Washington. Gist at once seized the savage, took his gun from
+him, and would have killed him on the spot had not the humane Washington
+prevented. He was sent home to his cabin with a loaf of bread, and told
+to come to them in the morning with meat. Probably he expected to return
+before morning, and, with some other braves, scalp the two Americans;
+but Washington and Gist travelled all night, and reached the Alleghany
+River opposite the site of Pittsburg.
+
+Unfortunately, the river was not frozen as they had hoped, but was full
+of broken ice. All day long they worked to construct a raft, with but
+one hatchet between them. After reaching the middle of the river the men
+on the raft were hurled into ten feet of water by the floating ice, and
+Washington was saved from drowning only by clinging to a log. They lay
+till morning on an island in the river, their clothes stiff with frost,
+and the hands and feet of poor Gist frozen by the intense cold. The
+agony of that night Washington never forgot, even in the horrors of
+Valley Forge.
+
+Happily, the river had grown passable in the night, and they were able
+to cross to a place of safety. He came home as speedily as possible and
+delivered the letter to Governor Dinwiddie. His journal was sent to
+London and published, because of the knowledge it gave of the position
+of the French. The young soldier of twenty-one had escaped death from
+the burning straw in surveying, from the Indian's gun, and from
+drowning. He had shown prudence, self-devotion, and heroism. "From that
+moment," says Irving, in his delightful life of Washington, "he was the
+rising hope of Virginia." And he was the rising hope of the new world as
+well.
+
+The polite letter brought by Washington to the governor had declared
+that no Englishmen should remain in the Ohio valley! Dinwiddie at once
+determined to send three hundred troops against the French, and offered
+the command to Washington. He shrunk from the charge, and it was given
+to Colonel Fry, while he was made second in command. Fry soon died, and
+Washington was obliged to assume control. He was equal to the occasion.
+He said, "I have a constitution hardy enough to encounter and undergo
+the most severe trials, and, I flatter myself, resolution enough to face
+what any man dares, as shall be proved when it comes to the test."
+
+The test soon came. In the conflict which followed he was in the
+thickest of the fight, one man being killed at his side. He wrote to his
+brother, "I heard the bullets whistle, and, believe me, there is
+something charming in the sound." Years afterward, he said, when he had
+long known the sorrows of war, "If I said that, it was when I was
+young."
+
+At Great Meadows, below Pittsburg, he was defeated by superior numbers,
+and obliged to evacuate the fort, but the Virginia House of Burgesses
+thanked him for his bravery.
+
+The next year, England sent out General Braddock, who had been over
+forty years in the service, a fearless but self-willed officer, to take
+command of the American forces. Washington gladly joined him as an
+aide-de-camp. They set out with two thousand soldiers, toward Fort du
+Quesne (Pittsburg). The amount of baggage astonished Washington, who
+well knew the swamps and mountains that must be crossed, but Braddock
+could not be influenced. He remarked to Benjamin Franklin, "These
+savages may indeed be a formidable enemy to raw militia, but upon the
+king's regular and disciplined troops, sir, it is impossible they should
+make an impression." How great an "impression" savages could make upon
+the "king's regular and disciplined troops" was soon to be shown.
+
+The march was exceedingly difficult. Sometimes a whole day was spent in
+cutting a passage of two miles over the mountains. Washington urged
+that the Virginia Rangers be put to the front, as they understood
+Indian warfare. The general haughtily opposed it, and the regulars in
+brilliant uniforms, bayonets fixed, colors flying, and drums beating,
+swept over the open plain to battle, July 9, 1755.
+
+Suddenly there was a cry, "The French and Indians!" The Indian yell
+struck terror to the hearts of the regulars. They fired in all
+directions, killing their own men. A panic ensued. Braddock tried to
+rally his men; even striking them with the flat of his sword. Five
+horses were killed under him. At last a bullet entered his lungs, and he
+fell, mortally wounded. Then the men fled precipitately, falling over
+their dead comrades. Out of eighty-six officers, twenty-six were killed
+and thirty-six wounded. Nearly half of the whole army were dead or
+disabled. The Virginia Rangers covered the retreat of the flying
+regulars, and thus saved a remnant. Braddock, bequeathing his horse and
+servant, Bishop, to Washington, died broken-hearted, moaning, "Who would
+have thought it!... We shall better know how to deal with them another
+time." Washington tenderly read the funeral service, and Braddock was
+buried in the new and wild country he had come to save.
+
+Washington escaped as by a miracle. He wrote his brother, "By the
+all-powerful dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond
+all human probability or expectation; for I had four bullets through my
+coat, and two horses shot under me, yet escaped unhurt, though death
+was levelling my companions on every side of me." Through life, this
+man, great in all that mankind prize, loved and believed in the
+Christian religion. Agnosticism had no charms for him.
+
+Washington returned to Mount Vernon temporarily broken in health, and
+his fond mother, who was living at the old homestead, wrote begging that
+he would not again enter the service. In reply he said, "Honored Madam,"
+for thus he always addressed her, "if it is in my power to avoid going
+to the Ohio again, I shall; but if the command is pressed upon me by the
+general voice of the country, and offered upon such terms as cannot be
+objected against, it would reflect dishonor on me to refuse it; and
+that, I am sure, must and ought to give you greater uneasiness than my
+going in an honorable command."
+
+Braddock's defeat electrified the colonies. Governor Dinwiddie at once
+called for troops, and Washington was made "commander-in-chief of all
+the forces raised or to be raised in Virginia." For two years he
+protected the people in the attacks of the Indians; his heart so full of
+pity that he wrote the governor, "I solemnly declare, if I know my own
+mind, I could offer myself a willing sacrifice to the butchering enemy,
+provided that would contribute to the people's ease." No wonder that
+such self-sacrifice and unselfishness won the homage of the State, and
+later of the nation.
+
+In May, 1758, the condition of the army was such, the men so poorly
+clad and paid, that the young commander decided to go to Williamsburg to
+lay the matter before the council. In crossing the Pamunkey, a branch of
+the York River, he met a Mr. Chamberlayne, who pressed him to dine, more
+especially as a charming lady was visiting at his house. He accepted the
+invitation, and there met Martha Custis, a widow of twenty-six, two
+months younger than himself; a bright, frank, agreeable woman, with dark
+eyes and hair, below the middle size, a contrast indeed to his striking
+physique, six feet two inches tall, blue eyes, and grave demeanor.
+
+Martha Dandridge, with amiable disposition and winning manners, had been
+married at seventeen to Daniel Parke Custis, thirty-eight, a
+kind-hearted and wealthy land-owner. For seven years they lived at "The
+White House," on the Pamunkey River, where he died, leaving two
+children, John Parke and Martha Parke Custis. Mrs. Custis had come to
+visit the Chamberlaynes, and now was to meet the most popular officer in
+Virginia.
+
+The dinner passed pleasantly, and then Bishop, the servant, brought
+Colonel Washington's horse and his own to the gate at the appointed
+hour. But Colonel Washington did not appear. The afternoon seemed like a
+dream, for love takes no account of time. The sun was setting when he
+rose to go, but Major Chamberlayne urged his guest to pass the night.
+Probably he did not need to be urged, for the most sublime and
+beautiful force in all the world now controlled the fearless
+Washington. The next morning he hastened to Williamsburg, transacted his
+business, returned to the home of Martha Custis, where he spent a day
+and a night, and left her his betrothed.
+
+The commander went back to camp with a new joy in living. The army was
+now ordered against Fort du Quesne, under Brigadier-General Forbes of
+Great Britain; Washington leading the Virginia troops. He seized a
+moment before leaving to write to Mrs. Custis, which letter Lossing
+gives in his interesting lives of Mary and Martha Washington:--
+
+     "A courier is starting for Williamsburg, and I embrace the
+     opportunity to send a few words to one whose life is now
+     inseparable from mine. Since that happy hour when we made our
+     pledges to each other, my thoughts have been continually going to
+     you as to another self. That an all-powerful Providence may keep us
+     both in safety is the prayer of your ever faithful and
+
+                                "Ever affectionate friend,
+                                                 "G. WASHINGTON."
+
+The army marched again over the field where the bones of Braddock's men
+were bleaching in the sun, and approached the fort, only to find that
+the French had deserted it after setting it on fire, and retreated down
+the river. Washington, who led the advance, planted the British flag
+over the smoking ruin of what is now Pittsburg, so called from the
+illustrious William Pitt. With the French driven out of the Ohio valley,
+Washington, having served five years in the army, resigned, and married
+Martha Custis, January 6, 1759. Every inch a soldier he must have looked
+in his suit of blue cloth lined with red silk, and ornamented with
+silver trimmings; while his bride wore white satin, with pearl necklace
+and ear-rings, and pearls in her hair. She rode home in a coach drawn by
+six horses, while Colonel Washington, on a fine chestnut horse, attended
+by a brilliant cortége, rode beside her carriage.
+
+The year previous, 1758, Washington had been elected a member of the
+Virginia Assembly. When he took his seat, the House gave him an address
+of welcome. He rose to reply, trembled, and could not say a word. "Sit
+down, Mr. Washington," said the speaker; "your modesty equals your
+valor, and that surpasses the power of any language I possess."
+Beautiful attributes of character, not always found in conjunction;
+valor and modesty!
+
+For three months Washington remained at the home of his wife, to attend
+to the business of the colony; becoming also guardian of her two pretty
+children, four and six years of age, whom he seemed to love as his own.
+When he took his bride to Mount Vernon to live, he wrote to a relative,
+"I am now, I believe, fixed in this spot with an agreeable partner for
+life; and I hope to find more happiness in retirement than I ever
+experienced in the wide and bustling world."
+
+For seventeen years he lived on his estate of eight thousand acres,
+delighting in agriculture, and enjoying the development of the two
+children. The years passed quickly, for affection, the holiest thing on
+earth, brought rest and contentment. He or she is rich who possesses it.
+To have millions, and yet live in a home where there is no affection, is
+to be poor indeed.
+
+He was an early riser; in winter often lighting his own fire, and
+reading by candle-light; retiring always at nine o'clock. He was
+vestryman in the Episcopal Church, and judge of the county court, as
+well as a member of the House of Burgesses. So honest was he that a
+barrel of flour marked with his name was exempted from the usual
+inspection in West India ports.
+
+Into this busy and happy life came sorrow, as it comes into other lives.
+Martha Parke Custis, a gentle and lovely girl, died of consumption at
+seventeen, Washington kneeling by her bedside in prayer as her life went
+out. The love of both parents now centred in the boy of nineteen, John
+Parke Custis, who, the following year, left Columbia College to marry a
+girl of sixteen, Eleanor Calvert. While Washington attended the wedding,
+Mrs. Washington could not go, in her mourning robes, but sent an
+affectionate letter to her new daughter.
+
+The quiet life at Mount Vernon was now to be wholly changed. The Stamp
+Act and the oppressive taxes had stirred America. When the taxes were
+repealed, save that on tea, and Lord North was urged to include tea
+also, he said: "To temporize is to yield; and the authority of the
+mother country, if it is not now supported, will be relinquished
+forever; _a total repeal cannot be thought of till America is prostrate
+at our feet_." Mrs. Washington, like other lovers of liberty, at once
+ceased to use tea at her table.
+
+When the First Continental Congress met at Philadelphia, September 5,
+1774, Washington was among the delegates chosen by Virginia. He rode
+thither on horseback, with his brilliant friends Patrick Henry and
+Edmund Pendleton. When they departed from Mount Vernon, the patriotic
+Martha Washington said: "I hope you will all stand firm. I know George
+will.... God be with you, gentlemen."
+
+To a relative, who wrote deprecating Colonel Washington's "folly," his
+wife answered: "Yes; I foresee consequences--dark days, and darker
+nights; domestic happiness suspended; social enjoyments abandoned;
+property of every kind put in jeopardy by war, perhaps; neighbors and
+friends at variance, and eternal separations on earth possible. But what
+are all these evils when compared with the fate of which the Port Bill
+may be only a threat? My mind is made up, my heart is in the cause.
+George is right; he is always right. God has promised to protect the
+righteous, and I will trust him." Blessings on the woman who, in the
+darkest hour, knows how to be as the sunlight in her hope and trust, and
+to be well-nigh a divine embodiment of courage and fortitude! Truly
+said Schiller: "Honor to women! they twine and weave the roses of heaven
+into the life of man."
+
+Congress remained in session fifty-one days. When the results of its
+labors were put before the House of Lords, the great Chatham said: "When
+your lordships look at the papers transmitted to us from America; when
+you consider their decency, firmness, and wisdom, you cannot but respect
+their cause, and wish to make it your own. For myself, I must declare
+and avow that, in the master states of the world, I know not the people,
+or senate, who, in such a complication of difficult circumstances, can
+stand in preference to the delegates of America assembled in General
+Congress at Philadelphia."
+
+When Patrick Henry was asked, on his return home, who was the greatest
+man in Congress, he replied: "If you speak of eloquence, Mr. Rutledge of
+South Carolina is by far the greatest orator; but if you speak of solid
+information and sound judgment, Colonel Washington is unquestionably the
+greatest man on that floor." Wise reading in all these years had given
+Washington "solid information," and "sound judgment" was partly an
+inheritance from noble Mary Washington.
+
+People all through New England were arming themselves. General Gage, who
+had been sent to Boston with British troops, said: "It is surprising
+that so many of the other provinces interest themselves so much in this.
+They have some warm friends in New York, and I learn that the people of
+Charleston, South Carolina, are as mad as they are here." He was soon to
+possess a more thorough knowledge of the American character.
+
+The Boston troops, under Gage, numbered about four thousand. He
+determined to destroy the military stores at Concord, on the night of
+April 18, 1775. It was to be done secretly, but as soon as the British
+regiment started, under Colonel Smith and Major Pitcairn, for Concord,
+the bells of Boston rang out, cannon were fired, and Paul Revere, with
+Prescott and Davis, rode at full speed in the bright moonlight to
+Lexington, to alarm the neighboring country. When cautioned against
+making so much noise, Revere replied: "You'll have noise enough here
+before long--the regulars are coming out."
+
+Long before morning, nearly two-score of the villagers, under Captain
+Parker, gathered on the green, near the church, waiting for the
+red-coats, who came at double-quick, Major Pitcairn exclaiming,
+"Disperse, ye villains! Lay down your arms, ye rebels, and disperse!"
+Unmoved, Captain Parker said to his men, "Don't fire unless you are
+fired on; but if they want a war, let it begin here." The Revolutionary
+War began there, to end only when America should be free. Seven
+Americans were killed, nine wounded, and the rest were put to flight;
+but the blood shed on Lexington Green made liberty dear to every heart.
+
+The British now marched to Concord, where, in the early morning, they
+found four hundred and fifty men gathered to receive them. Captain
+Isaac Davis, who said, when his company led the force, "I haven't a man
+that is afraid to go," was killed at the first shot, at the North
+Bridge.
+
+The British troops destroyed all the stores they could find, though most
+had been removed, and then started toward Boston. All along the road the
+indignant Americans fired upon them from behind stone fences and clumps
+of bushes. Tired by their night march, having lost three hundred in
+killed and wounded, over three times as many as the Americans, they were
+glad to meet Lord Percy coming to their rescue with one thousand men. He
+formed a hollow square, and, faint and exhausted, the soldiers threw
+themselves on the ground within it, and rested.
+
+The whole country seemed to rise to arms. Men came pouring into Boston
+with such weapons as they could find. Noble Israel Putnam of Connecticut
+left his plough in the field and hastened to the war.
+
+May 10, Congress again met at Philadelphia. They sent a second petition
+to King George, which John Adams called an "imbecile measure." They made
+plans for the support of the army already gathered at Cambridge from the
+different States. Who should be the commander of this growing army? Then
+John Adams spoke of the gentleman from Virginia, "whose skill and
+experience as an officer, whose independent fortune, great talents, and
+excellent universal character, would command the approbation of all
+America, and unite the cordial exertions of all the colonies better than
+any other person in the Union." June 5, Washington was unanimously
+elected commander-in-chief.
+
+Rising in his seat, and thanking Congress, he modestly said: "I beg it
+may be remembered by every gentleman in the room that I this day
+declare, with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the
+command I am honored with. As to pay, I beg leave to assure the Congress
+that, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to accept this
+arduous employment, at the expense of my domestic ease and happiness, I
+do not wish to make any profit of it. I will keep an exact account of my
+expenses. Those, I doubt not, they will discharge, and that is all I
+desire." He wrote to his wife: "I should enjoy more real happiness in
+one month with you at home than I have the most distant prospect of
+finding abroad if my stay were to be seven times seven years. But as it
+has been a kind of destiny that has thrown me upon this service, I shall
+hope that my undertaking it is designed to answer some good purpose....
+I shall feel no pain from the toil or danger of the campaign; my
+unhappiness will flow from the uneasiness I know you will feel from
+being left alone." No wonder Martha Washington loved him; so brave that
+he could meet any danger without fear, yet so tender that the thought of
+leaving her brought intense pain.
+
+He was now forty-three; the ideal of manly dignity. He at once started
+for Boston. Soon a courier met him, telling him of the battle of Bunker
+Hill--how for two hours raw militia had withstood British regulars,
+killing and wounding twice as many as they lost, and retreating only
+when their ammunition was exhausted. When Washington heard how bravely
+they had fought, he exclaimed: "The liberties of the country are safe."
+Under the great elm (still standing) at Cambridge, Washington took
+command of the army, July 3, 1775, amid the shouts of the multitude and
+the roar of artillery. His headquarters were established at Craigie
+House, afterward the home of the poet Longfellow. Here Mrs. Washington
+came later, and helped to lessen his cares by her cheerful presence.
+
+The soldiers were brave but undisciplined; the terms of enlistment were
+short, thus preventing the best work. To provide powder was well-nigh an
+impossibility. For months Washington drilled his army, and waited for
+the right moment to rescue Boston from the hands of the British.
+Generals Howe, Clinton, and Burgoyne had been sent over from England.
+Howe had strengthened Bunker Hill, and, with little respect for the
+feelings of the Americans, had removed the pulpit and pews from the Old
+South Church, covered the floor with earth, and converted it into a
+riding-school for Burgoyne's light dragoons. They did not consider the
+place sacred, because it was a "meeting-house where sedition had often
+been preached."
+
+The "right moment" came at last. In a single night the soldiers
+fortified Dorchester Heights, cannonading the enemy's batteries in the
+opposite direction, so that their attention was diverted from the real
+work. When the morning dawned of March 5, 1776, General Howe saw,
+through the lifting fog, the new fortress, with the guns turned upon
+Boston. "I know not what to do," he said. "The rebels have done more
+work in one night than my whole army would have done in one month."
+
+He resolved to attack the "rebels" by night, and for this attack
+twenty-five hundred men were embarked in boats. But a violent storm set
+in, and they could not land. The next day the rain poured in torrents,
+and when the second night came Dorchester Heights were too strong to be
+attacked. The proud General Howe was compelled to evacuate Boston with
+all possible dispatch, March 17, the navy going to Halifax and the army
+to New York. The Americans at once occupied the city, and planted the
+flag above the forts. Congress moved a vote of thanks to Washington, and
+ordered a gold medal, bearing his face, as the deliverer of Boston from
+British rule.
+
+The English considered this a humiliating defeat. The Duke of
+Manchester, in the House of Lords, said: "British generals, whose name
+never met with a blot of dishonor, are forced to quit that town, which
+was the first object of the war, the immediate cause of hostilities, the
+place of arms, which has cost this nation more than a million to
+defend."
+
+The Continental Army soon repaired to New York. Washington spared no
+pains to keep a high moral standard among his men. He said, in one of
+his orders: "The general is sorry to be informed that the foolish and
+wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing--a vice heretofore
+little known in an American army--is growing into fashion. He hopes the
+officers will, by example as well as influence, endeavor to check it,
+and that both they and the men will reflect that we can have little hope
+of the blessing of Heaven on our arms if we insult it by our impiety and
+folly. Added to this, it is a vice so mean and low, without any
+temptation, that every man of sense and character detests and despises
+it." Noble words!
+
+Great Britain now realized that the fight must be in earnest, and hired
+twenty thousand Hessians to help subjugate the colonies. When Admiral
+Howe came over from England, he tried to talk about peace with "Mr."
+Washington, or "George Washington, Esq.," as it was deemed beneath his
+dignity to acknowledge that the "rebels" had a general. The Americans
+could not talk about peace, with such treatment.
+
+Soon the first desperate battle was fought, on Long Island, August 27,
+1776, partly on the ground now occupied by Greenwood Cemetery, between
+eight thousand Americans and more than twice their number of trained
+Hessians. Washington, from an eminence, watched the terrible conflict,
+wringing his hands, and exclaiming, "What brave fellows I must this day
+lose!"
+
+The Americans were defeated, with great loss. Washington could no longer
+hold New York with his inadequate forces. With great energy and
+promptness he gathered all the boats possible, and then, so secretly
+that even his aides did not know his intention, nine thousand men,
+horses, and provisions, were ferried over the East River. A heavy fog
+hung over the Brooklyn side, as though provided by Providence, while it
+was clear on the New York side, so that the men could form in line.
+Washington crossed in the last boat, having been for forty-eight hours
+without sleep.
+
+In the morning, the astonished Englishmen learned that the prize had
+escaped. A Tory woman, the night before, seeing that the Americans were
+crossing the river, sent her colored servant to notify the British. A
+Hessian sentinel, not understanding the servant, locked him up till
+morning, when, upon the arrival of an officer, his errand was known; but
+the knowledge came too late!
+
+On October 28, the Americans were again defeated, at White Plains, Howe
+beginning the engagement. The condition of the Continental Army was
+disheartening. They were half-fed and half-clothed; the "ragged rebels,"
+the British called them. There was sickness in the camp, and many were
+deserting. Washington said, "Men just dragged from the tender scenes of
+domestic life, unaccustomed to the din of arms, totally unacquainted
+with every kind of military skill, are timid, and ready to fly from
+their own shadows. Besides, the sudden change in their manner of living
+brings on an unconquerable desire to return to their homes." So
+great-hearted was the commander-in-chief, though on the field of battle
+he had no leniency toward cowards.
+
+Washington retreated across New Jersey to Trenton. When he reached the
+Delaware River, filled with floating ice, he collected all the boats
+within seventy miles, and transported the troops, crossing last himself.
+Lord Cornwallis, of Howe's army, came in full pursuit, reached the river
+just as the last boat crossed, and looked in vain for means of
+transportation. There was nothing to be done but to wait till the river
+was frozen, so that the troops could cross on the ice.
+
+Washington, December 20, 1776, told John Hancock, President of Congress,
+"Ten days more will put an end to the existence of our army." Yet, on
+the night of December 25, Christmas, with almost superhuman courage, he
+determined to recross the Delaware, and attack the Hessians at Trenton.
+The weather was intensely cold. The boats, in crossing, were forced out
+of their course by the drifting ice. Two men were frozen to death. At
+four in the morning, the heroic troops took up the line of march, the
+snow and sleet beating in their faces. Many of the muskets were wet and
+useless. "What is to be done?" asked the men. "Push on, and use the
+bayonet," was the answer.
+
+At eight in the morning, the Americans rushed into the town. "The enemy!
+the enemy!" cried the Hessians. Their leader, Colonel Rahl, fell,
+mortally wounded. A thousand men laid down their arms and begged for
+quarter. Washington recrossed the Delaware with his whole body of
+captives, and the American nation took heart once more. That fearful
+crossing of the Delaware, in the blinding storm, and the sudden yet
+marvellous victory which followed, will always live among the most
+pathetic and stirring scenes of the Revolution. A few days later,
+January 3, 1777, with five thousand men, Washington defeated Cornwallis
+at Princeton, exposing himself so constantly to danger that his officers
+begged him to seek a place of safety.
+
+The third year of the Revolutionary War had opened. France, hating
+England, sympathizing with America in her struggle for liberty, and
+being encouraged in this sympathy by the honored Benjamin Franklin,
+loaned us money, supplied muskets and powder, and many troops under such
+brave leaders as Lafayette and De Kalb. The year 1777, although our
+forces were defeated at Brandywine and Germantown, witnessed the defeat
+of a part of Burgoyne's army at Bennington, Vermont, and, on the 17th of
+October, the remaining part at Saratoga; over five thousand men, seven
+thousand muskets, and a great quantity of military stores. Two months
+later, France made a treaty of alliance with the United States, to the
+joy of the whole country.
+
+On December 11, Washington went into winter-quarters at Valley Forge, on
+the west side of the Schuylkill, about twenty miles from Philadelphia.
+Trees were felled to build huts, the men toiling with scanty food, often
+barefoot, the snow showing the marks of their bleeding feet. Continental
+money had so depreciated that forty dollars were scarcely equal in value
+to one silver dollar. Sickness was decreasing the forces. Washington
+wrote to Congress: "No less than two thousand eight hundred and
+ninety-eight men are now in camp unfit for duty, because they are
+barefoot and otherwise naked." From lack of blankets, he said, "numbers
+have been obliged, and still are, to sit up all night by fires, instead
+of taking comfortable rest in a natural and common way." A man less
+great would have been discouraged, but he trusted in a power higher than
+himself, and waited in sublime dignity and patience for the progress of
+events. Martha Washington had come to Valley Forge to share in its
+privations, and to minister to the sick and the dying.
+
+The years 1778 and 1779 dragged on with their victories and defeats. The
+next year, 1780, the country was shocked by the treason of Benedict
+Arnold, who, having obtained command at West Point, had agreed to
+surrender it to the British for fifty thousand dollars in money and the
+position of brigadier-general in their army. On September 21, Sir Henry
+Clinton sent Major John André, an adjutant-general, to meet Arnold. He
+went ashore from the ship Vulture, met Arnold in a wood, and completed
+the plan. When he went back to the boat, he found that a battery had
+driven her down the river, and he must return by land. At Tarrytown, on
+the Hudson, he was met by three militiamen, John Paulding, David
+Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, who at once arrested him, and found the
+treasonable papers in his boots. He offered to buy his release, but
+Paulding assured him that fifty thousand dollars would be no temptation.
+
+André was at once taken to prison. While there he won all hearts by his
+intelligence and his cheerful, manly nature. He had entered the British
+army by reason of a disappointment in love. The father of the young lady
+had interfered, and she had become the second wife of the father of
+Maria Edgeworth. André always wore above his heart a miniature of Honora
+Sneyd, painted by herself. Just before his execution as a spy, he wrote
+to Washington, asking to be shot. When he was led to the gallows,
+October 2, 1780, and saw that he was to be hanged, for a moment he
+seemed startled, and exclaimed, "How hard is my fate!" but added, "It
+will soon be over." He put the noose about his own neck, tied the
+handkerchief over his eyes, and, when asked if he wished to speak, said
+only: "I pray you to bear witness that I meet my fate like a brave
+man." His death was universally lamented. In 1821, his body was removed
+to London by the British consul, and buried in Westminster Abbey.
+
+Every effort was made to capture Arnold, but without success. He once
+asked an American, who had been taken prisoner by the British, what his
+countrymen would have done with him had he been captured. The immediate
+reply was: "They would cut off the leg wounded in the service of your
+country, and bury it with the honors of war. The rest of you they would
+hang."
+
+In 1781, the condition of affairs was still gloomy. Some troops mutinied
+for lack of pay, but when approached by Sir Henry Clinton, through two
+agents, offering them food and money if they would desert the American
+cause, the agents were promptly hanged as spies. Such was the patriotism
+of the half-starved and half-clothed soldiers.
+
+In May of this year, Cornwallis took command of the English forces in
+Virginia, destroying about fifteen million dollars worth of property.
+Early in October, Washington with his troops, and Lafayette and De
+Rochambeau with their French troops, gathered at Yorktown, on the south
+bank of the York River. For ten days the siege was carried on. The
+French troops rendered heroic service. Washington was so in earnest that
+one of his aids, seeing that he was in danger, ventured to suggest that
+their situation was much exposed. "If you think so, you are at liberty
+to step back," was the grave response of the general. Shortly
+afterwards a musket-ball fell at Washington's feet. One of his generals
+grasped his arm, exclaiming, "We can't spare you yet." When the victory
+was finally won, Washington drew a long breath and said, "The work is
+done and well done." Cornwallis surrendered his whole army, over seven
+thousand soldiers, October 19, 1781.
+
+The American nation was thrilled with joy and gratitude. Washington
+ordered divine service to be performed in the several divisions, saying,
+"The commander-in-chief earnestly recommends that the troops not on duty
+should universally attend, with that seriousness of deportment and
+gratitude of heart which the recognition of such reiterated and
+astonishing interpositions of Providence demands of us." Congress
+appointed a day of thanksgiving and prayer, and voted two stands of
+colors to Washington and two pieces of field-ordnance to the brave
+French commanders. When Lord North, Prime Minister of England, heard of
+the defeat of the British, he exclaimed, "Oh, God! it is all over!"
+
+The nearly seven long years of war were ended, and America had become a
+free nation.
+
+The articles of peace between Great Britain and the United States were
+not signed till September 3, 1783. On November 4 the army was disbanded,
+with a touching address from their idolized commander. On December 4, in
+the city of New York, in a building on the corner of Pearl and Broad
+Streets, Washington said good-bye to his officers, losing for a time his
+wonderful self-command. "I cannot come to each of you to take my leave,"
+he said, "but shall be obliged if each of you will come and take me by
+the hand." Tears filled the eyes of all, as, silently, one by one, they
+clasped his hand in farewell, and passed out of his sight.
+
+Then Washington repaired to Annapolis, where Congress was assembled, and
+at twelve o'clock on the 23d of December, before a crowded house,
+offered his resignation. "Having now finished the work assigned me, I
+retire from the great theatre of action; and bidding an affectionate
+farewell to this august body, under whose orders I have long acted, I
+here offer my commission, and take my leave of all the employments of
+public life." "Few tragedies ever drew so many tears from so many
+beautiful eyes," said one who was present.
+
+The beloved general returned to Mount Vernon, to enjoy the peace and
+rest which he needed, and the honor of his country which he so well
+deserved. John Parke Custis, Mrs. Washington's only remaining child, had
+died, leaving four children, two of whom--Eleanor, two years old, and
+George Washington, six months old--the general adopted as his own. These
+brought additional "sweetness and light" into the beautiful home.
+
+The following year the Marquis de Lafayette was a guest at Mount Vernon,
+and went to Fredericksburg to bid adieu to Washington's mother. When he
+spoke in high praise of the man whom he so loved and honored, Mary
+Washington replied quietly, "I am not surprised at what George has done,
+for he was always a good boy." Blessed mother-heart, that, in training
+her child, could look into the future, and know, for a certainty, the
+result of her love and progress! She died August 25, 1789.
+
+Three years later--May 25, 1787--a convention met at Philadelphia to
+form a more perfect union of the States, and frame a Constitution.
+Washington was made President of this convention. He had long been
+reading carefully the history and principles of ancient and modern
+confederacies, and he was intelligently prepared for the honor accorded
+him. When the Constitution was finished, and ready for his signature, he
+said: "Should the United States reject this excellent Constitution, the
+probability is that an opportunity will never again be offered to cancel
+another in peace; the next will be drawn in blood."
+
+When the various States, after long debate, had accepted the
+Constitution, a President must be chosen, and that man very naturally
+was the man who had saved the country in the perils of war. On the way
+to New York, then the seat of government, Washington received a perfect
+ovation. The bells were rung, cannon fired, and men, women, and children
+thronged the way. Over the bridge crossing the Delaware the women of
+Trenton had erected an arch of evergreen and laurel, with the words,
+"The defender of the mothers will be the protector of the daughters."
+As he passed, young girls scattered flowers before him, singing grateful
+songs. How different from that crossing years before, with his worn and
+foot-sore army, amid the floating ice!
+
+The streets of New York were thronged with eager, thankful people, who
+wept as they cheered the hero, now fifty-seven, who had given nearly his
+whole life to his country's service. On April 30, 1789, the inauguration
+took place. At nine o'clock in the morning, religious services were held
+in all the churches. At twelve, in the old City Hall, in Wall Street,
+Chancellor Livingston administered the oath of office, Washington
+stooping down and kissing the open Bible, on which he laid his hand;
+"the man," says T. W. Higginson, "whose generalship, whose patience,
+whose self-denial, had achieved and then preserved the liberties of the
+nation; the man who, greater than Cćsar, had held a kingly crown within
+reach, and had refused it." Washington had previously been addressed by
+some who believed that the Colonies needed a monarchy for strong
+government. Astonished and indignant, he replied: "I am much at a loss
+to conceive what part of my conduct could have given encouragement to an
+address which to me seems big with the greatest mischiefs that can
+befall my country." After taking the oath, all proceeded on foot to St.
+Paul's Church, where prayers were read.
+
+The next four years were years of perplexity and care in the building of
+the nation. The great war debt, of nearly one hundred millions, must be
+provided for by an impoverished nation; commerce and manufactures must
+be developed; literature and education encouraged, and Indian outbreaks
+quelled. With a love of country that was above party-spirit, with a
+magnanimity that knew no self-aggrandizement, he led the States out of
+their difficulties. When his term of office expired, he would have
+retired gladly to Mount Vernon for life, but he could not be spared.
+Thomas Jefferson wrote him: "The confidence of the whole Union is
+centred in you.... North and South will hang together, if they have you
+to hang on."
+
+Again he accepted the office of President. Affairs called more than ever
+for wisdom. He continually counselled "mutual forbearances and
+temporizing yieldings on all sides." France, who had helped us so nobly,
+was passing through the horrors of the Revolution. The blood of kings
+and people was flowing. The French Republic having sent M. Genet as her
+minister to the United States, he attempted to fit out privateers
+against Great Britain. Washington knew that America could not be again
+plunged into a war with England without probable self-destruction;
+therefore he held to neutrality, and demanded the recall of Genet. The
+people earnestly sympathized with France, and, but for the strong man at
+the head of the nation, would have been led into untold calamities. The
+country finally came to the verge of war with France, but when Napoleon
+overthrew the Directory, and made himself First Consul, he wisely made
+peace with the United States.
+
+Washington declined a third term of office, and sent his beautiful
+farewell address to Congress, containing the never-to-be-forgotten
+words: "Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political
+prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.... Observe
+good faith and justice towards all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony
+with all."
+
+He now returned to Mount Vernon to enjoy the rest he had so long
+desired. Three years later the great man lay dying, after a day's
+illness, from affection of the throat. From difficulty of breathing, his
+position was often changed. With his usual consideration for others, he
+said to his secretary, "I am afraid I fatigue you too much." "I feel I
+am going," he said to his physicians. "I thank you for your attentions,
+but I pray you to take no more trouble about me." The man who could face
+death on the battle-field had no fears in the quiet home by the Potomac.
+In the midst of his agony, he could remember to thank those who aided
+him, and regret that he was a source of care or anxiety. Great indeed is
+that soul which has learned that nothing in God's universe is a little
+thing.
+
+At ten in the evening he gave a few directions about burial. "Do you
+understand me?" he asked. Upon being answered in the affirmative, he
+replied, "'Tis well!" when he expired without a struggle, December 14,
+1799. Mrs. Washington, who was seated at the foot of the bed, said:
+"'Tis well. All is now over. I shall soon follow him. I have no more
+trials to pass through."
+
+On December 18, 1799, the funeral procession took its way to the vault
+on the Mount Vernon estate. The general's horse, with his saddle and
+pistols, led by his groom in black, preceded the body of his dead
+master. A deep sorrow settled upon the nation. The British ships lowered
+their flags to half-mast. The French draped their standards with crape.
+
+Martha Washington died three years later, May 22, 1802, and was buried
+beside her husband. In 1837, the caskets were enclosed in white marble
+coffins, now seen by visitors to Mount Vernon. In 1885 a grand marble
+monument, five hundred and fifty-five feet high, was completed on the
+banks of the Potomac, at the capital, to the immortal Washington.
+
+Truly wrote Jefferson: "His integrity was most pure; his justice the
+most inflexible I have ever known; no motives of interest or
+consanguinity, of friendship or hatred, being able to bias his decision.
+He was, indeed, in every sense of the word, a wise, a good, and a great
+man."
+
+The life of George Washington will ever be an example to young men. He had
+the earnest heart and manner--never trivial--which women love, and men
+respect. He had the courage which the world honors, and the gentleness
+which made little children cling to him. He controlled an army and a
+nation, because he understood the secret of power--self-control. Well does
+Mr. Gladstone call him the "purest figure in history;" unselfish, fair,
+patient, heroic, true.
+
+[Illustration: Benj. Franklin with Signature]
+
+
+
+
+BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
+
+
+"To say that his life is the most interesting, the most uniformly
+successful, yet lived by any American, is bold. But it is, nevertheless,
+strictly true." Thus writes John Bach McMaster, in his life of the great
+statesman.
+
+In the year 1706, January 6 (old style), in the small house of a
+tallow-chandler and soap-boiler, on Milk Street, opposite the Old South
+Church, Boston, was born Benjamin Franklin. Already fourteen children
+had come into the home of Josiah Franklin, the father, by his two wives,
+and now this youngest son was added to the struggling family circle. Two
+daughters were born later.
+
+The home was a busy one, and a merry one withal; for the father, after
+the day's work, would sing to his large flock the songs he had learned
+in his boyhood in England, accompanying the words on his violin.
+
+From the mother, the daughter of Peter Folger of Nantucket, "a learned
+and godly Englishman," Benjamin inherited an attractive face, and much
+of his hunger for books, which never lessened through his long and
+eventful life. At eight years of age, he was placed in the Boston
+Latin School, and in less than a year rose to the head of his class. The
+father had hoped to educate the boy for the ministry, but probably money
+was lacking, for at ten his school-life was ended, and he was in his
+father's shop filling candle-moulds and running on errands.
+
+For two years he worked there, but how he hated it! not all labor, for
+he was always industrious, but soap and candle-making were utterly
+distasteful to him. So strongly was he inclined to run away to sea, as
+an older brother had done, that his father obtained a situation for him
+with a maker of knives, and later he was apprenticed to his brother
+James as a printer.
+
+Now every spare moment was used in reading. The first book which he
+owned was Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress," and after reading this over and
+over, he sold it, and bought Burton's "Historical Collections," forty
+tiny books of travel, history, biography, and adventure. In his father's
+small library, there was nothing very soul-stirring to be found. Defoe's
+"Essays upon Projects," containing hints on banking, friendly societies
+for the relief of members, colleges for girls, and asylums for idiots,
+would not be very interesting to most boys of twelve, but Benjamin read
+every essay, and, strange to say, carried out nearly every "project" in
+later life. Cotton Mather's "Essays to do Good," with several leaves
+torn out, was so eagerly read, and so productive of good, that Franklin
+wrote, when he was eighty, that this volume "gave me such a turn of
+thinking as to have an influence on my conduct through life; for I have
+always set a greater value on the character of a doer of good than on
+any other kind of reputation; and, if I have been a useful citizen, the
+public owe the advantage of it to that book."
+
+As the boy rarely had any money to buy books, he would often borrow from
+the booksellers' clerks, and read in his little bedroom nearly all
+night, being obliged to return the books before the shop was opened in
+the morning. Finally, a Boston merchant, who came to the
+printing-office, noticed the lad's thirst for knowledge, took him home
+to see his library, and loaned him some volumes. Blessings on those
+people who are willing to lend knowledge to help the world upward,
+despite the fact that book-borrowers proverbially have short memories,
+and do not always take the most tender care of what they borrow.
+
+When Benjamin was fifteen, he wrote a few ballads, and his brother James
+sent him about the streets to sell them. This the father wisely checked
+by telling his son that poets usually are beggars, a statement not
+literally true, but sufficiently near the truth to produce a wholesome
+effect upon the young verse-maker.
+
+The boy now devised a novel way to earn money to buy books. He had read
+somewhere that vegetable food was sufficient for health, and persuaded
+James, who paid the board of his apprentice, that for half the amount
+paid he could board himself.
+
+Benjamin therefore attempted living on potatoes, hasty pudding, and
+rice; doing his own cooking,--not the life most boys of sixteen would
+choose. His dinner at the printing-office usually consisted of a
+biscuit, a handful of raisins, and a glass of water; a meal quickly
+eaten, and then, O precious thought! there was nearly a whole hour for
+books.
+
+He now read Locke on "Human Understanding," and Xenophon's "Memorable
+Things of Socrates." In this, as he said in later years, he learned one
+of the great secrets of success; "never using, when I advanced anything
+that may possibly be disputed, the words _certainly_, _undoubtedly_, or
+any others that give the air of positiveness to an opinion; but rather
+say, I conceive or apprehend a thing to be so and so; it appears to me,
+or _I should think it so or so_, for such and such reasons; or, _it is
+so_, if _I am not mistaken_.... I wish well-meaning, sensible men would
+not lessen their power of doing good by a positive, assuming manner,
+that seldom fails to disgust, tends to create opposition, and to defeat
+every one of those purposes for which speech was given to us, to wit,
+giving or receiving information or pleasure.... To this habit I think it
+principally owing that I had early so much weight with my
+fellow-citizens, when I proposed new institutions or alterations in the
+old, and so much influence in public councils when I became a member;
+for I was but a bad speaker, never eloquent, subject to much hesitation
+in my choice of words, and yet I generally carried my points." A most
+valuable lesson to be learned early in life.
+
+Coming across an odd volume of the "Spectator," Benjamin was captivated
+by the style, and resolved to become master of the production, by
+rewriting the essays from memory, and increasing his fulness of
+expression by turning them into verse, and then back again into prose.
+
+James Franklin was now printing the fifth newspaper in America. It was
+intended to issue the first--_Publick Occurrences_--monthly, or oftener,
+"if any glut of occurrences happens." When the first number appeared,
+September 25, 1690, a very important "occurrence happened," which was
+the immediate suspension of the paper for expressions concerning those
+in official position. The next newspaper,--the _Boston News-Letter_,--a
+weekly, was published April 24, 1704; the third was the _Boston
+Gazette_, which James was engaged to print, but, being disappointed,
+started one of his own, August 17, 1721, called the _New England
+Courant_. The _American Weekly Mercury_ was printed in Philadelphia six
+months before the _Courant_.
+
+Benjamin's work was hard and constant. He not only set type, but
+distributed the paper to customers. "Why," thought he, "can I not write
+something for the new sheet?" Accordingly, he prepared a manuscript,
+slipped it under the door of the office, and the next week saw it in
+print before his eyes. This was joy indeed, and he wrote again and
+again.
+
+The _Courant_ at last gave offence by its plain speaking, and it
+ostensibly passed into Benjamin's hands, to save his brother from
+punishment. The position, however, soon became irksome, for the
+passionate brother often beat Benjamin, till at last he determined to
+run away. As soon as this became known, James went to every office, told
+his side of the story, and thus prevented Benjamin from obtaining work.
+Not discouraged, the boy sold a portion of his precious books, said
+good-bye to his beloved Boston, and went out into the world to more
+poverty and struggle.
+
+Three days after this, he stood in New York, asking for work at the only
+printing-office in the city, owned by William Bradford. Alas! there was
+no work to be had, and he was advised to go to Philadelphia, nearly one
+hundred miles away, where Andrew Bradford, a son of the former, had
+established a paper. The boy could not have been very light-hearted as
+he started on the journey. After thirty hours by boat, he reached Amboy,
+and then travelled fifty miles on foot across New Jersey. It rained hard
+all day, but he plodded on, tired and hungry, buying some gingerbread of
+a poor woman, and wishing that he had never left Boston. His money was
+fast disappearing.
+
+Finally he reached Philadelphia.
+
+"I was," he says in his autobiography, "in my working dress, my best
+clothes being to come round by sea. I was dirty from my journey; my
+pockets were stuffed out with shirts and stockings, and I knew no soul
+nor where to look for lodging. I was fatigued with travelling, rowing,
+and want of rest. I was very hungry, and my whole stock of cash
+consisted of a Dutch dollar and about a shilling in copper. The latter I
+gave the people of the boat for my passage, who at first refused it, on
+account of my rowing, but I insisted on their taking it; a man being
+sometimes more generous when he has but a little money than when he has
+plenty, perhaps through fear of being thought to have but little.
+
+"Then I walked up the street, gazing about, till near the Market-house I
+met a boy with bread. I had made many a meal on bread, and, inquiring
+where he got it, I went immediately to the baker's he directed me to, in
+Second Street, and asked for biscuit, intending such as we had in
+Boston; but they, it seems, were not made in Philadelphia. Then I asked
+for a threepenny loaf, and was told they had none such. So, not
+considering or knowing the difference of money, and the greater
+cheapness, nor the names of bread, I bade him give me threepenny-worth
+of any sort. He gave me, accordingly, three great puffy rolls. I was
+surprised at the quantity, but took it, and, having no room in my
+pockets, walked off with a roll under each arm, and eating the other.
+
+"Thus I went up Market Street as far as Fourth Street, passing by the
+door of Mr. Read, my future wife's father; when she, standing at the
+door, saw me, and thought I made, as I certainly did, a most awkward,
+ridiculous figure. Then I turned and went down Chestnut Street and part
+of Walnut Street, eating my roll all the way, and, coming round, found
+myself again at Market Street wharf, near the boat I came in, to which I
+went for a draught of the river water; and, being filled with one of my
+rolls, gave the other two to a woman and her child that came down the
+river in the boat with us, and were waiting to go farther."
+
+After this, he joined some Quakers who were on their way to the
+meeting-house, which he too entered, and, tired and homeless, soon fell
+asleep. And this was the penniless, runaway lad who was eventually to
+stand before five kings, to become one of the greatest philosophers,
+scientists, and statesmen of his time, the admiration of Europe and the
+idol of America. Surely, truth is stranger than fiction.
+
+The youth hastened to the office of Andrew Bradford, but there was no
+opening for him. However, Bradford kindly offered him a home till he
+could find work. This was obtained with Keimer, a printer, who happened
+to find lodging for the young man in the house of Mr. Read. As the
+months went by, and the hopeful and earnest lad of eighteen had visions
+of becoming a master printer, he confided to Mrs. Read that he was in
+love with, and wished to marry, the pretty daughter, who had first seen
+him as he walked up Market Street, eating his roll. Mr. Read had died,
+and the prudent mother advised that these children, both under
+nineteen, should wait till the printer proved his ability to support a
+wife.
+
+And now a strange thing happened. Sir William Keith, governor of the
+province, who knew young Franklin's brother-in-law, offered to establish
+him in the printing business in Philadelphia, and, better still, to send
+him to England with a letter of credit with which to buy the necessary
+outfit.
+
+A mine of gold seemed to open before him. He made ready for the journey,
+and set sail, disappointed, however, that the letter of credit did not
+come before he left. When he reached England, he ascertained that Sir
+William Keith was without credit, a vain man and devoid of principle.
+Franklin found himself alone in a strange country, doubly unhappy
+because he had used for himself and some impecunious friends one hundred
+and seventy-five dollars, collected from a business man. This he paid
+years afterward, ever considering the use of it one of the serious
+mistakes of his life.
+
+He and a boy companion found lodgings at eighty-seven cents per week;
+very inferior lodgings they must have been. There was of course no money
+to buy type, no money to take passage back to America. He wrote a letter
+to Miss Read, telling her that he was not likely to return, dropped the
+correspondence, and found work in a printing-office.
+
+After a year or two, a merchant offered him a position as clerk in
+America, at five dollars a week. He accepted, and, after a three-months
+voyage, reached Philadelphia, "the cords of love," he said, drawing him
+back. Alas! Deborah Read, persuaded by her mother and other relatives;
+had married, but was far from happy. The merchant for whom Franklin had
+engaged to work soon died, and the printer was again looking for a
+situation, which he found with Keimer. He was now twenty-one, and life
+had been anything but cheerful or encouraging.
+
+Still, he determined to keep his mind cheerful and active, and so
+organized a club of eleven young men, the "Junto," composed mostly of
+mechanics. They came together once a month to discuss questions of
+morals, politics, and science. As most of these were unable to buy
+books--a book in those days often costing several dollars--Franklin
+conceived the idea of a subscription library, raised the funds, and
+became the librarian. Every day he set apart an hour or two for study,
+and for twenty years, in the midst of poverty and hard work, the habit
+was maintained. If Franklin himself did not know that such a young man
+would succeed, the world around him must have guessed it. Out of this
+collection of books--the mother of all the subscription libraries of
+this country--has grown a great library in the city of Philadelphia.
+
+Keimer proved a business failure; but kindness to a fellow-workman,
+Meredith, a youth of intemperate habits, led Franklin to another open
+door. The father of Meredith, hoping to save his son, started the young
+men in business by loaning them five hundred dollars. It was a modest
+beginning, in a building whose rent was but one hundred and twenty
+dollars a year. Their first job of printing brought them one dollar and
+twenty-five cents. As Meredith was seldom in a condition for labor,
+Franklin did most of the work, he having started a paper--the
+_Pennsylvania Gazette_. Some prophesied failure for the new firm, but
+one prominent man remarked: "The industry of that Franklin is superior
+to anything I ever saw of the kind. I see him still at work when I go
+home from the club, and he is at work again before his neighbors are out
+of bed."
+
+But starting in business had cost five hundred more than the five
+hundred loaned them. The young men were sued for debt, and ruin stared
+them in the face. Was Franklin discouraged? If so at heart, he wisely
+kept a cheerful face and manner, knowing what poor policy it is to tell
+our troubles, and made all the friends he could. Several members of the
+Assembly, who came to have printing done, became fast friends of the
+intelligent and courteous printer.
+
+In this pecuniary distress, two men offered to loan the necessary funds,
+and two hundred and fifty dollars were gratefully accepted from each.
+These two persons Franklin remembered to his dying day. Meredith was
+finally bought out by his own wish, and Franklin combined with his
+printing a small stationer's shop, with ink, paper, and a few books.
+Often he wheeled his paper on a barrow along the streets. Who supposed
+then that he would some day be President of the Commonwealth of
+Pennsylvania?
+
+Franklin was twenty-four. Deborah Read's husband had proved worthless,
+had run away from his creditors, and was said to have died in the West
+Indies. She was lonely and desolate, and Franklin rightly felt that he
+could brighten her heart. They were married September 1, 1730, and for
+forty years they lived a happy life. He wrote, long afterward, "We are
+grown old together, and if she has any faults, I am so used to them that
+I don't perceive them." Beautiful testimony! He used to say to young
+married people, in later years, "Treat your wife always with respect; it
+will procure respect to you, not only from her, but from all that
+observe it."
+
+The young wife attended the little shop, folded newspapers, and made
+Franklin's home a resting-place from toil. He says: "Our table was plain
+and simple, our furniture of the cheapest. My breakfast was, for a long
+time, bread and milk (no tea), and I ate it out of a twopenny earthen
+porringer, with a pewter spoon: but mark how luxury will enter families,
+and make a progress in spite of principle. Being called one morning to
+breakfast, I found it in a china bowl, with a spoon of silver. They had
+been bought for me without my knowledge by my wife, and had cost her the
+enormous sum of three and twenty shillings! for which she had no other
+excuse or apology to make, but that she thought _her_ husband deserved
+a silver spoon and china bowl as well as any of his neighbors."
+
+The years went by swiftly, with their hard work and slow but sure
+accumulation of property. At twenty-seven, having read much and written
+considerable, he determined to bring out an almanac, after the fashion
+of the day, "for conveying instruction among the common people, who
+bought scarcely any other book." "Poor Richard" appeared in December,
+1732; price, ten cents. It was full of wit and wisdom, gathered from
+every source. Three editions were sold in a month. The average annual
+sale for twenty-five years was ten thousand copies. Who can ever forget
+the maxims which have become a part of our every-day speech?--"Early to
+bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise."--"He
+that hath a trade, hath an estate."--"One to-day is worth two
+to-morrows."--"Never leave that till to-morrow which you can do
+to-day."--"Employ thy time well if thou meanest to gain leisure; and
+since thou art not sure of a minute, throw not away an hour."--"Three
+removes are as bad as a fire."--"What maintains one vice would bring up
+two children."--"Many a little makes a mickle."--"Beware of little
+expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship."--"If you would know the
+value of money, go and try to borrow some; for he that goes a-borrowing
+goes a-sorrowing."--"Rather go to bed supperless than rise in
+debt."--"Experience keeps a dear school, but fools will learn in no
+other."
+
+An interesting story is told concerning the proverb, "If you would have
+your business done, go; if not, send." John Paul Jones, one of the
+bravest men in the Revolutionary War, had become the terror of Britain,
+by the great number of vessels he had captured. In one cruise he is said
+to have taken sixteen prizes; burned eight and sent home eight. With the
+Ranger, on the coast of Scotland, he captured the Drake, a large
+sloop-of-war, and two hundred prisoners. At one time, Captain Jones
+waited for many months for a vessel which had been promised him. Eager
+for action, he chanced to see "Poor Richard's Almanac," and read, "If
+you would have your business done, go; if not, send." He went at once to
+Paris, sought the ministers, and was given command of a vessel, which,
+in honor of Franklin, he called Bon Homme Richard.
+
+The battle between this ship and the Serapis, when, for three hours and
+a half, they were lashed together by Jones' own hand, and fought one of
+the most terrific naval battles ever seen, is well known to all who read
+history. The Bon Homme Richard sunk after her victory, while her captain
+received a gold medal from Congress and an appreciative letter from
+General Washington.
+
+So bravely did Captain Pearson, the opponent, fight, that the King of
+England made him a knight. "He deserved it," said Jones, "and, should I
+have the good-fortune to fall in with him again, I will make a lord of
+him."
+
+No wonder that Franklin's proverbs were copied all over the continent,
+and translated into French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Bohemian,
+Greek, and Portuguese. In all these very busy years, Franklin did not
+forget to study. When he was twenty-seven, he began French, then
+Italian, then Spanish, and then to review the Latin of his boyhood. He
+learned also to play on the harp, guitar, violin, and violoncello.
+
+Into the home of the printer had come two sons, William and Francis. The
+second was an uncommonly beautiful child, the idol of his father.
+Small-pox was raging in the city, but Franklin could not bear to put his
+precious one in the slightest peril by inoculation. The dread disease
+came into the home, and Francis Folger, named for his grandmother--at
+the age of four years--went suddenly out of it. "I long regretted him
+bitterly," Franklin wrote years afterwards to his sister Jane. "My
+grandson often brings afresh to my mind the idea of my son Franky,
+though now dead thirty-six years; whom I have seldom since seen equalled
+in every respect, and whom to this day I cannot think of without a
+sigh." On a little stone in Christ Church burying-ground, Philadelphia,
+are the boy's name and age, with the words, "The delight of all that
+knew him."
+
+This same year, when Franklin was thirty, he was chosen clerk of the
+General Assembly, his first promotion. If, as Disraeli said, "the secret
+of success in life is for a man to be ready for his opportunity when it
+comes," Franklin had prepared himself, by study, for his opportunity.
+
+The year later, he was made deputy postmaster, and soon became
+especially helpful in city affairs. He obtained better watch or police
+regulations, organized the first fire-company, and invented the Franklin
+stove, which was used far and wide.
+
+At thirty-seven, so interested was he in education that he set on foot a
+subscription for an academy, which resulted in the noble University of
+Pennsylvania, of which Franklin was a trustee for over forty years. The
+following year his only daughter, Sarah, was born, who helped to fill
+the vacant chair of the lovely boy. The father, Josiah, now died at
+eighty-seven, already proud of his son Benjamin, for whom in his poverty
+he had done the best he could.
+
+About this time, the Leyden jar was discovered in Europe by
+Musschenbroeck, and became the talk of the scientific world. Franklin,
+always eager for knowledge, began to study electricity, with all the
+books at his command. Dr. Spence, a gentleman from Great Britain, having
+come to America to lecture on the subject, Franklin bought all his
+instruments. So much did he desire to give his entire time to this
+fascinating subject that he sold his printing-house, paper, and almanac,
+for ninety thousand dollars, and retired from business. This at
+forty-two; and at fifteen selling ballads about the streets! Industry,
+temperance, and economy had paid good wages. He used to say that these
+virtues, with "sincerity and justice," had won for him "the confidence
+of his country." And yet Franklin, with all his saving, was generous.
+The great preacher Whitefield came to Philadelphia to obtain money for
+an orphan-house in Georgia. Franklin thought the scheme unwise, and
+silently resolved not to give when the collection should be taken. Then,
+as his heart warmed under the preaching, he concluded to give the copper
+coins in his pocket; then all the silver, several dollars; and finally
+all his five gold pistoles, so that he emptied his pocket into the
+collector's plate.
+
+Franklin now constructed electrical batteries, introduced the terms
+"positive" and "negative" electricity, and published articles on the
+subject, which his friend in London, Peter Collinson, laid before the
+Royal Society. When he declared his belief that lightning and
+electricity were identical, and gave his reasons, and that points would
+draw off electricity, and therefore lightning-rods be of benefit,
+learned people ridiculed the ideas. Still, his pamphlets were eagerly
+read, and Count de Buffon had them translated into French. They soon
+appeared in German, Latin, and Italian. Louis XV. was so deeply
+interested that he ordered all Franklin's experiments to be performed in
+his presence, and caused a letter to be written to the Royal Society of
+London, expressing his admiration of Franklin's learning and skill.
+Strange indeed that such a scientist should arise in the new world, be
+a man self-taught, and one so busy in public life.
+
+In 1752, when he was forty-six, he determined to test for himself
+whether lightning and electricity were one. He made a kite from a large
+silk handkerchief, attached a hempen cord to it, with a silk string in
+his hand, and, with his son, hastened to an old shed in the fields, as
+the thunder-storm approached.
+
+As the kite flew upward, and a cloud passed over, there was no
+manifestation of electricity. When he was almost despairing, lo! the
+fibres of the cord began to loosen; then he applied his knuckle to a key
+on the cord, and a strong spark passed. How his heart must have throbbed
+as he realized his immortal discovery!
+
+A Leyden jar was charged, and Franklin went home from the old shed to be
+made a member of the Royal Society of London, to receive the Copley gold
+medal, degrees from Harvard and Yale Colleges, and honors from all parts
+of the world. Ah! if Josiah Franklin could have lived to see his son
+come to such renown! And Abiah, his mother, had been dead just a month!
+But she knew he was coming into greatness, for she wrote him near the
+last: "I am glad to hear you are so well respected in your town for them
+to choose you an alderman, although I don't know what it means, or what
+the better you will be of it besides the honor of it. I hope you will
+look up to God, and thank him for all his good providences towards you."
+Sweetest of all things is the motherhood that never lets go the hand of
+the child, and always points Godward!
+
+Lightning-rods became the fashion, though there was great opposition,
+because many believed that lightning was one of the means of punishing
+the sins of mankind, and it was wrong to attempt to prevent the Almighty
+from doing his will. Some learned men urged that a ball instead of a
+point be used at the end of the rod, and George III. insisted that the
+president of the Royal Society should favor balls. "But, sire," said Sir
+John Pringle, "I cannot reverse the laws and operations of nature."
+
+"Then, Sir John, you had perhaps better resign," was the reply, and the
+obstinate monarch put knobs on his conductors.
+
+Through all the scientific discord, Franklin had the rare good-sense to
+remain quiet, instead of rushing into print. He said, "I have never
+entered into any controversy in defence of my philosophical opinions; I
+leave them to take their chance in the world. If they are _right_, truth
+and experience will support them; if _wrong_, they ought to be refuted
+and rejected. Disputes are apt to sour one's temper and disturb one's
+quiet."
+
+Franklin was not long permitted to enjoy his life of study. This same
+year, 1752, he was elected a member of the Pennsylvania Assembly, and
+reëlected every year for ten years, "without," as he says, "ever asking
+any elector for his vote, or signifying, either directly or indirectly,
+any desire of being chosen." He was also, with Mr. William Hunter of
+Virginia, appointed postmaster-general for the colonies, having been the
+postmaster in Philadelphia for nearly sixteen years. So excellent was
+his judgment, and so conciliatory his manner, that he rarely made
+enemies, and accomplished much for his constituents. He cut down the
+rates of postage, advertised unclaimed letters, and showed his rare
+executive ability and tireless energy.
+
+For many years the French and English had been quarrelling over their
+claims in the New World, till finally the "French and Indian War," or
+"Seven Years' War," as it was named in Europe, began. Delegates from the
+various colonies were sent to Albany to confer with the chiefs of the
+Six Nations about the defence of the country. Naturally, Franklin was
+one of the delegates. Before starting, he drew up a plan of union for
+the struggling Americans, and printed it in the _Gazette_, with the now
+well known wood-cut at the bottom; a snake cut into as many pieces as
+there were colonies, each piece having upon it the first letter of the
+name of a colony, and underneath the words, "JOIN or DIE." He presented
+his plan of union to the delegates, who, after a long debate,
+unanimously adopted it, but it was rejected by some of the colonies
+because they thought it gave too much power to England, and the king
+rejected it because he said, "The Americans are trying to make a
+government of their own."
+
+Franklin joined earnestly in the war, and commanded the forces in his
+own State, but was soon sent abroad by Pennsylvania, as her agent to
+bring some troublesome matters before royalty. He reached London, July
+27, 1757, with his son William, no longer the friendless lad looking for
+a position in a printing-house, but the noted scientist, and
+representative of a rising nation. Members of the Royal Society hastened
+to congratulate him; the universities at Oxford and Edinburgh conferred
+degrees upon him. While he attended to matters of business in connection
+with his mission, he entertained his friends with his brilliant
+electrical experiments, and wrote for several magazines on politics and
+science.
+
+After five years of successful labor, Doctor Franklin went back to
+Philadelphia to receive the public thanks of the Assembly, and a gift of
+fifteen thousand dollars for his services. His son was also appointed
+governor of New Jersey, by the Crown. Franklin was now fifty-seven, and
+had earned rest and the enjoyment of his honors. But he was to find
+little rest in the next twenty-five years.
+
+The "Seven Years' War" had been terminated by the Treaty of Paris,
+February 10, 1763. Of course, great expenses had been incurred. The
+following year, Mr. Grenville, Prime Minister of England, proposed that
+a portion of the enormous debt be paid by America through the Stamp Act.
+The colonies had submitted already to much taxation without any
+representation in Parliament, and had many grievances. The manufacture
+of iron and steel had been forbidden. Heavy duties had been laid upon
+rum, sugar, and molasses, and constables had been authorized to search
+any place suspected of avoiding the duties.
+
+When the Stamp Act was suggested, the colonies, already heavily in debt
+by the war, remonstrated in public meetings, and sent their protests to
+the king. Franklin, having been reappointed agent for Pennsylvania, used
+all possible effort to prevent its passage, but to no avail. The bill
+passed in March, 1765. By this act, deeds and conveyances were taxed
+from thirty-seven cents to one dollar and twenty-five cents apiece;
+college degrees, ten dollars; advertisements, fifty cents each, and
+other printed matter in proportion.
+
+At once, the American heart rebelled. Bells were tolled, and flags hung
+at half-mast. In New York, the Stamp Act was carried about the streets,
+with a placard, "The folly of England and the ruin of America." The
+people resolved to wear no cloth of English manufacture. Agents
+appointed to collect the hated tax were in peril of their lives. Patrick
+Henry electrified his country by the well known words, "Cćsar had his
+Brutus, Charles I. had his Cromwell, and George III."--and when the
+loyalists shouted, "Treason!" he continued, "may profit by their
+example. If that be treason, make the most of it."
+
+Grenville saw, too late, the storm he had aroused. Franklin was now, as
+he wrote to a friend, "extremely busy, attending members of both houses,
+informing, explaining, consulting, disputing, in a continual hurry from
+morning till night." His examination before the House of Commons filled
+England with amazement and America with joy. When asked, "If the Stamp
+Act should be repealed, would it induce the Assemblies of America to
+acknowledge the rights of Parliament to tax them, and would they erase
+their resolutions?" he replied, "No, never!"
+
+"What used to be the pride of the Americans?"
+
+"To indulge in the fashions and manufactures of Great Britain."
+
+"What is now their pride?"
+
+"To wear their old clothes over again, till they can make new ones,"
+said the fearless Franklin.
+
+The great commoners William Pitt and Edmund Burke were our stanch
+friends. A cry of distress went up from the manufacturers of England,
+who needed American markets for their goods, and in 1766 the Stamp Act
+was repealed.
+
+America was overjoyed, but her joy was of short duration; for in the
+very next year a duty was placed on glass, tea, and other articles. Then
+riots ensued. The duty was repealed on all save tea. When the tea
+arrived in Boston Harbor, the indignant citizens threw three hundred and
+forty chests overboard; in Charlestown, the people stored it in cellars
+till it mildewed; and from New York and Philadelphia they sent it home
+again to Old England.
+
+In 1774, the Boston Port Bill, which declared that no merchandise should
+be landed or shipped at the wharves of Boston, was received by the
+colonists with public mourning. September 5 of this year, the First
+Continental Congress met at Philadelphia, and again a manly protest was
+sent to George III. Again the great Pitt, Earl of Chatham, poured out
+his eloquence against what he saw was close at hand--"a most accursed,
+wicked, barbarous, cruel, unjust, and diabolical war." But George III.
+was immovable.
+
+The days for Franklin were now bitter in the extreme. Ten thousand more
+troops had been sent to General Gage in Boston, to compel obedience.
+Franklin's wife was dying in Philadelphia, longing to see her husband,
+who had now been absent ten years, each year expecting to return, and
+each year detained by the necessities of the colonies. At last he
+started homeward, landing May 5, 1775. His daughter had been happily
+married to Mr. Richard Bache, a merchant, but his wife was dead, and
+buried beside Franky. The battles of Lexington and Concord had been
+fought; the War for Freedom was indeed begun.
+
+Franklin was now almost seventy, but ready for the great work before
+him. He loved peace. He said: "All wars are follies, very expensive and
+very mischievous ones. When will mankind be convinced of this, and agree
+to settle their differences by arbitration? Were they to do it, even by
+the cast of a die, it would be better than by fighting and destroying
+each other." But now war was inevitable. With the eagerness of a boy he
+wrote to Edmund Burke: "General Gage's troops made a most vigorous
+retreat,--twenty miles in three hours,--scarce to be paralleled in
+history; the feeble Americans, who pelted them all the way, could scarce
+keep up with them."
+
+He was at once made a member of the Continental Congress, called to meet
+May 10, at Philadelphia. George Washington and Patrick Henry, John and
+Samuel Adams, were in the noted assemblage. They came with brave hearts
+and an earnest purpose. Franklin served upon ten committees: to engrave
+and print Continental money, to negotiate with the Indians, to send
+another but useless petition to George III., to find out the source of
+saltpetre, and other matters. He was made postmaster-general of the
+United States, and was also full of work for Pennsylvania.
+
+England had voted a million dollars to conquer the colonies, and had
+hired nearly twenty thousand Hessians to fight against them, besides her
+own skilled troops. The army under Washington had no proper shelter,
+little food, little money, and no winter clothing. Franklin was
+Washington's friend and helper in these early days of discouragement. At
+first the people had hoped to keep united to the mother country; now the
+time had arrived for the Declaration of Independence, by which America
+was to become a great nation. Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin
+Franklin, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, and Robert R. Livingston of New
+York were appointed to draw up the document. Jefferson wrote the
+Declaration, and Franklin and Adams made a few verbal changes. And then,
+with the feeling so well expressed by Franklin, "We must hang together,
+or else, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately," the delegates
+fearlessly signed their names to what Daniel Webster well called the
+"title-deed of our liberties."
+
+And now another important work devolved upon Franklin. The colonies
+believed that the French were friendly and would assist. He was
+unanimously chosen commissioner to France, to represent and plead the
+cause of his country. Again the white-haired statesman said good-bye to
+America, and sailed to Europe. As soon as he arrived, he was welcomed
+with all possible honor. The learned called upon him; his pictures were
+hung in the shop-windows, and his bust placed in the Royal Library. When
+he appeared on the street a crowd gathered about the great American. He
+was applauded in every public resort.
+
+"Franklin's reputation," said John Adams, "was more universal than that
+of Leibnitz or Newton, Frederick or Voltaire; and his character more
+beloved and esteemed than any or all of them. His name was familiar to
+government and people, to kings, courtiers, nobility, clergy, and
+philosophers, as well as plebeians, to such a decree that there was
+scarcely a peasant or a citizen, a valet de chambre, coachman or
+footman, a lady's chamber-maid or a scullion in a kitchen, who was not
+familiar with it, and who did not consider him a friend to humankind.
+When they spoke of him they seemed to think he was to restore the golden
+age." Royalty made him welcome at court, and Marie Antoinette treated
+him with the graciousness which had at first won the hearts of the
+French to the beautiful Austrian. France made a treaty of alliance with
+America, and recognized her independence, February 6, 1778, which gave
+joy and hope to the struggling colonies. Franklin was now made minister
+plenipotentiary. What a change from the hated work of moulding tallow
+candles!
+
+The great need of the colonies was money to carry on the war, and,
+pressed as was France in the days preceding her own revolution, when M.
+Necker was continually opposing the grants, she loaned our country--part
+of it a gift--over five million dollars, says James Parton, in his
+admirable life of Franklin. For this reason, as well as for the noble
+men like Lafayette who came to our aid, the interests of France should
+always be dear to America. When the Revolutionary War was over, Franklin
+helped negotiate the peace, and returned to America at his own request
+in the fall of 1785, receiving among his farewell presents a portrait of
+Louis XVI., set with four hundred and eight diamonds. Thomas Jefferson
+became minister in his stead. When asked if he had replaced Dr.
+Franklin, he replied, "I _succeed_; no one can ever _replace_ him."
+
+He was now seventy-nine years old. He had been absent for nine years.
+When he landed, cannon were fired, church-bells rung, and crowds greeted
+him with shouts of welcome. He was at once made President of the
+Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and at eighty-one a delegate to the
+convention that framed our Constitution, where he sat regularly five
+hours a day for four months. To him is due the happy suggestion, after a
+heated discussion, of equal representation for every State in the
+Senate, and representation in proportion to population in the House.
+
+At eighty-four, in reply to a letter to Washington, he received these
+tender words:--
+
+     "If to be venerated for benevolence, if to be admired for talents,
+     if to be esteemed for patriotism, if to be beloved for
+     philanthropy, can gratify the human mind, you must have the
+     pleasing consolation to know that you have not lived in vain. And I
+     flatter myself that it will not be ranked among the least grateful
+     occurrences of your life to be assured that, so long as I retain my
+     memory, you will be recollected with respect, veneration, and
+     affection, by your sincere friend,
+
+                                             "GEORGE WASHINGTON."
+
+The time for the final farewell came, April 17, 1790, near midnight,
+when the gentle and great statesman, doubly great because so gentle,
+slept quietly in death. Twenty thousand persons gathered to do honor to
+the celebrated dead. Not only in this country was there universal
+mourning, but across the ocean as well. The National Assembly of France
+paid its highest eulogies.
+
+By his own request, Franklin was buried beside his wife and Franky,
+under a plain marble slab, in Christ Church Cemetery, Philadelphia, with
+the words,--
+
+  Benjamin  }  Franklin.
+  and       }  1790.
+  Deborah   }
+
+He was opposed to ostentation. He used to quote the words of Cotton
+Mather to him when he was a boy. On leaving the minister's house, he hit
+his head against a beam. "'Stoop,' said Mather; 'you are young, and have
+the world before you; stoop as you go through it, and you will miss many
+hard thumps!' This advice, thus beat into my head, has frequently been
+of use to me, and I often think of it when I see pride mortified, and
+misfortunes brought upon people by their carrying their heads too high."
+
+Tolerant with all religions, sweet-tempered, with remarkable tact and
+genuine kindness, honest, and above jealousy, he adopted this as his
+rule, which we may well follow: "To go straight forward in doing what
+appears to me to be right, leaving the consequences to Providence."
+
+[Illustration: Thomas Jefferson signature]
+
+
+
+
+THOMAS JEFFERSON.
+
+
+Five miles east of Charlottesville, Virginia, near where the River
+Rivanna enters the James, Thomas Jefferson was born, April 13, 1743, the
+third in a family of eight children.
+
+Peter Jefferson, his father, descended from a Welsh ancestry, was a
+self-made man. The son of a farmer, with little chance for schooling, he
+improved every opportunity to read, became, like George Washington, a
+surveyor, and endured cheerfully all the perils of that pioneer life.
+Often, in making his survey across the Blue Ridge Mountains, he was
+obliged to defend himself against the attacks of wild beasts, and to
+sleep in hollow trees. When the provisions gave out, and his companions
+fell fainting beside him, he subsisted on raw flesh, and stayed on until
+his work was completed.
+
+So strong was he physically that when two hogsheads of tobacco, each
+weighing a thousand pounds, were lying on their sides, he could raise
+them both upright at once. Besides this great strength of body, he
+developed great strength of mind. Shakespeare and Addison were his
+favorites. It was not strange that by and by he became a member of the
+Virginia House of Burgesses.
+
+When Peter Jefferson was thirty-one, he married into a family much above
+his own socially--Jane, the daughter of Isham Randolph, a rich and
+cultured gentleman. She was but nineteen, of a most cheerful and hopeful
+temperament, with a passionate love of nature in every flower and tree.
+
+From these two the boy Thomas inherited the two elements that make a
+man's character beautiful, not less than a woman's--strength and
+sweetness. With his mother's nature, he found delight in every varying
+cloud, every rich sunset or sunrise, and in that ever new and ever
+wonderful change from new moon to full and from full to new again. How
+tender and responsive such a soul becomes! How it warms toward human
+nature from its love for the material world!
+
+When Thomas was five years old, he was sent to a school where English
+only was taught. The hours of confinement doubtless seemed long to a
+child used to wander at will over the fields, for one day, becoming
+impatient for school to be dismissed, he went out-of-doors, knelt behind
+the house, and repeated the Lord's Prayer, thus hoping to expedite
+matters!
+
+At nine he entered the family of Rev. William Douglas, a Scotch
+clergyman, where he learned Greek, Latin, and French. So fond did he
+become of the classics that he said, years later, if he were obliged to
+decide between the pleasure derived from them and the estate left him
+by his father, he would have greatly preferred poverty and education.
+
+All these early years at "Shadwell," the Jefferson home,--so named after
+his mother's home in England, where she was born,--Thomas had an
+especially dear companion in his oldest sister, Jane. Her mind was like
+his own, quick and comprehensive, and her especial delight, like his,
+was in music. Three things, he said, became a passion with him,
+"Mathematics, music, and architecture." Jane had a charming voice, and
+her brother became a skilled performer on the violin, often practising
+three hours a day in his busy student life.
+
+Peter Jefferson, the strong, athletic Assemblyman, died suddenly when
+Thomas was but fourteen, urging, as his dying request, that this boy be
+well educated. There was but one other son, and he an infant. The
+sweet-tempered Mrs. Jefferson, under forty, was left with eight children
+to care for; but she kept her sunny, hopeful heart.
+
+When Thomas was a little more than sixteen, he entered the college of
+William and Mary, at Williamsburg. He was a somewhat shy, tall, slight
+boy, eager for information, and warm-hearted. It was not surprising that
+he made friends with those superior to himself in mental acquirements.
+He says, in his Memoirs: "It was my great good-fortune, and what,
+perhaps, fixed the destinies of my life, that Dr. William Small of
+Scotland was the professor of mathematics, a man profound in most of the
+useful branches of science, with a happy talent of communication,
+correct and gentlemanly manners, and an enlarged and liberal mind. He,
+most happily for me, became soon attached to me, and made me his daily
+companion when not engaged in the school; and from his conversation I
+got my first views of the expansion of science and of the system of
+things in which we are placed. Fortunately, the philosophical chair
+became vacant soon after my arrival at college, and he was appointed to
+fill it _per interim;_ and he was the first who ever gave in that
+college regular lectures in ethics, rhetoric, and belles-lettres. He
+returned to Europe in 1762, having previously filled up the measure of
+his goodness to me by procuring for me, from his most intimate friend,
+George Wythe, a reception as a student of law under his direction, and
+introduced me to the acquaintance and familiar table of Governor
+Fauquier, the ablest man who had ever filled that office."
+
+The governor, though an accomplished scholar and great patron of
+learning, was very fond of card-playing, and of betting in the play. In
+this direction his influence became most pernicious to Virginia.
+Strangely enough, young Jefferson never knew one card from another, and
+never allowed them to be played in his house.
+
+He devoted himself untiringly to his books. He worked fifteen hours a
+day, allowing himself only time to run out of town for a mile in the
+twilight, before lighting the candles, as necessary exercise. Though,
+from the high social position of his mother, he had many acquaintances
+at Williamsburg, Thomas went little in society, save to dine with the
+prominent men above mentioned. These were a constant stimulant to him. A
+great man, or the written life of a great man, becomes the maker of
+other great men. The boy had learned early in life one secret of
+success; to ally one's self to superior men and women.
+
+Years afterward, he wrote to his eldest grandson, "I had the
+good-fortune to become acquainted very early with some characters of
+very high standing, and to feel the incessant wish that I could ever
+become what they were. Under temptations and difficulties, I would ask
+myself, what would Dr. Small, Mr. Wythe, Peyton Randolph do in this
+situation? What course in it will insure me their approbation? I am
+certain that this mode of deciding on my conduct tended more to
+correctness than any reasoning powers I possessed. Knowing the even and
+dignified lives they pursued, I could never doubt for a moment which of
+two courses would be in character for them. From the circumstances of my
+position, I was often thrown into the society of horse-racers,
+card-players, fox-hunters, scientific and professional men, and of
+dignified men; and many a time have I asked myself in the enthusiastic
+moment of the death of a fox, the victory of a favorite horse, the issue
+of a question eloquently argued at the bar or in the great council of
+the nation, well, which of these kinds of reputation should I
+prefer--that of a horse-jockey, a fox-hunter, an orator, or the honest
+advocate of my country's rights?"
+
+The very fact that Jefferson thus early in life valued character and
+patriotism above everything else was a sure indication of a grand and
+successful manhood. We usually build for ourselves the kind of house we
+start to build in early years. If it is an abode of pleasure, we live in
+the satiety and littleness of soul which such a life brings. If it is an
+abode of worship of all that is pure and exalted, we walk among high
+ideals, with the angels for ministering spirits, and become a blessing
+to ourselves and to mankind.
+
+In these college-days, Jefferson became acquainted with the fun-loving,
+brilliant Patrick Henry, forming a friendship that became of great value
+to both. After two years in college, where he had obtained a fair
+knowledge of French, Spanish, and Italian, besides his Latin and Greek,
+he went home to spend the winter in reading law. But other thoughts
+continually mingled with Coke. On every page he read the name of a
+beautiful girl of whom he had become very fond. She had given him a
+watch-paper, which having become spoiled accidentally, the law-student
+wrote to his friend John Page, afterward governor of Virginia, "I would
+fain ask the favor of Miss Becca Burwell to give me another watch-paper
+of her own cutting, which I should esteem much more, though it were a
+plain round one, than the nicest in the world, cut by other hands." He
+asked advice of Page as to whether he had better go to her home and
+tell her what was in his heart. "Inclination tells me to go, receive my
+sentence, and be no longer in suspense; but reason says, 'If you go, and
+your attempt proves unsuccessful, you will be ten times more wretched
+than ever.'"
+
+He battled with Coke all winter and all the next summer,--a young man in
+love who can thus bend himself to his work shows a strong will,--going
+to Williamsburg in October to attend the General Court, and to meet and
+ask Miss Burwell for her heart and hand. Alas! he found her engaged to
+another. Possibly, he was "ten times more wretched than ever," but it
+was wise to know the worst.
+
+A young man of twenty-one usually makes the best of an unfortunate
+matter, remembering that life is all before him, and he must expect
+difficulties. The following year, a sister married one of his dearest
+friends, Dabney Carr; and the same year, 1765, his pet sister, Jane,
+died. To the end of his life, he never forgot this sorrow; and, even in
+his extreme old age, said "that often in church some sacred air, which
+her sweet voice had made familiar to him in youth, recalled to him sweet
+visions of this sister, whom he had loved so well and buried so young."
+
+After five years spent in law studies, rising at five, even in winter,
+for his work, he began to practise, with remarkable success. He was not
+a gifted speaker, but, having been a close student, his knowledge was
+highly valued. Years afterward, an old gentleman who knew Jefferson,
+when asked, "What was his power in the court-room?" answered, "He always
+took the right side."
+
+Parton says, in his valuable life of Jefferson, "He had most of the
+requisites of a great lawyer; industry, so quiet, methodical, and
+sustained that it amounted to a gift; learning, multifarious and exact;
+skill and rapidity in handling books; the instinct of research, that
+leads him who has it to the fact he wants, as surely as the hound scents
+the game; a serenity of temper, which neither the inaptitude of
+witnesses nor the badgering of counsel could ever disturb; a habit of
+getting everything upon paper in such a way that all his stores of
+knowledge could be marshalled and brought into action; a ready sympathy
+with a client's mind; an intuitive sense of what is due to the opinions,
+prejudices, and errors of others; a knowledge of the few avenues by
+which alone unwelcome truth can find access to a human mind; and the
+power to state a case with the clearness and brevity that often make
+argument superfluous."
+
+In 1768, when he was only twenty-five years old, he offered himself as a
+candidate for the Virginia Legislature, and was elected. He entered upon
+his public life, which lasted for forty years, with the resolution
+"never to engage, while in public office, in any kind of enterprise for
+the improvement of my fortune;" and he kept his resolution.
+
+Two years after he began to practise law, the house at "Shadwell" was
+burned. He was absent from home, and greatly concerned about his
+library. When a colored man came to tell him of his loss, Jefferson
+inquired eagerly for his books. "Oh," replied the servant, carelessly,
+"they were all burnt, but ah! we saved your fiddle!"
+
+A new house was now begun, two miles from the Shadwell home, on a hill
+five hundred and eighty feet high, which he called afterwards
+"Monticello," the Italian for "Little Mountain." This had long been a
+favorite retreat for Jefferson. He and Dabney Carr had come here day
+after day, in the summer-time, and made for themselves a rustic seat
+under a great oak, where they read law together, and planned the
+rose-colored plans of youth. Sweet, indeed, is it that we have such
+plans in early years. Those get most out of life who live much in the
+ideal; who see roses along every pathway, and hear Nature's music in
+every terrific storm.
+
+Jefferson was building the Monticello home with bright visions for its
+future. Another face had come into his heart, this time to remain
+forever. It was a beautiful face; a woman, with a slight, delicate form,
+a mind remarkably trained for the times, and a soul devoted to music.
+She had been married, and was a widow at nineteen. Her father was a
+wealthy lawyer; her own portion was about forty thousand acres of land
+and one hundred and thirty-five slaves. Although Jefferson had less
+land, his annual income was about five thousand dollars, from this and
+his profession.
+
+Martha Skelton was now twenty-three, and Jefferson nearly twenty-nine.
+So attractive a woman had many suitors. The story is told that two
+interested gentlemen came one evening to her father's house, with the
+purpose of having their future definitely settled. When they arrived,
+they heard singing in the drawing-room. They listened, and the voices
+were unmistakably those of Jefferson and Martha Skelton. Making up their
+minds that "their future was definitely settled," as far as she was
+concerned, they took their hats and withdrew.
+
+Jefferson was married to the lady January 1, 1772, and after the wedding
+started for Monticello. The snow had fallen lightly, but soon became so
+deep that they were obliged to quit the carriage and proceed on
+horseback. Arriving late at night, the fires were out and the servants
+in bed; but love keeps hearts warm, and darkness and cold were forgotten
+in the satisfaction of having won each other. This satisfaction was
+never clouded. For years, the home life deepened with its joys and
+sorrows. A little girl, Martha, was first born into the home; then Jane,
+who died when eighteen months old, and then an only son, who died in
+seventeen days. Monticello took on new beauty. Trees were set out and
+flower-beds planted. The man who so loved nature made this a restful and
+beautiful place for his little group.
+
+The year after Jefferson's marriage, Dabney Carr, the brilliant young
+member of the Virginia Assembly, a favorite in every household, eloquent
+and lovable, died in his thirtieth year. His wife, for a time, lost her
+reason in consequence. Carr was buried at "Shadwell," as Jefferson was
+away from home; but, upon his return, the boyish promise was kept, and
+the friend was interred under the old oak at Monticello, with these
+words on the stone, written by Jefferson:--
+
+  "To his Virtue, Good-Sense, Learning, and Friendship,
+    this stone is dedicated by Thomas Jefferson, who,
+          of all men living, loved him most."
+
+At once, Mrs. Carr, with her six little children, came to Jefferson's
+home, and lived there ever after, he educating the three sons and three
+daughters of his widowed sister as though they were his own. Thus true
+and tender was he to those whom he loved.
+
+For some years past, Jefferson had been developing under that British
+teaching which led America to freedom. When a student of law, he had
+listened to Patrick Henry's immortal speech in the debate on the Stamp
+Act. "I attended the debate," said Jefferson in his Memoir, "and heard
+the splendid display of Mr. Henry's talents as a popular orator. They
+were indeed great; such as I have never heard from any other man. He
+appeared to me to speak as Homer wrote.... I never heard anything that
+deserved to be called by the same name with what flowed from him; and
+where he got that torrent of language from is inconceivable. I have
+frequently shut my eyes while he spoke, and, when he was done, asked
+myself what he had said, without being able to recollect a word of it.
+He was no logician. He was truly a great man, however,--one of enlarged
+views."
+
+The whole country had become aflame over the burning of the Gaspee, in
+March, 1772,--a royal schooner anchored at Providence, R. I. The
+schooner came there to watch the commerce of the colonies, and to search
+vessels. She made herself generally obnoxious. Having run aground in her
+chase of an American packet, a few Rhode Islanders determined to visit
+her and burn her. The little company set out in eight boats, muffling
+their oars, reaching her after midnight. The Gaspee was taken unawares,
+the hands of the crew tied behind them, and the vessel burned.
+
+At once a reward of five thousand dollars was offered for the detection
+of any person concerned; but, though everybody knew, nobody would tell.
+Word came from England "that the persons concerned in the burning of the
+Gaspee schooner, and in the other violences which attended that daring
+insult, should be brought to England to be tried." This fired the hearts
+of the colonists. The Virginia House of Burgesses appointed a committee
+to correspond with other Legislatures on topics which concerned the
+common welfare. The royal governor of Virginia had no liking for such
+free thought and free speech as this, and dissolved the House, which at
+once repaired to a tavern and continued its deliberations.
+
+Soon a convention was called, before which Jefferson's "Summary View of
+the Rights of British America" was laid. It was worded as a skilful
+lawyer and polished writer knew how to word it; and it stated the case
+so plainly that, when it was published, and sent to Great Britain,
+Jefferson, to use his own words, "had the honor of having his name
+inserted in a long list of proscriptions enrolled in a bill of attainder
+commenced in one of the Houses of Parliament, but suppressed by the
+hasty step of events." Remoteness from England doubtless saved his life.
+
+Jefferson went up to the Continental Congress at Philadelphia, which
+opened May 10, 1775, taking his "Summary View" with him. The delegates
+were waiting to see what Virginia had to say in these important days.
+She had instructed her men to offer a resolution that "the United
+Colonies be free and independent States," which was done by Richard
+Henry Lee, on June 7. Four days later, Congress appointed a committee of
+five to prepare a Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson, only
+thirty-two, one of the youngest members of Congress, was made chairman.
+How well he had become fitted to write this immortal document! It was
+but a condensation of the "Summary View." He was also, says John T.
+Morse, in his life of Jefferson, "a man without an enemy. His abstinence
+from any active share in debate had saved him from giving irritation."
+
+The Declaration still exists in Jefferson's clear handwriting. For three
+days the paper was hotly debated, "John Adams being the colossus of the
+debate." Jefferson did not speak a word, though Franklin cheered him as
+he saw him "writhing under the acrimonious criticism of some of its
+parts."
+
+When it was adopted, the country was wild with joy. It was publicly read
+from a platform in Independence Square. Military companies gathered to
+listen to its words, fired salutes, and lighted bonfires in the
+evenings. The step, dreaded, yet for years longed for, had been
+taken--separation and freedom, or union and slavery. Jefferson came to
+that Congress an educated, true-hearted lover of his country; he went
+back to Martha Jefferson famous as long as America shall endure. He was
+reëlected to Congress, but declined to serve, as he wished to do
+important work in his own State, in the changing of her laws.
+
+But now, October 8, 1776, came a most tempting offer; that of joint
+commissioner with Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane to represent America
+at the court of France. He had always longed for European travel; he was
+a fine French scholar, and could make himself most useful to his new
+country, but his wife was too frail to undertake the long journey. She
+was more to him than the French mission, and he stayed at home.
+
+Born with a belief in human brotherhood and a love for human freedom, he
+turned his attention in the Virginia Legislature to the repeal of the
+laws of entail and primogeniture, derived from England. He believed the
+repeal of these, and the adoption of his bill "for establishing
+religious freedom," would, as he said, form a system by which every
+fibre would be eradicated of ancient or future aristocracy. "The repeal
+of the laws of entail would prevent the accumulation and perpetuation of
+wealth in select families.... The abolition of primogeniture, and equal
+partition of inheritances, removed the feudal and unnatural distinctions
+which made one member of every family rich and all the rest poor.... The
+restoration of the rights of conscience relieved the people from
+taxation for the support of a religion not theirs."
+
+There was much persecution of Dissenters by the Established Church.
+Baptists were often thrown into prison for preaching, as Patrick Henry
+declared, "the Gospel of the Saviour to Adam's fallen race." For nine
+years the matter of freedom of conscience was wrestled with, before
+Virginia could concede to her people the right to worship God as they
+pleased.
+
+Jefferson was averse to slavery, worked for the colonization of the
+slaves, and in 1778 carried through a bill against their further
+importation. He wrote later, in his "Notes on Virginia": "The whole
+commerce between master and slave is a perpetual exercise of the most
+boisterous passions, the most unremitting despotism, on the one part,
+and degrading submissions on the other.... I tremble for my country when
+I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever; that,
+considering numbers, nature, and natural means only, a revolution of the
+wheel of fortune, an exchange of situations, is among possible events;
+that it may become probable by supernatural interference! The Almighty
+has no attribute which can take side with us in such a contest." When
+his State could not bring itself to adopt his plan of freeing the
+slaves, he wrote in his autobiography, in 1821, "The day is not distant
+when it must bear and adopt it, or worse will follow. Nothing is more
+certainly written in the book of fate than that these people are to be
+free." How great indeed was the man who could look beyond his own
+personal interests for the well-being of the race!
+
+He worked earnestly for common schools and the establishment of a
+university in his native State, believing that it is the right and duty
+of a nation to make its people intelligent and capable of
+self-government.
+
+In June, 1779, Jefferson was made governor of Virginia, to succeed
+Patrick Henry, her first governor. The Revolutionary War had been going
+forward, with some victories and some defeats. Virginia had given
+generously of men, money, and provisions. The war was being transferred
+to the South, as its battle-ground. British fleets had laid waste the
+Atlantic coast. Benedict Arnold and Cornwallis had ravaged Virginia.
+When General Tarlton was ordered to Charlottesville, in 1781, and it
+seemed probable that Monticello would fall into his hands, Jefferson
+moved his family to a place of safety.
+
+When the British arrived, and found that the governor was not to be
+captured, they retired without committing the slightest injury to the
+place. This was in return for kindness shown by Jefferson to four
+thousand English prisoners, who had been sent from near New York, to be
+in camp at Charlottesville, where it seemed cheaper to provide for them.
+Jefferson rightly said: "It is for the benefit of mankind to mitigate
+the horrors of war as much as possible. The practice, therefore, of
+modern nations, of treating captive enemies with politeness and
+generosity, is not only delightful in contemplation, but really
+interesting to all the world--friends, foes, and neutrals."
+
+Two faithful servants at Monticello, fearful that the silver might be
+stolen by the red-coats, concealed it under a floor a few feet from the
+ground; Cćsar, removing a plank, and slipping through the cavity,
+received it from the hands of Martin. The soldiers came just as the last
+piece was handed to Cćsar; the plank was immediately restored to its
+place, and for nearly three days and nights the poor colored man
+remained in the dark, without food, guarding his master's treasures.
+When a soldier put his gun to the breast of Martin and threatened to
+fire unless Jefferson's whereabouts was disclosed, the brave fellow
+answered, "Fire away, then!" A man or woman who wins and holds such
+loyalty from dependents is no ordinary character.
+
+After holding the office of governor for two years, Jefferson resigned,
+feeling that a military man would give greater satisfaction. Such a one
+followed him, but with no better success among the half-despairing
+patriots, destitute of money and supplies. Jefferson, with his sensitive
+spirit, felt keenly the criticisms of some of the people, saying, "They
+have inflicted a wound on my spirit which will only be cured by the
+all-healing grave." He refused to return to public life, and looked
+forward to happy years of quiet study at Monticello.
+
+How little we know the way which lies before us. We long for sunlight,
+and perchance have only storms. We love to be as children who must be
+carried over the swamps and rough places, not knowing that strength of
+manhood and womanhood comes generally through struggling. The "happy
+years" at Monticello were already numbered. Another little girl had come
+to gladden the heart of the man who so loved children, and had quickly
+taken her departure. And now Martha Jefferson, at thirty-four, the
+sweet, gentle woman who had lived with him only ten short years, was
+also going away. She talked with him calmly about the journey; she said
+she could not die content if she thought their children would have a
+stepmother. The young governor, without a moment's thought as to his
+future happiness, taking her hand, solemnly promised that he would never
+marry again, and he kept his word. It is not known that any person ever
+entered the place left vacant in his heart by Martha Jefferson's death.
+
+For four months he had watched by her bedside, or had his books so near
+her that he could work without being separated from her. When she died
+he fainted, and remained so long insensible that the attendants thought
+he could never be restored to consciousness. For three weeks he kept his
+room, ministered to by his little daughter Martha, who wound her arms
+about his neck, with that inexpressible consolation that only a pure,
+sweet child-nature can give. She said years later, "I was never a moment
+from his side. He walked almost incessantly, night and day, only lying
+down occasionally, when nature was completely exhausted.... When, at
+last, he left his room, he rode out, and from that time he was on
+horseback rambling about the mountain, in the least frequented roads,
+and just as often through the woods. In those melancholy rambles I was
+his constant companion, a solitary witness to many a burst of grief."
+
+He longed now for a change of scene; Monticello was no more a place of
+peace and rest. Being elected to Congress, he took his seat in
+November, 1783. To him we owe, after much heated discussion, the
+adoption of the present system of dollars and cents, instead of pounds
+and shillings. In May, 1784, he was appointed minister to France, to
+join Dr. Franklin and John Adams in negotiating commercial treaties. He
+sailed in July, taking with him his eldest child, Martha, leaving Mary
+and an infant daughter with an aunt.
+
+The educated governor and congressman of course found a cordial welcome
+in Parisian society, for was he not the author of the Declaration of
+Independence, endeared to all lovers of liberty, in whatever country. He
+was charmed with French courtesy, thrift, and neatness, but he was
+always an American in sentiment and affection. He wrote to his young
+friend, James Monroe, afterwards President: "The pleasure of the trip to
+Europe will be less than you expect, but the utility greater. It will
+make you adore your own country,--its soil, its climate, its equality,
+liberty, laws, people, and manners. How little do my countrymen know
+what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other
+people on earth enjoy!" More and more he loved, and believed in, a
+republic. He wrote to a friend: "If all the evils which can arise among
+us from the republican form of government, from this day to the day of
+judgment, could be put into scale against what this country suffers from
+its monarchical form in a week, or England in a month, the latter would
+preponderate. No race of kings has ever presented above one man of
+common-sense in twenty generations. The best they can do is to leave
+things to their ministers; and what are their ministers but a committee
+badly chosen?"
+
+Jefferson spent much time in looking up the manufacturing and
+agricultural interests of the country, and kept four colleges--Harvard,
+Yale, William and Mary, and the College of Philadelphia--advised of new
+inventions, new books, and new phases of the approaching Revolution.
+
+He had placed his daughter Martha in a leading school. His letters to
+her in the midst of his busy life show the beautiful spirit of the man,
+who was too great ever to rise above his affectional nature. "The more
+you learn the more I love you," he wrote her; "and I rest the happiness
+of my life on seeing you beloved by all the world, which you will be
+sure to be if to a good heart you join those accomplishments so
+peculiarly pleasing in your sex. Adieu, my dear child; lose no moment in
+improving your head, nor any opportunity of exercising your heart in
+benevolence."
+
+His baby-girl, Lucy, died two years after her mother, and now only
+little Mary was left in America. He could not rest until this child was
+with him in France. She came, with a breaking heart on leaving the old
+Virginia home and her aunt. On board the vessel she became so attached
+to the captain that it was almost impossible to take her from him. She
+spent some weeks with Mrs. John Adams in London, who wrote: "A finer
+child I never saw. I grew so fond of her, and she was so much attached
+to me, that, when Mr. Jefferson sent for her, they were obliged to force
+the little creature away."
+
+Once in Paris, the affectionate child was placed at school with her
+sister Martha, to whom Jefferson wrote: "She will become a precious
+charge upon your hands.... Teach her, above all things, to be good,
+because without that we can neither be valued by others nor set any
+value on ourselves. Teach her to be always true; no vice is so mean as
+the want of truth, and at the same time so useless. Teach her never to
+be angry; anger only serves to torment ourselves, to divert others, and
+alienate their esteem."
+
+The love of truth was a strong characteristic of Jefferson's nature, one
+of the most beautiful characteristics of any life. There is no other
+foundation-stone so strong and enduring on which to build a granite
+character as the granite rock of truth. Jefferson wrote to his children
+and nephews: "If you ever find yourself in any difficulty, and doubt how
+to extricate yourself, _do what is right_, and you will find it the
+easiest way of getting out of the difficulty.... Give up money, give up
+fame, give up science, give the earth itself, and all it contains,
+rather than do an immoral act. And never suppose that, in any possible
+situation or any circumstances, it is best for you to do a dishonorable
+thing." Again he wrote: "Determine never to be idle. No person will
+have occasion to complain of the want of time, who never loses any. It
+is wonderful how much may be done if we are always doing."
+
+After five years spent in France, most of which time he was minister
+plenipotentiary, Dr. Franklin having returned home, and John Adams
+having gone to England, Jefferson set sail for America, with his two
+beloved children, Martha, seventeen, and Mary, eleven. He had done his
+work well, and been honored for his wisdom and his peace-loving nature.
+Daniel Webster said of him: "No court in Europe had at that time a
+representative in Paris commanding or enjoying higher regard, for
+political knowledge or for general attainments, than the minister of
+this then infant republic."
+
+Even before Jefferson reached home he had been appointed Secretary of
+State by President Washington. He accepted with a sense of dread, and
+his subsequent difficulties with Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the
+Treasury, realized his worst fears. The one believed in centralization
+of power--a stronger national government; the other believed in a pure
+democracy--the will of the people, with the least possible governing
+power. The two men were opposite in character, opposite in financial
+plans, opposite in views of national polity. Jefferson took sides with
+the French, and Hamilton with the English in the French Revolution. The
+press grew bitter over these differences, and the noble heart of George
+Washington was troubled. Finally Jefferson resigned, and retired to
+Monticello. "I return to farming," he said, "with an ardor which I
+scarcely knew in my youth."
+
+Three years later, he was again called into public life. As Washington
+declined a reëlection, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson became the two
+Presidential candidates. The one receiving the most votes of the
+electors became President, and the second on the list, Vice-President.
+John Adams received three more votes than Jefferson, and was made
+President.
+
+On March 4, 1797, Jefferson, as Vice-President, became the leader of the
+Senate, delivering a short but able address. Much of the next four years
+he spent at Monticello, watching closely the progress of events. Matters
+with the French republic grew more complicated. She demanded an alliance
+with the United States against England, which was refused, and war
+became imminent. At the last moment, John Adams rose above the tempest
+of the hour, went quite half-way in bringing about a reconciliation, and
+the country was saved from a useless and disastrous war.
+
+The Federalists had passed some unwise measures, such as the "Alien
+Law," whereby the President was authorized to send foreigners out of the
+country; and the "Sedition Law," which punished with fine and
+imprisonment freedom of speech and of the press. Therefore, at the next
+presidential election, when Adams and Jefferson were again candidates,
+the latter was made President of the United States, the Federalists
+having lost their power, and the Republicans--afterwards called
+Democrats--having gained the ascendancy.
+
+The contest had been bitter. Jefferson's religious belief had been
+strongly assailed. Through it all he had the common-sense to know that
+the cool-headed, good-natured man, who has only words of kindness, and
+who rarely or never makes an enemy, is the man who wins in the end. He
+controlled himself, and therefore his party, in a manner almost
+unexampled.
+
+March 4, 1801, at the age of fifty-eight, in a plain suit of clothes,
+the great leader of Democracy rode to the Capitol, hitched his horse to
+the fence, entered the Senate Chamber, and delivered his inaugural
+address. Thus simple was the man, who wished ever to be known as "the
+friend of the people." Alas! that sweet Martha Jefferson could not have
+lived to see this glad day! To what a proud height had come the
+hard-working college boy and the tender-hearted, tolerant man!
+
+As President, he was the idol of his party, and, in the main, a wise
+leader. He made few removals from office, chiefly those appointed by
+John Adams just as he was leaving the Presidency. Jefferson said
+removals "must be as few as possible, done gradually, and bottomed on
+some malversation or inherent disqualification." One of the chief acts
+was the purchase from France of a great tract of land, called the
+Territory of Louisiana, for fifteen million dollars.
+
+During his second four years in office, there were more perplexities.
+Aaron Burr, Vice-President during Jefferson's first term, was tried on
+the charge of raising an army to place himself on the throne of Mexico,
+or at the head of a South-western confederacy. England, usually at war
+with France, had issued orders prohibiting all trade with that country
+and her allies; Napoleon had retorted by a like measure. Both nations
+claimed the right to take seamen out of United States vessels. The
+British frigate Leopard took four seamen by force from the American
+frigate Chesapeake. The nation seemed on the verge of war, but it was
+postponed, only to come later, in 1812, under James Madison.
+
+Congress passed the Embargo Act, by which all American vessels were
+detained in our own ports. It had strong advocates and strong opponents,
+but was repealed as soon as Jefferson retired from office. Owing to
+these measures our commerce was well-nigh destroyed.
+
+At the age of sixty-five years, Jefferson retired to Monticello, "with a
+reputation and popularity," says Mr. Morse, "hardly inferior to that of
+Washington." He had had the wisdom never to assume the bearing of a
+leader. He had been careful to avoid disputes. Once, when riding, he met
+a stranger, with whom engaging in conversation, he found him bitterly
+opposed to the President. Upon being asked if he knew Mr. Jefferson
+personally, he replied, "No, nor do I wish to."
+
+"But do you think it fair to repeat such stories about a man, and
+condemn one whom you do not dare to face?"
+
+"I shall never shrink from meeting him if he ever comes in my way."
+
+"Will you, then, go to his house to-morrow, and be introduced to him, if
+I promise to meet you there?"
+
+"Yes, I will."
+
+The stranger came, to his astonishment found that the man he had talked
+with was the President himself, dined with him, and became his firm
+friend and supporter ever afterward.
+
+For the next seventeen years, Jefferson lived at Monticello, honored and
+visited by celebrities from all the world. Sometimes as many as fifty
+persons stayed at his home over night. One family of six came from
+abroad, and remained with him for ten months. His daughter Martha,
+married to Thomas Mann Randolph, presided over his hospitable home, and
+with her eleven children made the place a delight, for she had "the
+Jefferson temperament--all music and sunshine." The beautiful Mary, who
+married her cousin, John W. Eppes, had died at twenty-six, leaving two
+small children, who, like all the rest, found a home with Jefferson.
+
+In the midst of this loving company, the great man led a busy life,
+carrying on an immense correspondence, by means of which he exerted a
+commanding influence on the questions of the day as well as on all
+social matters. To a child named for him, he wrote a letter which the
+boy might read after the statesman's death. In it are these helpful
+words: "Adore God. Reverence and cherish your parents. Love your
+neighbor as yourself. Be just. Be true. Murmur not at the ways of
+Providence."
+
+To his daughter Mary he wrote these lines, which well might be hung up
+in every household:--
+
+"Harmony in the married state is the very first object to be aimed at.
+Nothing can preserve affections uninterrupted but a firm resolution
+never to differ in will, and a determination in each to consider the
+love of the other as of more value than any object whatever on which a
+wish had been fixed. How light, in fact, is the sacrifice of any other
+wish when weighed against the affections of one with whom we are to pass
+our whole life. And though opposition in a single instance will hardly
+of itself produce alienation, yet every one has his pouch into which all
+these little oppositions are put. While that is filling, the alienation
+is insensibly going on, and when filled it is complete. It would puzzle
+either to say why, because no one difference of opinion has been marked
+enough to produce a serious effect by itself. But he finds his
+affections wearied out by a constant stream of little checks and
+obstacles.
+
+"Other sources of discontent, very common indeed, are the little
+cross-purposes of husband and wife, in common conversation; a
+disposition in either to criticise and question whatever the other says;
+a desire always to demonstrate and make him feel himself in the wrong,
+and especially in company. Nothing is so goading. Much better,
+therefore, if our companion views a thing in a light different from what
+we do, to leave him in quiet possession of his view. What is the use of
+rectifying him, if the thing be unimportant, and, if important, let it
+pass for the present, and wait a softer moment and more conciliatory
+occasion of revising the subject together. It is wonderful how many
+persons are rendered unhappy by inattention to these little rules of
+prudence."
+
+Jefferson rose early; the sun, he said, had not for fifty years caught
+him in bed. But he bore great heart-sorrow in these declining years, and
+bore it bravely. His estate had diminished in value, and he had lost
+heavily by indorsements for others. His household expenses were
+necessarily great. Finally, debts pressed so heavily that he sold to
+Congress the dearly prized library, which he had been gathering for
+fifty years. He received nearly twenty-four thousand dollars for it,
+about half its original value. But this amount brought only temporary
+relief.
+
+Then he attempted to dispose of some of his land by lottery, as was
+somewhat the fashion of the times. The Legislature reluctantly gave
+permission, but as soon as his friends in New York, Philadelphia, and
+Baltimore heard of his pecuniary condition, they raised about eighteen
+thousand dollars for him, and the lottery plan was abandoned. He was
+touched by this proof of esteem, and said: "No cent of this is wrung
+from the tax-payer; it is the pure and unsolicited offering of love."
+
+Jefferson was now, as he said, "like an old watch, with a pinion worn
+out here and a wheel there, until it can go no longer." On July 3, 1826,
+after a brief illness, he seemed near the end. He desired to live till
+the next day, and frequently asked if it were the Fourth. He lingered
+till forty minutes past the noon of July 4, and then slept in death.
+That same day, John Adams, at ninety-one, was dying at Quincy, Mass. His
+last words were, as he went out at sunset, the booming of cannon
+sounding pleasant to his patriotic heart, "Thomas Jefferson still
+lives." He did not know that his great co-laborer had gone home at
+midday. "The two aged men," says T. W. Higginson, "floated on, like two
+ships becalmed at nightfall, that drift together into port, and cast
+anchor side by side." Beautiful words!
+
+The death of two Presidents at this memorable time has given an
+additional sacredness to our national Independence Day.
+
+Among Jefferson's papers were found, carefully laid away, "some of my
+dear, dear wife's handwriting," and locks of hair of herself and
+children. Also a sketch of the granite stone he desired for his
+monument, with these words to be inscribed upon it.
+
+                   Here was buried
+                  THOMAS JEFFERSON,
+     Author of the Declaration of Independence,
+  Of the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom,
+     And Father of the University of Virginia.
+
+He was buried by his family and servants, on the spot selected by
+himself and Dabney Carr in boyhood, his wife on one side and his loving
+Mary on the other.
+
+The beloved Monticello passed into other hands. Martha Jefferson and her
+children would have been left penniless had not the Legislatures of
+South Carolina and Louisiana each voted her ten thousand dollars. Thomas
+Jefferson Randolph, the grandson, with the assistance of his daughters,
+who established a noted school, paid all the remaining debts, many
+thousand dollars, to save the honor of their famous ancestor.
+
+To the last, Jefferson kept his sublime faith in human nature and in the
+eternal justice of republican principles, saying it is "my conviction
+that should things go wrong at any time, the people will set them to
+rights by the peaceable exercise of their elective rights." Whatever his
+religious belief in its details of creed, he said, "I am a Christian in
+the only sense in which Jesus wished any one to be--sincerely attached
+to his doctrines in preference to all others." He compiled a little
+book of the words of Christ, saying, "A more precious morsel of ethics
+was never seen."
+
+In his public life he was honest, in his domestic life lovable, and he
+died, as he had lived, tolerant of the opinions of others,
+even-tempered, believing in the grandeur and beauty of human nature.
+What though we occasionally trust too much! Far better that than to go
+through life doubting and murmuring! That he believed too broadly in
+States' Rights for the perpetuity of the Union, our late Civil War
+plainly showed, and his views on Free Trade are, of course, shared by a
+portion only of our citizens. However, he gave grandly of the affection
+of his heart and the power of his intellect, and he received, as he
+deserved, the love and honor of thousands, the world over.
+
+[Illustration: Signature A. Hamilton]
+
+
+
+
+ALEXANDER HAMILTON.
+
+
+To the quiet and picturesque island of Nevis, one of the West Indies,
+many years ago, a Scotch merchant came to build for himself a home. He
+was of a proud and wealthy family, allied centuries before to William
+the Conqueror.
+
+On this island lived also a Huguenot family, who had settled there after
+the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, which drove so many Protestants
+out of the country. In this family was a beautiful and very intellectual
+girl, with refined tastes and gentle, cultured manners. Through the
+ambition of her mother she had contracted a marriage with a Dane of
+large wealth, followed by the usual unhappiness of marrying simply for
+money. A divorce resulted, and the attractive young woman married the
+Scotch merchant, James Hamilton. A son, Alexander, was born to them,
+January 11, 1757.
+
+But he was born into privation rather than joy and plenty. The generous
+and kindly father failed in business; the beautiful mother died in his
+childhood, and he was thrown upon the bounty of her relations.
+
+The opportunities for education on the island were limited. The child
+read all the books he could lay his hands upon, becoming especially fond
+of Plutarch's Lives and Pope's works. He was fortunate also in having
+the friendship of a superior man, Dr. Knox, a Presbyterian clergyman,
+who delighted in the boy's quick and comprehensive mind.
+
+At twelve years of age he was obliged to earn money, and was placed in
+the counting-house of Nicholas Cruger. Probably, like other boys, he
+wished he were rich, but found later in life that success is usually
+born of effort and economy. He early chose "Perseverando" for his motto,
+and it helped to carry him to the summit of power.
+
+That the counting-house was not congenial to him, a letter to a
+school-fellow in New York plainly shows. "To confess my weakness, Ned,
+my ambition is prevalent, so that I contemn the grovelling condition of
+a clerk, or the like, to which my fortune condemns me, and would
+willingly risk my life, though not my character, to exalt my station. I
+am confident, Ned, that my youth excludes me from any hopes of immediate
+preferment, nor do I desire it, but I mean to prepare the way for
+futurity. I'm no philosopher, you see, and may be justly said to build
+castles in the air; my folly makes me ashamed, and beg you'll conceal
+it; yet, Neddy, we have seen such schemes successful, when the projector
+is constant. I shall conclude by saying, I wish there was a war."
+
+The "projector was constant," and the "schemes became successful." He
+was indeed "preparing the way for futurity," this lad not yet fourteen.
+At this time, Mr. Cruger made a visit to New York, and left the
+precocious boy in charge of his business. Such reliance upon him
+increased his self-reliance, and helped to fit him to advise and uphold
+a nation in later years.
+
+In these early days he began to write both prose and poetry. When he was
+fifteen, the Leeward Islands were visited by a terrific hurricane. In
+one town five hundred houses were blown down. So interested was
+Alexander in this novel occurrence that he wrote a description of it for
+a newspaper. When the authorship was discovered, it was decided by the
+relatives that such a boy ought to be educated. The money was raised for
+this purpose, and he sailed for New York, taking with him some valuable
+letters of introduction from Dr. Knox.
+
+He was soon attending a grammar-school at Elizabeth, New Jersey. The
+principal, Francis Barber, was a fine classical scholar, patriotic,
+entering the Revolutionary War later; the right man to impress his
+pupils for good. Alexander, with his accustomed energy and ambition, set
+himself to work. In winter, wrapt in a blanket, he studied till
+midnight, and in summer, at dawn, resorted to a cemetery near by, where
+he found the quiet he desired. In a year he was ready to enter college.
+
+Attracted to Princeton, he asked Dr. Witherspoon, the president of the
+college, the privilege of taking the course in about half the usual
+time. The good days of election in study had not yet dawned. The dull
+and the bright must have the same routine; the one urged to his duties,
+the other tired by the delay. The doctor could not establish so peculiar
+a precedent, and Princeton missed the honor of educating the great
+statesman.
+
+He entered Columbia College, and made an excellent record for himself.
+In the debating club, say his classmates, "he gave extraordinary
+displays of richness of genius and energy of mind." He won strong
+friendships to himself by his generous and unselfish nature, and his
+ardent love for others. It is only another proof of the old rule, that
+"Like begets like." Those who give love in this world usually receive
+it. Selfishness wins nothing--self-sacrifice, all things.
+
+The college-boy was often seen walking under the large trees on what is
+now Dey Street, New York, talking to himself in an undertone, and
+apparently in deep thought. The neighbors knew the slight, dark-eyed
+lad, as the "young West Indian," and wondered concerning his future.
+When he was seventeen, a "great meeting in the fields" was held in New
+York, July 6, 1774. While Hamilton was studying, the colonies of America
+had been looking over into the promised land of freedom, driven thither
+by some unwise task-masters. Boston had seasoned the waters of the
+Atlantic with British tea. New York, well filled with Tories, yet had
+some Patriots, who felt that the hour was approaching when all must
+stand together in the demand for liberty. Accordingly, the "great
+meeting" was called, to teach the people the lessons of the past and the
+duties of the future.
+
+Hamilton had recently returned from a visit to Boston, and was urged to
+be present and speak at the meeting. He at first refused, being a
+stranger in the country and unknown. He attended, however; and when
+several speakers had addressed the eager crowds, thoughts flowed into
+the youth's mind and pleaded for utterance. He mounted the platform. The
+audience stared at the stripling. Then, as he depicted the long endured
+oppression from England, urged the wisdom of resistance, and painted in
+glowing colors the sure success of the colonies, the hearts of the
+multitude took fire with courage and hope. When he closed, they shouted,
+"It is a collegian! it is a collegian!"
+
+Hamilton was no longer a West Indian; he was, heart and soul, an
+American. Liberty now grew more exciting than college books. Dr.
+Seabury, afterwards Bishop of Connecticut, wrote two tracts entitled
+"Free Thoughts on the Proceedings of the Continental Congress," and
+"Congress Canvassed by a Westchester Farmer." These pamphlets attempted
+to show the foolishness of opposing a monarchy like England. They were
+scattered broadcast.
+
+Then tracts appeared in answer; clear, terse, sound, and able. These
+said, "No reason can be assigned why one man should exercise any power
+or preëminence over his fellow-creatures more than another, unless they
+have voluntarily vested him with it. Since, then, Americans have not, by
+any act of theirs, empowered the British Parliament to make laws for
+them, it follows they can have no just authority to do it.... If, by the
+necessity of the thing, manufactures should once be established, and
+take root among us, they will pave the way still more to the future
+grandeur and glory of America; and, by lessening its need of external
+commerce, will render it still securer against the encroachments of
+tyranny."
+
+This was rank heterodoxy toward a power which had crippled the
+manufactures of America in all possible ways, and wished to keep her a
+great agricultural country. "The sacred rights of mankind," said the
+writer, "are not to be rummaged for among old parchments or musty
+records; they are written, as with a sunbeam, in the whole volume of
+human nature, by the hand of the Divinity itself, and can never be
+erased or obscured by mortal power." The wonder grew as to the
+authorship of these pamphlets. Some said John Jay wrote them; some said
+Governor Livingstone. When it was learned that Hamilton, only eighteen,
+had composed them, the Tories stood aghast, and the Patriots saw that a
+new star had risen in the heavens.
+
+Hamilton knew that the war was inevitable; that the time must soon come
+for which he longed when he wrote to his friend Ned, "I wish there was a
+war." He immediately began to study military affairs. There are always
+places to be filled by those who make themselves ready. He was learning
+none too early. His corps, called the "Hearts of Oak" in green uniforms
+and leathern caps, drilled each morning. While engaged in removing
+cannon from the battery, a boat from the Asia, a British ship-of-war,
+fired into the men, killing the person who stood next to Hamilton. At
+once the drums were beaten, and the people rushed to arms. The king's
+store-houses were pillaged, and the "Liberty Boys" marched through the
+streets, threatening revenge on every Tory.
+
+Young Hamilton, fearless before the Asia, could also be fearless in
+defence of his friends. Dr. Cooper, the President of Columbia College,
+was a pronounced Tory. When the mob approached the steps of the
+institution, Hamilton, nothing daunted, appeared before them, and urged
+coolness, lest they bring "disgrace on the cause of liberty." Dr. Cooper
+imagined that his liberal pupil was assisting the mob, and cried out
+from an upper window, "Don't listen to him, gentlemen! he is crazy, he
+is crazy!" But the mob did listen, and the president was saved from
+harm.
+
+The Revolutionary War had begun. Lexington and Bunker Hill were as
+beacon-fires to the new nation. In 1776, the New York Convention ordered
+a company of artillery to be raised, and Hamilton applied for the
+command of it. Only nineteen, and very boyish in looks, his fitness for
+the position was doubted, till his excellent examination proved his
+knowledge, and he was appointed captain. He used the last money sent
+him by his relatives in the West Indies, to equip his company.
+
+College days were now over, and the busy life of the soldier had
+commenced. For most young men, the stirring events of the times would
+have filled every moment and every thought. Not so the man born to have
+a controlling and permanent influence in the republic. He found time to
+study about money circulation, rates of exchange, commerce, taxes,
+increase of population, and the like, because he knew that a great work
+must be done by somebody after the war. How true it is that if we fit
+ourselves for a great work, the work will find us.
+
+Meantime, Captain Hamilton drilled his troops so well that General
+Greene observed it, made the acquaintance of the captain, invited him to
+his headquarters, and spoke of him to Washington. Had not the work been
+well done, it would not have commanded attention, but this attention was
+an important stepping-stone to fame and honor. Hamilton was ever after a
+most loyal friend to General Greene.
+
+The company was soon called into active service. At the disastrous
+battle of Long Island, Hamilton was in the thickest of the fight, and
+brought up the rear, losing his baggage and a field-piece. After the
+retreat up the Hudson, at Harlem Heights, Washington observed the skill
+used in the construction of some earthworks, and, finding that the
+engineer was the young man introduced to him by General Greene, invited
+him to his tent. This was the beginning of a life-long and most devoted
+friendship between the great commander and the boyish captain.
+
+Later, at the battles of Trenton and Princeton, Hamilton was fearless
+and heroic. "Well do I recollect the day," said a friend, "when
+Hamilton's company marched into Princeton. It was a model of discipline;
+at their head was a boy, and I wondered at his youth; but what was my
+surprise when, struck with his slight figure, he was pointed out to me
+as that Hamilton of whom we had already heard so much.... A mere
+stripling, small, slender, almost delicate in frame, marching beside a
+piece of artillery, with a cocked hat pulled down over his eyes,
+apparently lost in thought, with his hand resting on a cannon, and every
+now and then patting it, as if it were a favorite horse or a pet
+plaything."
+
+He had so won the esteem and approbation of Washington that he was
+offered a position upon his staff, which he accepted March 1, 1777, with
+the rank of lieutenant-colonel. His work now was constant and absorbing.
+The correspondence was immense, but all was done with that clearness and
+elegance of diction which had marked the young collegian. He was popular
+with old and young, being called the "Little Lion," as a term of
+endearment, in appreciation of bravery and nobility of character.
+
+When the skies looked darkest, as at Valley Forge, Hamilton was
+habitually cheerful, seeing always a rainbow among the clouds. His
+enthusiasm was contagious. He carried men with him by a belief in his
+own powers, and by deep sympathy with others. Lafayette loved him as a
+brother. He wrote Hamilton, "Before this campaign I was your friend and
+very intimate friend, agreeably to the ideas of the world. Since my
+second voyage, my sentiment has increased to such a point the world
+knows nothing about. To show _both_, from want and from scorn of
+expression, I shall only tell you--Adieu!"
+
+Baron Steuben used to say, in later days, "The Secretary of the Treasury
+is my banker; my Hamilton takes care of me when he cannot take care of
+himself."
+
+Hamilton wrote to his dear friend Laurens, "Cold in my professions--warm
+in my friendships--I wish it were in my power, by actions rather than
+words, to convince you that I love you.... You know the opinion I
+entertain of mankind, and how much it is my desire to preserve myself
+free from particular attachments, and to keep my happiness independent
+of the caprices of others. You should not have taken advantage of my
+sensibility to steal into my affections without my consent."
+
+Best of all, Washington confided in him, and loved him, and we usually
+love those in whom we have confided. When he wanted a calcitrant
+general, like Gates, brought to terms, he sent the tactful, clear-headed
+Hamilton on the mission. When he wanted decisive action, he sent the
+same fearless young officer, who knew no such word as failure.
+Sometimes he broke down physically, but the power of youth triumphed,
+and he was soon at work again.
+
+On his expedition to General Gates, in November, 1777, with all his
+desire to keep himself "free from particular attachments," he laid the
+foundation for the one lasting attachment of his life. At the house of
+the wealthy and distinguished General Philip Schuyler, he met and liked
+the second daughter, Elizabeth. Three years later, in the spring of
+1780, when the officers brought their families to Morristown, the
+acquaintance ripened into love, and December 14, 1780, when Hamilton was
+twenty-three, he was married to Miss Schuyler. The father of the young
+lady was proud and happy in her choice. He wrote Hamilton, "You cannot,
+my dear sir, be more happy at the connection you have made with my
+family than I am. Until the child of a parent has made a judicious
+choice, his heart is in continual anxiety; but this anxiety was removed
+the moment I discovered it was you on whom she placed her affections."
+
+In this year, 1780, the country was shocked by the treason of Benedict
+Arnold. Hamilton was sent in pursuit, only to find that he had escaped
+to the British. He ministered to the heart-broken wife of Arnold, as
+best he could. He wrote to a friend, "Her sufferings were so eloquent
+that I wished myself her brother, to have a right to become her
+defender."
+
+For Major André he had the deepest sympathy, and admiration of his manly
+qualities. He wrote to Miss Schuyler, afterward his wife, "Poor André
+suffers to-day. Everything that is amiable in virtue, in fortitude, in
+delicate sentiment and accomplished manners, pleads for him; but
+hard-hearted policy calls for a sacrifice. I urged a compliance with
+André's request to be shot, and I do not think it would have had an ill
+effect."
+
+A month after his marriage, his only difficulty with General Washington
+occurred. The commander-in-chief had sent for Hamilton to confer with
+him, who, meeting Lafayette, was stopped by him for a few moments'
+conversation on business. When he reached Washington, the general said,
+"Colonel Hamilton, you have kept me waiting at the head of the stairs
+these ten minutes. I must tell you, sir, you treat me with disrespect."
+The proud young aid answered, "I am not conscious of it, sir; but since
+you have thought it necessary to tell me so, we part." He therefore
+resigned his position, glad to be free to take a more active part in the
+war. Washington, with his usual magnanimity, made overtures of
+reconciliation, and they became ever after trusted co-workers.
+
+All these years, Hamilton had shown himself brave and untiring in the
+interests of his adopted country. At the battle of Monmouth, his horse
+was shot under him. At Yorktown, at his own earnest request, he led the
+perilous assault upon the enemy's works, and carried them. When
+Hamilton saw that the enemy was driven back, he humanely ordered that
+not a British soldier should be killed after the attack. He says in his
+report, "Incapable of imitating examples of barbarity, and forgetting
+recent provocations, the soldiers spared every man who ceased to
+resist."
+
+Washington appreciated his heroism, and said, "Few cases have exhibited
+greater proof of intrepidity, coolness, and firmness than were shown on
+this occasion."
+
+Letters home to his wife show the warm heart of Hamilton. "I am
+unhappy--I am unhappy beyond expression. I am unhappy because I am to be
+so remote from you; because I am to hear from you less frequently than I
+am accustomed to do. I am miserable, because I know you will be so....
+Constantly uppermost in my thoughts and affections, I am happy only when
+my moments are devoted to some office that respects you. I would give
+the world to be able to tell you all I feel and all I wish; but consult
+your own heart, and you will know mine.... Every day confirms me in the
+intention of renouncing public life, and devoting myself wholly to you.
+Let others waste their time and their tranquillity in a vain pursuit of
+power and glory; be it my object to be happy in a quiet retreat, with my
+better angel."
+
+At the close of the Revolutionary War, he repaired to Albany, spending
+the winter at the home of General Schuyler, his wife's father. He had
+but little money, and his dues in the service of an impoverished
+country were unpaid; but he had what was far better, ability. He
+determined to study law. For four months, he bent himself unreservedly
+to his work, and was admitted to the bar. He steadily refused offers of
+pecuniary aid from General Schuyler, preferring to support his wife and
+infant son by his own exertions. Such a man, of proud spirit and
+unwavering purpose, would, of course, succeed.
+
+Friends who appreciated the service he had rendered to his country now
+interceded in his behalf, and he was appointed Continental receiver of
+taxes for New York. To accept a position meant, to him, persistent
+labor, and success in it if possible. He at once repaired to
+Poughkeepsie, where the Legislature was in session; presented his plans
+of taxation, and prevailed upon that body to pass a resolution asking
+for a convention of the States that a Union might be effected, stronger
+than the existing Confederation.
+
+The position as receiver of taxes was sometimes a disagreeable one, but
+it was another round in the ladder which carried him to fame. He had
+increased the number of his acquaintances. His energy and his knowledge
+of public questions had been revealed to the people; and the result was
+his election to Congress, at the age of twenty-five. Thus rapidly the
+ambitious, energetic, and intelligent young man had risen in influence.
+
+That his voice would be heard in Congress was a foregone conclusion.
+General Schuyler wrote his daughter soon after Congress met:
+"Participate afresh in the satisfaction I experience from the connection
+you have made with my beloved Hamilton. He affords me happiness too
+exquisite for expression. I daily experience the pleasure of hearing
+encomiums on his virtue and abilities, from those who are capable of
+distinguishing between real and pretended merit. He is considered, as he
+certainly is, the ornament of his country, and capable of rendering it
+the most essential services, if his advice and suggestions are attended
+to."
+
+The country was deeply in debt from the Revolutionary War. It had no
+money with which to pay its soldiers; its paper currency was nearly
+worthless; dissatisfaction was apparent on every hand. There was little
+unity of interest among the States. Hamilton's plans for raising money,
+and for a more centralized government, were unheeded; and, after a year
+in Congress, he returned to the practice of law, saying, "The more I
+see, the more I find reason for those who love this country to weep over
+its blindness."
+
+As soon as the war was over, the people began to grow more bitter than
+ever toward the Tories, or loyalists. Harsh legislative measures were
+passed. The "Trespass Act" declared that any person who had left his
+abode in consequence of invasion could collect damages of those who had
+occupied the premises during his absence. A widow, reduced to poverty by
+the war, brought suit against a rich Tory merchant, who had lived in her
+house while the Tories held the city. Hamilton, feeling that a
+principle of justice was involved, took the part of the merchant, and by
+a brilliant speech, in which he contended that "the fruits of immovables
+belong to the captor so long as he remains in actual possession of
+them," he gained the case. Of course, he brought upon himself much
+obloquy; was declared to be a "Britisher," and lover of monarchy, a
+charge to which he must have grown accustomed in later years.
+
+Hamilton's pen was not idle in this controversy. He wrote a pamphlet,
+advocating respect for law and justice, which was called "Phocion," from
+its signature. It was read widely, both in England and America. Among
+the many replies was one signed "Mentor," which drew from Hamilton a
+"Second letter of Phocion." So inflamed did public opinion become that
+in one of the clubs it was decided that one person after another should
+challenge Hamilton, till he should fall in a duel. This came to the
+knowledge of "Mentor" and the abhorrent plan was stopped by his timely
+interference. There are too few men and women great enough to be
+tolerant of ideas in opposition to their own, or to persons holding
+those ideas. Tolerance belongs to great souls only.
+
+Matters in the States had so grown from bad to worse, and Congress, with
+its limited powers, was so helpless, that a convention was finally
+called at Philadelphia, May 25, 1787, to provide for a more complete and
+efficient Union. Nine States sent delegates: Massachusetts, New York,
+New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South
+Carolina, and Georgia. General Washington was made president of the
+convention. A plan of government was submitted, called the "Virginia
+plan," which provided for a Congress of two branches, one to be elected
+by the people, the other from names suggested by the State Legislatures.
+There was to be a President, not eligible for a second term. Then the
+"New Jersey plan" was submitted; which was simply a revision of the
+Articles of Confederation.
+
+The debates were earnest, but most intelligent; for men in those times
+had studied the existing governments of the world, and the fate of
+previous republics. Hamilton was present as a delegate, and, early in
+the convention, gave his plan for a new government, in a powerful
+speech, six hours long. He reviewed the whole domain of history, the
+present condition of the States, and the reasons for it, and then
+developed his plan. Those only could vote for President and Senators who
+owned a certain amount of real estate. These officials were to hold
+office for life or during good behavior. The President should appoint
+the Governors of the various States.
+
+Of course, the believers in "States' Rights" could not for a moment
+concede such power to one man, at the head of a nation. When Hamilton
+affirmed that the "British government was the best model in existence,"
+he awoke the antagonism of the American heart. He probably knew that
+his plan could not be adopted, but it strengthened the advocates of a
+central government. Many delegates went home under protest; but the
+Constitution, brought into its present form largely by James Madison,
+was finally adopted, and sent to the different States for ratification.
+
+The opposition to its adoption was very great. Hamilton, with
+praiseworthy spirit, accepted it as the best thing attainable under the
+circumstances, and worked for it night and day with all the vigor and
+power of his masterly intellect. To the _Federalist_ he contributed
+fifty-one papers in defence of the Constitution, and did more than any
+other man to secure its ultimate adoption.
+
+Henry Cabot Lodge, in his clear and admirable "Life of Hamilton," says:
+"As an exposition of the meaning and purposes of the Constitution, the
+_Federalist_ is now, and always will be cited, on the bench and at the
+bar, by American commentators, and by all writers on constitutional law.
+As a treatise on the principles of federal government it still stands at
+the head, and has been turned to as an authority by the leading minds of
+Germany, intent on the formation of the German Empire."
+
+Party feeling ran high. When a State enrolled herself in favor of the
+Constitution, bonfires, feasts, and public processions testified to the
+joy of a portion of the people; while the burning in effigy of prominent
+Federalists, mobs and riots, testified to the anger of the opponents.
+In the State of New York the contest was extremely bitter. Hamilton used
+all his logic, his eloquence, his fire, and his boundless activity to
+carry the State in favor of the Constitution. Said Chancellor Kent: "He
+urged every motive and consideration that ought to sway the human mind
+in such a crisis. He touched, with exquisite skill, every chord of
+sympathy that could be made to vibrate in the human breast. Our country,
+our honor, our liberties, our firesides, our posterity were placed in
+vivid colors before us."
+
+When told by a friend, who was just starting on a journey, that he would
+be questioned in relation to the adoption of the Constitution, Hamilton
+replied: "God only knows! Several votes have been taken, by which it
+appears that there are two to one against us." But suddenly his face
+brightened, as he said, "Tell them that the convention shall never rise
+until the Constitution is adopted."
+
+The excitement in New York city became intense. Crowds collected on the
+street-corners, and whispered, "Hamilton is speaking yet!" Late in the
+evening of July 28, 1788, it was announced that the Constitution had
+been adopted by New York, the vote standing thirty to twenty-seven. At
+once the bells were rung and guns were fired. A great procession was
+formed of professional men and artisans, bearing pictures of Washington
+and Hamilton, and banners, with the words "Federalist," "Liberty of the
+Press," and "The Epoch of Liberty." The federal frigate Hamilton was
+fully manned, and received the plaudits of the crowds.
+
+When the Constitution was adopted, at last, Washington was made
+President, April 30, 1789. It was not strange that he chose for his
+Secretary of the Treasury the man who had studied finance by the
+camp-fires of the Revolution. At thirty-two Hamilton was in the Cabinet
+of his country. At once Congress asked him to prepare a report on the
+public credit, stating his plan of providing for the public debt. In
+about three months the report was ready. It advocated the funding of all
+the debts of the United States incurred through the war. As to the
+foreign and domestic debts, all persons seemed agreed that these should
+be paid; but the assumption of the debts of the different States met
+with the most violent opposition. Those who owed a few million dollars
+were unwilling to help those who owed many millions.
+
+Hamilton advocated a foreign loan, not to exceed twelve millions, and a
+revenue derived from taxes on imports; such a revenue as would not only
+provide funds for the new nation, but protect manufactures from the
+competition of the old world. The believers in protection have had no
+more earnest or able advocate than Hamilton.
+
+His next report was an elaborate one upon national banks, and the
+establishment of a United States bank, which should give a uniform
+system of bank-notes, instead of the unreliable and uneven values of the
+notes of the State banks. His financial policy, while it aroused the
+bitterest enmity in some quarters, raised the United States from
+bankruptcy to the respect of her creditors, abroad and at home. When the
+old cry of "unconstitutional!" was heard, as it has been heard ever
+since when any great matter is suggested, Hamilton taught the people to
+feel that the _implied_ powers of the Constitution were great enough for
+all needs, and that the document must be interpreted by the spirit as
+well as the letter of the law. Capitalists were his strong advocates, as
+they well knew that a firm and safe financial policy was at the root of
+success and progress.
+
+Very soon after his report on banks, he transmitted to Congress a report
+on the establishment of a mint, showing wide research on the subject of
+coinage. Besides these papers, he reported on the purchase of West
+Point, on public lands, navigation laws, on the post-office, and other
+matters, always showing careful study, good judgment, and patriotism.
+
+That he was accused of being a monarchist signified little, as there
+were hundreds of people at that time who feared that the republic would
+go down, as had others in past centuries. He so deprecated the lack of
+central power in the government that he exaggerated the dangers of the
+people's rule. This lack of trust in the masses and in the power of the
+Constitution, and Thomas Jefferson's trust in self-government and belief
+in States' rights, led, at last, to the bitter and public disagreement
+of these two great men, the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary
+of State. Each was honest in his belief; each was tolerant of most men,
+but intolerant of the other to the end of life.
+
+Hamilton naturally became the leader of the Federalists, as Jefferson
+the leader of the Republicans, or Democrats, as they are now called. One
+party saw in Hamilton the great thinker, the safe guardian of the
+destinies of the people; the other party thought it saw a bold and
+unscrupulous man, who would sit on a throne if that were possible.
+Hamilton's character was assailed, sometimes with truth, but oftener
+without truth. He was not perfect, but he was great, and in most
+respects noble.
+
+The French Revolution was now interesting all minds. Genet had been sent
+to America by the French Republic, as her minister. Hamilton urged
+neutrality, and looked with horror upon the growing excesses in France.
+Jefferson, with his hatred of monarchy, was lenient, and, in the early
+part of the Revolution, sympathetic. The United States became divided
+into two great factions, for and against France. Genet fanned the flames
+till the patient Washington could endure it no longer; the unwise
+minister was recalled, and neutrality was proclaimed April 22, 1793.
+
+Through all this matter, Hamilton had the complete love and confidence
+of Washington. When it was deemed wise to send a special commissioner
+to effect a treaty with England, that proper commercial relations be
+maintained, Hamilton was at once suggested. Party feeling opposed, and
+John Jay was appointed. When he returned from his mission, Great Britain
+having consented to pay us ten million dollars for illegal seizure of
+vessels, we agreeing to pay all debts owed to her before the
+Revolutionary War, the people rose in wrath against the treaty, and
+burned Jay in effigy. When Hamilton was speaking for its adoption at a
+public meeting in New York, he was assaulted by stones. "Gentlemen," he
+said, coolly, "if you use such strong arguments, I must retire." After
+this he wrote essays, signed "Camillus," in defence of the treaty, and
+helped largely to secure its acceptance.
+
+Meantime, the Excise Law, whereby distilled spirits were taxed, caused
+the "Whiskey Insurrection" in Pennsylvania. Hamilton, who believed in
+the prompt execution of law, urged Washington to take decisive measures.
+The President called out thirteen thousand troops, and the refusal to
+pay the taxes was no more heard of.
+
+Hamilton, like Jefferson, had become weary of his six years of public
+life; his increasing family needed more than his limited salary, and he
+resigned, returning to his law practice in the city of New York.
+
+When a new President was chosen to succeed Washington, it was not the
+real leader of the party, Hamilton, but one who had elicited less
+opposition by strong measures--John Adams, a man of long and
+distinguished service, both in England and America. Hamilton seems to
+have preferred Thomas Pinckney of South Carolina, and thus to have
+gained the ill-will of Adams, which helped at last to split the Federal
+party.
+
+When Adams and Jefferson became the Presidential nominees in 1800,
+Hamilton threw himself heartily into the contest in the State of New
+York. Here he found himself pitted against a rare antagonist, the most
+famous lawyer in the State except himself, Aaron Burr. He was well born,
+being the son of the president of the college at Princeton, and the
+grandson of Jonathan Edwards. Like Hamilton, he was precocious; being
+ready to enter Princeton when he was eleven years old. He was short in
+stature, five feet and six inches in height; with fine black eyes, and
+gentle and winsome manners. Both these men won the most enduring
+friendships from men and women--homage indeed. Both were intense in
+nature, though Burr had far greater self-control. Both were brave to
+rashness; both were untiring students; both loved and always gained
+authority. Burr had won honors in the Revolutionary War. He had married
+at twenty-six, a woman ten years older than himself, a widow with two
+children, with neither wealth nor beauty, whom he idolized for the
+twelve years she was spared to him, for her rare mind and devoted
+affection. From her he learned to value intellect in woman. He used to
+write her before marriage, "Deal less in sentiments, and more in
+ideas." When she died, he said, "The mother of my Theo was the best
+woman and finest lady I have ever known." For his only child, his
+beloved Theodosia, he seemed to have but one wish, that she be a
+scholar. He said to his wife, "If I could foresee that Theo would become
+a mere fashionable woman, with all the attendant frivolity and vacuity
+of mind, adorned with whatever grace and allurement, I would earnestly
+pray God to take her forthwith hence. But I yet hope by her to convince
+the world what neither sex appear to believe--that women have souls!"
+
+At ten years of age, she was studying Horace and Terence, learning the
+Greek grammar, speaking French, and reading Gibbon.
+
+This Theo, the idol of his life, afterward married to Governor Alston of
+South Carolina, loved him with a devotion that will forever make one
+gleam of sunshine in a life full of shadows. When the dark days came,
+she wrote him, "I witness your extraordinary fortitude with new wonder
+at every new misfortune. Often, after reflecting on this subject, you
+appear to me so superior, so elevated above all other men; I contemplate
+you with, such a strange mixture of humility, admiration, reverence,
+love, and pride, very little superstition would be necessary to make me
+worship you as a superior being; such enthusiasm does your character
+excite in me.... I had rather not live than not be the daughter of such
+a man."
+
+Burr's success in the law had been phenomenal. When he was studying for
+admission to the bar, he often passed twenty hours out of the
+twenty-four over his books.
+
+And now, Colonel Burr, at thirty-six, after being in the United States
+Senate for six years, was the candidate for Vice-President on the
+Jefferson ticket. Hamilton's eloquence stirred the State of New York in
+the contest; but Burr's generalship in politics won the votes, and he
+was elected.
+
+Hamilton went back again to his large law practice. Men sought him with
+the belief that if he would take their cases, there was no doubt of the
+result. An aged farmer came to him to recover a farm for which a deed
+had been obtained from him in exchange for Virginia land. Hamilton heard
+the case; then wrote to the wealthy speculator to call upon him. When he
+came, Hamilton said, "You must give me back that deed. I do not say that
+you knew that the title to these lands is bad; but it is bad. You are a
+rich--he is a poor man. How can you sleep on your pillow? Would you
+break up the only support of an aged man and seven children?" He walked
+the floor rapidly, as he exclaimed, "I will add to my professional
+services all the weight of my character and powers of my nature; and
+_you_ ought to know, when I espouse the cause of innocence and of the
+oppressed, that character and those powers will have their weight."
+
+The property was reconveyed to the farmer, who gratefully asked Hamilton
+to name the compensation. "Nothing! nothing!" said he. "Hasten home and
+make your family happy."
+
+Hamilton was clear in his reasoning; a master in constitutional law;
+persuasive in his manner; sometimes highly impassioned, sometimes solemn
+and earnest. Says Henry Cabot Lodge: "Force of intellect and force of
+will were the sources of his success.... Directness was his most
+distinguishing characteristic, and, whether he appealed to the head or
+the heart, he went straight to the mark.... He never indulged in
+rhetorical flourishes, and his style was simple and severe.... That
+which led him to victory was the passionate energy of his nature, his
+absorption in his work, his contagious and persuasive enthusiasm."
+
+"There was a fascination in his manner, by which one was led captive
+unawares," says another writer. "On most occasions, when animated with
+the subject on which he was engaged, you could see the very workings of
+his soul, in the expression of his countenance; and so frank was he in
+manner that he would make you feel that there was not a thought of his
+heart that he would wish to hide from your view."
+
+"Alexander Hamilton was the greatest man this country ever produced,"
+said Judge Ambrose Spencer.... "He argued cases before me while I sat as
+judge on the bench. Webster has done the same. In power of reasoning
+Hamilton was the equal of Webster; and more than this can be said of no
+man. In creative power Hamilton was infinitely Webster's superior....
+He, more than any man, did the thinking of the time."
+
+His chief relaxation from work was at "The Grange," his summer home at
+Harlem Heights, not far from the spot, it is said, where he first
+attracted the eye of Washington. Beeches, maples, and many evergreens
+abounded. The Hudson River added its beauty to the picturesque place.
+Here he read the classics for pleasure, and the Bible. To a friend he
+said: "I have examined carefully the evidence of the Christian religion;
+and, if I was sitting as a juror upon its authenticity, I should
+unhesitatingly give my verdict in its favor.... I can prove its truth as
+clearly as any proposition ever submitted to the mind of man."
+
+At "The Grange" he was especially happy with his family. He said, "My
+health and comfort both require that I should be at home--at that home
+where I am always sure to find a sweet asylum from care and pain.... It
+will be more and more my endeavor to abstract myself from all pursuits
+which interfere with those of affection. 'Tis here only I can find true
+pleasure."
+
+When Hamilton was forty-four, he endured the great affliction of his
+life. His eldest son, Philip, nineteen, just graduated from Columbia
+College, deeply wounded by the political attacks upon his father,
+challenged to a duel one of the men who had made objectionable remarks.
+The lad fell at the first fire, a wicked sacrifice to a barbarous "code
+of honor." After twenty hours of agony, he died, surrounded by the
+stricken family. Hamilton was especially proud of this son, of whom he
+said, when he gave his oration at Columbia College, "I could not have
+been contented to have been surpassed by any other than my son."
+
+For three years Hamilton worked on with a hope which was never broken,
+constantly adding to his fame. And then came the fatal error of his
+life. All along he had opposed Aaron Burr. When named for a foreign
+mission, Hamilton helped to defeat him. When the tie vote came between
+Jefferson and Burr in the Presidential returns, Hamilton said, "The
+appointment of Burr as President will disgrace our country abroad." When
+Burr was nominated for Governor of New York, Hamilton used every effort
+to defeat him, and succeeded. Burr, exasperated and disappointed at his
+failures, sent Hamilton a challenge. He wrote to Hamilton, "_Political_
+opposition can never absolve gentlemen from the necessity of a rigid
+adherence to the laws of honor and the rules of decorum. I neither claim
+such privilege nor indulge it in others." Alas! that some men in public
+life, even now, forget the "laws of honor and the rules of decorum" in
+their treatment of opponents.
+
+Everything in Hamilton's career protested against this suicidal combat.
+He was only forty-seven, distinguished and beloved, with a wife and
+seven children dependent upon him.
+
+Before going to the fatal meeting, he wrote his feelings about duelling.
+"My religious and moral principles are strongly opposed to the practice
+of duelling, and it would even give me pain to be obliged to shed the
+blood of a fellow-creature in a private combat forbidden by the laws....
+To those who, with me, abhorring the practice of duelling, may think
+that I ought on no account to have added to the number of bad examples,
+I answer that my _relative_ situation, as well in public as private,
+enforcing all the considerations which constitute what men of the world
+denominate honor, imposed on me (as I thought) a peculiar necessity not
+to decline the call. The ability to be in future useful, whether in
+resisting mischief or effecting good, in those crises of our public
+affairs which seem likely to happen, would probably be inseparable from
+a conformity with public prejudice in this particular."
+
+He made his will, leaving all, after the payment of his debts, to his
+"dear and excellent wife." "Should it happen that there is not enough
+for the payment of my debts, I entreat my dear children, if they, or any
+of them, should ever be able, to make up the deficiency. I, without
+hesitation, commit to their delicacy a wish which is dictated by my own.
+Though conscious that I have too far sacrificed the interests of my
+family to public avocations, and on this account have the less claim to
+burden my children, yet I trust in their magnanimity to appreciate as
+they ought this my request. In so unfavorable an event of things, the
+support of their dear mother, with the most respectful and tender
+attention, is a duty, all the sacredness of which they will feel.
+Probably her own patrimonial resources will preserve her from indigence.
+But in all situations they are charged to bear in mind that she has been
+to them the most devoted and best of mothers." And then, the great
+statesman, after writing two farewell letters to "my darling, darling
+wife," conformed to "public prejudice" by hastening with his second, at
+daybreak, to meet Aaron Burr, at Weehawken, two miles and a half above
+Hoboken. It was a quiet and beautiful spot, one hundred and fifty feet
+above the level of the Hudson River, shut in by trees and vines, but
+golden with sunlight on that fatal morning.
+
+At seven o'clock the two distinguished men were ready, ten paces apart,
+to take into their own hands that most sacred of all things, human life.
+There was no outward sign of emotion, though the one must have thought
+of his idol, Theodosia, and the other of his pretty children, still
+asleep. Hamilton had determined not to fire, and so permitted himself to
+be sacrificed. The word of readiness was given. Burr raised his pistol
+and fired, and Hamilton fell headlong on his face, his own weapon
+discharging in the air. He sank into the arms of his physician, saying
+faintly, "This is a mortal wound," and was borne home to a family
+overwhelmed with sorrow. The oldest daughter lost her reason.
+
+For thirty-one hours he lay in agony, talking, when able, with his
+minister about the coming future, asking that the sacrament be
+administered, and saying, "I am a sinner. I look to Him for mercy; pray
+for me."
+
+Once when all his children were gathered around the bed, he gave them
+one tender look, and closed his eyes till they had left the room. He
+retained his usual composure to the last, saying to his wife, frenzied
+with grief, "Remember, my Eliza, you are a Christian." He died at two
+o'clock on the afternoon of July 12, 1804. The whole nation seemed
+speechless with sorrow. In New York all business was suspended. At the
+funeral, a great concourse of people, college societies, political
+associations, and military companies, joined in the common sorrow. Guns
+were fired from the British and French ships in the harbor; on a
+platform in front of Trinity Church, Governor Morris pronounced a
+eulogy, General Hamilton's four sons, the eldest sixteen and the
+youngest four, standing beside the speaker. Thus the great life faded
+from sight in its vigorous manhood, leaving a wonderful record for the
+aspiring and the patriotic, and a prophecy of what might have been
+accomplished but for that one fatal mistake.
+
+Aaron Burr hastened to the South, to avoid arrest; but public execration
+followed him. He became implicated in a scheme for putting himself at
+the head of Mexico, was arrested and tried for treason, and, though
+legally acquitted, was obliged to flee to England, and from there to
+Sweden and Germany. Finally he came home, only to hear that Theodosia's
+beautiful boy of eleven was dead. Poor and friendless, he longed now for
+the one person who had never forsaken him, his daughter. She started
+from Charleston in a pilot-boat, for New York, and was never heard from
+afterwards. Probably all went down in a storm off Cape Hatteras. When it
+was reported in the papers that the boat had been captured by pirates,
+Burr said, "No, no, she is indeed dead. Were she alive, all the prisons
+in the world could not keep her from her father. When I realized the
+truth of her death, the world became a blank to me, and life had then
+lost all its value."
+
+When he was nearly eighty, he married a lady of wealth; but they were
+unhappy, and soon separated. He died on Staten Island, cared for at the
+last by the children of an old friend. His courage and fortitude the
+world will always admire; but it can never forget the fatal duel by
+which Alexander Hamilton was taken from his country, in the prime of his
+life and in the midst of his great work.
+
+The name of Hamilton will not be forgotten. The Hon. Chauncey M. Depew
+of New York, on February 22, 1888, gave the great statesman this well
+deserved tribute of praise:--
+
+     "The political mission of the United States has so far been wrought
+     out by individuals and territorial conditions. Four men of unequal
+     genius have dominated our century, and the growth of the West has
+     revolutionized the republic. The principles which have heretofore
+     controlled the policy of the country have mainly owed their force
+     and acceptance to Hamilton, Jefferson, Webster, and Lincoln.
+
+     "The first question which met the young confederacy was the
+     necessity of a central power strong enough to deal with foreign
+     nations and to protect commerce between the States. At this period
+     Alexander Hamilton became the savior of the republic. If
+     Shakespeare is the commanding originating genius of England, and
+     Goethe of Germany, Hamilton must occupy that place among Americans.
+     This superb intelligence, which was at once philosophic and
+     practical, and with unrivalled lucidity could instruct the dullest
+     mind on the bearing of the action of the present on the destiny of
+     the future, so impressed upon his contemporaries the necessity of a
+     central government with large powers that the Constitution, now one
+     hundred and one years old, was adopted, and the United States began
+     their life as a nation."
+
+[Illustration: Signature Andrew Jackson]
+
+
+
+
+ANDREW JACKSON.
+
+
+George Bancroft said, "No man in private life so possessed the hearts of
+all around him; no public man of the country ever returned to private
+life with such an abiding mastery over the affections of the people....
+He was as sincere a man as ever lived. He was wholly, always, and
+altogether sincere and true. Up to the last he dared do anything that it
+was right to do. He united personal courage and moral courage beyond any
+man of whom history keeps the record.... Jackson never was vanquished.
+He was always fortunate. He conquered the wilderness; he conquered the
+savage; he conquered the veterans of the battle-field of Europe; he
+conquered everywhere in statesmanship; and when death came to get the
+mastery over him, he turned that last enemy aside as tranquilly as he
+had done the feeblest of his adversaries, and passed from earth in the
+triumphant consciousness of immortality."
+
+Thus wrote Bancroft of the man who rose from poverty and sorrow to
+receive the highest gift which the American nation can bestow. The gift
+did not come through chance; it came because the man was worthy of it,
+and had earned the love and honor of the people.
+
+In 1765, among many other emigrants, a man, with his wife and two sons,
+came to the new world from the north of Ireland. They were
+linen-weavers, poor, but industrious, and members of the Presbyterian
+Church. They settled at Waxhaw, North Carolina, not far from the South
+Carolina boundary, and the husband began to build a log house for his
+dear ones. This man was the father of Andrew Jackson.
+
+Scarcely had the log house been built, and a single crop raised, before
+the wife was left a widow and the children fatherless. There was a quiet
+funeral, a half-dozen friends standing around an open grave, and then
+the little house passed into other hands, and Mrs. Jackson went to live
+at the home of her brother-in-law.
+
+Not long after the funeral, a third son was born, March 15, 1767, whom
+the stricken mother named Andrew Jackson, after his father. He was
+welcomed in tears, and naturally became the idol of her young heart.
+Three weeks later, she moved to the house of another brother-in-law to
+assist in his family. She was not afraid to work, and she bent herself
+to the hard labor of pioneer life. There was no sorrow in the labor, for
+was she not doing it for her sons, and a noble woman knows no hardship
+in her self-sacrifice for love.
+
+Her ambition seems to have centred in the slight, light-haired,
+blue-eyed Andrew, who, she hoped, one day might become a Presbyterian
+minister. How he was to obtain a college education, perhaps, she did not
+discern, but she trusted, and trust is a divine thing.
+
+The barefooted boy attended a school kept by Dr. Waddell. He made
+commendable progress in his studies, from his quick and ardent
+temperament, but he loved fun even better than books. He was impulsive,
+ambitious, and persevering. He could run foot-races as rapidly as the
+bigger boys, and loved to wrestle or engage in anything which seemed
+like a battle. Says an old schoolmate, "I could throw him three times
+out of four, but he would never _stay throwed_. He was dead game, even
+then, and never _would_ give up."
+
+To the younger boys he was a protector, but from the older he would
+brook no insult, and was sometimes hasty and overbearing. One of the
+best traits in the boy's character was his love for his mother. His
+intense nature knew no change, and he was loyal and single of purpose
+forever. He used to say in later life, "One of the last injunctions
+given me by my mother was never to institute a suit for assault and
+battery or for defamation; never to wound the feelings of others nor
+suffer my own to be outraged: these were her words of admonition to me;
+I remember them well, and have never failed to respect them; my settled
+course through life has been to bear them in mind, and never to insult
+or wantonly to assail the feelings of any one; and yet many conceive me
+to be a most ferocious animal, insensible to moral duty and regardless
+of the laws both of God and man."
+
+He did nothing slowly nor indifferently. He bent his will to his work,
+even at that early age, and knew no such word as failure. When the boy
+was thirteen, an incident occurred which made a lasting impression. The
+British General Tarlton, in the Revolutionary War, with three hundred
+cavalry, came against Waxhaw, surprised the militia, killing one hundred
+and thirteen and wounding one hundred and fifty. The little settlement
+was terrorized. The meeting-house became a hospital, and Mrs. Jackson,
+with her sons, helped to minister to the wants of the suffering
+soldiers. Andrew learned not only lessons in war, but to dream of future
+rewards to the British.
+
+When Cornwallis, after the surrender of General Gates, moved his whole
+army toward Waxhaw, Mrs. Jackson and her sons were obliged to seek a
+safe retreat with a distant relative. Here Andrew did "chores" for his
+board. "Never," said one who knew him well at this time, "did Andrew
+come home from the shops without bringing with him some new weapon with
+which to kill the enemy. Sometimes it was a rude spear, which he would
+forge while waiting for the blacksmith to finish his job. Sometimes it
+was a club or a tomahawk. Once he fastened the blade of a scythe to a
+pole, and, on reaching home, began to cut down the weeds with it that
+grew about the house, assailing them with extreme fury, and occasionally
+uttering words like these, 'Oh, if I were a man, how I would sweep down
+the British with my grass blade!'"
+
+A year later, when Mrs. Jackson had returned to Waxhaw, the brothers
+were both taken prisoners in a skirmish. Being commanded to clean the
+boots of a British officer, Andrew refused, saying, "Sir, I am a
+prisoner of war, and claim to be treated as such."
+
+The angry Englishman drew his sword, and rushed at the boy, who,
+attempting to defend himself from the blow, received a deep gash in his
+left hand, and also on his head, the scars of which he bore through
+life. Robert, the brother, also refused to clean the boots, and was
+prostrated by the sword of the brutal officer. Soon after, the boys were
+taken with other prisoners to Camden, eighty miles distant, a long and
+agonizing journey for wounded men.
+
+They found the prison a wretched place, with no medical supplies; the
+food scanty, and small-pox raging among the inmates. The poor mother,
+hearing of their forlorn condition, hastened to the place. Both her boys
+were ill of the dreaded small-pox, and both suffering from their
+sword-wounds. She arranged for the exchange of prisoners, and took her
+sons home; Robert to die in her arms two days later, and Andrew to be
+saved at last after a perilous illness of several months. Her oldest
+son, Hugh, had already given his life to his country in the war.
+
+Almost broken-hearted with the loss of her two sons, yet intensely
+patriotic, she hastened to the Charleston prison-ships, to care for the
+wounded, taking with her provisions and medicine sent by loving wives
+and daughters. The blessed ministrations proved of short duration. Mrs.
+Jackson was taken ill of ship-fever, died after a brief illness, and was
+buried in the open plain near by. The grave is unmarked and unknown.
+When, years later, her illustrious son had become President, he tried to
+find the burial-place of the woman he idolized, but it was impossible.
+
+Andrew was now an orphan, and poor; but he had what makes any boy or man
+rich, the memory of a devoted, heroic mother. Such a person has an
+inspiration that is like martial music on the field of battle; he is
+urged onward to duty forevermore. The world is richer for all such
+instances of ideal womanhood; the womanhood that gives rather than
+receives; that seeks neither admiration nor self-aggrandizement; that,
+like the flowers, sends out the same fragrance whether in royal gardens
+or beside the peasant's door; that lives to lighten others' sorrows, to
+rest tired humanity, to sweeten the bitterness of life by her loveliness
+of soul; that is to the world around her
+
+  "A new and certain sunrise every day."
+
+Fatherless, motherless, brotherless, the boy of fifteen looked about him
+to see what his life-work should be. In the family of a distant relative
+he found a home. The son was a saddler. For six months Andrew worked at
+this trade. But other plans were in his mind. He knew how his mother had
+desired that he might be educated. But how could a boy win his way
+without money? For two years or more, little is known of him. It is
+believed that he taught a small school. When nearly eighteen, he had
+made up his mind to study law, a somewhat remarkable decision for a boy
+in his circumstances.
+
+If he studied at all, it should be under the best of teachers; so he
+rode to Salisbury, seventy-five miles from Waxhaw, and entered the
+office of Mr. Spruce McCay, an eminent lawyer, and later a judge of
+distinction.
+
+For nearly two years he studied, enjoying also the sports of the time,
+and making, as he did all through life, close friends who were devoted
+to his interests. When in the White House, forty-five years afterward,
+he said, "I was but a raw lad then, but I did my best." And he did his
+best through life!
+
+He loved a fine horse almost as though it were human; he enjoyed the
+society of ladies, and possessed a grace and dignity of manner that
+surprised those who knew the hardships of his life. His eager
+intelligence, his quick, direct glance, that bespoke alertness of mind,
+won him attention, even more than would beauty of person. Over six feet
+in height, slender to delicacy, he gave the impression of leadership,
+from his bravery and self-reliance. Emerson well says, "The basis of
+good manners is self-reliance.... Self-trust is the first secret of
+success; the belief that, if you are here, the authorities of the
+universe put you here, and for cause or with some task strictly
+appointed you in your constitution."
+
+When his two years of law-study were ended, the work was but just begun.
+There was reputation to be made, and perhaps a fortune, but where and
+how? For a year he seems not to have found a law opening; the streams of
+fortune do not always flow toward us--we have to make the journey by
+persistent and hard rowing against the tide. He probably worked in a
+store owned by some acquaintances, earning for daily needs.
+
+At twenty-one came his first opportunity; came, as it often comes,
+through a friend. Mr. John McNairy was appointed a judge of the Superior
+Court of the Western District of North Carolina (Tennessee), and young
+Jackson, his friend, public prosecutor of the same district. He moved to
+Nashville in 1788, to begin his difficult work. He was obliged to ride
+on horseback over the mountains and through the wilderness, often among
+hostile Indians, his life almost constantly in danger. Once, while
+travelling with a party of emigrants, when all slept save the sentinels,
+he sat against a tree, smoking his corn-cob pipe and keeping an eager
+watch. Soon he heard the notes of what seemed to be various owls! He
+quietly roused the whole party and moved them on. An hour later, a
+company of hunters lay down by the fires which Jackson had left, and
+before daylight all save one man were killed by the Indians.
+
+Sometimes the young lawyer slept for twenty successive nights in the
+wilderness. This was no life of ease and luxury. At Nashville he found
+lodgings in the house of the widow of Colonel John Donelson, a brave
+pioneer from Virginia, who had been killed by the Indians. And here
+Jackson met the woman who was to prove his good angel as long as she
+lived. With Mrs. Donelson lived her dark-haired and dark-eyed daughter
+Rachel, married to Lewis Robards from Kentucky. Vivacious, kindly, and
+sympathetic, Rachel had been the idol of her father, and probably would
+have been of her husband had it not been for his jealous disposition. He
+became angry at Jackson, as he had been at others, and made her life so
+unhappy that she separated from him and went to friends in Natchez, with
+the approval of her mother, and the entire confidence and respect of her
+husband's relatives.
+
+After a divorce in 1791, Jackson married her, when they were each
+twenty-four years old. History does not record a happier marriage. To
+the last, she lived for him alone, but not more fully than he lived for
+her. With the world he was thought to be domineering and harsh, and was
+often profane; but with her he was patient, gentle, and deferential.
+When he won renown, she was happy for his sake, but she did not care for
+it for herself. Her kindness of heart took her among the sick and the
+unfortunate, and everywhere she was a welcome comforter. She lived
+outside of self, and found her reward in the homage of her husband and
+her friends.
+
+Jackson soon began to prosper financially. Often he would receive his
+fee in lands, a square mile of six hundred and forty acres or more, so
+that after a time he was the possessor of several thousand acres.
+Success came also from other sources. When a convention was called to
+form a constitution for the new State of Tennessee, Jackson was chosen a
+delegate. He took an active part in the organization of the State--he
+was active in whatever he engaged--and bravely espoused her claims
+against the general government for expenses incurred in Indian
+conflicts. Tennessee felt that she had a true friend in Jackson, and,
+when she wanted a man to represent her in Congress, she sent him to the
+House of Representatives. This honor came at twenty-nine years of age--a
+strange contrast to the years when he made saddles or did "chores" for
+his board, and longed to "sweep down the British with his grass blade."
+
+Jackson served his State well by securing compensation for every man who
+had done service or lost his property in the Indian wars. It was not
+strange, therefore, that, when a vacancy occurred in the United States
+Senate, Jackson was chosen to fill the place, in the autumn of 1797.
+Only thirty years old! Rachel Jackson might well be proud of him.
+
+But the following year he resigned his position, glad to be, as he
+supposed, out of official life. He was, however, too prominent to be
+allowed to remain in private life, and was elected to a judgeship of the
+Supreme Court of Tennessee. As he had made it a rule "never to seek and
+never to decline public duty," he accepted, on the small salary of six
+hundred dollars a year. While many other men in the State were more
+learned in the law than Jackson, yet the people believed in his honesty
+and integrity, and therefore he was chosen. Quick to decide and slow to
+change his mind, in fifteen days he had disposed of fifty cases, says
+James Parton, in his entertaining life of Andrew Jackson.
+
+After six years, longing for a more active life, Jackson resigned, and
+was made major-general of the militia of the State. This position was
+given, not without opposition, he receiving only one more vote than his
+chief competitor. That one vote, perhaps, led to New Orleans and the
+Presidency. This office was in accordance with his natural tastes. Since
+boyhood, he had loved the stir and command of battle, and believed he
+should like to conquer an enemy as he had met and conquered every
+obstacle that lay athwart his path.
+
+As there was no war in progress, he continued his law practice. But, not
+satisfied with this alone, he became a merchant, trading with the
+Indians, selling blankets, hardware, and the like, and receiving in
+return cotton and other produce of the country. In the panic of 1798, he
+became financially embarrassed, but, true to his manly nature, he worked
+steadily on till every dollar was paid. He sold twenty-five thousand
+acres of his wild land, sold his home, and moved into a log house at the
+Hermitage, seven miles out from Nashville, and preserved for himself the
+best thing on earth, a good name. So honest was he believed to be, when
+a Tennessean went to Boston bankers for a loan, with several leading
+names on his paper, they said, "Do you know General Jackson? Could you
+get his endorsement?"
+
+"Yes, but he is not worth a tenth as much as either of these men whose
+names I offer you," was the response.
+
+"No matter; General Jackson has always protected himself and his paper,
+and we'll let you have the money on the strength of his name." And the
+loan was granted.
+
+Honest and just though he was, he permitted his own fiery nature, or a
+perverted public opinion, to lead him into acts which tarnished his
+whole subsequent career. Quick to resent a wrong, he was morbidly
+sensitive about the circumstances of his marriage with Rachel Robards.
+When they were married, in 1791, they supposed that the divorce, applied
+for, had been granted, but they learned in 1793, two years afterward,
+that it was not legally obtained till the latter date. They were at
+once remarried, but the matter caused much idle talk, and, as General
+Jackson came into prominence, his enemies were not slow to rehearse the
+story. The slightest aspersion of his wife's character aroused all the
+anger of his nature, and, says Parton, "For the man who dared breathe
+her name except in honor, he kept pistols in perfect condition for
+thirty-seven years." And, as duelling was the disgraceful fashion of the
+times, Jackson did not hesitate to use his pistols.
+
+In 1806, when he was thirty-nine, one of those miscalled "affairs of
+honor" took place. Charles Dickinson, a prominent man of the State, in
+the course of a long quarrel, had spoken disparagingly of Mrs. Jackson,
+and he was therefore challenged to mortal combat. Thursday morning, May
+29, he kissed his young wife tenderly, telling her he was going to
+Kentucky, and "would be home, sure, to-morrow night." He met Jackson on
+the banks of the Red River. The one was tall, erect, and intense; the
+other young, handsome, an expert marksman, and determined to make no
+mistake in his fatal work.
+
+Dickinson fired with his supposed unerring aim, and missed! The bullet
+grazed Jackson's breast, and years later was the true cause of his
+death. Jackson took deliberate aim, intending to kill his opponent, and
+succeeded. The ball passed quite through Dickinson's body. His wife was
+sent for, being told that he was dangerously wounded. On her way thither
+she met, in a rough emigrant wagon, the body of her husband. He had
+"come home, sure, to-morrow night"--but dead! He was deeply mourned by
+the State, which sympathized with his wife and infant child. General
+Jackson made bitter enemies by this act. Rachel had been avenged, but at
+what a fearful cost!
+
+Eighteen years had gone by since Jackson's marriage. He had received
+distinguished honors; he had been a Representative, a Senator, a Judge
+of the Supreme Court of the State, a Major-General of the militia, but
+one joy was wanting. No children had been born in the home. Mrs.
+Jackson's nephews and nieces were often at the Hermitage, and he made
+her kindred his own; but both loved children, and this one blessing was
+denied them. In 1809, twins were born to Mrs. Jackson's brother. One of
+these, when but a few days old, was taken to the Hermitage, and the
+general adopted him, giving him his own name, Andrew Jackson.
+
+Ever after, this child was a comfort and a delight. Visitors would often
+find the general reading, with the boy in the rocking-chair beside him
+or in his lap. Hon. Thomas H. Benton, in his "Thirty Years' View," tells
+this story: "I arrived at his house one wet, chilly evening in February,
+and came upon him in the twilight, sitting alone before the fire, a lamb
+and a child between his knees. He started a little, called a servant to
+remove the two innocents to another room, and explained to me how it
+was. The child had cried because the lamb was out in the cold, and
+begged him to bring it in, which he had done to please the child, his
+adopted son, then not two years old. The ferocious man does not do that!
+and though Jackson had his passions and his violence, they were for men
+and enemies--those who stood up against him--and not for women and
+children, or the weak and helpless; for all whom his feelings were those
+of protection and support."
+
+Jackson was always the friend of _young_ men--a constant inspiration to
+them to do their best. He knew the possibilities of a barefooted boy
+like himself. The world owes thanks to those who are its inspiration;
+whose minds develop ours; whose sweetness of nature makes us grow
+lovable, as plants grow in the sunshine; whose ideals become our ideals;
+who lead us up the mountains of faith and trust and hope, but the cord
+is silken and we never know that we are led; who go through life loving
+and serving--for love is service; who are our comfort and strength--we
+lean on those whom we love.
+
+While Jackson was the friend of young men, especially he was loyal to
+any who were near his heart. He was like another great man, in a great
+war, the hero of 1812 and the hero of 1861. Jackson and Grant were true
+to those who had been true to them. Only a man of small soul forgets the
+ladder by which he climbs.
+
+The second war with Great Britain had come upon the American people,
+June 19, 1812. Our country had suffered in its commerce through the
+continued wars of England with France. Vessels had been searched by the
+English, to find persons suspected of being British subjects; often
+American seamen were impressed into their service. On the ocean, the
+contest between English and American ships became almost constant. While
+a portion of the States were not in favor of the war, one person was
+surely in favor, and ready for it; one who had not forgotten the deaths
+of his mother and brothers in the Revolutionary War; who had not
+forgotten the wounds on his head and hand. That person was General
+Jackson.
+
+He at once offered to the Governor of Louisiana, for the defence of New
+Orleans, three thousand soldiers. The offer was accepted, and he started
+for Natchez, there to await orders. The men were in the best of spirits,
+kept hopeful and enthusiastic by the ardor of their commander, who said
+to them: "Perish our friends--perish our wives--perish our children (the
+dearest pledges of Heaven)--nay, perish all earthly considerations--but
+let the honor and fame of a volunteer soldier be untarnished and
+immaculate. We now enjoy liberties, political, civil, and religious,
+that no other nation on earth possesses. May we never survive them! No,
+rather let us perish in maintaining them. And if we must yield, where is
+the man that would not prefer being buried in the ruins of his country
+than live the ignominious slave of haughty lords and unfeeling tyrants?"
+
+After a time the "orders" came, but what was the astonishment and
+indignation of both officers and men to hear that their services were
+not needed, as the British evidently did not intend to attack New
+Orleans; that they were to disband and return to Tennessee. Without pay
+or rations, five hundred miles from home!--Jackson felt that it was an
+insult. He took an oath that they should never disband till they were at
+their own doors; that he would conduct his brave three thousand through
+the wilderness and the Indian tribes, and be responsible for expenses.
+One hundred and fifty of his men were ill. He put those who could ride
+on horses, and then, walking at their head, led the gallant company
+toward home.
+
+The soldiers used to say that he was "tough as hickory;" then "Old
+Hickory" grew to be a term of endearment, which he bore ever afterward.
+A month later, and the disappointed soldiers were at Nashville. Before
+they disbanded, they were marched out upon the public square, and
+received a superb stand of colors. The needle-work was on white satin;
+eighteen orange stars in a crescent, with two sprigs of laurel, and the
+words, "Tennessee Volunteers--Independence, in a state of war, is to be
+maintained on the battle-ground of the Republic. The tented field is the
+post of honor. Presented by the ladies of East Tennessee." Under these
+words were all the implements of war; cannons, muskets, drums, swords,
+and the like. Jackson and his men never forgot this offering of love,
+and showed themselves worthy of it in after years.
+
+If Jackson was not needed at New Orleans, he was soon needed elsewhere.
+Tecumseh, the great Indian chief, saw the lands of his fathers passing
+into the hands of the white men. He had long been uniting the western
+tribes from Florida to the northern lakes, and, now that we were at war
+with England, he believed the hour of their delivery was come. He at
+once incited the Creeks of Alabama to arms.
+
+In the southern portion of that State, forty miles north of Mobile,
+stood Fort Mims. The whites had become alarmed at the hostile attitude
+of the Indians, and over five hundred men, women, and children had
+crowded into the fort for safety. On the 30th of August, 1813, a
+thousand Creek warriors in their war paint and feathers, uttering their
+terrible war-whoops, rushed into the fort, tomahawked the men and women,
+and trampled the children into the dust. The buildings were burned, and
+the plain was covered with dead bodies. The massacre at Fort Mims
+blanched every face and embittered every heart. The Tennesseans offered
+at once to march against the Creeks. The hot-headed General Jackson had
+been wounded in a quarrel with Thomas H. Benton, and was suffering from
+the ball in his shoulder, which he carried there for twenty years. But
+he put his left arm into a sling, and, though emaciated through long
+weeks of illness, he led his twenty-five hundred men into the Indians'
+country.
+
+The provisions did not follow them as had been arranged. Jackson wrote
+home earnestly for money and food. He said, "There is an enemy whom I
+dread much more than I do the hostile Creeks, and whose power, I am
+fearful, I shall first be made to feel--I mean the meagre monster,
+FAMINE." And yet he encouraged his men with these brave words: "Shall an
+enemy wholly unacquainted with military evolution, and who rely more for
+victory on their grim visages and hideous yells than upon their bravery
+or their weapons--shall such an enemy ever drive before them the well
+trained youths of our country, whose bosoms pant for glory and a desire
+to avenge the wrongs they have received? Your general will not live to
+behold such a spectacle; rather would he rush into the thickest of the
+enemy, and submit himself to their scalping-knives.... With his soldiers
+he will face all dangers, and with them participate in the glory of
+conquest."
+
+The first battle with the Creeks was fought under General John Coffee at
+Talluschatches, thirteen miles from Jackson's camp, the friendly Creeks
+leading the way, wearing white feathers and white deer's-tails to
+distinguish them from the hostile tribes. The whites, maddened by the
+memory of Fort Mims, fought like tigers; the Indians, sullen and
+revengeful at the prospect of losing their homes and their
+hunting-grounds, neither asked nor gave quarter, and fought heroically.
+Nearly the whole town perished.
+
+On the battle-field was found a dead mother with her arms clasped about
+a living child. The babe was brought into camp, and Jackson asked some
+of the Indian women to care for it. "No!" said they, "all his relations
+are dead; kill him too." The baby was cared for at General Jackson's
+expense till the campaign was over, and then carried to the Hermitage,
+where he grew to young manhood as a petted son. The general and his wife
+gave him the name of Lincoyer. In his seventeenth year he died of
+consumption, sincerely mourned by his devoted friends.
+
+Following the battle of Talluschatches, General Jackson moved against
+Talladega, and, after a bloody conflict, rescued one hundred and fifty
+friendly Creeks. Returning to camp, he found starvation staring him in
+the face. The men were becoming desperate; yet he kept his cheerfulness,
+dividing with them the last crust. One morning a gaunt, hungry-looking
+soldier approached General Jackson as he was sitting under a tree,
+eating, and asked for some food, saying that he was nearly starving.
+
+"It has been a rule with me," said the general, "never to turn away a
+hungry man, when it is in my power to relieve him, and I will most
+cheerfully divide with you what I have." Putting his hand in his pocket,
+he drew forth a few acorns. "This is the best and only fare I have," he
+said, and the soldier was comforted.
+
+Many of the men had enlisted for three months only, and were impatient
+to return home. Finally, the militia determined to return with or
+without the general's consent. Jackson heard of their intention, and at
+once ordered the volunteers to detain them, peaceably if they could,
+forcibly if they must. Then the volunteers, in turn, attempted to go
+back, but were met by Jackson's firm resolve to shoot the first man who
+took a step toward home.
+
+"I cannot," he said, "must not believe that the 'Volunteers of
+Tennessee,' a name ever dear to fame, will disgrace themselves, and a
+country which they have honored, by abandoning her standard, as
+mutineers and deserters; but should I be disappointed, and compelled to
+resign this pleasing hope, one thing I will not resign--my duty. Mutiny
+and sedition, so long as I possess the power of quelling them, shall be
+put down; and even when left destitute of this, I will still be found in
+the last extremity endeavoring to discharge the duty I owe my country
+and myself." That one word, "duty," was the key-note of Jackson's life.
+It was his religion--it was his philosophy.
+
+With all Jackson's kindness to his men, they knew that he could be
+severe. John Woods, a boy not eighteen, the support of aged parents, was
+shot for refusing to obey a superior officer. That he could have been
+spared seems probable, but Jackson taught hard lessons to his
+undisciplined troops, and sometimes in a harsh manner.
+
+In seven months the Creeks had been utterly routed; half their warriors
+were dead, and the rest were broken in spirit. Weathersford, their most
+heroic chief, the leader at the Fort Mims massacre, sought General
+Jackson at his camp.
+
+"How dare you," said Jackson, "ride up to my tent, after having murdered
+the women and children at Fort Mims?"
+
+"General Jackson, I am not afraid of you," was the reply. "I fear no
+man, for I am a Creek warrior. I have nothing to request in behalf of
+myself. You can kill me, if you desire. But I come to beg you to send
+for the women and children of the war party, who are now starving in the
+woods. Their fields and cribs have been destroyed by your people, who
+have driven them to the woods without an ear of corn. I hope that you
+will send out parties, who will conduct them safely here, in order that
+they may be fed. I exerted myself in vain to prevent the massacre of the
+women and children at Fort Mims. I am now done fighting. The Red Sticks
+are nearly all killed. If I could fight you any longer, I would most
+heartily do so. Send for the women and children. They never did you any
+harm. But kill me, if the white people want it done."
+
+"Kill him! kill him!" shouted several voices.
+
+"Silence!" exclaimed Jackson. "Any man who would kill as brave a man as
+this would rob the dead!"
+
+Weathersford's request was granted, and the women and children of the
+war party were provided for. The chief died many years afterward, a
+planter in Alabama, respected by the Americans for his bravery and his
+honor.
+
+The Creek war over, Jackson went back to Tennessee, a noted, successful
+soldier. He had not only conquered the Creeks, but he had won for
+himself the position of major-general in the United States army, having
+in charge the department of the South. He was now forty-seven, and had
+indeed reached a high position. Mississippi voted him a sword, and other
+States sent testimonials of appreciation. All this time he was a
+constant sufferer in body, and only kept himself from his bed by his
+indomitable will. The Hermitage could not long keep the ardent, tireless
+general from the front. He soon established his headquarters at Mobile,
+and prepared to defend a thousand miles of coast from the British. He
+had but a small army at his command, and was far from Washington, with
+scarcely any means of communication. Indeed, the English had captured
+that city already, and burned most of its public buildings.
+
+The English had attacked Mobile Point, been defeated, and retired to
+Pensacola, Florida. Spain owned Florida, and was supposed to be neutral,
+but she was in reality friendly and helpful to England, and allowed her
+to use the State as a base of operations. Jackson wrote to Washington
+asking leave to attack Pensacola. The answer did not come back till the
+war of 1812 was over and Jackson had won renown for himself and his
+country. He did not wait for an answer, however, but stormed Pensacola,
+captured it, and then hastened to New Orleans, where he expected the
+next attack would be made. He used to say to young men, "Always take all
+the time to reflect that circumstances will permit; but when the time
+for action has come, stop thinking." And at Pensacola he stopped
+thinking, and acted. Nothing was ready for his coming, but all eyes
+turned to the conquerer of the Creeks as the savior of New Orleans.
+Women gathered around him and looked trustingly toward the erect,
+self-centred, bronzed soldier. Men flocked willingly to his service,
+glad to do his bidding. He summoned the engineers of the city and
+ordered every bayou to be obstructed by earth and sunken logs. The city
+was put under martial law. No person was permitted to leave the place
+without a written permit signed by the general or one of his staff. The
+street lamps were extinguished at nine o'clock, after which hour any
+person without the necessary permit or not having the countersign was
+apprehended as a spy and held for examination. All able-bodied men,
+black and white, were compelled to serve as soldiers or sailors.
+
+He had with him about two thousand troops, and four thousand more within
+ten or fifteen days' march. Against these, for the most part
+undisciplined troops, a British force of twenty thousand men was coming,
+with a fleet of fifty ships, carrying a thousand guns. Much of this
+army had served under the great Wellington in France; its present
+leader, General Packenham, was Wellington's brother-in-law. He was only
+thirty-eight, brave, and the idol of his men. Some of the ships had been
+with Nelson in the battle of the Nile. The flower of England's army and
+navy had been sent to conquer the independent and self-reliant
+Americans.
+
+So certain were the British of conquest that several families were with
+the fleet, husbands and brothers having been appointed already to civil
+offices. Another person was also confident of victory--the man who had
+seen but fourteen months of service, but who from boyhood had never
+known what it was to be defeated. He inspired others with the same
+confidence. Says Latour, in his history of the war in West Florida and
+Louisiana, "The energy manifested by General Jackson spread, as it were,
+by contagion, and communicated itself to the whole army. There was
+nothing which those who composed it did not feel themselves capable of
+performing, if he ordered it to be done. It was enough that he expressed
+a wish or threw out the slightest intimation, and immediately a crowd of
+volunteers offered themselves to carry his views into execution."
+
+The English fleet entered Lake Borgne, sixty miles north-east from New
+Orleans, on December 10, 1814. Twelve days later they had reached the
+Mississippi River, nine miles below the city. The next day, when
+Jackson was informed of their approach, he said, bringing his clenched
+fist down upon the table, "By the Eternal, they shall not sleep on our
+soil!"
+
+At once, with, as Parton says, that "calm impetuosity and that composed
+intensity which belonged to him," he sent word to the various regiments
+to meet him at three o'clock at a specified place. And then he lay down
+and slept for a short time, his only rest during the next three days and
+three nights. Few men except General Jackson, with his iron will, could
+have slept at such a time. A messenger came, sent by some ladies, asking
+what they should do if the city were attacked.
+
+"Say to them not to be uneasy. No British soldier shall enter the city
+as an enemy, unless over my dead body," and he kept his word.
+
+At three o'clock the men were hastening on to meet the "red-coats."
+Twilight came early, and the moon rose dimly over the battle-field. The
+signal of attack was to be a shot fired from the ship Carolina. At
+half-past seven, the first gun was heard, then seven others, and the
+word was given--FORWARD.
+
+And forward they went, with quick steps and eager hearts. A tremendous
+fire opened upon our artillery-men. The horses attached to the cannon
+became unmanageable, and one of the pieces was turned over into the
+ditch. Jackson dashed into the midst of the fray, exclaiming, "Save the
+guns, my boys, at every sacrifice," and the guns were saved. Men fought
+hand to hand in the smoke and the darkness; the British using their
+bayonets, and the Americans their long hunting-knives. Prisoners were
+taken and retaken. Till ten o'clock the battle raged; when our men fell
+back upon the Roderiguez canal, to wait till the morning sun should show
+where to begin the deadly work. When the morning came, the battle-field
+presented a ghastly appearance. Says a British officer concerning the
+American dead, "Their hair, eyebrows, and lashes were thickly covered
+with hoar-frost, or rime, their bloodless cheeks vying with its
+whiteness. Few were dressed in military uniforms, and most of them bore
+the appearance of farmers or husbandmen. Peace to their ashes! they had
+nobly died in defending their country."
+
+The Roderiguez canal was now strongly fortified. Spades, crowbars, and
+wheelbarrows had been sent from the city. The canal was deepened and the
+earth thrown up on the side. Fences were torn away, and rails driven
+down to keep the sand from falling back into the canal. The line of
+defence, a mile long, was four or five feet high in some places. Cotton
+bales from a neighboring ship were used.
+
+"Here," said Jackson, "we will plant our stakes, and not abandon them
+until we drive these 'red-coat' rascals into the river or the swamp."
+
+While these busy preparations were going on, food was brought to General
+Jackson, which he ate in the saddle. Christmas day came. The English
+Admiral Cochrane had said, "I shall eat my Christmas dinner in New
+Orleans." General Jackson heard of it, and remarked, "Perhaps so; but I
+shall have the honor of presiding at that dinner."
+
+The Americans were ready, but the British did not make the expected
+attack. Every man was at his post. When an officer, the son of one of
+Jackson's best friends, said to him, "May I go to town to-day?" the
+reply was, "Of course, Captain Livingston, you _may_ go; but _ought_ you
+to go?" The young man blushed, bowed, and returned to duty.
+
+Meantime, the British were not idle. They had determined to silence the
+guns of the American ships, and, with great toil, had brought up into
+the swampy ground nine field-pieces, two howitzers, one mortar, a
+furnace for heating balls, and the necessary ammunition. At dawn on the
+morning of December 27 the firing began. The Carolina, after a terrific
+bombardment, blew up. The Louisiana fought her way out into a place of
+safety.
+
+The days went by slowly under the dreadful suspense. On New Year's day,
+General Packenham cannonaded the Americans and was driven back. On
+January 8, the final battle began. Early in the morning, the British
+moved against the Americans. Jackson walked along the lines, cheering
+the men, "Stand to your guns. Don't waste your ammunition. See that
+every shot tells. Give it to them, boys! Let us finish the business
+to-day."
+
+And every shot did tell. The sharpshooters aimed at the officers, and
+the batteries mowed down the British regulars. Seeing them falter,
+Packenham rushed among the men, shouting, "For shame! recollect that
+you are British soldiers!" Taking off his hat, he spurred his horse to
+the head of the wavering column. A ball splintered his right arm. Then
+the Highlanders came to the support of their comrades.
+
+"Hurrah! brave Highlanders!" he said, as a mass of grape-shot tore open
+his thigh and killed his horse. Another shot struck him, and he was
+borne under a live-oak to die. The great tree is still standing.
+
+At nine o'clock in the morning the battle was virtually over. The
+English lost seven hundred killed, fourteen hundred wounded, and five
+hundred taken prisoners; while the Americans lost but eight killed and
+thirteen wounded. "The field was so thickly strewn with the dead that,
+from the American ditch, you could have walked a quarter of a mile to
+the front on the bodies of the killed and disabled.... The course of the
+column could be distinctly traced in the broad red line of the victims
+of the terrible batteries and unerring guns of the Americans. They fell
+in their tracks; in some places, whole platoons lay together, as if
+killed by the same discharge."
+
+The news of this great victory at New Orleans astonished the North, and
+made Jackson the hero of his time. The whole country was proud of a man
+who could win such a battle, losing the lives of so few of his men.
+Nearly every State passed resolutions in his praise. The Senate and
+House of Representatives ordered a gold medal to be struck in his
+honor. Philadelphia enjoyed a general illumination; one of the
+transparencies representing the general on horseback in pursuit of the
+enemy, with the words, "This day shall ne'er go by, from this day to the
+ending of the world, but He in it shall be remembered." Henry Clay said,
+"Now I can go to England without mortification."
+
+When Jackson and his army returned to New Orleans, men, women, and
+children came out to meet them. Young ladies strewed flowers along the
+way; children crowned the general with laurel, and an impressive service
+was held in his honor in the Cathedral. He replied, "For myself, to have
+been instrumental in the deliverance of such a country is the greatest
+blessing that Heaven could confer. That it has been effected with so
+little loss--that so few tears should cloud the smiles of our triumph,
+and not a cypress leaf be interwoven in the wreath which you present, is
+a source of the most exquisite enjoyment."
+
+Mrs. Jackson and little Andrew, now seven years old, came down from the
+Hermitage, and his cup of joy was indeed full. To have Rachel's
+commendation was more than to have that of all of the world besides. The
+ladies of New Orleans gave to her a valuable set of topaz jewelry, and
+to the general a diamond pin. A month later, they were at home once
+more. He had shown the good judgment, the calm bravery, the
+comprehensive outlook, the quick decision, the tender compassion of the
+great soldier. Perhaps the busy public life was over--who could tell?
+
+Four months later, General Jackson went to Washington, at the request of
+the Secretary of War, to arrange about the stations of the army in the
+South. The journey thither was one constant ovation. At a great banquet
+tendered him at Lynchburg, Virginia, Thomas Jefferson, then seventy-two,
+gave this toast: "Honor and gratitude to those who have filled the
+measure of their country's honor." At Washington also he received
+distinguished attention.
+
+In 1817, the Seminole Indians of Georgia and Alabama had become hostile.
+General Jackson was the man to conquer them. He immediately marched into
+their country with eighteen hundred whites and fifteen hundred friendly
+Indians, and in five months subjugated them.
+
+Florida was purchased in 1819, and two years later Jackson was appointed
+its governor, with a salary of five thousand dollars. Mrs. Jackson
+joined him there, but neither was happy, and he soon resigned, and
+returned with her to the Hermitage. He had built for her a new house, a
+two-story brick, surrounded by a double piazza. He was at this time
+frail in health, and did not expect ever to live in the home, but wished
+it to be made beautiful for her. He hoped now to live a quiet life,
+enjoying his garden and his farm; but the nation had other plans for
+him.
+
+In 1823, Jackson was elected to the United States Senate, twenty-six
+years after his first appearance in that body. He was now prominently
+mentioned as a candidate for the Presidency. Strange contrast indeed to
+the days when, bare-footed and orphaned, he struggled for the rudiments
+of an education.
+
+While he had many ardent friends, he had strong opponents. Daniel
+Webster said, "If General Jackson is elected, the government of our
+country will be overthrown; the judiciary will be destroyed;" yet he
+added, "His manners are more presidential than those of any of the
+candidates. He is grave, mild, and reserved. My wife is for him
+decidedly." Jefferson said, "I feel very much alarmed at the prospect of
+seeing General Jackson President. He is one of the most unfit men I know
+of for the place. He has had very little respect for laws or
+constitution, and is, in fact, an able military chief. His passions are
+terrible.... He has been much tried since I knew him, but he is a
+dangerous man." But the people knew he had conquered the Indians and the
+British, and they believed in him.
+
+The candidates for the Presidency in 1824 were Jackson, John Quincy
+Adams, William H. Crawford, and Henry Clay. While Jackson received the
+largest popular vote, the House of Representatives, balloting by States,
+elected John Quincy Adams. It was believed that Clay used his influence
+for Adams against Jackson, and this caused the election of Adams, a
+scholarly man, the son of John Adams, and long our representative
+abroad.
+
+Four years later, in 1828, the people made their voices heard at the
+ballot-box, and Jackson was elected by a large majority. The contest had
+been exceedingly personal and annoying. The old stories about his
+marriage were again dragged through the press. Mrs. Jackson, a victim of
+heart-disease, was unduly troubled, and became broken in health. When he
+was elected, she said, "Well, for Mr. Jackson's sake, I am glad; for my
+own part, I never wished it."
+
+Jackson had built for her a small brick church in the Hermitage grounds,
+and here, where the neighbors and servants gathered, she found her
+deepest happiness, and sighed for no greater sphere of usefulness. When
+she urged the general to join her church, he said, "My dear, if I were
+to do that now, it would be said, all over the country, that I had done
+it for the sake of political effect. My enemies would all say so. I
+cannot do it _now_, but I promise you that, when once more I am clear of
+politics, I will join the church."
+
+The people of Nashville were of course proud that one from their city
+had been chosen to so high a position, and tendered him a banquet on
+December 23, the anniversary of the first battle at New Orleans. A few
+days before this, Mrs. Jackson was taken ill, but she urged her husband
+to make himself ready for the banquet. While he had watched by her
+bedside constantly, on the evening of December 22, she was so much
+better that he consented to lie down on a sofa in an adjoining room. He
+had not been there five minutes before a cry was heard from Mrs.
+Jackson. He hastened to her, but she never breathed again.
+
+He could not believe that she was dead. When they brought a table to lay
+her body upon it, he said tenderly, in a choking voice, "Spread four
+blankets upon it. If she does come to, she will lie so hard upon the
+table."
+
+All night long he sat beside the form of his beloved Rachel, often
+feeling of her heart and pulse. In the morning he was wholly
+inconsolable, and, when he found that she was really dead, the body
+could scarcely be forced from his arms.
+
+At the funeral, the road to the Hermitage was almost impassable. The
+press said of her, "Her pure and gentle heart, in which a selfish,
+guileful, or malicious thought, never found entrance, was the throne of
+benevolence.... To feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to supply the
+indigent, to raise the humble, to notice the friendless, and to comfort
+the unfortunate, were her favorite occupations.... Thus she lived, and
+when death approached, her patience and resignation were equal to her
+goodness; not an impatient gesture, not a vexatious look, not a fretful
+accent escaped her: but her last breath was charged with an expression
+of tenderness for the man whom she loved more than her life, and honored
+next to her God." Only such a nature could have held the undivided love
+of an impetuous, imperious man. Jackson, like so many other unchristian
+men, had the wisdom to desire and to choose for himself a Christian
+wife.
+
+He prepared a tomb for her like an open summer-house, and buried her
+under the white dome supported by marble pillars. On the tablet above
+her are the words, "Here lie the remains of Mrs. Rachel Jackson, wife of
+President Jackson.... Her face was fair, her person pleasing, her temper
+amiable, her heart kind; she delighted in relieving the wants of her
+fellow-creatures, and cultivated that divine pleasure by the most
+liberal and unpretending methods; to the poor she was a benefactor; to
+the rich an example; to the wretched a comforter; to the prosperous an
+ornament; her piety went hand in hand with her benevolence, and she
+thanked her Creator for being permitted to do good. A being so gentle
+and so virtuous, slander might wound, but could not dishonor. Even
+Death, when he tore her from the arms of her husband, could but
+transport her to the bosom of her God."
+
+Such a woman need have no fear that she will fade out of a human heart.
+While Jackson lived, he wore her miniature about his neck, and every
+night laid it open beside her prayer-book at his bedside. Her face was
+the last thing upon which his eyes rested before he slept, through those
+eight years at the White House, and the first thing upon which his eyes
+opened in the morning. Possibly it is not given to all women to win and
+hold so complete and beautiful an affection; perchance the fault is
+sometimes theirs.
+
+Andrew Jackson went to Washington, having grown "twenty years older in a
+night," his friends said. His nephew, Andrew Jackson Donelson, and his
+lovely wife accompanied him. Earl, the artist, who had painted _her_
+picture ("her" always meant Rachel with General Jackson), for this
+reason found a home also at the White House.
+
+The inauguration seemed to have drawn the whole country together.
+Webster said, "I never saw such a crowd here before. Persons have come
+five hundred miles to see General Jackson, and they really seem to think
+that the country is rescued from some dreadful danger." After the
+ceremony, crowds completely filled the White House.
+
+During the first year of the Presidency, the unfortunate maxim which had
+found favor in New York politics, "To the victors belong the spoils,"
+began to be carried out in the removal, it is believed, of nearly two
+thousand persons from office, and substituting those of different
+political opinions. The removals raised a storm of indignation from the
+opposite party, which did not in the least disturb General Jackson.
+
+In his first message to Congress, after maintaining that a long tenure
+of office is corrupting, urging that the surplus revenue be apportioned
+among the several States for works of public utility, he took strong
+ground against rechartering the United States Bank. This caused much
+alarm, for the influence of the bank was very great. Its capital was
+thirty-five million dollars. The parent bank was at Philadelphia, with
+twenty-five branches in the large cities and towns. Since Alexander
+Hamilton's time, a government bank had been a matter of contention. When
+the second was started in 1816, after the war of 1812, business seemed
+to revive, but many persons believed, with Henry Clay, that such a bank
+was unconstitutional, and a vast political power that might be, and was,
+corruptly used. Complaints were constantly heard that officials were
+favored.
+
+When the bill to recharter the bank passed Congress, Jackson promptly
+vetoed the bill. He said, "We can, at least, take a stand against all
+new grants of monopolies and exclusive privileges, against any
+prostitution of our government to the advancement of the few at the
+expense of the many." A few years later he determined to put an end to
+the bank by removing all the surplus funds, amounting to ten millions,
+and placing them in certain State banks. When Mr. Duane, the Secretary
+of the Treasury, would not remove the deposits, General Jackson
+immediately removed him, putting Roger B. Taney in his place. Congress
+passed a vote of censure on the President, but it was afterward expunged
+from the records. Speculation resulted from the distribution of the
+money; the panic of 1836-37 followed, which the Whigs said was caused by
+the destruction of the bank, and the Democrats by the bank itself.
+
+The United States Bank was not the only disturbing question in these
+times. The tariff, which was advantageous to the manufacturers of the
+North, was considered disadvantageous to the agricultural interests of
+the South. Bitter feeling was engendered by the discussion, till South
+Carolina, under the leadership of John C. Calhoun, declared that the
+acts of Congress on the tariff were null and void; therefore,
+nullification or disunion became the absorbing topic. Then came the
+great dispute between Robert Y. Hayne and Daniel Webster.
+
+If the nullifiers or believers in extreme States' rights supposed Jackson
+to be on their side, they were quickly undeceived. When Jefferson's
+birthday, April 13, was observed in Washington, as it had been for
+twenty years, Jackson sent the following toast: "OUR FEDERAL UNION: IT
+MUST BE PRESERVED." He wrote to the citizens of Charleston, "Every
+enlightened citizen must know that a separation, could it be effected,
+would begin with civil discord, and end in colonial dependence on a
+foreign power, and obliteration from the list of nations." He said, "If
+this thing goes on, our country will be like a bag of meal with both
+ends open. Pick it up in the middle or endwise, it will run out."
+
+Still, South Carolina was not to be deterred, with the eloquent Calhoun
+as her leader, and the Nullification Ordinance was passed November 24,
+1832. At once the governor was authorized to accept the service of
+volunteers. Medals were struck bearing the words, "John C. Calhoun,
+First President of the Southern Confederacy."
+
+By the time South Carolina was ready to break the laws, another person
+was ready to enforce them. Jackson at once sent General Scott to take
+command at Charleston, with gun-boats close by, and sent also an earnest
+and eloquent protest to the seceding State. Public meetings were held in
+the large cities of the North. The tariff was modified at the next
+session of Congress, but the disunion doctrines were allowed to grow
+till thirty years later, when they bore the bitter fruit of civil war.
+
+When Jackson was asked, years afterward, what he would have done with
+Calhoun and the nullifiers if they had continued, he replied, "Hung them
+as high as Haman. They should have been a terror to traitors to all
+time, and posterity would have pronounced it the best act of my life."
+When difficulties arose about the Cherokees of Georgia, he removed them
+to the Indian Territory; a harsh measure it seemed, but perhaps not
+harder for the tribes than to have attempted to live among hostile
+whites. When the French king neglected to pay the five million dollars
+agreed upon for injuries done to our shipping, Jackson recommended to
+make reprisals on French merchantmen, and the money was paid. The
+national debt was paid under Jackson, who believed rightly that this, as
+well as every other kind of debt, is a curse. The Eaton affair showed
+his loyalty to friends. John H. Eaton, Secretary of War, had married
+the widow of a purser in the Navy, formerly the daughter of a
+tavern-keeper in Washington. Her conduct had caused criticism, and the
+ladies of the Cabinet would not associate with her--even though
+President Jackson tried every means in his power to compel it, as Eaton
+was his warm friend.
+
+When the eight years of presidential life were over, Jackson sent his
+farewell address to the people of the country, who had idolized him, and
+whom he had loved, he said, "with the affection of a son," and retired
+to the Hermitage. The people of Nashville met him with outstretched arms
+and tearful faces. He was seventy years old, _their_ President, and he
+had come home to live and die with them.
+
+He was now through with politics, and wanted to carry out _her_ wishes,
+to join the little Hermitage church. The night of decision was full of
+meditation and prayer. One morning in 1843, the church was crowded to
+see the ex-President make a public confession of the Christian religion.
+He went home to read his Bible more carefully than ever--he had never
+read less than three chapters daily for thirty-five years, such is the
+influence of early education received at a mother's knee.
+
+The following year, 1844, Commodore Elliot offered the sarcophagus which
+he brought from Palestine, believed to have contained the remains of the
+Roman Emperor, Alexander Severus, to President Jackson for his final
+resting-place.
+
+A letter of cordial thanks was returned, with the words, "I cannot
+consent that my mortal body shall be laid in a repository prepared for
+an emperor or a king. My republican feelings and principles forbid it;
+the simplicity of our system of government forbids it.... I have
+prepared an humble depository for my mortal body beside that wherein
+lies my beloved wife, where, without any pomp or parade, I have
+requested, when my God calls me to sleep with my fathers, to be laid."
+
+The May of 1845 found General Jackson feeble and emaciated, but still
+deeply interested in his country, writing letters to President Polk and
+other statesmen about Texas, hoping ever to avert war if possible. "If
+not," he said, "let war come. There will be patriots enough in the land
+to repel foreign aggression, come whence it may, and to maintain
+sacredly our just rights and to perpetuate our glorious constitution and
+liberty, and to preserve our happy Union." He made his will, bequeathing
+all his property to his adopted son, because, said he, "If _she_ were
+alive, she would wish him to have it all, and to me her wish is law."
+
+On Sunday, June 8, 1845, the family and servants gathered about the
+great man, who was dying at the age of seventy-eight, having fought
+against wounds and disease all his life. "My dear children," he said,
+"do not grieve for me; it is true I am going to leave you; I am well
+aware of my situation. I have suffered much bodily pain, but my
+sufferings are but as nothing compared with that which our blessed
+Saviour endured upon that accursed cross, that all might be saved who
+put their trust in him.... I hope and trust to meet you all in Heaven,
+both white and black--both white and black." Then he kissed each one,
+his eyes resting last, affectionately, upon his granddaughter Rachel,
+named for his wife, and closely resembling her in loveliness of
+character; then death came.
+
+Two days before he died, he said, "Heaven will be no Heaven to me if I
+do not meet my wife there." Who can picture that meeting? He used to
+say, "All I have achieved--fame, power, everything--would I exchange, if
+she could be restored to me for a moment." How blessed must have been
+the restoration, not "for a moment," but for eternity!
+
+The lawn at the Hermitage was crowded with the thousands who came to
+attend the funeral. From the portico, the minister spoke from the words,
+"These are they which came out of great tribulation, and washed their
+robes white in the blood of the Lamb."
+
+All over the country, public meetings were held in honor of the
+illustrious dead; the man who had said repeatedly, "I care nothing about
+clamors; I do precisely what I think just and right."
+
+"He had had honors beyond anything which his own heart had ever
+coveted," says Prof. William G. Sumner, in his life of Jackson. "His
+successes had outrun his ambition. He had held more power than any
+other American had ever possessed. He had been idolized by the great
+majority of his countrymen, and had been surfeited with adulation."
+
+Politicians sometimes sneered about his "kitchen cabinet" at Washington,
+the devoted friends who influenced him but did not hold official
+position, for, self-reliant though he was to a marvellous degree, he was
+neither afraid nor ashamed to be influenced by those who loved him. He
+was absolutely sincere and unselfish. He hated intensely, and loved
+intensely; with an affection as unchanging as his adamantine will.
+Patriotic, determined, energetic, and heroic, he attained success where
+others would have failed. He illustrated Emerson's words, "The man who
+stands by himself, the universe will stand by him also." Francis P.
+Blair, his devoted friend, used to say, "Of all the men I have known,
+Andrew Jackson was the one most entirely sufficient for himself." During
+his presidency, the steamboat which once conveyed him and his party down
+the Chesapeake was unseaworthy, and one of the men exhibited much alarm.
+"You are uneasy," said the general; "you never sailed with _me_ before,
+I see."
+
+As a soldier, he was a brave, wise, skilful leader; as a statesman,
+honest, earnest, fearless, true--"I do precisely what I think just and
+right."
+
+Said a friend who knew him well, "There was more of the woman in his
+nature than in that of any man I ever knew--more of woman's tenderness
+toward children, and sympathy with them. Often has he been known, though
+he never had a child of his own, to walk up and down by the hour with an
+infant in his arms, because by so doing he relieved it from the cause of
+its crying; more also of woman's patience and uncomplaining, unnoticing
+submissiveness to trivial causes of irritation. There was in him a
+womanly modesty and delicacy.... By no man was the homage due to woman,
+the only true homage she can receive--faith in her--more devoutly
+rendered.... This peculiar tenderness of nature entered largely, no
+doubt, into the composition of that _manner_ of his, with which so many
+have been struck, and which was of the highest available stamp as
+regards both dignity and grace."
+
+Much of what he was in character he owed to Rachel Jackson. He once said
+to a prominent man, "My wife was a pious Christian woman. She gave me
+the best advice, and I have not been unmindful of it. When the people,
+in their sovereign pleasure, elected me President of the United States,
+_she_ said to me, 'Don't let your popularity turn your mind away from
+the duty you owe to God. Before him we are all alike sinners, and to him
+we must all alike give account. All these things will pass away, and you
+and I and all of us must stand before God.' I have never forgotten it,
+and I never shall."
+
+[Illustration: DANIEL WEBSTER.]
+
+
+
+
+DANIEL WEBSTER.
+
+
+In the little town of Salisbury, New Hampshire, now called Franklin,
+Daniel Webster was born, January 18, 1782, the ninth in a family of ten
+children. Ebenezer, the father, descended from a sturdy Puritan
+ancestry, had fought in the French and Indian Wars; a brave, hardy
+pioneer. He had cleared the wilderness for his log house, married a wife
+who bore him five children, after which she died, and then married a
+second time, Abigail Eastman, a woman of vigorous understanding, yet
+tender and self-sacrificing. Of the five children of the latter wife,
+three daughters and two sons, Daniel was the fourth, a slight, delicate
+child, whose frail body made him especially dear to the mother, who felt
+that at any time he might be taken out of her arms forever.
+
+"In this hut," said Webster, years later, speaking of his father and
+mother, "they endured together all sorts of privations and hardships; my
+mother was constantly visited by Indians, who had never gone to a white
+man's house but to kill its inhabitants, while my father, perhaps, was
+gone, as he frequently was, miles away, carrying on his back the corn
+to be ground, which was to support his family."
+
+The father was absent from home, also, on more important errands. When
+the news of the battle of Bunker Hill thrilled the colonies, Captain
+Webster, who had won his title in the earlier wars, raised a company,
+and at once started for the scene of action. He fought at Bennington
+under Stark, being the first to scale the Tory breastworks, at White
+Plains, and was at West Point when Arnold attempted to surrender it to
+the British. He stood guard before General Washington's headquarters,
+the night of Arnold's treason. No wonder, when Washington looked upon
+the robust form nearly six feet high, with black hair and eyes, and firm
+decisive manner, he said, "Captain Webster, I believe I can trust
+_you_."
+
+And so thought the people of New Hampshire, for they made him a member
+of both Houses of the State Legislature at various times, and a Judge of
+the Court of Common Pleas in his own county.
+
+The delicate boy Daniel was unable to work on the farm like his brother
+Ezekiel, two years older, but found his pleasure and pastime in reading,
+and in studying nature. The home, "Elms Farm," as it was called later,
+from the elms about it, was in a valley at a bend of the Merrimac. From
+here the boy gazed upon Mount Kearsarge, and Mount Washington, the king
+of the White Mountain peaks, and if he did not dream of what the future
+had in store for him, he grew broad in soul from such surroundings.
+Great mountains, great reaches of sea or plain, usually bring great
+thoughts and plans to those who view them with a loving heart.
+
+Daniel had little opportunity for schooling in those early years. He
+says, in his autobiography, "I do not remember when or by whom I was
+taught to read, because I cannot, and never could, recollect a time when
+I could not read the Bible. I suppose I was taught by my mother, or by
+my elder sisters. My father seemed to have no higher object in the world
+than to educate his children to the full extent of his very limited
+ability. No means were within his reach, generally speaking, but the
+small town-schools. These were kept by teachers, sufficiently
+indifferent, in the several neighborhoods of the township, each a small
+part of the year. To these I was sent with the other children.... In
+these schools nothing was taught but reading and writing; and as to
+these, the first I generally could perform better than the teacher, and
+the last a good master could hardly instruct me in; writing was so
+laborious, irksome, and repulsive an occupation to me always."
+
+Much of the boy's time was spent in rambles along the Merrimac river,
+formed by the Winnipiseogee and the Pemigewasset, "the beau ideal of a
+mountain stream; cold, noisy, winding, and with banks of much
+picturesque beauty." He loved to fish along the streams, having for
+company an old British soldier and sailor, Robert Wise. "He was," says
+Webster, "my Isaac Walton. He had a wife but no child. He loved me,
+because I would read the newspapers to him, containing the accounts of
+battles in the European wars. When I have read to him the details of the
+victories of Howe and Jervis, etc., I remember he was excited almost to
+convulsions, and would relieve his excitement by a gush of exulting
+tears. He finally picked up a fatherless child, took him home, sent him
+to school, and took care of him, only, as he said, that he might have
+some one to read the newspaper to him. He could never read himself.
+Alas, poor Robert! I have never so attained the narrative art as to hold
+the attention of others as thou, with thy Yorkshire tongue, hast held
+mine. Thou hast carried me many a mile on thy back, paddled me over and
+over and up and down the stream, and given whole days in aid of my
+boyish sports, and asked no meed but that, at night, I would sit down at
+thy cottage door, and read to thee some passage of thy country's glory!"
+
+Daniel heard of battles from another source beside Robert Wise. In the
+long winter evenings, when the family were snow-bound, Captain Webster
+would tell stories of the Revolutionary War, and the boy grew patriotic,
+as he heard of the brave soldiers who died to bring freedom to unborn
+generations. When he was eight years old, with all the money at his
+command, twenty-five cents, he went into a little shop "and bought," as
+he says, "a small cotton pocket-handkerchief, with the Constitution of
+the United States printed on its two sides. From this I learned either
+that there was a Constitution, or that there were thirteen States. I
+remember to have read it, and have known more or less of it ever since."
+Years afterward he said, "that there was not an article, a section, a
+clause, a phrase, a word, a syllable, or even a comma, of that
+Constitution, which he had not studied and pondered in every relation
+and in every construction of which it was susceptible."
+
+How important a part this twenty-five cent handkerchief played in the
+lives of the two Webster boys! There is no soil so mellow as that of a
+child's mind; it needs no enriching save love that warms it like
+sunshine. What is planted there early, grows rank and tall, and mothers
+do most of the planting.
+
+The lad's reading in these boyish days was confined mostly to the
+"Spectator," and Pope's "Essay on Man." The whole of the latter he
+learned to repeat. "We had so few books," he says, "that to read them
+once or twice was nothing. We thought they were all to be got by heart."
+The yearly almanac was regarded as "an acquisition." Once when Ezekiel
+and he had a dispute, after retiring, as to a couplet at the head of the
+April page, Daniel got up, groped his way to the kitchen, lighted a
+candle, looked at the quotation, found himself in the wrong, and went
+back to bed. But he had inadvertently, at two o'clock at night in
+midwinter, set the house on fire, which was saved by his father's
+presence of mind. Daniel said, "They were in pursuit of light, but got
+more than they wanted."
+
+Exceedingly fond of poetry, at twelve he could repeat many of the hymns
+of Dr. Watts. Later, he found delight in Don Quixote, of which he says,
+"I began to read it, and it is literally true that I never closed my
+eyes until I had finished it; nor did I lay it down, so great was the
+power of that extraordinary book on my imagination." Later still,
+Milton, Shakespeare, and the Bible became his inspiration.
+
+Years after, he used to say, "I have read through the entire Bible many
+times. I now make it a practice to go through it once a year. It is the
+book of all others for lawyers as well as for divines; and I pity the
+man that cannot find in it a rich supply of thought, and of rules for
+his conduct. It fits man for life--it prepares him for death!"
+
+Captain Webster had secretly nourished the thought that he should send
+Daniel to college, but he was not a man to awaken false hopes, so he
+made no mention of his thoughts. An incident related by Daniel shows his
+father's heart in the matter. "Of a hot day in July, it must have been
+in one of the last years of Washington's administration, I was making
+hay with my father. About the middle of the forenoon, the Honorable
+Abiel Foster, who lived in Canterbury, six miles off, called at the
+house, and came into the field to see my father. He was a worthy man,
+college-learned, and had been a minister, and was not a person of any
+considerable natural power. He talked a while in the field and went on
+his way. When he was gone, my father called me to him, and we sat down
+beneath the elm, on a haycock. He said, 'My son, that is a worthy man;
+he is a member of Congress; he goes to Philadelphia, and gets six
+dollars a day, while I toil here. It is because he had an education,
+which I never had. If I had had his early education, I should have been
+in Philadelphia in his place. I came near it as it was. But I missed it,
+and now I must work here.' 'My dear father,' said I, 'you shall not
+work. Brother and I shall work for you, and will wear our hands out, and
+you shall rest.' And I remember to have cried, and I cry now at the
+recollection. 'My child,' said he, 'it is of no importance to me. I now
+live but for my children. I could not give your elder brothers the
+advantages of knowledge, but I can do something for you. Exert yourself,
+improve your opportunities, learn, learn, and, when I am gone, you will
+not need to go through the hardships which I have undergone, and which
+have made me an old man before my time.'"
+
+Daniel never forgot those precious words, "Improve your opportunities,
+learn, learn." The next year, 1796, he went to Phillips Exeter Academy,
+where he found ninety boys. He had come with his plain clothes from his
+plain home, while many of the others had come from rich and aristocratic
+families. Sometimes the boys ridiculed his country ways and country
+dress. Little they knew of the future that was to give them some slight
+renown simply because they happened to be in the same class with this
+country lad! When will the world learn not to judge a person by his
+clothes! When the first term at Exeter was near its close, the usher,
+Nicholas Emery, afterward an eminent lawyer in Portland, Maine, said to
+Webster, "You may stop a few minutes after school: I wish to speak to
+you." He then told the lad that he was a better scholar than any in his
+class, that he learned more readily and easily, and that if he returned
+to school he should be put into a higher class, and not be hindered by
+boys who cared more for play and dress than for solid improvement.
+
+"These were the first truly encouraging words," said Mr. Webster, "that
+I ever received with regard to my studies. I then resolved to return,
+and pursue them with diligence and so much ability as I possessed."
+Blessings on thee, Nicholas Emery! Strange that either from
+indifference, or what we think the world will say, we forget to speak a
+helpful or an encouraging word. True appreciation is not flattery.
+
+Daniel was at this time extremely diffident--a manner that speaks well
+for a boy or girl generally--and was helped out of it by a noble young
+teacher, Joseph Stevens Buckminster, who died at twenty-eight. Mr.
+Webster says, "I believe I made tolerable progress in most branches
+which I attended to while in this school; but there was one thing I
+could not do--I could not make a declamation. I could not speak before
+the school. The kind and excellent Buckminster sought, especially, to
+persuade me to perform the exercise of declamation like other boys, but
+I could not do it. Many a piece did I commit to memory, and recite and
+rehearse in my own room, over and over again, yet, when the day came,
+when the school collected to hear declamations, when my name was called,
+and I saw all eyes turned to my seat, I could not raise myself from it.
+Sometimes the instructors frowned, sometimes they smiled. Mr.
+Buckminster always pressed and entreated, most winningly, that I would
+venture, but I could never command sufficient resolution. When the
+occasion was over, I went home and wept bitter tears of mortification."
+
+After nine months at Exeter, Daniel began to study with Rev. Samuel
+Wood, a minister in the adjoining town of Boscawen, six miles from
+Salisbury. As Captain Webster was driving over with his son, he
+communicated to him his plan of sending him to college. "I remember,"
+says Daniel Webster, "the very hill which we were ascending, through
+deep snows, in a New England sleigh, when my father made known this
+purpose to me. I could not speak. How could he, I thought, with so large
+a family, and in such narrow circumstances, think of incurring so great
+an expense for me? A warm glow ran all over me, and I laid my head on my
+father's shoulder and wept."
+
+All through life, Mr. Webster, greatest of American orators, was never
+afraid nor ashamed to weep. Children are not, and the nearer we keep to
+the naturalness of children, with reasonable self-control, the more
+power we have over others, and the sweeter and purer grow our natures.
+
+While Daniel was at Dr. Wood's, a characteristic incident occurred. He
+says: "My father sent for me in haying time to help him, and put me into
+a field to turn hay, and left me. It was pretty lonely there, and, after
+working some time, I found it very dull; and as I knew my father was
+gone away, I walked home, and asked my sister Sally if she did not want
+to go and pick some whortle-berries. She said, yes. So I went and got
+some horses, and put a side-saddle on one, and we set off. We did not
+get home until it was pretty late, and I soon went to bed. When my
+father came home he asked my mother where I was, and what I had been
+about. She told him. The next morning, when I awoke, I saw all the
+clothes I had brought from Dr. Wood's tied up in a small bundle again.
+When I saw my father, he asked me how I liked haying. I told him I found
+it 'pretty dull and lonesome yesterday.' 'Well,' said he, 'I believe you
+may as well go back to Dr. Wood's.' So I took my bundle under my arm,
+and on my way I met Thomas W. Thompson, a lawyer in Salisbury; he
+laughed very heartily when he saw me. 'So,' said he, 'your farming is
+over, is it?'"
+
+In August, 1797, when Daniel was fifteen, he entered Dartmouth College;
+there he proved a genial, affectionate friend, and a devoted student.
+But for this natural warmth of heart, he probably never would have been
+an orator, for those only move others whose own hearts are moved. "He
+had few intimates," says Henry Cabot Lodge, in his admirably written and
+discriminating "Life of Webster," "but many friends. He was generally
+liked as well as universally admired, was a leader in the college
+societies, active and successful in sports, simple, hearty, unaffected,
+without a touch of priggishness, and with a wealth of wholesome animal
+spirits."
+
+After two years, the unselfish student could bear no longer the thought
+that his beloved brother Ezekiel was not to enjoy a college education.
+When he went home in vacation, he confided to his brother his
+unhappiness for his sake, and for a whole night they discussed the
+subject. It was decided that Daniel should consult the father. "This, we
+knew," said Mr. Webster, "would be a trying thing to my father and
+mother and two unmarried sisters. My father was growing old, his health
+not good, and his circumstances far from easy.... The farm was to be
+carried on, and the family taken care of; and there was nobody to do all
+this but him, who was regarded as the mainstay--that is to say, Ezekiel.
+However, I ventured on the negotiation, and it was carried, as other
+things often are, by the earnest and sanguine manner of youth. I told
+him that I was unhappy at my brother's prospects. For myself, I saw my
+way to knowledge, respectability, and self-protection; but, as to him,
+all looked the other way; that I would keep school, and get along as
+well as I could, be more than four years in getting through college, if
+necessary,--provided he also could be sent to study.... He said that to
+carry us both through college would take all he was worth; that, for
+himself, he was willing to run the risk; but that this was a serious
+matter to our mother and two unmarried sisters; that we must settle the
+matter with them, and, if their consent was obtained, he would trust to
+Providence, and get along as well as he could."
+
+Captain Webster consulted with his wife; told her that already the farm
+was mortgaged for Daniel's education, and that if Ezekiel went to
+college it would take all they possessed. "Well," said she, with her
+brave mother-heart, "I will trust the boys;" and they lived to make her
+glad that she had trusted them.
+
+The boy of seventeen went back to Dartmouth to struggle with poverty
+alone, but he was happy; the boy of nineteen began a new life, studying
+under Dr. Wood, and, later, entered Dartmouth College.
+
+Daniel, as he had promised, began to earn money to pay his own and his
+brother's way. By superintending a small weekly paper, called the
+_Dartmouth Gazette_, he earned enough to pay his board. In the winter he
+taught school, and gave the money to Ezekiel. While in college, his
+wonderful powers in debate began to manifest themselves. He wrote his
+own declamations. Said one of his classmates: "In his movements he was
+rather slow and deliberate, except when his feelings were aroused; then
+his whole soul would kindle into a flame. We used to listen to him with
+the deepest respect and interest, and no one ever thought of equalling
+the vigor and flow of his eloquence."
+
+Beside his regular studies, he devoted himself to history and politics.
+From the old world he learned lessons in finance, in commerce, in the
+stability of governments, that he was able to use in after life. He
+remembered what he read. He says, "So much as I read I made my own. When
+a half-hour or an hour, at most, had elapsed, I closed my book, and
+thought over what I had read. If there was anything peculiarly
+interesting or striking in the passage, I endeavored to recall it, and
+lay it up in my memory, and commonly I could recall it. Then, if, in
+debate or conversation afterward, any subject came up on which I had
+read something, I could talk very easily so far as I had read, and then
+I was very careful to stop." In this manner Mr. Webster became skilled
+in the art of conversation, and could be the life of any social
+gathering.
+
+On July 4, 1800, he delivered his first public speech, at the request of
+the people of Hanover, tracing the history of our country to the grand
+success of the Revolution.
+
+On leaving college he entered the law office of Mr. T. W. Thompson, of
+Salisbury. He seems not to have inclined strongly to the law, his tastes
+leading him toward general literature, but he was guided by the wishes
+of his father and other friends. His first reading was in the Law of
+Nations--Vattel, Burlamaqui, and Montesquieu, followed by Blackstone's
+Commentaries. After four months, he was obliged to quit his studies and
+earn money for Ezekiel.
+
+He obtained a school at Fryeburg, Maine, promising to teach for six
+months for one hundred and seventy-five dollars. Four nights each week
+he copied deeds, and made in this way two dollars a week. Thirty years
+afterward he said, "The ache is not yet out of my fingers; for nothing
+has ever been so laborious to me as writing, when under the necessity of
+writing a good hand."
+
+When May came with its week of vacation, he says, "I took my quarter's
+salary, mounted a horse, went straight over all the hills to Hanover,
+and had the pleasure of putting these, the first earnings of my life,
+into my brother's hands for his college expenses. Having enjoyed this
+sincere and high pleasure, I hied me back again to my school and my
+copying of deeds." Thus at twenty was the great American living out
+Emerson's sublime motto, "Help somebody," founded on that broadest and
+sweetest of all commands, "Love one another."
+
+"In these days," says George Ticknor Curtis' delightful life of Webster,
+"he was always dignified in his deportment. He was usually serious, but
+often facetious and pleasant. He was an agreeable companion, and
+eminently social with all who shared his friendship. He was greatly
+beloved by all who knew him. His habits were strictly abstemious, and he
+neither took wine nor strong drink. He was punctual in his attendance
+upon public worship, and ever opened his school with prayer. I never
+heard him use a profane word, and never saw him lose his temper."
+
+While teaching and copying deeds, he read Adam's "Defence of the
+American Constitutions," Williams' "Vermont," Mosheim's "Ecclesiastical
+History," and continued his Blackstone. He walked much in the fields,
+alone, and thus learned to know himself; gaining that power of thought
+and mastery of self which are essential to those who would have mastery
+over others. He said, "I loved this occasional solitude then, and have
+loved it ever since, and love it still. I like to contemplate nature,
+and to hold communion, unbroken by the presence of human beings, with
+'this universal frame--this wondrous fair.' I like solitude also, as
+favorable to thoughts less lofty. I like to let the thoughts go free,
+and indulge excursions. And when thinking is to be done one must, of
+course, be alone. No man knows _himself_ who does not thus sometimes
+keep his own company. At a subsequent period of life, I have found that
+my lonely journeys, when following the court on its circuits, have
+afforded many an edifying day."
+
+And yet in this busy life he called himself "naturally indolent," which
+was true, probably. Seeing that most of us do not love work, it is wise
+that in early life, if we would accomplish anything, we are drilled into
+habits of industry.
+
+When he went back to the study of law, he says, "I really often
+despaired. I thought I never could make myself a lawyer, and was almost
+going back to the business of school-keeping. There are propositions in
+Coke so abstract, and distinctions so nice, and doctrines embracing so
+many conditions and qualifications, that it requires an effort not only
+of a mature mind, but of a mind both strong and mature, to understand
+him." And yet he adds, "If one can keep up an acquaintance with general
+literature in the meantime, the law may help to invigorate and unfold
+the powers of the mind."
+
+He longed, as every ambitious young man longs, for a wider sphere. If he
+could only go to Boston, and mingle with the cultivated society
+there!--but this seemed an impossibility. At this time Ezekiel, through
+a college friend, was offered a private school in Boston. He accepted
+the position, and wrote to Daniel urging him to come and teach Latin and
+Greek for an hour and a half each day, thus earning enough to pay his
+board.
+
+Daniel went to Boston, poor and unknown. His first efforts in finding an
+office in which to study were unsuccessful, for who cares about a young
+stranger in a great city? If we looked upon a human being as his Maker
+looks, doubtless we should be interested in him. He desired to study
+with some one already prominent. He found his way to the office of
+Christopher Gore, who was the first district attorney of the United
+States for Massachusetts, a commissioner to England under Jay's treaty
+for eight years, Ex-Governor of the State, and ex-senator. Mr. Webster
+thus narrates his early experience: "A young man, as little known to Mr.
+Gore as myself, undertook to introduce me to him. We ventured into Mr.
+Gore's rooms, and my name was pronounced. I was shockingly embarrassed,
+but Mr. Gore's habitual courtesy of manner gave me courage to speak. I
+had the grace to begin with an unaffected apology, told him my position
+was very awkward, my appearance there very like an intrusion; and that
+if I expected anything but a civil dismission, it was only founded in
+his known kindness and generosity of character. I was from the country,
+I said; had studied law for two years; had come to Boston to study a
+year more; had some respectable acquaintances in New Hampshire, not
+unknown to him, but had no introduction; that I had heard he had no
+clerk; thought it possible he would receive one; that I came to Boston
+to work, not to play; was most desirous, on all accounts, to be his
+pupil; and all I ventured to ask at present was that he would keep a
+place for me in his office till I could write to New Hampshire for
+proper letters, showing me worthy of it. I delivered this speech
+_trippingly_ on the tongue, though I suspect it was better composed
+than spoken. Mr. Gore heard me with much encouraging good-nature. He
+evidently saw my embarrassment; spoke kind words, and asked me to sit
+down. My friend had already disappeared. Mr. Gore said what I had
+suggested was very reasonable, and required little apology.... He
+inquired, and I told him, what gentlemen of his acquaintance knew me and
+my father in New Hampshire. Among others, I remember I mentioned Mr.
+Peabody, who was Mr. Gore's classmate. He talked to me pleasantly for a
+quarter of an hour; and, when I rose to depart, he said: 'My young
+friend, you look as though you might be trusted. You say you come to
+study, and not to waste time. I will take you at your word. You may as
+well hang up your hat at once; go into the other room; take your book,
+and sit down to reading it, and write at your convenience to New
+Hampshire for your letters.'"
+
+The young man must have had the same earnest, frank look as the father
+when Washington said to him, "Captain Webster, I believe I can trust
+you," else he would not have won his way so quickly to the lawyer's
+confidence. Mr. Gore was a man of indefatigable research and great
+amenity of manners. The younger man probably unconsciously took on the
+habits of the older, for, says Emerson, "With the great we easily become
+great."
+
+Webster now read, in addition to books on the common and municipal law,
+Ward's "Law of Nations," Lord Bacon's "Elements," Puffendorff's "Latin
+History of England," Gifford's "Juvenal," Boswell's "Tour to the
+Hebrides," Moore's "Travels," and other works. When we know what books a
+man or woman reads, we generally know the person. The life in Mr. Gore's
+office was one long step on the road to fame, and it did not come by
+chance; it came because, even in timidity, Webster had the courage to
+ask for a high place.
+
+When about ready for admission to the bar, the position of Clerk of the
+Court of Common Pleas of Hillsborough County was offered to him, an
+appointment which had been the desire of the family for him for years.
+The salary was fifteen hundred dollars. This seemed a fortune indeed. "I
+could pay all the debts of the family," he says, "could help on
+Ezekiel--in short, I was independent. I had no sleep that night, and the
+next morning when I went to the office I stepped up the stairs with a
+lighter heart than I ever had before." He conveyed the good news to Mr.
+Gore.
+
+"Well, my young friend," said he, "the gentlemen have been very kind to
+you; I am glad of it. You must thank them for it. You will write
+immediately, of course."
+
+"I told him that I felt their kindness and liberality very deeply; that
+I should certainly thank them in the best manner I was able; but that, I
+should go up to Salisbury so soon, I hardly thought it was necessary to
+write. He looked at me as if he was greatly surprised. 'Why,' said he,
+'you don't mean to accept it, surely!' The bare idea of not accepting it
+so astounded me that I should have been glad to have found any hole to
+have hid myself in.... 'Well,' said he, 'you must decide for yourself;
+but come, sit down, and let us talk it over. The office is worth fifteen
+hundred a year, you say. Well, it never will be any more. Ten to one, if
+they find out it is so much, the fees will be reduced. You are appointed
+now by friends; others may fill their places who are of different
+opinions, and who have friends of their own to provide for. You will
+lose your place; or, supposing you to retain it, what are you but a
+clerk for life? And your prospects as a lawyer are good enough to
+encourage you to go on. Go on, and finish your studies; you are poor
+enough, but there are greater evils than poverty: live on no man's
+favor; what bread you do eat, let it be the bread of independence;
+pursue your profession, make yourself useful to your friends and a
+little formidable to your enemies, and you have nothing to fear.'"
+
+Young Webster went home and passed another sleepless night. Then he
+borrowed some money, hired a sleigh, and started for Salisbury. When he
+reached his father's house, the pale old man said to him, "Well, Daniel,
+we have got that office for you."
+
+"Yes, father," was the reply, "the gentlemen were very kind; I must go
+and thank them."
+
+"They gave it to you without my saying a word about it."
+
+"I must go and see Judge Farrar, and tell him I am much obliged to him."
+
+"Daniel, Daniel," said he, at last, with a searching look, "don't you
+mean to take that office?"
+
+"No, indeed, father," was the response, "I hope I can do much better
+than that. I mean to use my tongue in the courts, not my pen; to be an
+actor, not a register of other men's acts. I hope yet, sir, to astonish
+your honor in your own court by my professional attainments."
+
+He looked half proud, half sorrowful, and said slowly, "Well, my son, your
+mother has always said you would come to something or nothing. She was not
+sure which; I think you are now about settling that doubt for her." He
+never spoke a word more upon the subject. The fifteen-hundred-dollar
+clerkship was gone forever, but Daniel had chosen the right road to fame
+and prosperity.
+
+He returned finally to the quiet town of Boscawen, and, not willing to
+be separated from his father, began the life of a country lawyer. His
+practice brought not more than five or six hundred dollars a year, but
+it gave self-support. He had also time for study. "Study," he said, "is
+the grand requisite for a lawyer. Men may be born poets, and leap from
+their cradle painters. Nature may have made them musicians, and called
+on them only to exercise, and not to acquire, ability; but law is
+artificial. It is a human science, to be learned, not inspired. Let
+there be a genius for whom nature has done so much as apparently to have
+left nothing for application, yet, to make a lawyer, application must do
+as much as if nature had done nothing. The evil is that an accursed
+thirst for money violates everything.... The love of fame is
+extinguished, every ardent wish for knowledge repressed; conscience put
+in jeopardy, and the best feelings of the heart indurated by the mean,
+money-catching, abominable practices which cover with disgrace a part of
+the modern practitioners of the law."
+
+Webster's first speech at the bar was listened to by his proud and
+devoted father, who did not live to hear him a second time. He died in
+1806, at sixty-seven, and was buried beneath a tall pine-tree on his own
+field. Daniel assumed his debts, and for ten years bore the burden, if
+that may be called a burden which we do willingly for love's sake.
+
+The next year he removed to Portsmouth. He was now twenty-five, pale,
+slender, and of refined and apparently delicate organization. He had
+written considerable for the press, made several Fourth of July
+orations, and published a little pamphlet, "Considerations on the
+Embargo Laws."
+
+In June, 1808, when he was twenty-six, he made the wisest choice of his
+life in his marriage to Grace Fletcher, daughter of Rev. Elijah Fletcher
+of Hopkinton. She was twenty-seven, a rare combination of intellect and
+sweetness, just the woman to inspire an educated man by her cultivated
+and sympathetic mind, and to rest him with her gentle and genial
+presence. She had a quiet dignity which won respect, and her manners
+were unaffected, frank, and winning. From the first time he saw her she
+looked "like an angel" to him, and such she ever remained to his vision.
+
+And now began the happiest years of his life. The small, wooden house in
+which they lived grew into a palace, because love was there. His first
+child, little Grace, named for her mother, became the idol of his heart.
+Business increased and friends multiplied during the nine years he lived
+at Portsmouth. He was fortunate in having for an almost constant
+opponent in the law the renowned Jeremiah Mason, fourteen years his
+senior, and the acknowledged head of the legal profession in New
+Hampshire. Mr. Webster studied him closely. "He had a habit," said
+Webster, "of standing quite near to the jury, so near that he might have
+laid his finger on the foreman's nose; and then he talked to them in a
+plain conversational way, in short sentences, and using no word that was
+not level to the comprehension of the least educated man on the panel.
+This led me to examine my own style, and I set about reforming it
+altogether." Before this his style had been somewhat florid; afterward
+it was terse, simple, and graphic.
+
+On July 4, 1812, Webster delivered an oration before the "Washington
+Benevolent Society," in which he stoutly opposed the war then being
+carried on with England. The address immediately passed through two
+editions, and led to his appointment as delegate to an assembly of the
+people of Rockingham County, to express disapproval of the war. The
+"Rockingham Memorial," which was presented to the President, was written
+by Mr. Webster, and showed a thorough knowledge of the condition of
+affairs, and an ardent devotion to the Union, even though the various
+sections of the country might differ in opinion. The result of this
+meeting was the sending of Mr. Webster to Congress, where he took his
+seat May 24, 1813. He was thirty-one; the poverty, the poor clothes in
+Dartmouth College, the burden of the father's debts had not kept him
+from success.
+
+Once in Congress, it was but natural that his influence should be felt.
+He did not speak often, but when he did speak the House listened. He was
+placed on the committee on Foreign Relations, with Mr. Calhoun as
+chairman. He helped to repeal the Embargo Laws, spoke on the Tariff,
+showing that he was a Free Trader in principle, but favored Protection
+as far as expediency demanded it, and took strong grounds against the
+war of 1812. He urged the right and necessity of free speech on all
+questions. He said, "It is the ancient and undoubted prerogative of this
+people to canvas public measures and the merits of public men. It is a
+'home-bred right,' a fireside privilege. It has ever been enjoyed in
+every house, cottage, and cabin in the nation.... It is as undoubted as
+the right of breathing the air, or walking on the earth. Belonging to
+private life as a right, it belongs to public life as a duty; and it is
+the last duty which those whose representative I am shall find me to
+abandon."
+
+He was active in that almost interminable discussion concerning a United
+States Bank. The first bank, chartered in 1791, had Hamilton for its
+defender, and Jefferson for its opponent. In 1811, the bank failed to
+obtain a renewal of its charter. During the war of 1812, the subject was
+again urged. The Jeffersonians were opposed to any bank; another party
+favored a bank which should help the government by heavy loans, and be
+relieved from paying its notes in specie; still another party, to which
+Webster belonged, favored a bank with reasonable capital, compelled to
+redeem its notes in specie, and at liberty to make loans or not to the
+government. On the subject of the currency he made some remarkable
+speeches, showing a knowledge of the subject perhaps unequalled since
+Hamilton.
+
+The bank bill passed in 1816, shorn of some of its objectionable
+features. On April 26, Mr. Webster presented his resolutions requiring
+all dues to the government to be paid in coin, or in Treasury notes, or
+in notes of the Bank of the United States, and by a convincing speech
+aided in its adoption, thus rendering his country a signal service.
+
+During this session of Congress, Webster received a challenge to a duel
+from John Randolph of Roanoke, and was brave enough to refuse, saying,
+"It is enough that I do not feel myself bound, at all times and under
+any circumstances, to accept from any man, who shall choose to risk his
+own life, an invitation of this sort."
+
+The time had come now in Mr. Webster's life for a broader sphere; he
+decided to move to Boston. His law practice had never brought more than
+two thousand dollars a year, and he needed more than this for his
+growing family. Besides, his house at Portsmouth, costing him six
+thousand dollars, had been burned, his library and furniture destroyed,
+and he must begin the world anew.
+
+The loss of property was small compared with another loss close at hand.
+Grace, the beautiful, precocious first-born, the sunshine of the home,
+died in her father's arms, smiling full in his face as she died. He wept
+like a child, and could never forget that parting look.
+
+After settling in Boston, business flowed in upon him, until he earned
+twenty thousand dollars a year. He would work hard in the early morning
+hours, coming home tired from the courts in the afternoon. Says a
+friend, "After dinner, Mr. Webster would throw himself upon the sofa,
+and then was seen the truly electrical attraction of his character.
+Every person in the room was drawn immediately into his sphere. The
+children squeezing themselves into all possible places and postures upon
+the sofa, in order to be close to him; Mrs. Webster sitting by his
+side, and the friend or social visitor only too happy to join in the
+circle. All this was not from invitation to the children; he did nothing
+to amuse them, he told them no stories; it was the irresistible
+attraction of his character, the charm of his illumined countenance,
+from which beamed indulgence and kindness to every one of his family."
+
+Among the celebrated cases which helped Mr. Webster's renown was the
+Dartmouth College case in 1817. The college was originally a charity
+school for the instruction of the Indians in the Christian religion,
+founded by Rev. Eleazer Wheelock. He solicited and obtained
+subscriptions in England, the Earl of Dartmouth being a generous giver.
+A charter was obtained from the Crown in 1769, appointing Dr. Wheelock
+president, and empowering him to name his successor, subject to the
+approval of the trustees. In 1815 a quarrel began between two opposite
+political and religious factions. The Legislature was applied to, which
+changed the name from college to university, enlarged the number of
+trustees, and otherwise modified the rights of the corporation under the
+charter from England. The new trustees took possession of the property.
+The old board brought action against the new, but the courts of New
+Hampshire decided that the acts of the Legislature were constitutional.
+The case was appealed to Washington, and on March 10, 1818, Mr. Webster
+made his famous speech of over four hours, proving that by the
+Constitution of the United States the charter of an institution is a
+contract which a State Legislature cannot annul.
+
+In closing he said to the Chief Justice, "This, sir, is my case. It is
+the case, not merely of that humble institution, it is the case of every
+college in our land. It is more. It is the case of every eleemosynary
+institution throughout our country--of all those great charities founded
+by the piety of our ancestors, to alleviate human misery and scatter
+blessings along the pathway of life. It is more! It is, in some sense,
+the case of every man among us who has property of which he may be
+stripped, for the question is simply this: Shall our State Legislatures
+be allowed to take that which is not their own, to turn it from its
+original use, and apply it to such ends or purposes as they in their
+discretion shall see fit? Sir, you may destroy this little institution;
+it is weak; it is in your hands! I know it is one of the lesser lights
+in the literary horizon of our country. You may put it out. But, if you
+do so, you must carry through your work! You must extinguish, one after
+another, all those greater lights of science which, for more than a
+century, have thrown their radiance over our land!
+
+"It is, sir, as I have said, a small college. And yet there are those
+who love it--"
+
+Here Mr. Webster broke down, overcome by the recollections of those
+early days of poverty, and the self-sacrifice of the dead father. The
+eyes of Chief Justice Marshall were suffused with tears, as were those
+of nearly all present. When Mr. Webster sat down, for some moments the
+silence was death-like, and then the people roused themselves as though
+awaking from a dream. Nearly seventy years after this, when the Hon.
+Mellen Chamberlain, Librarian of the Boston Public Library, gave his
+eloquent address at the dedication of Wilson Hall, the library building
+of Dartmouth College, he held in his hand the very copy of Blackstone
+from which Webster quoted in his great argument, with his autograph on
+the fly-leaf. Of Webster he said, "His imagination transformed the
+soulless body corporate--the fiction of the king's prerogative--into a
+living personality, the object of his filial devotion, the beloved
+mother whose protection called forth all his powers, and enkindled in
+his bosom a quenchless love."
+
+Several years later, Webster won the great case of Gibbons vs. Ogden,
+which settled that the State of New York had no right, under the
+Constitution, to grant a monopoly of steam navigation, on its waters, to
+Fulton and Livingston.
+
+He now took an active part in the revision of the Constitution of
+Massachusetts, helping to do away with the religious test, that a person
+holding office must declare his belief in the Christian religion. A
+believer himself, he was unwilling to force his views upon others.
+December 22, 1820, he delivered an oration at Plymouth, commemorating
+the two-hundredth anniversary of the landing of the Pilgrims. It was a
+grand theme, and the theme had a master to handle it. He began simply,
+"Let us rejoice that we behold this day. Let us be thankful that we have
+lived to see the bright and happy breaking of the auspicious morn which
+commences the third century of the history of New England.... Forever
+honored be this, the place of our fathers' refuge! Forever remembered
+the day which saw them, weary and distressed, broken in everything but
+spirit, poor in all but faith and courage, at last secure from the
+danger of wintry seas, and impressing this shore with the first
+footsteps of civilized man!"
+
+Then the picture was sketched on a glowing canvas;--the noble Pilgrims;
+the progress of New England during the century; the grand government
+under which we live and develop, with the Christian religion for our
+comfort and our hope. In closing he said, "The hours of this day are
+rapidly flying, and this occasion will soon be passed. Neither we nor
+our children can expect to behold its return. They are in the distant
+regions of futurity, they exist only in the all-creating power of God,
+who shall stand here, a hundred years hence, to trace through us their
+descent from the Pilgrims, and to survey, as we have now surveyed, the
+progress of their country during the lapse of a century. We would
+anticipate their concurrence with us in our sentiments of deep regard
+for our common ancestors. We would anticipate and partake the pleasure
+with which they will then recount the steps of New England's
+advancement. On the morning of that day, although it will not disturb us
+in our repose, the voice of acclamation and gratitude, commencing on the
+Rock of Plymouth, shall be transmitted through millions of the sons of
+the Pilgrims, till it lose itself in the murmurs of the Pacific seas."
+
+The people heard the oration as though entranced. Said Mr. Ticknor, a
+man of remarkable culture, "I was never so excited by public speaking
+before in my life. Three or four times I thought my temples would burst
+with the gush of blood; for, after all, you must know that I am aware it
+is no connected and compacted whole, but a collection of wonderful
+fragments of burning eloquence, to which his whole manner gave tenfold
+force. When I came out I was almost afraid to come near to him. It
+seemed to me as if he was like the mount that might not be touched, and
+that burned with fire."
+
+John Adams wrote him, "If there be an American who can read it without
+tears, I am not that American.... Mr. Burke is no longer entitled to the
+praise--the most consummate orator of modern times.... This oration will
+be read five hundred years hence with as much rapture as it was heard.
+It ought to be read at the end of every century, and indeed at the end
+of every year, forever and ever."
+
+From the day he delivered that oration, Mr. Webster was the leading
+orator of America. From that day he belonged not to Grace Webster
+alone, not to Massachusetts, not to one political party, but to the
+people of the United States. Five years after that, he delivered the
+address at the laying of the corner-stone of Bunker Hill monument. Who
+does not remember the impassioned words to the survivors of the
+Revolution, "Venerable men! you have come down to us from a former
+generation. Heaven has bounteously lengthened out your lives that you
+might behold this joyous day. You are now where you stood fifty years
+ago, this very hour, with your brothers and your neighbors, shoulder to
+shoulder, in the strife for your country. Behold, how altered! The same
+heavens are indeed over your heads; the same ocean rolls at your feet;
+but all else, how changed! You hear now no roar of hostile cannon, you
+see no mixed volumes of smoke and flame rising from burning Charlestown.
+The ground strewed with the dead and the dying; the impetuous charge;
+the steady and successful repulse; the loud call to repeated assault,
+the summoning of all that is manly to repeated resistance; a thousand
+bosoms freely and fearlessly bared in an instant to whatever of terror
+there may be in war and death,--all these you have witnessed, but you
+witness them no more.... All is peace; and God has granted you this
+sight of your country's happiness, ere you slumber in the grave forever.
+He has allowed you to behold and to partake the reward of your patriotic
+toils, and he has allowed us, your sons and countrymen, to meet you
+here, and in the name of the present generation, in the name of your
+country, in the name of liberty, to thank you!
+
+"But, alas! you are not all here! Time and the sword have thinned your
+ranks. Prescott, Putnam, Stark, Brooks, Read, Pomeroy, Bridge! our eyes
+seek for you in vain amidst this broken band. You are gathered to your
+fathers, and live only to your country in her grateful remembrance and
+your own bright example."
+
+Who has not read that address delivered at Faneuil Hall, Boston, in
+commemoration of the lives and services of John Adams and Thomas
+Jefferson, who died July 4, 1826. Who does not remember that imaginary
+speech of John Adams, "Sink or swim, live or die, survive or perish, I
+give my hand and my heart to this vote. It is true, indeed, that in the
+beginning we aimed not at independence. But there's a Divinity which
+shapes our ends.... Sir, I know the uncertainty of human affairs, but I
+see, I see clearly through this day's business. You and I, indeed, may
+rue it. We may not live to see the time when this declaration shall be
+made good. We may die,--die colonists,--die slaves;--die, it may be,
+ignominiously and on the scaffold. Be it so. Be it so. If it be the
+pleasure of Heaven that my country shall require the poor offering of my
+life, the victim shall be ready at the appointed hour of sacrifice, come
+when that hour may. But, while I do live, let me have a country, or at
+least the hope of a country, and that a free country."
+
+Concerning this speech of John Adams, beginning, "Sink or swim, live or
+die," Mr. Webster said, "I wrote that speech one morning before
+breakfast, in my library, and when it was finished my paper was wet with
+my tears." In delivering this oration, his manuscript lay near him on a
+small table, but he did not once refer to it. As far as possible in his
+addresses, he preferred Anglo-Saxon words to those with Latin origin;
+therefore, this great speech is so simple that school-boys the country
+over can declaim it and understand it.
+
+In 1823, when Webster was forty-one, Boston elected him to Congress. He
+was, of course, widely known and observed; courtly in physique,
+impassioned yet calm, easy yet dignified, comprehensive in thought, a
+lover of and expounder of the Constitution.
+
+The following year he visited Marshfield, on the south-east shore of
+Massachusetts, and saw the home which he afterward purchased, and which,
+with its eighteen hundred acres, became the joy of his later years. Here
+he planted flowers and trees. He would often say to others, "Plant
+trees, adorn your grounds, live for the benefit of those who shall come
+after you." Here he watched every sunrise and sunset, every moonrise
+from new to full, and grew rested and refreshed by these ever recurring
+glimpses of divine power. He said, "I know the morning; I am acquainted
+with it, and I love it, fresh and sweet as it is, a daily creation,
+breaking forth and calling all that have life, and breath, and being,
+to new adoration, new enjoyments, and new gratitude."
+
+Here he enjoyed the ocean as he had enjoyed it in his boyhood, and years
+later, when his brain was tired from overwork, he would exclaim,
+plaintively, "Oh, Marshfield! the Sea! the Sea!"
+
+This year also Webster paid a visit to Thomas Jefferson at Monticello.
+In his conversation with the ex-President, he told this story of
+himself, which well illustrates the fact that all the knowledge which we
+can acquire becomes of use to us at one time or another in life. When a
+young lawyer in Portsmouth, a blacksmith brought him a case under a
+will. As the case was a difficult one, he spent one month in the study
+of it, buying fifty dollars' worth of books to help him in the matter.
+He argued the case, won it, and received a fee of fifteen dollars. Years
+after, Aaron Burr sent for him to consult with him on a legal question
+of consequence. The case was so similar to that of the blacksmith that
+Webster could cite all the points bearing upon it from the time of
+Charles II. Mr. Burr was astonished, and suspected he was the counsel
+for the opposite side. Webster received enough compensation from Burr to
+cover the loss of time and money in the former case, and gained,
+besides, Burr's admiration and respect.
+
+In the winter of 1824, Webster's youngest child, Charles, died, at the
+age of two years. Mrs. Webster wrote her absent husband, "I have dreaded
+the hour which should destroy your hopes, but trust you will not let
+this event afflict you too much, and that we both shall be able to
+resign him without a murmur, happy in the reflection that he has
+returned to his Heavenly Father pure as I received him.... Do not, my
+dear husband, talk of your own 'final abode;' that is a subject I never
+can dwell on for a moment. With you here, my dear, I can never be
+desolate. Oh, may Heaven, in its mercy, long preserve you!"
+
+Four years later, "the blessed wife," as he called her, went to her
+"final abode." Mr. Webster watched by her side till death took her. Then
+at the funeral, in the wet and cold of that January day, he walked close
+behind the hearse, holding Julia and Fletcher, his two children, by the
+hand. Her body was placed beneath St. Paul's Church, Boston, beside her
+children. All were removed afterward to Marshfield.
+
+Webster went back to Washington, having been made United States senator,
+but he seemed broken-hearted, and unable to perform his duties. He wrote
+to a friend, "Like an angel of God, indeed. I hope she is in purity, in
+happiness, and in immortality; but I would fain hope that, in kind
+remembrance of those she has left, in a lingering human sympathy and
+human love, she may yet be, as God originally created her, a 'little
+lower than the angels.' I cannot pursue these thoughts, nor turn back to
+see what I have written." Again he wrote, "I feel a vacuum, an
+indifference, a want of motive, which I cannot describe. I hope my
+children, and the society of my best friends, may rouse me; but I can
+never see such days as I have seen. Yet I should not repine; I have
+enjoyed much, very much; and, if I were to die to-night, I should bless
+God most fervently that I have lived."
+
+Judge Story spoke of Mrs. Webster as a sister with "her kindness of
+heart, her generous feelings, her mild and conciliatory temper, her warm
+and elevated affections, her constancy, purity, and piety, her noble
+disinterestedness, and her excellent sense."
+
+Later, Mr. Webster married Caroline Le Roy, the daughter of a New York
+merchant, but no affection ever effaced from his heart the memory of
+Grace Webster, whom he always spoke of as "the mother of his children."
+
+The next year, 1829, his idolized brother Ezekiel died suddenly at
+forty-nine, while he was addressing a jury in the court-house at
+Concord, New Hampshire.
+
+Daniel Webster said of this shock, "I have felt but one such in life;
+and this follows so soon that it requires more fortitude than I possess
+to bear it with firmness, and, perhaps, as I ought. I am aware that the
+case admits no remedy, nor any present relief; and endeavor to console
+myself with reflecting that I have had much happiness with lost
+connections, and that they must expect to lose beloved objects in this
+world who have beloved objects to lose."
+
+Recently, at the home of Kate Sanborn in New York, the grand-niece of
+Daniel Webster, I met the sweet-faced wife of Ezekiel, young in her
+feelings and young in face despite her four-score years. Here I saw a
+picture of the great orator in his youth, the desk on which he wrote,
+and scores of mementos of Marshfield and "Elms Farms," treasured by the
+cultivated woman who bears token of her renowned kinship.
+
+With all these sorrows crowded into Mr. Webster's life, he could not
+cease his pressing work in Congress. Andrew Jackson had become
+President, and John C. Calhoun had preached his Nullification doctrines
+till South Carolina was ready to separate herself from the Union,
+because of her dissatisfaction with the tariff laws. Webster had
+somewhat changed his views, and had become a supporter of the "American
+System" of Henry Clay, the system of "protection," because he thought
+the interests of his constituents demanded it. For himself, he loved
+agriculture, but he saw the need of fostering manufactures if we would
+have a great and prosperous country.
+
+On December 29, 1829, Mr. Foote, a senator from Connecticut, introduced
+a resolution to inquire respecting the sales and surveys of western
+lands. In a long debate which followed, General Hayne of South Carolina
+took occasion to chastise New England, in no tender words, for her
+desire to build up herself in wealth at the expense of the West and
+South. On January 20, Webster made his first reply to the General,
+having only a night in which to prepare his speech. The notes filled
+three pages of ordinary letter paper, while the speech, as reported,
+filled twenty pages.
+
+Again General Hayne spoke in an able yet personal manner, asserting the
+doctrines of nullification, and attempting to justify the position of
+his State in seceding. Mr. Webster took notes while he was speaking,
+but, as the Senate adjourned, his speech did not come till the following
+day. Again he had but a night in which to prepare.
+
+When the morning of January 26 came, the galleries, floor, and staircase
+were crowded with eager men and women. "It is a critical moment," said
+Mr. Bell, of New Hampshire, to Mr. Webster, "and it is time, it is high
+time, that the people of this country should know what this Constitution
+_is_." "Then," answered Webster, "by the blessing of Heaven they shall
+learn, this day, before the sun goes down, what I understand it to be."
+
+When Webster began speaking his words were slowly uttered. "Mr.
+President,--When the mariner has been tossed, for many days, in thick
+weather, and on an unknown sea, he naturally avails himself of the first
+pause in the storm, the earliest glance of the sun, to take his
+latitude, and ascertain how far the elements have driven him from his
+true course. Let us imitate this prudence, and before we float farther
+on the waves of this debate, refer to the point from which we departed,
+that we may at least be able to conjecture where we now are. I ask for
+the reading of the resolution."
+
+And then with trenchant sarcasm, unanswerable logic, and the intense
+feeling which belongs to true oratory, Mr. Webster taught the American
+people the strength and holding power of the Constitution, which a civil
+war, thirty years later, was to prove unalterably. The speech, which
+filled seventy printed pages, came from only five pages of notes. When
+asked how long he was in preparation for the reply to Hayne, he
+answered, his "whole life."
+
+How often his loving defence of Massachusetts has been quoted! "Mr.
+President, I shall enter on no encomiums upon Massachusetts. She needs
+none. There she is--behold her, and judge for yourselves. There is her
+history: the world knows it by heart. The past, at least, is secure.
+There is Boston, and Concord, and Lexington, and Bunker Hill,--and there
+they will remain forever. The bones of her sons, falling in the great
+struggle for Independence, now lie mingled with the soil of every State,
+from New England to Georgia; and there they will lie forever. And, sir,
+where American liberty raised its first voice, and where its youth was
+nurtured and sustained, there it still lives, in the strength of its
+manhood and full of its original spirit. If discord and disunion shall
+wound it--if party strife and blind ambition shall hawk at and tear
+it--if folly and madness, if uneasiness under salutary and necessary
+restraint, shall succeed to separate it from that union, by which alone
+its existence is made sure, it will stand, in the end, by the side of
+that cradle in which its infancy was rocked: it will stretch forth its
+arm, with whatever of vigor it may still retain, over the friends who
+gather round it; and it will fall at last, if fall it must, amidst the
+proudest monuments of its own glory, and on the very spot of its origin.
+
+"When my eyes shall be turned to behold for the last time the sun in
+heaven, may I not see him shining on the broken and dishonored fragments
+of a once glorious Union; on States dissevered, discordant, belligerent;
+on a land rent with civil feuds, or drenched, it may be, in fraternal
+blood!--Let their last feeble and lingering glance rather behold the
+gorgeous ensign of the republic, now known and honored throughout the
+earth, still full high advanced, its arms and trophies streaming in
+their original lustre, not a stripe erased or polluted, nor a single
+star obscured--bearing for its motto no such miserable interrogatory as
+_What is all this worth_? Nor those other words of delusion and folly,
+_Liberty first_, and _Union_ afterwards--but everywhere, spread all over
+in characters of living light, blazing on all its ample folds, as they
+float over the sea and over the land, and in every wind under the whole
+heavens, that other sentiment, dear to every true American
+heart--Liberty and Union, now and forever, one and inseparable!"
+
+Of course, this reply to Hayne electrified the country, and Webster
+began to be mentioned for the presidential chair. No one who ever heard
+him speak, with his wonderful magnetism, his majestic enthusiasm, his
+rich, full voice, and his unsurpassed physique, could ever forget the
+man, his words, or his presence. When he visited Europe, some said,
+"There goes a king." When Sydney Smith saw him, he exclaimed, "Good
+Heavens! he is a small cathedral by himself."
+
+Through Jackson's administration Webster was his courteous opponent in
+most measures, but in the nullification scheme he was heart and hand
+with the fearless, self-willed general. When Henry Clay brought forward
+his compromise tariff bill, which pacified the nullifiers, Webster
+opposed it, believing that, in the face of this opposition to the
+Constitution, concession was unwise.
+
+In 1833, the famous statesman made an extended journey through the West,
+and was everywhere honored and fęted. Church-bells were rung, cannon
+fired, and houses decorated at his coming. Great crowds gathered
+everywhere to hear him speak.
+
+By this time a party was developing in opposition to the unusual powers
+exercised by General Jackson, whose great victory at New Orleans had
+made him the idol of the people. The party was the more easily formed
+from the financial troubles under Van Buren, he having reaped the
+harvest of which Jackson had sown the seed. Naturally, Mr. Webster
+became the leader of this Whig party, so called from the Whig party in
+England, formed to resist the ultra demands of the king. Massachusetts
+favored him for the presidency. Boston presented him with a massive
+silver vase, before an audience of four thousand persons. Philadelphia
+and Baltimore gave him public dinners. Letters came from various States
+urging his name upon the National Convention, which met at Harrisburg,
+Pennsylvania, December 4, 1839. But Mr. Webster had been so prominent
+that his views upon all public questions were too well known, therefore
+General William Henry Harrison, of Ohio, an honored soldier of the War
+of 1812, was chosen, as being a more "available" candidate.
+
+Webster must have been sorely disappointed, as were his friends, but he
+at once began to work earnestly for his party, spoke constantly at
+meetings, and helped to elect Harrison, who died one month after the
+exciting election, at the age of sixty-eight. John Tyler, of Virginia,
+the Vice-President, succeeded him, and Mr. Webster remained Secretary of
+State under him, as he had been under Harrison. Here the duties were
+arduous and complicated.
+
+For many years the north-eastern boundary had been a matter of dispute
+between England and the United States. Bitter feeling had been
+engendered also by trouble in Canada in 1837. Several of those in
+rebellion had fled from Canada to the States, had fitted out an American
+steamboat, the Carolina, to make incursions into that country. She was
+burned by a party of Canadians, and an American was killed. McLeod,
+from Canada, acknowledged himself the slayer, was arrested, and
+committed for murder. The British were angered by this, as were the
+Americans by the search of their vessels by British cruisers. Lord
+Ashburton was finally sent as a special envoy to the United States, and
+largely through the statesmanship of Mr. Webster the Ashburton treaty
+was concluded, and war between the nations avoided.
+
+Meantime, President Tyler had vetoed the bill for establishing another
+United States Bank, and thereby set his own party against him. Most of
+the cabinet resigned, and although much pressure was brought by the Whig
+party upon Mr. Webster, that he resign also, he remained till the treaty
+matter was settled. Then he returned to Marshfield, and devoted himself
+once more to the law.
+
+He had spent lavishly upon his farm; he had also bought western land,
+and lost money by his investments. He felt obliged to entertain friends,
+and this was expensive. Besides, he never kept regular accounts, often
+in his generosity gave five hundred dollars when he should have given
+but five, and now found himself embarrassed by debts which were a source
+of sorrow to his friends as well as to himself, and a source of
+advantage to his enemies. Thirty-five thousand dollars were now given
+him by his admirers, from which he received a yearly income.
+
+In 1844, the annexation of Texas was a leading presidential question.
+Until 1836 she was a province of Mexico, but in 1835 she resorted to
+arms to free herself. On March 6, 1836, a Texan fort, called the Alamo,
+was surrounded by eight thousand Mexicans, led by Santa Anna. The
+garrison was massacred. The next month the battle of San Jacinto was
+fought, and Texas became independent. When she asked admission to the
+Union, the Democrats favored and the Whigs opposed, because she would
+naturally become slave territory. Already, August 30, 1843, the "Liberty
+Party" had assembled at Baltimore and nominated a candidate for the
+presidency. The North was becoming agitated on the subject of slavery,
+but the Whigs avoided both the subjects of slavery and Texas in their
+platform, and nominated as their presidential candidate not Daniel
+Webster but Henry Clay.
+
+Again Webster worked earnestly for his party and its nominee, but the
+Whigs were defeated, as is usually the case when a party fears to touch
+the great questions which public opinion demands. They learned a lesson
+when it was too late, and other political parties should profit by their
+example.
+
+James K. Polk of Tennessee was elected, Texas was admitted to the Union,
+and the Mexican War resulted. War was declared by Congress May 11, 1846,
+vigorously prosecuted, and Mexico was defeated. By the terms of the
+treaty, concluded February 2, 1848, New Mexico and Upper California were
+given to the United States. Webster, who had been returned to the
+Senate by Massachusetts, opposed the war as he had the annexation of
+Texas. At this time a double sorrow came to him. His second son, Major
+Edward Webster, a young man of fine abilities, courage, and high sense
+of honor, died near the city of Mexico, from disease induced by
+exposure. His body arrived in Boston May 4, and, only three days before,
+Webster's lovely daughter, Julia, who had married Samuel Appleton of
+Boston, was carried to her grave by consumption. Her death, at thirty,
+was beautiful in its resignation and faith, even though she left five
+little children to the care of others. Her last words were, "Let me go,
+for the day breaketh," which words were placed upon her tombstone.
+
+Mr. Webster was indeed crushed by this new sorrow. He wrote to his
+friend Mrs. Ticknor, "I cannot speak of the lost ones; but I submit to
+the will of God. I feel that I am nothing, less even than the merest
+dust of the balance; and that the Creator of a million worlds, and the
+judge of all flesh, must be allowed to dispose of me and mine as to his
+infinite wisdom shall seem best."
+
+In 1848, when Mr. Webster was sixty-six, the presidency once more eluded
+his grasp by the nomination of another "available" man, General Zachary
+Taylor, one of the heroes of the Mexican War. Webster had spoken
+earnestly for Harrison and Clay; now he was unwilling longer to work for
+the party which had ignored him and nominated a man whom, though an
+able soldier, he thought unfitted for the place as a statesman. If it
+was a mistake to show that he was wounded in spirit, as it undoubtedly
+was for so great a man, it was nevertheless human.
+
+The thing which Mr. Webster had feared these many years was now coming
+to pass. A violent agitation of the slavery question in the Territories
+was upon the nation. For thirty years slavery had been odious to the
+North, and carefully nurtured by the South. In 1820, when Missouri was
+admitted as a State, the North insisted that a clause prohibiting
+slavery should be inserted as a condition of her admission to the Union.
+Henry Clay devised the compromise by which slavery was prohibited in all
+the new territory lying north of latitude 36° 30', which was the
+southern boundary of Missouri. This line was called Mason and Dixon's
+line, from the names of the two surveyors who ran the boundary line
+between Maryland and Pennsylvania.
+
+Year by year the hatred of slavery had intensified at the North.
+February 1, 1847, David Wilmot of Pennsylvania introduced in Congress
+his famous proviso, by which slavery was to be excluded from all
+territory thereafter acquired or annexed by the United States. And now,
+in 1849, the conflict on the slavery question was more virulent than
+ever. California, having framed a constitution prohibiting slavery,
+applied for admission to the Union. New Mexico asked for a territorial
+government and for the exclusion of slavery.
+
+The South claimed that the Missouri Compromise, extending to the Pacific
+coast, guaranteed the right to introduce slavery into California and New
+Mexico, and threatened secession from the Union. Again Henry Clay
+settled the matter,--for a time only, as it proved,--by his famous
+Compromise of 1850, by which California was admitted as a free State,
+the Territories taken from Mexico left to decide the slavery question as
+they chose, the slave-trade abolished in the District of Columbia, more
+effectual enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law demanded, with some
+other minor provisions.
+
+The Fugitive Slave Law, which provided for the return of the fugitives
+without trial by jury, and expected Christian people to aid the
+slave-dealers in capturing their slaves, was especially obnoxious to the
+North. Some of the States had passed "Personal Liberty Bills," punishing
+as kidnappers persons who sought to take away alleged slaves.
+
+Mr. Webster saw with dismay all this bitterness, and knew that the Union
+which he loved was in danger. He hoped to avert civil war, perhaps to
+still the tumult forever, and so gave his great heart and brain to the
+Clay compromise. On March 7, 1850, he delivered in Congress his famous
+speech on the Compromise bill. The Senate chamber was crowded with an
+intensely excited audience. Mr. Webster discussed the whole history of
+slavery, opposed the Wilmot Proviso, because he thought every part of
+the country settled as to slavery, either by law or nature,--he could
+not look into the future and see Kansas,--and then condemned the course
+of the North in its resistance to the Fugitive Slave Law, which he held
+to be constitutional. The words in reference to restoring fugitive
+slaves created a storm of indignation at the North, which had looked
+upon Webster as a great anti-slavery leader, and who had said in the
+oration at Plymouth, "I hear the sound of the hammer, I see the smoke of
+the furnaces where manacles and fetters are still forged for human
+limbs. I see the visages of those who, by stealth and at midnight, labor
+in this work of hell, foul and dark, as may become the artificers of
+such instruments of misery and torture. Let that spot be purified, or
+let it cease to be of New England. Let it be purified, or let it be set
+aside from the Christian world; let it be put out of the circle of human
+sympathies and human regards, and let civilized man henceforth have no
+communion with it." In his speech to Hayne he had said, "I regard
+domestic slavery as one of the greatest evils, both moral and
+political."
+
+Probably Mr. Webster had not changed his mind at all in regard to the
+enormity of slavery, but he hoped to save the Union from war. He indeed
+helped to postpone the conflict, but if the presidency had before this
+been a possibility to him, it became now an impossibility forever, and
+his own words had done it.
+
+President Taylor died July 9, 1850, when the discussion of the
+Compromise matter was at its height, and Millard Fillmore became
+President. He at once made Webster Secretary of State. Mr. Webster bore
+bravely the reproaches of the North. He said, "I cared for nothing, I
+was afraid of nothing, but I meant to do my duty. Duty performed makes a
+man happy; duty neglected makes a man unhappy.... If the fate of John
+Rogers had stared me in the face, if I had seen the stake, if I had
+heard the fagots already crackling, by the blessing of Almighty God I
+would have gone on and discharged the duty which I thought my country
+called upon me to perform."
+
+At the next national Whig convention, General Winfield Scott was
+nominated to the presidency. Multitudes throughout the country were
+disappointed that Webster was not chosen. Boston gave him a magnificent
+reception. Marshfield welcomed him with a gathering of thousands of
+people nine miles from his home, who escorted him thither, scattering
+garlands along the way. "I remember how," says Charles Lanman, "after
+the crowd had disappeared, he entered his house fatigued beyond measure,
+and covered with dust, and threw himself into a chair. For a moment his
+head fell upon his breast, as if completely overcome, and he then looked
+up like one seeking something he could not find. It was the portrait of
+his darling but departed daughter, Julia, and it happened to be in full
+view. He gazed upon it for some time in a kind of trance, and then wept
+like one whose heart was broken, and these words escaped his lips, 'Oh,
+I am so thankful to be here. If I could only have my will, never, never
+would I again leave this home!'"
+
+Here he was happy. Here he had gathered a large library, many of his
+books being on science, of which he was very fond. Of geology and
+physical geography he had made a careful study. Humboldt's "Cosmos" was
+an especial favorite.
+
+In the spring of 1852, Mr. Webster fell from his carriage, and from this
+fall he never entirely recovered. In the fall he made his will, and
+wrote these words for his monument, "Lord, I believe; help thou mine
+unbelief. Philosophical argument, especially that drawn from the
+vastness of the universe in comparison with the apparent insignificance
+of this globe, has sometimes shaken my reason for the faith that is in
+me; but my heart has assured and reassured me that the Gospel of Jesus
+Christ must be a Divine Reality.
+
+"The Sermon on the Mount cannot be a merely human production. This
+belief enters into the very depth of my conscience. The whole history of
+man proves it."
+
+Mr. Webster had repeatedly given his testimony in favor of the Christian
+religion. "Religion," he said, "is a necessary and indispensable element
+in any great human character. There is no living without it. Religion is
+the tie that connects man with his Creator, and holds him to his throne.
+If that tie be all sundered, all broken, he floats away, a worthless
+atom in the universe; its proper attractions all gone, its destiny
+thwarted, and its whole future nothing but darkness, desolation, and
+death."
+
+Once, at a dinner party of gentlemen, he was asked by one present, "What
+is the most important thought that ever occupied your mind?"
+
+The reply came slowly and solemnly, "My individual responsibility to
+God!"
+
+When the last of October came, Mr. Webster was nearing the end of life.
+About a week before he died he asked that a herd of his best oxen might
+be driven in front of his windows, that he might see their honest faces
+and gentle eyes. A man who thus loves animals must have a tender heart.
+
+A few hours before Mr. Webster died, he said slowly, "My general wish on
+earth has been to do my Maker's will. I thank him now for all the
+mercies that surround me.... No man, who is not a brute, can say that he
+is not afraid of death. No man can come back from _that_ bourne; no man
+can comprehend the will or the works of God. That there _is_ a God all
+must acknowledge. I see him in all these wondrous works--himself how
+wondrous!
+
+"The great mystery is Jesus Christ--the Gospel. What would the condition
+of any of us be if we had not the hope of immortality?... Thank God, the
+Gospel of Jesus Christ brought life and immortality to _light_,
+_rescued_ it--brought it to _light_." He then began to repeat the Lord's
+prayer, saying earnestly, "Hold me up, I do not wish to pray with a
+fainting voice."
+
+He longed to be conscious when death came. At midnight he said, "I still
+live," his last coherent words. A little after three he ceased to
+breathe.
+
+He was buried as he had requested to be, "without the least show or
+ostentation," on October 29, 1852. The coffin was placed upon the lawn,
+and more than ten thousand persons gazed upon the face of the great
+statesman. One unknown man, in plain attire, said as he looked upon him,
+all unconscious that anybody might hear his words, "Daniel Webster, the
+world without you will seem lonesome." Six of his neighbors bore him to
+his grave and laid him beside Grace and his children.
+
+When the Civil War came, which Mr. Webster had done all in his power to
+avert, it took the last child out of his family: Fletcher, a colonel of
+the Twelfth Massachusetts volunteers, fell in the battle of August 29,
+1862, near Bull Run.
+
+[Illustration: Signature "Your friend & obe Serv H. Clay"]
+
+
+
+
+HENRY CLAY.
+
+
+Henry Clay, the "mill-boy of the Slashes," was born April 12, 1777, in
+Hanover County, Virginia, in a neighborhood called the "Slashes," from
+its low, marshy ground. The seventh in a family of eight children, says
+Dr. Calvin Colton, in his "Life and Times of Henry Clay," he came into
+the home of Rev. John Clay, a true-hearted Baptist minister, poor, but
+greatly esteemed by all who knew him. Mr. Clay used often to preach
+out-of-doors to his impecunious flock, who, beside loving him for his
+spiritual nature, admired his fine voice and manly presence.
+
+When Henry was four years old the father died, leaving the wife to
+struggle for her daily bread, rich only in the affection which poverty
+so often intensifies and makes heroic. She was a devoted mother, a
+person of more than ordinary mind, and extremely patriotic, a quality
+transmitted to her illustrious son.
+
+Says Hon. Carl Schurz, in his valuable Life of Clay, "There is a
+tradition in the family that, when the dead body [of the father] was
+still lying in the house, Colonel Tarleton, commanding a cavalry
+force under Lord Cornwallis, passed through Hanover County on a raid,
+and left a handful of gold and silver on Mrs. Clay's table as a
+compensation for some property taken or destroyed by his soldiers; but
+that the spirited woman, as soon as Tarleton was gone, swept the money
+into her apron and threw it into the fireplace. It would have been in no
+sense improper, and more prudent, had she kept it, notwithstanding her
+patriotic indignation."
+
+Anxious that her children be educated, Mrs. Clay sent them to the log
+school-house in the neighborhood, to learn reading, writing, and
+arithmetic from Peter Deacon, an Englishman, who seems to have succeeded
+well in teaching, when sober. The log house was a small structure, with
+earth floor, no windows, and an entrance which served for continuous
+ventilation, as there was no door to keep out cold or heat. Henry had
+nothing of consequence to remember of this school save the marks of a
+whipping received from Peter Deacon when he was angry.
+
+As soon as school hours were over each day, he had to work to help
+support the family. Now the bare-footed boy might be seen ploughing;
+now, mounted on a pony guided by a rope bridle, with a bag of meal
+thrown across the horse's back, he might be seen going from his home to
+Mrs. Darricott's mill, on the Pamunky River. The people nicknamed him
+"The mill-boy of the Slashes," and, years later, when the same
+bare-footed, mother-loving boy was nominated for the presidency, the
+term became one of endearment and pride to hundreds of thousands, who
+knew by experience what a childhood of toil and hardship meant. He
+became the idol of the poor not less than of the rich, because he could
+sympathize in their privations, and sympathy is usually born of
+suffering. Perchance we ought to welcome bitter experiences, for he
+alone has power who has great sympathy.
+
+After some years of widowhood, Mrs. Clay married Captain Henry Watkins
+of Richmond, Virginia, and, though she bore him seven children, he did
+not forget to be a father to the children of her former marriage. When
+Henry was fourteen, Captain Watkins placed him in Richard Denny's store
+in Richmond. For a year the boy sold groceries and dry-goods in the
+retail store, reading in every moment of leisure. His step-father
+thought rightly that a boy who was so eager to read should have better
+advantages, and therefore applied to his friend, Colonel Tinsley, for a
+position in the office of the Clerk of the High Court of Chancery, the
+clerk being the brother of the colonel.
+
+"There is no vacancy," said the clerk.
+
+"Never mind," said the colonel, "you _must_ take him;" and so he did.
+
+The glad mother cut and made for Henry an ill-fitting suit of gray
+"figinny" (Virginia) cloth, cotton and silk mixed, and starched his
+linen to a painful stiffness. When he appeared in the clerk's office he
+was tall and awkward, and the occupants at the desks could scarcely
+restrain their mirth at the appearance of the new-comer. Henry was put
+to the task of copying. The clerks wisely remained quiet, and soon found
+that the boy was proud, ambitious, quick, willing to work, and superior
+to themselves in common-sense and the use of language.
+
+Every night when they went in quest of amusement young Clay went home to
+read. It could not have been mere chance which attracted to the
+studious, bright boy the attention of George Wythe, the Chancellor of
+the High Court of Chancery. He was a noted and noble man, one of the
+signers of the Declaration of Independence, for ten years teacher of
+jurisprudence at William and Mary's College, a man so liberal in his
+views in the days of slavery that he emancipated all his slaves and made
+provision for their maintenance; the same great man in whose office
+Thomas Jefferson gained inspiration in his youth.
+
+George Wythe selected Clay for his amanuensis in writing out the
+decisions of the courts. He soon became greatly attached to the boy of
+fifteen, directed his reading, first in grammatical studies, and then in
+legal and historical lines. He read Homer, Plutarch's Lives, and similar
+great works. The conversation of such a man as Mr. Wythe was to Clay
+what that of Christopher Gore was to Daniel Webster, or that of Judge
+Story to Charles Sumner. Generally men who have become great have allied
+themselves to great men or great principles early in life. When Clay
+had been four years with the chancellor he naturally decided to become a
+lawyer. Poverty did not deter him; hard work did not deter him. Those
+who fear to labor must not take a step on the road to fame.
+
+Clay entered the office of Attorney-General Robert Brooke, a man
+prominent and able. Here he studied hard for a year, and was admitted to
+the bar, having gained much legal knowledge in the previous four years.
+During this year he mingled with the best society of Richmond, his own
+intellectual ability, courteous manners, and good cheer making him
+welcome, not less than the well known friendship of Chancellor Wythe for
+him. Clay organized a debating society, and the "mill-boy of the
+Slashes" quite astonished, not only the members but the public as well,
+by his unusual powers of oratory.
+
+The esteem of Richmond society did not bring money quickly enough to the
+enterprising young man. His parents had removed to Kentucky, and he
+decided to go there also, "and grow up with the country." He was now
+twenty-one, poor, not as thoroughly educated as he could have wished,
+but determined to succeed, and when one has this determination the
+battle is half won. That he regretted his lack of early opportunities, a
+speech made on the floor of Congress years afterward plainly showed. In
+reply to Hon. John Randolph he said, "The gentleman from Virginia was
+pleased to say that in one point, at least, he coincided with me in an
+humble estimate of my grammatical and philological acquisitions. I know
+my deficiencies. I was born to no proud patrimonial estate. I inherited
+only infancy, ignorance, and indigence. I feel my defects. But, so far
+as my situation in early life is concerned, I may, without presumption,
+say it was more my misfortune than my fault. But, however I regret my
+want of ability to furnish the gentleman with a better specimen of
+powers of verbal criticism, I will venture to say it is not greater than
+the disappointment of this committee as to the strength of his
+argument."
+
+When Clay arrived in Lexington, Kentucky, he found not the polished
+society of Richmond, but a genial, warm-hearted, high-spirited race of
+men and women, who cordially welcomed the young lawyer with his
+sympathetic manner and distinguished air, the result of an inborn sense
+of leadership. Soon after he began to practise law, he joined a debating
+society, and, with his usual good-sense, did not take an active part
+until he became acquainted with the members.
+
+One evening, after a subject had been long debated, and the vote was to
+be taken, Clay, feeling that the matter was not exhausted, rose to
+speak. At first he was embarrassed, and began, "Gentlemen of the jury!"
+The audience laughed. Roused to self-control by this mistake, his words
+came fast and eloquent, till the people held their breath in amazement.
+From that day, Lexington knew that a young man of brilliancy and power
+had come within her borders.
+
+Nearly fifty years later, he said in the same city, when he retired from
+public life, "In looking back upon my origin and progress through life,
+I have great reason to be thankful. My father died in 1781, leaving me
+an infant of too tender years to retain any recollection of his smiles
+or endearments. My surviving parent removed to this State in 1792,
+leaving me, a boy fifteen years of age, in the office of the High Court
+of Chancery, in the city of Richmond, without guardian, without
+pecuniary means of support, to steer my course as I might or could. A
+neglected education was improved by my own irregular exertions, without
+the benefit of systematic instruction. I studied law principally in the
+office of a lamented friend, the late Governor Brooke, then
+attorney-general of Virginia, and also under the auspices of the
+venerable and lamented Chancellor Wythe, for whom I had acted as
+amanuensis. I obtained a license to practise the profession from the
+judges of the court of appeals of Virginia, and established myself in
+Lexington in 1797, without patrons, without the favor or countenance of
+the great or opulent, without the means of paying my weekly board, and
+in the midst of a bar uncommonly distinguished by eminent members. I
+remember how comfortable I thought I should be if I could make one
+hundred pounds, Virginia money, per year, and with what delight I
+received the first fifteen-shilling fee. My hopes were more than
+realized. I immediately rushed into a successful and lucrative
+practice."
+
+His cases at first were largely criminal. His first marked case was that
+of a woman who, in a moment of passion, shot her sister-in-law. Clay
+could not bear to see a woman hanged, and she heretofore the respected
+wife of a respected man. He pleaded "temporary delirium," and saved her
+life.
+
+It is said that no murderer ever suffered the extreme penalty of the law
+who was defended by Henry Clay. He saved the life of one Willis, accused
+of an atrocious murder. Meeting the man later, he said, "Ah! Willis,
+poor fellow, I fear I have saved too many like you who ought to be
+hanged." When Clay was public prosecutor, he took up the case of a
+slave, much valued for his intelligence and honor, who, in the absence
+of his owner, had been unmercifully treated by an overseer. In
+self-defence the slave killed the overseer with an axe. Clay argued that
+had the deed been done by a free man it would have been man-slaughter,
+but by a slave, who should have submitted, it was murder. The colored
+man was hanged, meeting death heroically. Clay was so overcome by the
+painful result of his own unfortunate reasoning that he at once resigned
+his position, and never ceased to be sorry for his connection with the
+affair.
+
+Sometimes the ending of a case was ludicrous as well as pathetic. Two
+Germans, father and son, were indicted for murder in the first degree.
+The mother and wife were present, and, of course, intensely interested.
+When Clay obtained the acquittal of the accused, the old lady rushed
+through the crowd, flung her arms around the neck of the stylish young
+attorney, and clung to him so persistently that it was difficult for him
+to free himself!
+
+He soon began to engage more exclusively in civil suits, especially
+those growing out of the land laws of Virginia and Kentucky, and quickly
+acquired a leading position at the bar. He had already married, at
+twenty-two, Lucretia Hart, eighteen years old, the daughter of Colonel
+Thomas Hart, a well known and respected citizen of Lexington. She was a
+woman of practical common-sense, devoted to him, and a tender mother to
+their eleven children, six daughters and five sons.
+
+As soon as Mr. Clay had earned sufficient money he bought Ashland, an
+estate of six hundred acres, a mile and a half south-east from Lexington
+court-house. A spacious brick mansion, with flower gardens and groves,
+made it in time one of the most attractive places in the South. Here,
+later, Clay entertained Lafayette, Webster, Monroe, and other famous men
+from Europe and America.
+
+Mr. Clay began his political life when but twenty-two. Kentucky, in
+1799, in revising her constitution, considered a project for the gradual
+abolition of slavery in the State. Clay was an ardent advocate of the
+measure. He wrote in favor of it in the press, and spoke earnestly in
+its behalf in public. He, however, received more censure than praise for
+the position he took, but his conduct was in keeping with his
+declaration years later: "I had rather be right than be President."
+
+All his life he rejoiced that he had thus early favored the abolition of
+slavery. He said, thirty years later, "Among the acts of my life which I
+look back to with most satisfaction is that of my having coöperated with
+other zealous and intelligent friends to procure the establishment of
+that system in this State. We were overpowered by numbers, but submitted
+to the decision of the majority with that grace which the minority in a
+republic should ever yield to that decision. I have, nevertheless, never
+ceased, and shall never cease, to regret a decision the effects of which
+have been to place us in the rear of our neighbors, who are exempt from
+slavery, in the state of agriculture, the progress of manufactures, the
+advance of improvements, and the general progress of society."
+
+From this time Clay spoke on all important political questions. Once,
+when he and George Nicholas had spoken against the alien and sedition
+laws of the Federalists, so pleased were the Kentuckians that both
+speakers were placed in a carriage and drawn through the streets, the
+people shouting applause. Thus foolishly are persons--usually young
+men--willing to be considered horses through their excitement!
+
+When Clay was twenty-six, so effective had been his eloquence that he
+was elected to the State Legislature. Who would have prophesied this
+when he carried meal to Mrs. Darricott's mill! Reading evenings, when
+other boys roamed the streets, had been an important element in this
+success; friendship with those older and stronger than himself had given
+maturity of thought and plan.
+
+When he was thirty he was chosen to the United States Senate, to fill
+the unexpired term of another. At once, despite his youth, he took an
+active part in debate, was placed on important committees, and advocated
+"internal improvements," as he did all the rest of his life, desiring
+always that America become great and powerful. He was happy in this
+first experience at the national capital. He wrote home to his wife's
+father: "My reception in this place has been equal, nay, superior to my
+expectations. I have experienced the civility and attention of all I was
+desirous of obtaining. Those who are disposed to flatter me say that I
+have acquitted myself with great credit in several debates in the
+Senate. But, after all I have seen, Kentucky is still my favorite
+country. There amidst my dear family I shall find happiness in a degree
+to be met with nowhere else."
+
+As soon as Clay was home again, Kentucky sent him to her State
+Legislature, where he was elected speaker. Already the conflicts between
+England and France under Napoleon had seriously affected our commerce
+by the unjust decrees of both nations. Mr. Clay strongly denounced the
+Orders in Council of the British, and praised Jefferson for the embargo.
+He urged, also, partly as a retaliatory measure, and partly as a measure
+of self-protection, that the members of the Legislature wear only such
+clothes as were made by our own manufacturers. Humphrey Marshall, a
+strong Federalist, and a man of great ability, denounced this resolution
+as the work of a demagogue. The result was a duel, in which, after Clay
+and Marshall were both slightly wounded, the seconds prevented further
+bloodshed. Once before this Clay had accepted a challenge, and the duel
+was prevented only by the interference of friends. Had death resulted at
+either time, America would have missed from her record one of the
+brightest and fairest names in her history.
+
+When Clay was thirty-three he was again sent to the Senate of the United
+States, to fill an unexpired term of two years. At the end of that time
+Kentucky was too proud of him to allow his returning to private life. He
+was therefore elected to the House of Representatives, and took his seat
+November 4, 1811. He was at once chosen speaker, an honor conferred for
+seven terms, fourteen years.
+
+"Henry Clay stands," says Carl Schurz, "in the traditions of the House
+of Representatives as the greatest of its speakers. His perfect mastery
+of parliamentary law, his quickness of decision in applying it, his
+unfailing presence of mind and power of command in moments of excitement
+and confusion, the courteous dignity of his bearing, are remembered as
+unequalled by any one of those who had preceded or who have followed
+him."
+
+Here in the excitement of debate he was happy. He could speak at will
+against the British, who had seized more than nine hundred American
+ships, and the French more than five hundred and fifty. When several
+thousand Americans had been impressed as British seamen, the hot blood
+of the Kentuckian demanded war. He said in Congress, "We are called upon
+to submit to debasement, dishonor, and disgrace; to bow the neck to
+royal insolence, as a course of preparation for manly resistance to
+Gallic invasion! What nation, what individual was ever taught in the
+schools of ignominious submission these patriotic lessons of freedom and
+independence?... An honorable peace is attainable only by an efficient
+war. My plan would be to call out the ample resources of the country,
+give them a judicious direction, prosecute the war with the utmost
+vigor, strike wherever we can reach the enemy, at sea or on land, and
+negotiate the terms of a peace at Quebec or at Halifax. We are told that
+England is a proud and lofty nation, which, disdaining to wait for
+danger, meets it half way. Haughty as she is, we once triumphed over
+her, and, if we do not listen to the counsels of timidity and despair,
+we shall again prevail. In such a cause, with the aid of Providence, we
+must come out crowned with success; but if we fail, let us fail like
+men, lash ourselves to our gallant tars, and expire together in one
+common struggle, fighting for FREE TRADE AND SEAMEN'S RIGHTS."
+
+The War of 1812 came, even though New England strongly opposed it. The
+country was poorly prepared for a great contest by land or by sea, but
+Clay's enthusiasm seemed equal to a dozen armies. He cheered every
+regiment by his hope and his patriotism. When defeats came at Detroit
+and in Canada, Josiah Quincy of Massachusetts, leader of the
+Federalists, said, "Those must be very young politicians, their
+pin-feathers not yet grown, and, however they may flutter on this floor,
+they are not fledged for any high or distant flight, who think that
+threats and appealing to fear are the ways of producing any disposition
+to negotiate in Great Britain, or in any other nation which understands
+what it owes to its own safety and honor."
+
+Clay answered in a two-days speech that was never forgotten. He scourged
+the Federalists with stinging words: "Sir, gentlemen appear to me to
+forget that they stand on American soil; that they are not in the
+British House of Commons, but in the chamber of the House of
+Representatives of the United States; that we have nothing to do with
+the affairs of Europe, the partition of territory and sovereignty there,
+except so far as these things affect the interests of our own country.
+Gentlemen transform themselves into the Burkes, Chathams, and Pitts of
+another country, and forgetting, from honest zeal, the interests of
+America, engage with European sensibility in the discussion of European
+interests.... I have no fears of French or English subjugation. If we
+are united we are too powerful for the mightiest nation in Europe, or
+all Europe combined. If we are separated and torn asunder, we shall
+become an easy prey to the weakest of them. In the latter dreadful
+contingency, our country will not be worth preserving.
+
+"The war was declared because Great Britain arrogated to herself the
+pretension of regulating our foreign trade, under the delusive name of
+retaliatory orders in council--a pretension by which she undertook to
+proclaim to American enterprise, 'Thus far shalt thou go, and no
+further'--orders which she refused to revoke, after the alleged cause of
+their enactment had ceased; because she persisted in the practice of
+impressing American seamen; because she had instigated the Indians to
+commit hostilities against us; and because she refused indemnity for her
+past injuries upon our commerce. I throw out of the question other
+wrongs. The war in fact was announced on our part to meet the war which
+she was waging on her part."
+
+The speech electrified the country. The army was increased, the nation
+encouraged, and the war carried to a successful issue. Such a power had
+Clay become that Madison talked of making him commander-in-chief of the
+army, but Gallatin dissuaded him, saying, "What shall we do without
+Clay in Congress?"
+
+When the war was nearing its end--before Jackson had fought his famous
+battle at New Orleans--and a treaty of peace was to be effected, the
+President appointed five commissioners to confer with the British
+government: John Quincy Adams, Clay, Bayard, Jonathan Russell, Minister
+to Sweden, and Albert Gallatin.
+
+They reached Ghent, in the Netherlands, July 6, 1814, a company of
+earnest men, not always in accord, but desirous of accomplishing the
+most possible for America. Adams was able, courageous, irritable, and
+sometimes domineering; Clay, impetuous, spirited, genial, making friends
+of the British commissioners as they played at whist--he never allowed
+cards to come into his home at Ashland; Gallatin, discreet, a
+peace-maker, and dignified counsellor.
+
+For five months the commissioners argued, waited to see if their
+respective countries would accede to the terms proposed, and finally
+settled an honorable peace. Then Clay, Adams, and Gallatin spent three
+months in London negotiating a treaty of commerce. Clay had meantime
+heard of the battle of New Orleans, and said, "Now I can go to England
+without mortification." In Paris he met Madame de Staël. "I have been in
+England," said she, "and have been battling for your cause there. They
+were so much enraged against you that at one time they thought seriously
+of sending the Duke of Wellington to lead their armies against you."
+
+"I am very sorry," replied Clay, "that they did not send the duke."
+
+"And why?" she asked.
+
+"Because if he had beaten us, we should have been in the condition of
+Europe, without disgrace. But if we had been so fortunate as to defeat
+him, we should have greatly added to the renown of our arms."
+
+When Clay returned to America, he was welcomed in New York and Lexington
+with public dinners. That the war had produced good results was well
+stated in his Lexington address. "Abroad, our character, which, at the
+time of its declaration, was in the lowest state of degradation, is
+raised to the highest point of elevation. It is impossible for any
+American to visit Europe without being sensible of this agreeable change
+in the personal attentions which he receives, in the praises which are
+bestowed on our past exertions, and the predictions which are made as to
+our future prospects. At home, a government, which, at its formation,
+was apprehended by its best friends, and pronounced by its enemies to be
+incapable of standing the shock, is found to answer all the purposes of
+its institution."
+
+Clay was now famous; commanding in presence, with a winsome rather than
+handsome face, exuberant in spirits, generous by nature, polite to the
+poorest, self-possessed, with a voice unsurpassed, if ever equalled,
+for its musical tone; a man who made friends everywhere and among all
+classes, and never lost them; who was always a gentleman, because always
+kind at heart. Manner, which Emerson calls the "finest of the fine
+arts," gave Clay the "mastery of palace and fortune" wherever he went.
+That voice and hand-grasp, that remembrance of a face and a name, won
+him countless admirers.
+
+President Madison offered him the mission to Russia, which he declined,
+as also a place in the Cabinet, as Secretary of War, preferring to speak
+on all those matters which helped to build up America. On the question
+of the United States Bank he made a strong speech against its
+constitutionality, which Andrew Jackson said later was his most
+convincing authority when he destroyed the bank. Clay's views changed in
+after years, and made him at bitter enmity with Andrew Jackson and John
+Tyler, both of whom vigorously opposed a bank, with its vast capital and
+consequent power in politics.
+
+Clay's desire for the rapid development of America led him to become a
+"protectionist," and the leader of the so-called "American system," as
+opposed to Free Trade or the Foreign System. He believed that only as we
+encourage our own manufactures can we become a powerful nation, paying
+high wages, shutting out the products of the cheap labor of Europe,
+increasing our home market, and becoming independent of the foreign
+market. Clay's speeches were read the country over, and won him
+thousands of followers.
+
+Like others in public life, he now and then gave offence to his
+constituents. He had voted for a bill to increase the pay of members of
+Congress from six dollars a day to a salary of fifteen hundred dollars a
+year. To the farmers of Kentucky this amount seemed far too great. He
+one day met an old hunter who had always voted for him, but was now
+determined to vote against a man so extravagant in his ideas!
+
+"My friend," said Clay, "have you a good rifle?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did it ever flash?"
+
+"Yes; but only once."
+
+"What did you do with the rifle when it flashed?--throw it away?"
+
+"No; I picked the flint, tried again, and brought down the game."
+
+"Have I ever flashed, except upon the compensation bill?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Well, will you throw me away?"
+
+"No, Mr. Clay; I will pick the flint and try you again."
+
+Mr. Clay was returned to Congress, and voted for the repeal of the
+fifteen hundred dollar salary.
+
+The subject which was to surpass all other subjects in interest, and
+well-nigh destroy the Union, was coming into prominence--slavery. Henry
+Clay, from a boy, when George Wythe, the Virginia chancellor, freed his
+slaves, had looked upon human bondage as a curse. He used to say, "If I
+could be instrumental in eradicating this deepest stain from the
+character of our country, and removing all cause of reproach on account
+of it, by foreign nations; if I could only be instrumental in ridding of
+this foul blot that revered State that gave me birth, or that not less
+beloved State which kindly adopted me as her son, I would not exchange
+the proud satisfaction which I should enjoy for the honor of all the
+triumphs ever decreed to the most successful conqueror.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"When we consider the cruelty of the origin of negro slavery, its
+nature, the character of the free institutions of the whites, and the
+irresistible progress of public opinion throughout America, as well as
+in Europe, it is impossible not to anticipate frequent insurrections
+among the blacks in the United States; they are rational beings like
+ourselves, capable of feeling, of reflection, and of judging of what
+naturally belongs to them as a portion of the human race. By the very
+condition of the relation which subsists between us, we are enemies of
+each other. They know well the wrongs which their ancestors suffered at
+the hands of our ancestors, and the wrongs which they believe they
+continue to endure, although they may be unable to avenge them. They are
+kept in subjection only by the superior intelligence and superior power
+of the predominant race."
+
+At the North, anti-slavery sentiments had intensified; at the South,
+where slavery was at first regarded as an evil, the consequent ease and
+wealth from slave labor had changed public opinion, and had made the
+people jealous of northern discussion. Through the invention of the
+cotton-gin, by Eli Whitney, the value of cotton exports had quadrupled
+in twenty years, and the value of slaves had trebled. Comparatively good
+feeling was maintained by the two sections of the country as long as for
+every slave State admitted to the Union a free State was also admitted.
+
+In 1818, the people of Missouri desired to be admitted to the Union. Mr.
+Tallmadge of New York proposed that the further introduction of slavery
+should be prohibited, and that all children born within the said State
+should be free at the age of twenty-five years. The discussion grew
+strong and bitter. Two years later the inhabitants of the State
+proceeded to adopt a constitution which forbade free negroes from coming
+into the territory or settling in it. The discussion grew more bitter
+still. Threats of disunion and civil war were heard. Jefferson wrote
+from his Monticello home, "The Missouri question is the most portentous
+one that ever threatened the Union. In the gloomiest moments of the
+Revolutionary War I never had any apprehension equal to that I feel from
+this source."
+
+A senator from Illinois, Mr. Thomas, proposed that no restriction as to
+slavery be imposed upon Missouri, but that in all the rest of the
+territory ceded by France to the United States, north of 36° 30', this
+being the southern boundary of Missouri, there should be no slavery.
+Then Mr. Clay, with his intense love for the Union, bent all his
+energies to effect this compromise suggested by Thomas. He spoke
+earnestly in its behalf, and went from member to member, persuading and
+beseeching with all his genius and winsomeness. When Clay had effected
+the passage of the bill, the "great pacificator" became more beloved
+than ever. He had saved the Union, and now was talked of as the
+successor to President Monroe.
+
+Clay was now forty-seven, the polished orator, the consummate leader,
+one of the great trio whom all visitors to Washington wished to look
+upon: Clay, Webster, and Calhoun. Kentucky was earnest in her support of
+Clay as President.
+
+When the time came for voting, six candidates were before the people:
+John Quincy Adams, Jackson, Clay, Calhoun, Clinton of New York, and
+Crawford of Georgia. Hon. Thomas H. Benton of Missouri was an ardent
+supporter of Clay, and travelled over several States speaking in his
+behalf.
+
+Clay was anxious for the position, but would do nothing unworthy to
+obtain it. He wrote to a friend, "On one resolution, my friends may rest
+assured, I will firmly rely, and that is, to participate in no
+intrigue, to enter into no arrangements, to make no promises or pledges;
+but that, whether I am elected or not, I will have nothing to reproach
+myself with. If elected, I will go into the office with a pure
+conscience, to promote with my utmost exertions the common good of our
+country, and free to select the most able and faithful public servants.
+If not elected, acquiescing most cheerfully in the better selection
+which will thus have been made, I will at least have the satisfaction of
+preserving my honor unsullied and my heart uncorrupted."
+
+After the vote had been taken, as no candidate received a clear
+majority, the election necessarily went to the House of Representatives.
+Though Jackson received the most electoral votes, Clay, not friendly to
+him, used his influence for Adams and helped obtain his election. Clay
+was, of course, bitterly censured by the followers of Jackson, and when
+Adams made him Secretary of State the cry of "bargain and sale" was
+heard throughout the country. Though both Adams and Clay denied any
+promise between them, the Jackson men believed, or professed to believe
+it, and helped in later years to spoil his presidential success. Adams
+said, "As to my motives for tendering him the Department of State when I
+did, let the man who questions them come forward. Let him look around
+among the statesmen and legislators of the nation and of that day. Let
+him then select and name the man whom, by his preëminent talents, by his
+splendid services, by his ardent patriotism, by his all-embracing
+public spirit, by his fervid eloquence in behalf of the rights and
+liberties of mankind, by his long experience in the affairs of the
+Union, foreign and domestic, a President of the United States, intent
+only upon the honor and welfare of his country, ought to have preferred
+to Henry Clay."
+
+Returning to Kentucky before taking the position of Secretary of State,
+his journey thither was one constant ovation. Public dinners were given
+him in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. In the midst of this
+prosperity, sorrow laid her hand heavily upon the great man's heart. His
+children were his idols. They obeyed him because they loved him and were
+proud of him. Lucretia, named for her mother, a delicate and much
+beloved daughter, died at fourteen. Eliza, a most attractive girl, with
+her father's magnetic manners, died on their journey to Washington. A
+few days after her death, another daughter, Susan Hart, then Mrs.
+Durolde of New Orleans, died, at the age of twenty.
+
+There was work to be done for the country, and Mr. Clay tried to put
+away his sorrow that he might do his duty. As Secretary of State he
+helped to negotiate treaties with Prussia, Denmark, Austria, Russia, and
+other nations. The opposition to Adams and Clay became intense. The
+Jackson party felt itself defrauded. John Randolph of Virginia was an
+outspoken enemy, closing a scathing speech with the words, "by the
+coalition of Blifil and Black George--by the combination, unheard of
+till then, of the Puritan with the blackleg."
+
+Clay was indignant, and sent Randolph a challenge, which he accepted. On
+the night before the duel, Randolph told a friend that he had determined
+not to return Clay's fire. "Nothing," he said, "shall induce me to harm
+a hair of his head. I will not make his wife a widow and his children
+orphans. Their tears would be shed over his grave; but when the sod of
+Virginia rests on my bosom, there is not in this wide world one
+individual to pay this tribute upon mine."
+
+The two men met on the banks of the Potomac, near sunset. Clay fired and
+missed his adversary, while Randolph discharged his pistol in the air.
+As soon as Clay perceived this he came forward and exclaimed, "I trust
+in God, my dear sir, that you are unhurt; after what has occurred, I
+would not have harmed you for a thousand worlds." Years afterward, a
+short time before Randolph's death, as he was on his way to
+Philadelphia, he stopped in Washington, and was carried into the Senate
+chamber during its all-night session. Clay was speaking. "Hold me up,"
+he said to his attendants; "_I have come to hear that voice._"
+
+At the presidential election of 1828 Andrew Jackson was the successful
+candidate, and Clay retired to his Ashland farm, where he took especial
+delight in his fine horses, cattle, and sheep. But he was soon returned
+to the Senate by his devoted State.
+
+The tariff question was now absorbing the public mind. The South, under
+Calhoun's leadership, had been opposed to protection, which they
+believed aided northern manufacturers at the expense of southern
+agriculturists. When the tariff bill of 1832 was passed, and South
+Carolina talked of nullification and secession, Clay said: "The great
+principle which lies at the foundation of all free government is that
+the majority must govern, from which there can be no appeal but the
+sword. That majority ought to govern wisely, equitably, moderately, and
+constitutionally; but govern it must, subject only to that terrible
+appeal. If ever one or several States, being a minority, can, by
+menacing a dissolution of the Union, succeed in forcing an abandonment
+of great measures deemed essential to the interests and prosperity of
+the whole, the Union from that moment is practically gone. It may linger
+on in form and name, but its vital spirit has fled forever."
+
+South Carolina passed her nullification ordinance, and prepared to
+resist the collection of revenues at Charleston. Then Jackson, with his
+undaunted courage and indomitable will, ordered a body of troops to
+South Carolina, and threatened to hang Calhoun and his nullifiers as
+"high as Haman."
+
+Then the "great pacificator" came forward to heal the wounds between
+North and South, and preserve the Union. He prepared his "Compromise
+Bill," which provided for a gradual reduction of duties till the year
+1842, when twenty per cent. at a home valuation should become the rate
+on dutiable goods. He spent much time and thought on this bill, visiting
+the great manufacturers of the country, and urging them to accede for
+the sake of peace.
+
+After this bill passed he was more esteemed than ever. He visited by
+request the Northern and Eastern States, and spoke to great gatherings
+of people in nearly all the large cities. A platform having been erected
+on the heights of Bunker Hill, Edward Everett addressed him in the
+presence of an immense audience, and Clay responded with his usual
+eloquence. The young men of Boston presented him a pair of silver
+pitchers, weighing one hundred and fifty ounces. The young men of Troy,
+New York, gave him a superbly mounted rifle. Other cities made him
+expensive presents.
+
+After the first four years of Jackson's "reign," as it was called by
+those who deprecated the unusual power held by the executive, Clay was
+again nominated for the presidency by the Whigs, and again defeated,
+Jackson receiving two hundred and nineteen electoral votes and Clay only
+forty-nine.
+
+Again in 1840, after the four years' term of Van Buren, the protégé of
+Jackson, all eyes turned toward Clay as the coming President. But
+already he had been twice the nominee and been twice defeated. The
+anti-slavery element had become a serious factor in party plans. The
+secretary of the American Anti-Slavery Society in New York wrote Clay:
+"I should consider the election of a slave-holder to the presidency a
+great calamity to the country." The slave-holders meantime denounced
+Clay as an abolitionist.
+
+When the Whig national convention met, December 4, 1839, they chose, not
+Clay, but General William Henry Harrison, a good man and a successful
+soldier, but a very different man from the popular Clay. The statesman
+was sorely disappointed. "I am," he said, "the most unfortunate man in
+the history of parties: always run by my friends when sure to be
+defeated, and now betrayed for a nomination when I or any one would be
+sure of an election."
+
+His friends throughout the country were grieved and indignant. But Clay
+supported with all his power the true-hearted old soldier, who, when
+elected, offered him the first place in the Cabinet, which was declined.
+Harrison died a month after his inauguration, and John Tyler became
+President. Clay and Tyler differed constantly, till Clay determined to
+retire from the Senate. He said: "I want rest, and my private affairs
+want attention. Nevertheless, I would make any personal sacrifice if, by
+remaining here, I could do any good; but my belief is I can effect
+nothing, and perhaps my absence may remove an obstacle to something
+being done by others." When it became known that Clay would make a
+farewell address, the Senate chamber was crowded.
+
+He spoke of his long career of public service, and the memorable scenes
+they had witnessed together. His feelings nearly overcame him as he
+said: "I emigrated from Virginia to the State of Kentucky now nearly
+forty-five years ago; I went as an orphan boy who had not yet attained
+the age of majority, who had never recognized a father's smile nor felt
+his warm caresses, poor, penniless, without the favor of the great, with
+an imperfect and neglected education, hardly sufficient for the ordinary
+business and common pursuits of life; but scarce had I set foot upon her
+generous soil when I was embraced with parental fondness, caressed as
+though I had been a favorite child, and patronized with liberal and
+unbounded munificence. From that period the highest honors of the State
+have been freely bestowed upon me; and when, in the darkest hour of
+calumny and detraction, I seemed to be assailed by all the rest of the
+world, she interposed her broad and impenetrable shield, repelled the
+poisoned shafts that were aimed for my destruction, and vindicated my
+good name from every malignant and unfounded aspersion. I return with
+indescribable pleasure to linger a while longer, and mingle with the
+warm-hearted and whole-souled people of that State; and, when the last
+scene shall forever close upon me, I hope that my earthly remains will
+be laid under her green sod with those of her gallant and patriotic
+sons."
+
+When Clay reached Lexington he was welcomed like a prince. A great
+public feast was given in his honor. In his speech to the people he
+said: "I have been accused of ambition, often accused of ambition. If to
+have served my country during a long series of years with fervent zeal
+and unshaken fidelity, in seasons of peace and war, at home and abroad,
+in the legislative halls and in an executive department; if to have
+labored most sedulously to avert the embarrassment and distress which
+now overspread this Union, and, when they came, to have exerted myself
+anxiously, at the extra session and at this, to devise healing remedies;
+if to have desired to introduce economy and reform in the general
+administration, curtail enormous executive power, and amply provide, at
+the same time, for the wants of the government and the wants of the
+people, by a tariff which would give it revenue and then protection; if
+to have earnestly sought to establish the bright but too rare example of
+a party in power faithful to its promises and pledges made when out of
+power,--if these services, exertions, and endeavors justify the
+accusation of ambition, I must plead guilty to the charge.
+
+"I have wished the good opinion of the world; but I defy the most
+malignant of my enemies to show that I have attempted to gain it by any
+low or grovelling acts, by any mean or unworthy sacrifices, by the
+violation of any of the obligations of honor, or by a breach of any of
+the duties which I owed to my country."
+
+In 1844, at the Whig convention at Baltimore, May 1, Clay was
+unanimously nominated for the presidency, with a great shout that shook
+the building. It seemed as though his hour of triumph had come at last.
+James K. Polk was the Democratic nominee. Another party now appeared,
+the "Liberty Party," with James G. Birney of Kentucky as its candidate.
+He was an able lawyer, and a man who had liberated his slaves through
+principle. The contest was one of the most acrimonious in our national
+history. Texas was clamoring for admission to the Union, with the
+Mexican War sure to result. The Whigs feared to commit themselves on the
+slavery question. When the votes were counted Birney had received over
+sixty-two thousand, enough to throw the election into the hands of the
+Democrats. The abolitionists had done what they were willing to
+do,--bury the Whig party, that from its grave might arise another party,
+which should fearlessly grapple with slavery, and they accomplished
+their desire, when, in 1860, the Republican party made Abraham Lincoln
+President.
+
+The disappointment to Mr. Clay was extreme, but he bore it bravely. His
+friends all over the country seemed broken-hearted. Letters of sorrow
+poured into Ashland. "I write," said one, "with an aching heart, and
+ache it must. God Almighty save us! Although our hearts are broken and
+bleeding, and our bright hopes are crushed, we feel proud of our
+candidate. God bless you! Your countrymen do bless you. All know how to
+appreciate the man who has stood in the first rank of American patriots.
+Though unknown to you, you are by no means a stranger to me." Another
+wrote: "I have buried a revolutionary father, who poured out his blood
+for his country; I have followed a mother, brothers, sisters, and
+children to the grave; and, although I hope I have felt, under all these
+afflictions, as a son, a brother, and a father should feel, yet nothing
+has so crushed me to the earth, and depressed my spirits, as the result
+of our late political contest."
+
+"Permit me, a stranger, to address you. From my boyhood I have loved no
+other American statesman so much except Washington. I write from the
+overflowing of my heart. I admire and love you more than ever. If I may
+never have the happiness of seeing you on earth, may I meet you in
+heaven."
+
+A lady wrote, "I had indulged the most joyous anticipations in view of
+that political campaign which has now been so ingloriously ended. I
+considered that the nation could never feel satisfied until it had
+cancelled, in some degree, the onerous obligations so long due to its
+faithful and distinguished son."
+
+Another lady wrote, "My mind is a perfect chaos when I dwell upon the
+events which have occurred within the last few weeks. My heart refused
+to credit the sad reality. Had I the eloquence of all living tongues, I
+could not shadow forth the deep, deep sorrow that has thrilled my inmost
+soul. The bitterest tears have flowed like rain-drops from my eyes.
+Never, till now, could I believe that truth and justice would not
+prevail."
+
+A lady in Maryland, ninety-three years old, wrought for Clay a
+counterpane of almost numberless pieces. New York friends sent a silver
+vase three feet high. The ladies of Tennessee sent a costly vase. Tokens
+of affection came from all directions. But the grief was so great that
+in some towns business was almost suspended, while the people talked "of
+the late blow that has fallen upon our country."
+
+Other troubles were pressing upon Mr. Clay's heart. By heavy
+expenditures and losses through his sons, his home had become involved
+to the extent of fifty thousand dollars. The mortgage was to be
+foreclosed, and Henry Clay would be penniless. A number of friends had
+learned these facts, and sent him the cancelled obligation. He was
+overcome by this proof of affection, and exclaimed, "Had ever any man
+such friends or enemies as Henry Clay!"
+
+Two years later, his favorite son, Colonel Henry Clay, was killed under
+General Taylor, in the battle of Buena Vista. "My life has been full of
+domestic affliction," said the father, "but this last is the severest
+among them." A few years before, while in Washington, a brilliant and
+lovely married daughter had died. When Mr. Clay opened the letter and
+read the sad news, he fainted, and remained in his room for days.
+
+Mr. Clay was now seventy years old. Chastened by sorrow, he determined
+to unite with the Episcopal Church. Says one who was present in the
+little parlor at Ashland, "When the minister entered the room on this
+deeply solemn and interesting occasion, the small assembly, consisting
+of the immediate family, a few family connections, and the clergyman's
+wife, rose up. In the middle of the room stood a large centre-table, on
+which was placed, filled with water, the magnificent cut-glass vase
+presented to Mr. Clay by some gentlemen of Pittsburg. On one side of the
+room hung the large picture of the family of Washington, himself an
+Episcopalian by birth, by education, and a devout communicant of the
+church; and immediately opposite, on a side-table, stood the bust of the
+lamented Harrison, with a chaplet of withered flowers hung upon his
+head, who was to have been confirmed in the church the Sabbath after he
+died,--fit witnesses of such a scene. Around the room were suspended a
+number of family pictures, and among them the portrait of a beloved
+daughter, who died some years ago, in the triumphs of that faith which
+her noble father was now about to embrace; and the picture of the late
+lost son, who fell at the battle of Buena Vista. Could these silent
+lookers-on at the scene about transpiring have spoken from the marble
+and the canvas, they would heartily have approved the act which
+dedicated the great man to God."
+
+In 1848, Clay was again talked of for the presidency, but the party
+managers considered General Taylor, of the Mexican War, a more available
+candidate, and he was nominated and elected. Clay was again unanimously
+chosen to the Senate for six years from March 4, 1849. Seven years
+before, he had said farewell. Now, at seventy-two, he was again to
+debate great questions, and once more save the nation from disruption
+and civil war,--for a time; he hoped, for all time.
+
+The territory obtained from Mexico became a matter of contention as to
+whether it should be slave territory or not. California asked to be
+admitted to the Union without slavery. The North favored this, while the
+South insisted that the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which forbade
+slavery north of 36° 30', if continued to the Pacific Ocean, would
+entitle them to California. Already the Wilmot Proviso, which sought to
+exclude slavery from all territory hereafter acquired by the United
+States, had aroused bitter feeling at the South. Clay, loving the Union
+beyond all things else, thought out his compromise of 1850. As he walked
+up to the Capitol to make his last great speech upon the measure, he
+said to a friend accompanying him, "Will you lend me your arm? I feel
+myself quite weak and exhausted this morning." The friend suggested that
+he postpone his speech.
+
+"I consider our country in danger," replied Clay; "and if I can be the
+means in any measure of averting that danger, my health and life are of
+little consequence."
+
+Great crowds had come from Philadelphia, New York, Boston, and elsewhere
+to hear the speech, which occupied two days. He said: "War and
+dissolution of the Union are identical; they are convertible terms; and
+such a war!... If the two portions of the confederacy should be involved
+in civil war, in which the effort on the one side would be to restrain
+the introduction of slavery into the new territories, and, on the other
+side, to force its introduction there, what a spectacle should we
+present to the contemplation of astonished mankind! An effort to
+propagate wrong! It would be a war in which we should have no sympathy,
+no good wishes, and in which all mankind would be against us, and in
+which our own history itself would be against us."
+
+For six months the measure was debated. Clay came daily to the Senate
+chamber, so ill he could scarcely walk, but determined to save the
+Union. "Sir," said the grand old man, "I have heard something said about
+allegiance to the South. I know no South, no North, no East, no West, to
+which I owe any allegiance.... Let us go to the fountain of
+unadulterated patriotism, and, performing a solemn lustration, return
+divested of all selfish, sinister, and sordid impurities, and think
+alone of our God, our country, our conscience, and our glorious
+Union.... If Kentucky to-morrow unfurls the banner of resistance
+unjustly, I never will fight under that banner. I owe a paramount
+allegiance to the whole Union,--a subordinate one to my own State. When
+my State is right, when it has a cause for resistance, when tyranny and
+wrong and oppression insufferable arise, I will then share her fortunes;
+but if she summons me to the battlefield, or to support her in any cause
+which is unjust against the Union, never, _never_ will I engage with her
+in such a cause!"
+
+Finally the Compromise Bill of 1850 was substantially adopted. Among its
+several provisions were the admission of California as a free State, the
+abolition of the slave-trade in the District of Columbia, the
+organization of the Territories of New Mexico and Utah without
+conditions as to slavery, and increased stringency of the Fugitive Slave
+Laws.
+
+Mr. Clay's hopes as to peace seemed for a few brief months to be
+realized. Then the North, exasperated by the provisions of the Fugitive
+Slave Bill, by which all good citizens were required to aid
+slave-holders in capturing their fugitive slaves, began to resist the
+bill by force. Clay could do no more. He must have foreseen the bitter
+end. Worn and tired, he went to Cuba to seek restoration of health.
+
+In 1852 he was urged to allow his name to be used again for the
+presidency. It was too late now. He returned to Washington at the
+opening of the thirty-second Congress, but he entered the Senate
+chamber but once. During the spring, devoted friends and two of his sons
+watched by his bedside. He said: "As the world recedes from me, I feel
+my affections more than ever concentrated on my children and theirs."
+
+The end came peacefully, June 29, 1852, when he was seventy-six. On July
+1 the body lay in state in the Senate chamber, and was then carried to
+Lexington. In all the principal cities through which the cortege passed,
+Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland,
+Cincinnati, and others, thousands gathered to pay their homage to the
+illustrious dead, weeping, and often pressing their lips upon the
+shroud. On July 10, when the body, having reached Lexington, was ready
+for burial, nearly a hundred thousand persons were gathered. In front of
+the Ashland home, on a bier covered with flowers, stood the iron coffin.
+Senators and scholars, the rich and the poor, the white and the black,
+mourned together in their common sorrow. The great man had missed the
+presidency, but he had not missed the love of a whole nation. The
+"mill-boy of the Slashes," winsome, sincere, had, unaided, become the
+only and immortal Henry Clay.
+
+[Illustration: CHARLES SUMNER.]
+
+
+
+
+CHARLES SUMNER.
+
+
+Henry Ward Beecher said of Charles Sumner: "He was raised up to do the
+work preceding and following the war. His eulogy will be, a lover of his
+country, an advocate of universal liberty, and the most eloquent and
+high-minded of all the statesmen of that period in which America made
+the transition from slavery to liberty."
+
+"The most eloquent and high-minded." Great praise, but worthily
+bestowed!
+
+Descended from an honorable English family who came to Massachusetts in
+1637, settling in Dorchester, and the son of a well known lawyer,
+Charles Sumner came into the world January 6, 1811, with all the
+advantages of birth and social position. That he cared comparatively
+little for the family coat-of-arms of his ancestors is shown by his
+words in his address on "The True Grandeur of Nations." "Nothing is more
+shameful for a man than to found his title to esteem not on his own
+merits, but on the fame of his ancestors. The glory of the fathers is,
+doubtless, to their children, a most precious treasure; but to enjoy it
+without transmitting it to the next generation, and without adding to
+it yourselves,--this is the height of imbecility."
+
+Sumner added to the "glory of the fathers," not by ease and
+self-indulgence, not by conforming to the opinions of the society about
+him, but by a life of labor, and heroic devotion to principle. He had
+such courage to do the right as is not common to mankind, and such
+persistency as teaches a lesson to the young men of America.
+
+Charles was the oldest of nine children, the twin brother of Matilda,
+who grew to a beautiful womanhood, and died of consumption at
+twenty-one. The family home was at No. 20 Hancock Street, Boston, a
+four-story brick building.
+
+Charles Pinckney Sumner, the father, a scholarly and well bred man of
+courtly manners, while he taught his children to love books, had the
+severity of nature which forbade a tender companionship between him and
+his oldest son. This was supplied, however, by the mother, a woman of
+unusual amiability and good-sense, who lived to be his consolation in
+the struggles of manhood, and to be proud and thankful when the whole
+land echoed his praises.
+
+The boy was tall, slight, obedient, and devoted to books. He was
+especially fond of reading and repeating speeches. When sent to
+dancing-school he showed little enjoyment in it, preferring to go to the
+court-room with his father, to listen to the arguments of the lawyers.
+When he visited his mother's early home in Hanover, he had the extreme
+pleasure of reciting in the country woods the orations which he had read
+in the city.
+
+In these early days he was an aspiring lad, with a manner which made his
+companions say he was "to the manor born." The father had decided to
+educate him in the English branches only, thus fitting him to earn his
+living earlier, as his income from the law, at this time, was not large.
+Charles, however, had purchased some Latin books with his pocket money,
+and surprised his father with the progress he had made by himself when
+ten years old. He was therefore, at this age, sent to the Boston Latin
+School. So skilful was he in the classics that at thirteen he received a
+prize for a translation from Sallust, and at fifteen a prize for English
+prose and another for a Latin poem. At the latter age he was ready to
+enter Harvard College. He had desired to go to West Point, but,
+fortunately, there was no opening. The country needed him for other work
+than war. To lead a whole nation by voice and pen up to heroic deeds is
+better than to lead an army.
+
+All this time he read eagerly in his spare moments, especially in
+history, enjoying Gibbon's "Rome," and making full extracts from it in
+his notebooks. At fourteen he had written a compendium of English
+history, from Cćsar's conquest to 1801, which filled a manuscript book
+of eighty-six pages.
+
+His first college room at Harvard was No. 17 Stoughton Hall. "When he
+entered," says one of his class-mates, "he was tall, thin, and somewhat
+awkward. He had but little inclination for engaging in sports or games,
+such as kicking foot-ball on the Delta, which the other students were in
+almost the daily habit of enjoying. He rarely went out to take a walk;
+and almost the only exercise in which he engaged was going on foot to
+Boston on Saturday afternoon, and then returning in the evening. He had
+a remarkable fondness for reading the dramas of Shakespeare, the works
+of Walter Scott, together with reviews and magazines of the higher
+class. He remembered what he read, and quoted passages afterwards with
+the greatest fluency.... In declamation he held rank among the best; but
+in mathematics there were several superior. He was always amiable and
+gentlemanly in deportment, and avoided saying anything to wound the
+feelings of his class-mates." One of the chief distinguishing marks of a
+well bred man is that he speaks ill of no one and harshly to no one.
+
+In Sumner's freshman year his persistency showed itself, as in his
+childhood, when, in quarrelling with a companion over a stick, he held
+it till his bleeding hands frightened his antagonist, who ran away. By
+the laws of the college, students wore a uniform, consisting of an
+Oxford cap, coat, pantaloons, and vest of the color known as "Oxford
+mixed." In summer a white vest was allowed. Sumner, having a fancy for a
+buff vest, purchased one, wore it, and was summoned before the teachers
+for non-conformity to rules. He insisted, with much eloquence, that his
+vest was white. Twice he was admonished, and finally, as the easiest way
+to settle with the good-principled but persistent student, it was voted
+by the board, "that in future Sumner's vest be regarded as white!"
+
+In scholarship in college he ranked among the first third. He gave much
+time to general reading, especially the old English authors, Milton,
+Pope, Dryden, Addison, Goldsmith. Hazlitt's "Select British Poets" and
+Harvey's "Shakespeare" he kept constantly on his table in later life,
+ready for use. The latter, which he always called THE BOOK, was found
+open on the day of his death, with the words marked in Henry VI:--
+
+  "Would I were dead! if God's good will were so;
+  For what is in this world but grief and woe?"
+
+On leaving college, Sumner's mind was not made up as to his future work.
+He was somewhat inclined to the law, but questioned his probable success
+in it. He spent a year at home in study, mastering mathematics, which he
+so disliked, and reading Tacitus, Juvenal, Persius, Hume, Hallam, and
+the like. In the winter he composed an essay on commerce, and received
+the prize offered by the "Boston Society for the Diffusion of Useful
+Knowledge." Daniel Webster, the president of the society, gave the
+prize, Liebner's "Encyclopćdia Americana," to Sumner, taking his hand
+and calling him his "young friend." He did not know that this youth
+would succeed him in the Senate, and thrill the nation by his eloquence,
+as Webster himself had done.
+
+Sumner's class-mates were proud that he had gained this prize, and one
+wrote to another, "Our friend outstrips all imagination. He will leave
+us all behind him.... He has been working hard to lay a foundation for
+the future. I doubt whether one of his class-mates has filled up the
+time since commencement with more, and more thorough labor; and to keep
+him constant he has a pervading ambition,--not an intermittent, fitful
+gust of an affair, blowing a hurricane at one time, then subsiding to a
+calm, but a strong, steady breeze, which will bear him well on in the
+track of honor."
+
+In the fall of 1831 Sumner had decided to study law, and began in
+earnest at the Harvard Law School. Early and late he was among his
+books, often until two in the morning. He soon knew the place of each
+volume in the law library, so that he could have found it in the dark.
+He read carefully in common law, French law, and international law;
+procured a common-place book, and wrote out tables of English kings and
+lord-chancellors, sketches of lawyers, and definitions and incidents
+from Blackstone. He made a catalogue of the law library, and wrote
+articles for legal magazines. He went little into society, because he
+preferred his books. Judge Story, a man twice his own age, became his
+most devoted friend, and to the end of his life Sumner loved him as a
+brother.
+
+Chief Justice Story, whom Lord Brougham called the "greatest justice in
+the world," was a man of singularly sweet nature, appreciative of the
+beautiful and the pure, as well as a man of profound learning. The
+influence of such a lovable and strong nature over an ambitious youth,
+who can estimate?
+
+The few friends Sumner made among women were, as a rule, older than
+himself, a thing not unusual with intellectual men. He chose those whose
+minds were much like his own, and who were appreciative, refining, and
+stimulating. Brain and heart seemed to be the only charms which
+possessed any fascination for him.
+
+The eminent sculptor, W. W. Story of Rome, says, "Of all men I ever knew
+at his age, he was the least susceptible to the charms of women. Men he
+liked best, and with them he preferred to talk. It was in vain for the
+loveliest and liveliest girl to seek to absorb his attention. He would
+at once desert the most blooming beauty to talk to the plainest of men.
+This was a constant source of amusement to us, and we used to lay wagers
+with the pretty girls that with all their art they could not keep him at
+their side a quarter of an hour. Nor do I think we ever lost one of
+these bets. I remember particularly one dinner at my father's house,
+when it fell to his lot to take out a charming woman, so handsome and
+full of _esprit_ that any one at the table might well have envied him
+his position. She had determined to hold him captive, and win her bet
+against us. But her efforts were all in vain. Unfortunately, on his
+other side was a dry old _savant_, packed with information; and within
+five minutes Sumner had completely turned his back on his fair companion
+and engaged in a discussion with the other, which lasted the whole
+dinner. We all laughed. She cast up her eyes deprecatingly, acknowledged
+herself vanquished, and paid her bet. Meantime, Sumner was wholly
+unconscious of the jest or of the laughter. He had what he
+wanted--sensible men's talk. He had mined the _savant_ as he mined every
+one he met, in search of ore, and was thoroughly pleased with what he
+got."
+
+In manner Sumner was natural and sincere, friendly to all, winning at
+the first moment by his radiant smile. A sunny face is a constant
+benediction. How it blesses and lifts burdens from aching hearts! Sumner
+had heart-aches like all the rest of mankind, but his face beamed with
+that open, kindly expression which is as sweet to hungering humanity as
+the sunshine after rain. And this "genial illuminating smile," says Mr.
+Story, "he never lost."
+
+These days in the law school were happy days for the lover of learning.
+Forty years afterward, Mr. Sumner said, in an address to the colored law
+students of Howard University, Washington, "These exercises carry me
+back to early life.... I cannot think of those days without fondness.
+They were the happiest of my life.... There is happiness in the
+acquisition of knowledge, which surpasses all common joys. The student
+who feels that he is making daily progress, constantly learning
+something new,--who sees the shadows by which he was originally
+surrounded gradually exchanged for an atmosphere of light,--cannot fail
+to be happy. His toil becomes a delight, and all that he learns is a
+treasure,--with this difference from gold and silver, that it cannot be
+lost. It is a perpetual capital at compound interest."
+
+While at the law school, Sumner wrote a friend, "A lawyer must know
+everything. He must know law, history, philosophy, human nature; and, if
+he covets the fame of an advocate, he must drink of all the springs of
+literature, giving ease and elegance to the mind, and illustration to
+whatever subject it touches. So experience declares, and reflection
+bears experience out.... The lower floor of Divinity Hall, where I
+reside, is occupied by law students. There are here Browne and Dana of
+our old class, with others that I know nothing of,--not even my
+neighbor, parted from me by a partition wall, have I seen yet, and I do
+not wish to see him. I wish no acquaintances, for they eat up time like
+locusts. The old class-mates are enough." To another he wrote,
+"Determine that you will master the whole compass of law; and do not
+shrink from the crabbed page of black-letter, the multitudinous volumes
+of reports, or even the gigantic abridgments. Keep the high standard in
+your mind's eye, and you will certainly reach some desirable point....
+You cannot read history too much, particularly that of England and the
+United States. History is the record of human conduct and experience;
+and it is to this that jurisprudence is applied.... Above all love and
+honor your profession. You can make yourself love the law, proverbially
+dry as it is, or any other study. Here is an opportunity for the
+exercise of the will. Determine that you will love it, and devote
+yourself to it as to a bride."
+
+When the study at the law school was over, Sumner returned to Boston,
+and entered the office of Benjamin Rand, Court Street, a man
+distinguished for learning rather than for oratory. The young lawyer
+succeeded fairly well, though he loved study better than general
+practice. Two years later he gave instruction at the law school when
+Judge Story was absent, and then reported his opinions in the Circuit
+Court, in three volumes. He assisted Professor Greenleaf in preparing
+"Reports of the Decisions of the Supreme Court of Maine," revised, with
+much labor, Dunlap's "Admiralty Practice," and edited "The American
+Jurist."
+
+In the midst of this hard work he spent a brief vacation at Washington,
+writing to his father, "I shall probably hear Calhoun, and he will be
+the last man I shall ever hear speak in Washington. I probably shall
+never come here again. I have little or no desire ever to come again in
+any capacity. Nothing that I have seen of politics has made me look upon
+them with any feeling other than loathing. The more I see of them the
+more I love law, which, I feel, will give me an honorable livelihood."
+
+When he visited Niagara, he wrote home, "I have sat for an hour
+contemplating this delightful object, with the cataract sounding like
+the voice of God in my ears. But there is something oppressive in
+hearing and contemplating these things. The mind travails with feelings
+akin to pain, in the endeavor to embrace them. I do not know that it is
+so with others; but I cannot disguise from myself the sense of weakness,
+inferiority, and incompetency which I feel."
+
+When Sumner was twenty-six, he determined to carry out a life-long plan
+of visiting Europe, to study its writers, jurists, and social customs.
+He needed five thousand dollars for this purpose. He had earned two
+thousand, and, borrowing three from three friends, he started December
+8, 1837. Emerson gave him a letter of introduction to Carlyle, Story to
+some leading lawyers, and Washington Allston to Wordsworth. Judge Story
+said in his letter, "Mr. Sumner is a practising lawyer at the Boston
+bar, of very high reputation for his years, and already giving the
+promise of the most eminent distinction in his profession; his literary
+and judicial attainments are truly extraordinary. He is one of the
+editors, indeed, the principal editor, of 'The American Jurist,' a
+quarterly journal of extensive circulation and celebrity among us, and
+without a rival in America. He is also the reporter of the court in
+which I preside, and has already published two volumes of reports. His
+private character, also, is of the best kind for purity and propriety."
+
+His friend Dr. Lieber gave him some good suggestions about travelling.
+"Plan your journey. Spend money carefully. Keep steadily a journal.
+Never think that an impression is too vivid to be forgotten. Believe me,
+_time_ is more powerful than senses or memory. Keep little books for
+addresses. Write down first impressions of men and countries."
+
+Just before Sumner started from New York, he wrote to his little sister,
+Julia, then ten years old, "I am very glad, my dear, to remember your
+cheerful countenance.... Let it be said of you that you are always
+amiable.... Cultivate an affectionate disposition. If you find that you
+can do anything which will add to the pleasure of your parents, or
+anybody else, be sure to do it. Consider every opportunity of adding to
+the pleasure of others as of the highest importance, and do not be
+unwilling to sacrifice some enjoyment of your own, even some dear
+plaything, if by doing so you can promote the happiness of others. If
+you follow this advice, you will never be selfish or ungenerous, and
+everybody will love you."
+
+To his brother George, six years younger than himself, he wrote, "Do not
+waste your time in driblets. Deem every moment precious,--far more so
+than the costliest stones.... Keep some good book constantly on hand to
+occupy every stray moment."
+
+As soon as Sumner reached Paris he devoted himself to the study of the
+language, so as to be able to speak what he could write already. He
+attended lectures given by the professors of colleges, became acquainted
+with Victor Cousin, the noted writer on morals and metaphysics, and the
+friend of authors, lawyers, and journalists. He said, years later,
+in an eloquent tribute to Judge Story: "It has been my fortune to
+know the chief jurists of our time in the classical countries of
+jurisprudence,--France and Germany. I remember well the pointed and
+effective style of Dupin, in one of his masterly arguments before the
+highest court of France; I recall the pleasant converse of Pardessus, to
+whom commercial and maritime law is under a larger debt, perhaps, than
+to any other mind, while he descanted on his favorite theme; I wander in
+fancy to the gentle presence of him with flowing silver locks who was so
+dear to Germany, Thibaut, the expounder of Roman law, and the earnest
+and successful advocate of a just scheme for the reduction of the
+unwritten law to the certainty of a written text; from Heidelberg I pass
+to Berlin, where I listen to the grave lecture and mingle in the social
+circle of Savigny, so stately in person and peculiar in countenance,
+whom all the continent of Europe delights to honor; but my heart and my
+judgment, untravelled, fondly turn with new love and admiration to my
+Cambridge teacher and friend. Jurisprudence has many arrows in her
+quiver, but where is one to compare with that which is now spent in the
+earth?"
+
+After some months in Paris, Sumner went to England, remaining ten
+months, and receiving attentions rarely if ever accorded to an American.
+He used some letters of introduction, but generally he was welcomed to
+the houses of lords and authors simply because the young man of learning
+was honored for his refinement and nobility of soul. He was admitted to
+the clubs, attended debates in Parliament, was present at the coronation
+of Queen Victoria in Westminster Abbey, sat on the bench at Westminster
+Hall, dined often with Lord Brougham, Sir William Hamilton, Jeffrey of
+the _Edinburgh Review_, Lord Morpeth the Chief Secretary for Ireland,
+Hallam, Carlyle, Lord Holland, Lord Houghton, Grote, Sydney Smith,
+Macaulay, Landor, Leigh Hunt, and scores of others, the greatest in the
+kingdom. An English writer said: "He presents in his own person a
+decisive proof that an American gentleman, without official rank or
+widespread reputation, by mere dint of courtesy, candor, an entire
+absence of pretension, an appreciating spirit, and a cultivated mind,
+may be received on a perfect footing of equality in the best English
+circles, social, political, and intellectual."
+
+Sumner wrote back to his friends in America: "I have made myself master
+of English practice and English circuit life. I cannot sufficiently
+express my admiration of the heartiness and cordiality which pervade all
+the English bar. They are truly a band of brothers, and I have been
+received among them as one of them. I have visited many--perhaps I may
+say most--of the distinguished men of these glorious countries (England,
+Scotland, and Ireland), at their seats, and have seen English country
+life, which is the height of refined luxury, in some of its most
+splendid phases. For all the opportunities I have had I feel grateful."
+
+Sumner found, what all travellers find, that cultivated, well bred
+people all speak a common language, that of universal courtesy and
+kindness. The English did not ask if he had wealth or distinguished
+parentage; it was enough that he was intelligent on all topics,
+considerate, gentle in manner, a gentleman in every possible situation.
+
+Every letter home teemed with descriptions of visits to Wordsworth, then
+sixty-nine years of age; to Macaulay, whom Sydney Smith called "a
+tremendous machine for colloquial oppression;" to the beautiful Caroline
+Norton, the poet, "one of the brightest intellects I have ever met,"
+with "the grace and ease of the woman, with a strength and skill of
+which any man might well be proud;" to Lord Brougham, with "a fulness of
+information and physical spirits, which make him more commanding than
+all."
+
+Sumner spent three months in Rome, at first studying the language from
+six to twelve hours a day. He became the friend of the artist Thomas
+Crawford, then poor, but with high ambition. He wrote his praises home
+to his friends, induced them to buy one of his earliest works and
+exhibit it in Boston; cheered the half-despairing artist by assuring him
+that he would be "a great and successful sculptor, and be living in a
+palace," all of which came true. A noble nature, indeed, that could
+pause in its own aspiring work and lift another to fame and success!
+
+Six months were spent in Germany by Sumner, where he studied language
+and law as earnestly as he had in France and Italy. The rich, full days
+of literary intercourse were coming to an end. He wrote to his intimate
+friend Longfellow: "I shall soon be with you; and I now begin to think
+of hard work, of long days filled with uninteresting toil and humble
+gains. I sometimes have a moment of misgiving, when I think of the
+certainties which I abandoned for travel, and of the uncertainties to
+which I return. But this is momentary; for I am thoroughly content with
+what I have done. If clients fail me; if the favorable opinion of those
+on whom professional reputation depends leaves me; if I find myself poor
+and solitary,--still I shall be rich in the recollection of what I have
+seen, and will make companions of the great minds of these countries I
+have visited."
+
+In the spring of 1840 Sumner was home again, having been abroad for two
+and one-half years. The father and his sister Jane, a lovely girl of
+seventeen, had both died during his absence. He went at once to the
+Hancock Street home, and began his professional labors from nine till
+five or six in the afternoon. In the evening he read as formerly till
+midnight or later, going every Saturday evening to spend the night with
+Longfellow at Craigie House.
+
+This affection for Longfellow never changed. When the poet went abroad
+in 1842, Sumner wrote him, "We are all sad at your going; but I am more
+sad than the rest, for I lose more than they do. I am desolate. It was
+to me a source of pleasure and strength untold to see you; and, when I
+did not see you, to feel that you were near, with your swift sympathy
+and kindly words. I must try to go alone,--hard necessity in this rude
+world of ours, for our souls always in this life need support and gentle
+beckonings, as the little child when first trying to move away from its
+mother's knee. God bless you, my dear friend, from my heart of hearts.
+My eyes overflow as I now trace these lines."
+
+Sumner was full of incident and vivid description of his life abroad,
+and the most charming homes of Boston were open to him whenever he had
+the time to visit, which was seldom. The letters from Europe made the
+long days of law practice less monotonous. He wrote much on legal
+matters; and now, at thirty-three, undertook to edit the "Equity
+Reports" of Francis Vesey, Jr., numbering twenty volumes, for two
+thousand dollars. By the terms agreed upon, a volume was to be ready
+each fortnight. He worked night and day, took no recreation, and soon
+broke down in health; and his life was despaired of. He welcomed death,
+for he had before this time become somewhat despondent. Most of his
+friends were married, and some, like Prescott and Longfellow, had come
+to fame already. He felt that his life was not showing the results of
+which his youth gave promise.
+
+Had he found at this time "the perfect woman" for whom he used to tell
+his friends he was seeking, and made her his wife, there would doubtless
+have come into his life satisfaction and rest. That he did not marry was
+the more strange since women admired him for the qualities which are
+especially attractive to the sex; a knightly sense of honor, fidelity in
+friendship, fearlessness, and affectionate confidence.
+
+Sumner recovered his health, while his beloved sister Mary, at the age
+of twenty-two, faded from his sight by consumption. He wrote his brother
+George: "She herself wished to die; and I believe that we all became
+anxious at last that the angel should descend to bear her aloft. From
+the beautiful flower of her life the leaves had all gently fallen to the
+earth; and there remained but little for the hand of death to pluck.
+During the night preceding the morning on which she left us, she slept
+like a child; and within a short time of her death, when asked if she
+were in pain, she said, 'No; angels are taking care of me.'"
+
+To Charles Sumner this death was an incomparable loss. She was
+especially beautiful and lovely, and the idol of his heart. Possibly it
+helped to make him ready for his great work.
+
+Into most lives, especially those designed for great deeds, there seem
+to come decisive moments when events open the door from the darkness of
+obscurity into the noonday glare of fame. Such a time came to Sumner in
+1845. He was asked to deliver the usual Fourth of July address at
+Tremont Temple, Boston, as Charles Francis Adams, Horace Mann, and
+others had done in previous years. He chose for his subject "The True
+Grandeur of Nations," showing that the "true grandeur" is peace and not
+war. He dealt vigorously with the Mexican War, then impending, as a
+result of the annexation of Texas, with consequent enlargement of slave
+territory.
+
+Sumner was now thirty-four, well developed physically, his face handsome
+and radiant as ever, with the smile of his boyhood, his voice clear and
+resonant, his mind full to overflowing. He spoke for two hours, without
+notes. He said: "The true greatness of a nation cannot be in triumphs of
+the intellect alone. Literature and art may widen the sphere of its
+influence; they may adorn it; but they are in their nature but
+accessories. _The true grandeur of humanity is in moral elevation,
+sustained, enlightened, and decorated by the intellect of man...._ In
+our age there can be no peace that is not honorable; there can be no war
+that is not dishonorable. The true honor of a nation is to be found only
+in deeds of justice and beneficence, securing the happiness of its
+people,--all of which are inconsistent with war. In the clear eye of
+Christian judgment, vain are its victories, infamous are its spoils. He
+is the true benefactor, and alone worthy of honor, who brings comfort
+where before was wretchedness; who dries the tear of sorrow; who pours
+oil into the wounds of the unfortunate; who feeds the hungry, and
+clothes the naked; who unlooses the fetter of the slave; who does
+justice; who enlightens the ignorant; who, by his virtuous genius in
+art, in literature, in science, enlivens and exalts the hours of life;
+who, by words or actions, inspires a love for God and for man. This is
+the Christian hero; this is the man of honor in a Christian land."
+
+The believers in war felt somewhat hurt by Sumner's plainness of speech,
+but the city of Boston and the State of Massachusetts awoke to the
+knowledge of an eloquent man in their midst, who had doubtless a work
+before him. Mrs. Lydia Maria Child wrote him: "How I did thank you for
+your noble and eloquent attack upon the absurd barbarism of war! It was
+worth living for to have done that, if you never do anything more. But
+the soul that could do that _will_ do more."
+
+Chancellor Kent wrote him, "I am very strongly in favor of the
+institution of a congress of nations or system of arbitration without
+going to war. Every effort ought to be made by treaty stipulation,
+remonstrance, and appeal to put a stop to the resort to brutal force to
+assert claims of right. The idea of war is horrible. I remember I was
+very much struck, even in my youth, by the observation (I think it was
+in Tom Paine's 'Crisis') that 'he who is the author of war lets loose
+the whole contagion of hell, and opens a vein that bleeds a nation to
+death.'"
+
+Seven thousand copies of this oration were distributed by the Peace
+Societies of England, and it had a wide reading in our own country.
+
+Sumner was now called upon to speak with Garrison, Phillips, and others,
+on the question of the annexation of Texas with her slave territory. He
+said, "God forbid that the votes and voices of the freemen of the North
+should help to bind anew the fetters of the slave! God forbid that the
+lash of the slave-dealer should be nerved by any sanction from New
+England! God forbid that the blood which spurts from the lacerated
+quivering flesh of the slave should soil the hem of the white garments
+of Massachusetts."
+
+The educated Boston lawyer, the friend of hosts of authors and jurists
+on both sides of the ocean, the accomplished and aristocratic scholar,
+Sumner had placed himself among the despised Abolitionists! Many of his
+friends stood aghast, even refusing to recognize him on the street. This
+act required great moral heroism, but he was equal to the occasion. The
+door had opened to fame and immortality, even though they came to him
+through contumely and well-nigh martyrdom.
+
+In 1846, Mr. Sumner spoke before the Phi Beta Kappa Society of Harvard
+University: "We stand on the threshold of a new age, which is preparing
+to recognize new influences. The ancient divinities of violence and
+wrong are retreating to their kindred darkness. The sun of our moral
+universe is entering a new ecliptic, no longer deformed by those images,
+Cancer, Taurus, Leo, Sagittarius, but beaming with the mild radiance of
+those heavenly signs, Faith, Hope, and Charity.
+
+  "'There's a fount about to stream;
+  There's a light about to beam;
+  There's a warmth about to glow;
+  There's a flower about to blow;
+  There's a midnight blackness changing
+          Into gray:
+  Men of thought and men of action,
+          Clear the way!'"
+
+Theodore Parker wrote to the orator, "You have planted a seed, 'out of
+which many and tall branches shall arise,' I hope. _The people are
+always true to a good man who truly trusts them._ You have had
+opportunity to see, hear, and feel the truth of that oftener than once.
+I think you will have enough more opportunities yet; men will look for
+deeds noble as the words _a man speaks_."
+
+And Charles Sumner became as noble as the words he had spoken. It makes
+us stronger to commit ourselves before the world. We are compelled to
+live up to the standard of our speech, or be adjudged hypocrites.
+
+Before the Boston Mercantile Library Association, Sumner read a
+brilliant paper on "White Slavery in the Barbary States," and gave an
+address before Amherst College on "Fame and Glory." He spoke earnestly
+in the Whig conventions, asking them to come out against slavery. He
+urged Daniel Webster, the Defender of the Constitution, to become the
+"Defender of Humanity," "by the side of which that earlier title shall
+fade into insignificance, as the Constitution, which is the work of
+mortal hands, dwindles by the side of man, who is created in the image
+of God." But the words of entreaty came too late; the Whig party did not
+dare take up the cause of human freedom.
+
+In 1851, when Sumner was forty, the new era of his life came. The
+Free-Soil party, organized August 9, 1848, the successor of the
+"Liberty" party formed eight years earlier, wanted him as their leader.
+Would he separate from the Whigs? Yes, for he had said, "Loyalty to
+principle is higher than loyalty to party. The first is a heavenly
+sentiment from God; the other is a device of this earth.... I wish it to
+be understood that I belong to the party of freedom,--to that party
+which plants itself on the Declaration of Independence and the
+Constitution of the United States.... It is said that we shall throw
+away our votes, and that our opposition will fail. Fail, sir! No
+honest, earnest effort in a good cause ever fails. It may not be crowned
+with the applause of man; it may not seem to touch the goal of immediate
+worldly success, which is the end and aim of so much of life; but still
+it is not lost. It helps to strengthen the weak with new virtue, to arm
+the irresolute with proper energy, to animate all with devotion to duty,
+which in the end conquers all. Fail! Did the martyrs fail when with
+their precious blood they sowed the seed of the Church?... Did the three
+hundred Spartans fail when, in the narrow pass, they did not fear to
+brave the innumerable Persian hosts, whose very arrows darkened the sun?
+No! Overborne by numbers, crushed to earth, they have left an example
+which is greater far than any victory. And this is the least we can do.
+Our example shall be the source of triumph hereafter."
+
+Millard Fillmore had signed the hated Fugitive Slave Bill, and Webster
+had made his disastrous speech of March 7, 1850, urging conformity to
+the demands of the bill. Sumner's hour had come. By a union of the
+Free-Soil and Democratic parties, he was elected to the Senate of the
+United States for six years, over the eloquent Robert C. Winthrop, the
+Whig candidate. The contest was bitter. Sumner would give no pledges,
+and said he would not walk across the room to secure the election. On
+Monday, December 1, 1851, he took his seat. Devotion to principle had
+gained him an exalted position.
+
+Months went by before he could possibly obtain a hearing on the slavery
+question, on which issue he had been elected. Finally, the long sought
+opportunity came by introducing an amendment that the Fugitive Slave
+Bill should be repealed. He spoke for four hours as only Charles Sumner
+could speak. Despised by the slave-holders, they listened to his burning
+words. In closing, he said: "Be admonished by those words of oriental
+piety,--'Beware of the groans of wounded souls. Oppress not to the
+utmost a single heart; for a solitary sigh has power to overset a whole
+world.'"
+
+Mr. Polk of Tennessee said to him: "If you should make that speech in
+Tennessee, you would compel me to emancipate my niggers."
+
+The vote on the repeal stood: Yeas, four; nays, forty-seven. Alas! how
+many years he wrought before the repeal came.
+
+Sumner had been heard not merely by Congress; he had been heard by two
+continents. Henceforward, for twenty-three years, he was to be in
+Congress the great leader in the cause of human freedom.
+
+In 1854 the advocates of slavery brought forward the Kansas-Nebraska
+Bill, by which a large territory, at the recommendation of Stephen A.
+Douglas, was to be left open for slavery or no slavery, as the dwellers
+therein should decide. On the night of the passage of this bill, Sumner
+made an eloquent protest. "Sir, the bill which you are now about to pass
+is at once the worst and the best bill on which Congress ever acted.
+Yes, sir, WORST and BEST at the same time.
+
+"It is the worst bill, inasmuch as it is a present victory of
+slavery.... It is the best, for it prepares the way for that 'All hail
+hereafter,' when slavery must disappear.... Thus, sir, now standing at
+the very grave of freedom in Kansas and Nebraska, I lift myself to the
+vision of that happy resurrection by which freedom will be secured
+hereafter, not only in these Territories but everywhere under the
+national government. More clearly than ever before, I now see 'the
+beginning of the end' of slavery. Proudly I discern the flag of my
+country as it ripples in every breeze, at last become in reality, as in
+name, the flag of freedom,--undoubted, pure, and irresistible. Am I not
+right, then, in calling this bill the best on which Congress ever acted?
+
+"Sorrowfully I bend before the wrong you are about to enact. Joyfully I
+welcome all the promises of the future."
+
+After the passage of the bill the excitement at the North was intense.
+Public meetings were held, denouncing the new scheme of the slave-power
+to acquire more territory. So bitter grew the feeling that Sumner was
+urged by his friends to leave Washington, lest harm come to him; but he
+walked the streets unarmed. "He was assailed," said the noble Joshua R.
+Giddings of Ohio, "by the whole slave-power in the Senate, and, for a
+time, he was the constant theme of their vituperation. The maddened
+waves rolled and dashed against him for two or three days, until
+eventually he obtained the floor himself; then he arose and threw back
+the dashing surges with a power of inimitable eloquence utterly
+indescribable."
+
+The Kansas-Nebraska Bill produced its legitimate result,--civil war in
+the Territory. Slave-holders rushed in from Missouri, bringing their
+slaves with them; free men came from the East to build homes,
+school-houses, and churches on these fertile lands. The struggles at the
+ballot-box over illegal elections were followed by struggles on the
+battle-field. At the village of Ossawatomie twenty-eight Free State men
+led by John Brown defeated on the open prairie fifty-six Slave State
+men. Houses were burned, and men murdered. Two State constitutions were
+adopted: one at Lecompton, representing the pro-slavery element; the
+other at Lawrence, representing the anti-slavery party. Finally, the
+President, in 1855, appointed a military governor to restore Kansas to
+order. But, while order might be restored there, the whole country
+seemed on the verge of civil war.
+
+Meantime the Republican party had been formed in 1854, the outgrowth of
+the "Liberty" and "Free Soil" parties. A "Bill for the Admission of
+Kansas into the Union" having been presented, Sumner made his celebrated
+speech "The Crime against Kansas," on the 19th and 20th of May, 1856. He
+spoke eloquently and fearlessly, arousing more than ever the hot blood
+of the South. Two days later, as Mr. Sumner was sitting at his desk in
+the Senate chamber, his head bent forward in writing, the Senate having
+adjourned, Preston S. Brooks, a nephew of Mr. Butler, a senator of South
+Carolina, stood before him. "I have read your speech twice over,
+carefully," he said. "It is a libel on South Carolina and Mr. Butler,
+who is a relative of mine." Instantly he struck Mr. Sumner on the back
+of the head, with his hollow gutta-percha cane, making a long and
+fearful gash, repeating the blows in rapid succession. Sumner wrenched
+the desk from the floor, to which it was screwed, but, unable to defend
+himself, fell forward bleeding and insensible. He was carried by his
+friends to a sofa in the lobby, and during the night lay pale and
+bewildered, scarcely speaking to any one about him.
+
+The indignation and horror of the North beggar description. That a man,
+in this age of free speech, should be publicly beaten, and that by a
+member of the House of Representatives, was, of course, a disgrace to
+the nation. Said Joseph Quincy: "Charles Sumner needs not our sympathy.
+If he dies his name will be immortal--his name will be enrolled with the
+names of Warren, Sidney, and Russell; if he lives he is destined to be
+the light of the nation." Wendell Phillips said: "The world will yet
+cover every one of those scars with laurels. He must not die! We need
+him yet, as the van-guard leader of the hosts of Liberty. Nay, he shall
+yet come forth from that sick-chamber, and every gallant heart in the
+commonwealth be ready to kiss his very footsteps."
+
+Brooks was censured by the House of Representatives, resigned his seat,
+and died the following year. Sumner returned to Boston as soon as he was
+able. Houses were decorated for his coming, and banners flung to the
+breeze with the words, "Welcome, Freedom's Defender," "Massachusetts
+loves, honors, will sustain and defend her noble SUMNER." The home on
+Hancock Street was surrounded by a dense crowd. He appeared at the
+window with his widowed mother, and bowed to their cheers. For several
+months he enjoyed the tender care of this mother, now almost alone. Her
+son Horace had been lost in the ship Elizabeth, July 16, 1850, when
+Margaret Fuller, her husband, and child were drowned. Albert, a
+sea-captain, had been lost with his wife and only daughter on their way
+to France. And now, perhaps, her distinguished son Charles was to give
+his life to help bring freedom to four millions in slavery.
+
+In 1857 Sumner was almost unanimously reëlected to the Senate for six
+years, but Brooks had done his dreadful work too well. Broken in health,
+he sailed for Europe. Nearly twenty years before he had gone to meet the
+honored and famous, his future all unknown; now he went as the stricken
+leader of a great cause, one of the most able and eloquent men of the
+new world. Twenty years before he was restless and unhappy because he
+did not see his life-work before him; now he was happy in spite of
+physical agony, because he knew he was helping humanity.
+
+After travelling in Switzerland, Germany, and Great Britain, he returned
+and took his seat in Congress, but, finding his health still impaired,
+he sailed again to Europe. He regretted to leave the country, but was,
+as he says, "often assured and encouraged to feel that to every sincere
+lover of civilization my vacant chair was a perpetual speech." On this
+second visit he came under the treatment of Dr. Brown-Séquard, who, when
+asked by Mr. Sumner what would cure him, replied, "Fire." At once the
+dreadful remedy was applied. The physician says, when he first met the
+senator, "He could not make use of his brain at all. He could not read a
+newspaper, could not write a letter. He was in a frightful state as
+regards the activity of the mind, as every effort there was most painful
+to him.... I told him the truth,--that there would be more effect, as I
+thought, if he did not take chloroform; and so I had to submit him to
+the martyrdom of the greatest suffering that can be inflicted on mortal
+man. I burned him with the first moxa. I had the hope that after the
+first application he would submit to the use of chloroform; but for five
+times after that he was burned in the same way, and refused to take
+chloroform. I have never seen a patient who submitted to such treatment
+in that way."
+
+Sumner wrote home: "It is with a pang unspeakable that I find myself
+thus arrested in the labors of life and in the duties of my position.
+This is harder to bear than the fire."
+
+Four years elapsed before he regained his health; indeed his death
+finally resulted from the attack of Brooks. No sooner had he returned to
+the Senate than he made another great speech against slavery. The
+country was agitated by the coming presidential election. John Brown had
+captured, with a force of twenty-two men, the United States arsenal at
+Harper's Ferry, with the fallacious hope of setting the slaves at
+liberty. He was of course overpowered, his sons killed at his side, as
+others of his sons had been on the Kansas battlefields, and he led out
+to execution, December 2, 1859, with a radiant face and an overflowing
+heart, because he knew that his death would arouse the nation to action.
+
+Mr. Sumner spoke to an immense audience at Cooper Institute, urging the
+election of Abraham Lincoln. By this election, he said, "we shall save
+the Territories from the five-headed barbarism of slavery; we shall save
+the country and the age from that crying infamy, the slave-trade; we
+shall help save the Declaration of Independence, now dishonored and
+disowned in its essential, life-giving truth,--_the equality of men_....
+A new order of things will begin; and our history will proceed on a
+grander scale, in harmony with those sublime principles in which it
+commenced. Let the knell sound!--
+
+  "'Ring out the old, ring in the new!
+  Ring out the false, ring in the true!
+    Ring out a slowly dying cause,
+  And ancient forms of party strife!
+  Ring in the nobler modes of life,
+    With sweeter manners, purer laws.'"
+
+A "new order of things" was indeed begun. South Carolina very soon
+seceded from the Union, and other southern States followed her example.
+Sumner now spoke and wrote constantly. He urged Massachusetts to be
+"_firm_, FIRM, FIRM! against every word or step of concession.... More
+than the loss of forts, arsenals, or the national capital, I fear the
+loss of our principles."
+
+In 1861, Mr. Sumner was made chairman of the Committee on Foreign
+Relations. How different his position from that day, ten years before,
+when he stood almost alone in the Senate, a hated abolitionist!
+
+When the war began, he saw with prophetic eye the necessity of
+emancipating the slaves. He urged it in his public speeches. When
+Lincoln hesitated and the country feared the result, he said to a vast
+assembly at Cooper Institute, "There has been the cry, 'On to Richmond!'
+and still another worse cry, 'On to England!' Better than either is the
+cry, 'On to freedom!'"
+
+As the war went forward he was ever at his post, working for Henry
+Wilson's bill for the abolishing of slavery in the District of Columbia,
+for the recognition of the independence of Hayti and Liberia, for the
+final suppression of the coastwise trade in slaves, for the employment
+of colored troops in the army, and for a law that "no person shall be
+excluded from the cars on account of color," on various specified lines
+of railroad. He spoke words of encouragement constantly to the North,
+"This is no time to stop. FORWARD! FORWARD! Thus do I, who formerly
+pleaded so often for peace, now sound to arms; but it is because, in
+this terrible moment, there is no other way to that sincere and solid
+peace without which there will be endless war.... Now, at last, by the
+death of slavery, will the republic begin to live; for what is life
+without liberty?
+
+"Stretching from ocean to ocean, teeming with population, bountiful in
+resources of all kinds, and thrice happy in universal enfranchisement,
+it will be more than conqueror, nothing too vast for its power, nothing
+too minute for its care."
+
+He wrote for the magazines on the one great subject. He helped organize
+the Freedman's Bureau, which he called the "Bridge from Slavery to
+Freedom." He urged equal pay to colored soldiers. He was invaluable to
+President Lincoln. Though they did not always think alike, Lincoln said
+to Sumner, "There is no person with whom I have more advised throughout
+my administration than with yourself."
+
+When Lincoln was assassinated, Sumner wept by his bedside. "The only
+time," said an intimate friend, "I ever saw him weep." When he
+delivered his eloquent eulogy on Lincoln in Boston, he said, "That
+speech, uttered on the field of Gettysburg, and now sanctified by the
+martyrdom of its author, is a monumental act. In the modesty of his
+nature, he said, 'The world will little note, nor long remember, what we
+say here; but it can never forget what they did here.'
+
+"He was mistaken. The world noted at once what he said, and will never
+cease to remember it. The battle itself was less important than the
+speech. Ideas are more than battles."
+
+And so the great slavery pioneer and the great emancipator will go down
+in history together. How the world worships heroic manhood! Those who,
+with sweet and unselfish natures, seek not their own happiness, but are
+ready to die if need be for the right and the truth!
+
+Sumner aided in those three grand amendments to the Constitution, the
+thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth. "Neither slavery nor involuntary
+servitude, except as a punishment for crime, whereof the party shall
+have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any
+place subject to their jurisdiction.... All persons born or naturalized
+in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are
+citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No
+State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges
+or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State
+deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process
+of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal
+protection of the laws.... The right of citizens of the United States to
+vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States, or by any
+State, on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude."
+
+In June, 1866, Mr. Sumner came home to say good-bye to his dying mother.
+True to her noble womanhood, she urged that he should not be sent for,
+lest the country could not spare him from his work. Beautiful
+self-sacrifice of woman! Heaven can possess nothing more angelic. O
+mother, wife, and loved one, know thine unlimited powers, and hold them
+forever for the ennobling of men!
+
+When Mrs. Sumner was buried, her son turned away sorrowfully, and
+exclaimed, "I have now no home." He had a house in Washington, where he
+had lived for many years, but it was only home to him where a
+sweet-faced and sweet-voiced woman loved him.
+
+In 1869, Mr. Sumner made his remarkable speech on the "Alabama" claims,
+which for a time caused some bitter feeling in England. This vessel,
+built at Liverpool, and manned by a British crew, was sent out by the
+Confederate government, and destroyed sixty-six of our vessels, with a
+loss of ten million dollars. In 1864, she was overtaken in the harbor of
+Cherbourg, France, by Captain Winslow, commander of the steamer
+Kearsarge, and sunk, after an hour's desperate fighting. Her commander,
+Captain Raphael Semmes, was picked up by the English Deerhound, and
+taken to Southampton. In the summer of 1872, a board of arbitration met
+at Geneva, Switzerland, and awarded the United States over fifteen
+million dollars as damages, which Great Britain paid.
+
+On May 12, 1870, Mr. Sumner introduced his supplementary Civil-Rights
+Bill, declaring that all persons, without regard to race or color, are
+entitled to equal privileges afforded by railroads, steamboats, hotels,
+places of amusement, institutions of learning, religion, and courts of
+law. His maxim was, "Equality of rights is the first of rights."
+
+He supported Horace Greeley for President, thus separating himself from
+the Republican party, and carrying out his life-long opinion that
+principle is above party. After another visit to Europe, in 1872, when
+he was sixty-one years old, feeling that, the war being over and slavery
+abolished, the two portions of the country should forget all animosity
+and live together in harmony, he introduced a resolution in the Senate,
+"That the names of battles with fellow-citizens shall not be continued
+in the army register or placed on the regimental colors of the United
+States."
+
+Massachusetts hastily passed a vote of censure upon her idolized
+statesman, which she was wise enough to rescind soon after. This latter
+action gave Mr. Sumner great comfort. He said, "The dear old
+commonwealth has spoken for me, and that is enough."
+
+In his freestone house, full of pictures and books, overlooking
+Lafayette Square in Washington, on March 11, 1874, Charles Sumner lay
+dying. The day previous, in the Senate, he had complained to a friend of
+pain in the left side. On the morning of the eleventh he was cold and
+well nigh insensible. At ten o'clock he said to Judge Hoar, "Don't
+forget my Civil-Rights Bill." Later, he said, "My book! my book is not
+finished.... I am so tired! I am so tired!"
+
+He had worked long and hard. He passed into the rest of the hereafter at
+three o'clock in the afternoon. Grand, heroic soul! whose life will be
+an inspiration for all coming time.
+
+The body, enclosed in a massive casket, upon which rested a wreath of
+white azaleas and lilies, was borne to the Capitol, followed by a
+company of three hundred colored men and a long line of carriages. The
+most noticeable among the floral gifts, says Elias Nason, in his Life of
+Sumner, "was a broken column of violets and white azaleas, placed there
+by the hands of a colored girl. She had been rendered lame by being
+thrust from the cars of a railroad, whose charter Mr. Sumner, after
+hearing the girl's story, by a resolution, caused to be revoked." From
+there it was carried to the State House in Boston, and visited by at
+least fifty thousand people. In the midst of the beautiful floral
+decorations was a large heart of flowers, from the colored citizens of
+Boston, with the words, "Charles Sumner, you gave us your life; we give
+you our hearts."
+
+Through a dense crowd the coffin was borne to Mount Auburn cemetery, and
+placed in the open grave just as the sun was setting, Longfellow,
+Holmes, Emerson, and other dear friends standing by. The grand old song
+of Luther was sung, "Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott." Strange contrast!
+the quiet, unknown Harvard law student;--the great senator, doctor of
+laws, author, and orator. Sumner had his share of sorrow. He lived to
+see seven of his eight brothers and sisters taken away by death. He who
+had longed for domestic bliss did not find it. He married, when he was
+fifty-five, Mrs. Alice Mason Hooper, but the companionship did not prove
+congenial, and a divorce resulted, by mutual consent.
+
+He forgot the heart-hunger of his early years in living for the slaves
+and the down-trodden, whether white or black. Through all his struggles
+he kept a sublime hope. He used to say, "All defeats in a good cause are
+but resting-places on the road to victory at last." He had defeats, as
+do all, but he won the victory.
+
+Well says Hon. James G. Blaine, in his "Twenty Years of Congress," "Mr.
+Sumner must ever be regarded as a scholar, an orator, a philanthropist,
+a philosopher, a statesman, whose splendid and unsullied fame will
+always form part of the true glory of the nation."
+
+"He belongs to all of us, in the North and in the South," said Hon. Carl
+Schurz, in his eulogy delivered in Music Hall, Boston, "to the blacks
+he helped to make free, and to the whites he strove to make brothers
+again. On the grave of him whom so many thought to be their enemy, and
+found to be their friend, let the hands be clasped which so bitterly
+warred against each other. Upon that grave let the youth of America be
+taught, by the story of his life, that not only genius, power, and
+success, but, more than these, patriotic devotion and virtue, make the
+greatness of the citizen."
+
+[Illustration: Signature U. S. Grant]
+
+
+
+
+U. S. GRANT.
+
+
+What Longfellow wrote of Charles Sumner may well be applied to Grant:--
+
+  "Were a star quenched on high,
+    For ages would its light,
+  Still travelling downward from the sky,
+    Shine on our mortal sight.
+
+  "So when a great man dies,
+    For years beyond our ken
+  The light he leaves behind him lies
+    Upon the paths of men."
+
+The light left by General Grant will not fade out from American history.
+To be a great soldier is of course to be immortal; but to be magnanimous
+to enemies, heroic in affections, a master of self, without vanity,
+honest, courageous, true, invincible,--such greatness is far above the
+glory of battlefields. Such greatness he possessed, who, born in
+comparative obscurity, came to be numbered in that famous trio, dear to
+every American heart: Washington, Lincoln, Grant.
+
+Ulysses Simpson Grant was born April 27, 1822, in a log house at Mount
+Pleasant, Ohio. The boy seems to have had the blood of soldiers in his
+veins, for his great-grandfather and great-uncle held commissions in the
+English army in 1756, in the war against the French and Indians, and
+both were killed. His grandfather served through the entire war of the
+Revolution.
+
+His father, Jesse R. Grant, left dependent upon himself, learned the
+trade of a tanner, and by his industry made a home for himself and
+family. Unable to attend school more than six months in his life, he was
+a constant reader, and through his own privations became the more
+anxious that his children should be educated.
+
+Ulysses was the first-born child of Jesse Grant and Hannah Simpson, who
+were married in June, 1821. When their son was about a year old, they
+moved to Georgetown, Ohio, and here the boy passed a happy childhood,
+learning the very little which the schools of the time were able to
+impart.
+
+He was not fond of study, and enjoyed the more active life of the farm.
+He says in his personal memoirs: "While my father carried on the
+manufacture of leather and worked at the trade himself, he owned and
+tilled considerable land. I detested the trade, preferring almost any
+other labor; but I was fond of agriculture, and of all employment in
+which horses were used. We had, among other lands, fifty acres of forest
+within a mile of the village. In the fall of the year, choppers were
+employed to cut enough wood to last a twelve-month. When I was seven or
+eight years of age, I began hauling all the wood used in the house and
+shops. I could not load it on the wagons, of course, at that time, but I
+could drive, and the choppers would load, and some one at the house
+unload. When about eleven years old, I was strong enough to hold a
+plough. From that age until seventeen I did all the work done with
+horses, such as breaking up the land, furrowing, ploughing corn and
+potatoes, bringing in the crops when harvested, hauling all the wood,
+besides tending two or three horses, a cow or two, and sawing wood for
+stoves, etc., while still attending school. For this I was compensated
+by the fact that there never was any scolding or punishing by my
+parents; no objection to rational enjoyments, such as fishing, going to
+the creek a mile away to swim in summer, taking a horse and visiting my
+grandparents in the adjoining county, fifteen miles off, skating on the
+ice in winter, or taking a horse and sleigh when there was snow on the
+ground."
+
+The indulgent father allowed his son some unique experiences. Ulysses,
+at fifteen, having made a journey to Flat Rock, Kentucky, seventy miles
+away, with a carriage and two horses, took a fancy to a saddle-horse and
+offered to trade one which he was driving, for this animal. The owner
+hesitated about trading with a lad, but finally consented, and the
+untried colt was hitched to the carriage with his new mate. After
+proceeding a short distance, the animal became frightened by a dog,
+kicked, and started to run over an embankment. Ulysses, nothing daunted,
+took from his pocket a large handkerchief, tied it over the horse's
+eyes, and sure that the terrified creature would see no more dogs,
+though he trembled like an aspen leaf, drove peacefully homeward.
+
+Young Grant was as truthful as he was calm and courageous. He tells this
+story of himself. "There was a Mr. Ralston living within a few miles of
+the village, who owned a colt which I very much wanted. My father had
+offered twenty dollars for it, but Ralston wanted twenty-five. I was so
+anxious to have the colt that after the owner left I begged to be
+allowed to take him at the price demanded. My father yielded, but said
+twenty dollars was all the horse was worth, and told me to offer that
+price; if it was not accepted, I was to offer twenty-two and a half, and
+if that would not get him, to give the twenty-five. I at once mounted a
+horse and went for the colt. When I got to Mr. Ralston's house, I said
+to him: 'Papa says I may offer you twenty dollars for the colt; but if
+you won't take that, I am to offer twenty-two and a half; and if you
+won't take that, to give you twenty-five.' It would not require a
+Connecticut man to guess the price finally agreed upon....
+
+"I could not have been over eight years at the time. This transaction
+caused me great heart-burning. The story got out among the boys of the
+village, and it was a long time before I heard the last of it. Boys
+enjoy the misery of their companions, at least village boys in that day
+did, and in later life I have found that all adults are not free from
+the peculiarity. I kept the horse until he was four years old, when he
+went blind, and I sold him for twenty dollars. When I went to Maysville
+to school, in 1836, at the age of fourteen, I recognized my colt as one
+of the blind horses working on the tread-wheel of the ferry-boat."
+
+All this time the father was desirous of an education for his child. The
+son of a neighbor had been appointed to West Point, and had failed in
+his examinations. Mr. Grant applied for his son. "Ulysses," he said one
+day, "I believe you are going to receive the appointment." "What
+appointment!" was the response. "To West Point. I have applied for it."
+"But I won't go," said the impetuous boy. But the father's will was law,
+and the son began to prepare himself. He bought an algebra, but, having
+no teacher, he says, it was Greek to him. He had no love for a military
+life, and looked forward to the West Point experience only as a new
+opportunity to travel East and see the country.
+
+At seventeen he took passage on a steamer for Pittsburg, in the middle
+of May, 1839. Fortunately the accommodating boat remained for several
+days at every port, for passengers or freight, and meantime the curious
+boy used his eyes to learn all that was possible. When he reached
+Harrisburg, he rode to Philadelphia on the first railroad which he had
+ever seen except the one on which he had just crossed the summit of the
+Alleghany Mountains. "In travelling by the road from Harrisburg," he
+says, "I thought the perfection of rapid transit had been reached. We
+travelled at least eighteen miles an hour, when at full speed, and made
+the whole distance averaging probably as much as twelve miles an hour.
+This seemed like annihilating space. I stopped five days in
+Philadelphia; saw about every street in the city, attended the theatre,
+visited Girard College (which was then in course of construction), and
+got reprimanded from home afterwards, for dallying by the way so
+long....
+
+"I reported at West Point on the 30th or 31st of May, and about two
+weeks later passed my examinations for admission, without difficulty,
+very much to my surprise. A military life had no charms for me, and I
+had not the faintest idea of staying in the army even if I should be
+graduated, which I did not expect. The encampment which preceded the
+commencement of academic studies was very wearisome and uninteresting.
+When the 28th of August came--the date for breaking up camp and going
+into barracks--I felt as though I had been at West Point always, and
+that if I stayed to graduation I would have to remain always. I did not
+take hold of my studies with avidity, in fact I rarely ever read over a
+lesson the second time during my entire cadetship. I could not sit in my
+room doing nothing. There is a fine library connected with the academy,
+from which cadets can get books to read in their quarters. I devoted
+more time to these than to books relating to the course of studies.
+Much of the time, I am sorry to say, was devoted to novels, but not
+those of a trashy sort. I read all of Bulwer's then published, Cooper's,
+Marryat's, Scott's, Washington Irving's works, Lever's, and many others
+that I do not now remember. Mathematics was very easy to me, so that
+when January came I passed the examination, taking a good standing in
+that branch. In French, the only other study at that time in the first
+year's course, my standing was very low. In fact, if the class had been
+turned the other end foremost, I should have been near the head."
+
+The years at West Point did not go by quickly; only the ten weeks of
+vacation which seemed shorter than one week in school. Sometimes at the
+academy a great general, like Winfield Scott, came to review the cadets.
+"With his commanding figure," says young Grant, "his quite colossal
+size, and showy uniform, I thought him the finest specimen of manhood my
+eyes had ever beheld, and the most to be envied. I could never resemble
+him in appearance, but I believe I did have a presentiment, for a
+moment, that some day I should occupy his place on review--although I
+had no intention then of remaining in the army. My experience in a horse
+trade ten years before, and the ridicule it caused me, were too fresh in
+my mind for me to communicate this presentiment to even my most intimate
+chum." How often into lives there comes a feeling that there is a
+specified work to be done by us that no other person can or will ever
+do!
+
+When the years were over at West Point, each "four times as long as Ohio
+years," young Grant was anxious to enter the cavalry, especially as he
+had suffered from a cough for six months, and his family feared
+consumption. Having gone home, he waited anxiously for his new uniform.
+"I was impatient," he says, "to get on my uniform and see how it looked,
+and probably wanted my old school-mates, particularly the girls, to see
+me in it. The conceit was knocked out of me by two little circumstances
+that happened soon after the arrival of the clothes, which gave me a
+distaste for military uniform that I never recovered from. Soon after
+the arrival of the suit I donned it, and put off for Cincinnati on
+horseback. While I was riding along a street of that city, imagining
+that every one was looking at me with a feeling akin to mine when I
+first saw General Scott, a little urchin, bareheaded, barefooted, with
+dirty and ragged pants held up by a single gallows--that's what
+suspenders were called then--and a shirt that had not seen a washtub for
+weeks, turned to me and cried: 'Soldier, will you work? No sir-ee; I'll
+sell my shirt first!' The horse trade and its dire consequences were
+recalled to mind.
+
+"The other circumstance occurred at home. Opposite our house in Bethel
+stood the old stage tavern where 'man and beast' found accommodation.
+The stable-man was rather dissipated, but possessed of some humor. On
+my return, I found him parading the streets, and attending in the
+stable, barefooted, but in a pair of sky-blue nankeen pantaloons--just
+the color of my uniform trousers--with a strip of white cotton sheeting
+sewed down the outside seams in imitation of mine. The joke was a huge
+one in the minds of many of the people, and was much enjoyed by them;
+but I did not appreciate it so highly."
+
+In September, 1843, Grant reported for duty at Jefferson Barracks, St.
+Louis, the largest military post in the United States at that time. His
+hope was to become assistant professor of mathematics at West Point, and
+he would have been appointed had not the Mexican War begun soon after.
+
+A new page was now to be turned in the eventful life of the young
+officer; when he was to have, as Emerson beautifully says of love, "the
+visitation of that power to his heart and brain which created all things
+anew; which was the dawn in him of music, poetry, and art; which made
+the face of nature radiant with purple light; the morning and the night
+varied enchantments; when a single tone of one voice could make the
+heart bound, and the most trivial circumstance associated with one form
+is put in the amber of memory; when he became all eye when one was
+present, and all memory when one was gone; ... when the moonlight was a
+pleasing fever, and the stars were letters, and the flowers ciphers, and
+the air was coined into song; when all business seemed an impertinence,
+and all the men and women running to and fro in the streets were
+pictures."
+
+At West Point, Grant's class-mate was F. T. Dent, whose family resided
+five miles west of Jefferson Barracks. "Two of his unmarried brothers,"
+says Grant, "were living at home at that time, and, as I had taken with
+me from Ohio my horse, saddle, and bridle, I soon found my way out to
+White Haven, the name of the Dent estate. As I found the family
+congenial, my visits became frequent. There were at home, besides the
+young men, two daughters, one a school miss of fifteen, the other a girl
+of eight or nine. There was still an older daughter, of seventeen, who
+had been spending several years at boarding-school in St. Louis, but
+who, though through school, had not yet returned home.... In February
+she returned to her country home. After that I do not know but my visits
+became more frequent; they certainly did become more enjoyable. We would
+often take walks, or go on horseback together to visit the neighbors,
+until I became quite well acquainted in that vicinity.... If the fourth
+infantry had remained at Jefferson Barracks it is possible, even
+probable, that this life might have continued for some years without my
+finding out that there was anything serious the matter with me; but in
+the following May a circumstance occurred which developed my sentiment
+so palpably that there was no mistaking it."
+
+This "circumstance" was the annexation of Texas, the probability of a
+war with Mexico, and the necessity of leaving Jefferson Barracks for the
+Texan frontier. Alas! now that days full of hope, and the sweet
+realization of a divine companionship had come, they must have sudden
+ending. Grant took a brief furlough, went to say good-bye to his father
+and mother, and then to White Haven to see Julia Dent. In crossing a
+swollen stream, his uniform was wet through, but he donned the suit of a
+future brother-in-law, and appeared before his beloved to ask her hand
+in marriage, to receive her acceptance, and then to hasten to the scene
+of action. He saw her but once in the next four years and three months;
+four anxious years to her, when death often stared her lover in the
+face.
+
+As soon as Texas was admitted to the Union, in 1845, the "army of
+occupation," as the three thousand men under General Zachary Taylor were
+called, advanced to the Rio Grande and built a fort. When the first
+hostile gun was fired, Grant says, "I felt sorry that I had enlisted. A
+great many men, when they smell battle afar off, chafe to get into the
+fray. When they say so themselves, they generally fail to convince their
+hearers that they are as anxious as they would like to make believe, and
+as they approach danger they become more subdued. This rule is not
+universal, for I have known a few men who were always aching for a fight
+when there was no enemy near, who were as good as their word when the
+battle did come on. But the number of such men is small."
+
+The first battle was at Palo Alto, meaning "tall trees or woods," six
+miles from the Rio Grande. Early in the forenoon of May 8, Taylor's
+three thousand men were drawn up in line of battle, opposed by superior
+numbers. The infantry was armed with flintlock muskets and paper
+cartridges charged with powder, buckshot, and ball. "At the distance of
+a few hundred yards," says Grant, "a man might fire at you all day
+without your finding it out." The artillery consisted of two batteries
+and two eighteen-pounder iron guns, with three or four twelve-pounder
+howitzers throwing shell. The firing was brisk on both sides. One
+cannon-ball passed near Grant, killing several of his companions. After
+a hard day's fight, the enemy retreated in the night. The war had now
+begun in earnest, and the man who at the first hostile gun "felt sorry
+that he had enlisted" was ready to brave danger on any field.
+
+In the hard-fought battle of Monterey, between sixty-five hundred men
+under Taylor and ten thousand Mexicans, Grant's curiosity got the better
+of his judgment, and, leaving the camp, where he had been ordered to
+remain, he mounted a horse and rode to the front. He made the charge
+with the men, when about a third of their number were killed. He loaned
+his horse to the adjutant of the regiment, Lieutenant Hoskins, who was
+soon killed, and Grant was designated to act in his place.
+
+The ammunition became low, and to return for it was so dangerous that
+the general commanding did not like to order any one to fetch it, so
+called for a volunteer. Grant modestly says, "I volunteered to go back
+to the point we had started from.... My ride back was an exposed one.
+Before starting, I adjusted myself on the side of my horse furthest from
+the enemy, and with only one foot holding to the cantle of the saddle,
+and an arm over the neck of the horse exposed, I started at full run. It
+was only at street-crossings that my horse was under fire, but these I
+crossed at such a flying rate that generally I was past and under cover
+of the next block of houses before the enemy fired. I got out safely,
+without a scratch."
+
+When Monterey was conquered, and the garrison marched out as prisoners,
+young Grant was moved to pity, as he says in his Memoirs, thus showing a
+gentle nature, which he bore years later when thousands were falling
+around him, and he was still obliged to say, "Forward."
+
+After the capture of Vera Cruz and the surprise at Cerro Gordo, where
+three thousand Mexicans were made prisoners, the army advanced toward
+the City of Mexico. Between three and four miles from the city stood
+Molino del Rey, the "mill of the King," an old stone structure, one
+story high, flat-roofed, and several hundred feet long. Sandbags were
+laid along the roof, and good marksmen fought behind them. Near by was
+Chepultepec, three hundred feet high, fortified on the top and on its
+rocky sides. From the front, guns swept the approach to Molino. Yet, on
+the morning of September 8, the assault upon Molino was made, young
+Grant being among the foremost. The loss was severe, especially among
+commissioned officers.
+
+Grant says, "I was with the earliest of the troops to enter the mills.
+In passing through to the north side, looking toward Chepultepec, I
+happened to notice that there were armed Mexicans still on top of the
+building, only a few feet from many of our men. Not seeing any stairway
+or ladder reaching to the top of the building, I took a few soldiers,
+and had a cart that happened to be standing near brought up, and,
+placing the shafts against the wall, and chocking the wheels so that the
+cart could not back, used the shafts as a sort of ladder, extending to
+within three or four feet of the top. By this I climbed to the roof of
+the building, followed by a few men, but found a private soldier had
+preceded me by some other way. There were still quite a number of
+Mexicans on the roof, among them a major and five or six officers of
+lower grades, who had not succeeded in getting away before our troops
+occupied the building. They still had their arms, while the soldier
+before mentioned was walking as sentry, guarding the prisoners he had
+_surrounded_, all by himself. I halted the sentinel, received the swords
+from the commissioned officers, and proceeded, with the assistance of
+the soldiers now with me, to disable the muskets by striking them
+against the edge of the wall, and throwing them to the ground below."
+
+Five days after the fall of Molino, Chepultepec was taken, with severe
+loss. Grant was mentioned in the official report as having "behaved with
+distinguished gallantry." Just before the City of Mexico fell into our
+hands, Grant was made first lieutenant. Promotion had not come rapidly.
+It is sometimes better if success does not come to us early in life. To
+learn how to work steadily, day after day, with an unalterable purpose;
+to learn how to concentrate thought and will-power, how to conquer self
+through failure and hope deferred, is often essential for him who is to
+govern either by physical or moral power.
+
+After Mexico fell, and General Scott lived in the halls of the
+Montezumas, he controlled the city as a Havelock or a Gordon might have
+done; and Grant learned by observation the best of all lessons for a
+soldier, to be magnanimous to a fallen foe. He learned other valuable
+lessons in this war; made the acquaintance of the officers with whom he
+was to measure his strength, in the most stupendous war of modern times,
+twenty years later.
+
+When the treaty of peace was signed between our country and Mexico,
+February 2, 1848, whereby we paid fifteen million dollars for the
+territory ceded to us, Grant obtained leave of absence for four months.
+One person must have been inexpressibly thankful that his life had been
+spared. Four years, and she had seen him but once! How noble we often
+become by the mellowing power of circumstances which prevent our having
+our own way! Discipline may be only another word for achievement.
+
+U. S. Grant and Julia Dent were married August 22, 1848, when he was
+twenty-six, and began a life of affection and helpfulness, which grew
+brighter till the end came on Mt. McGregor. There was reason why the
+affection lasted through all the years; in the best sense they lived for
+each other. Those who find their happiness outside the home are apt to
+find little inside the home. Devotion begets devotion, and men and women
+must expect to receive only what they give. Affection scattered produces
+a scanty harvest.
+
+The winter of 1848 was spent at the post at Sackett's Harbor, New York;
+the next two years at Detroit, Michigan. In 1852, Grant was ordered to
+the Pacific coast. And now the young husband and wife must be separated;
+she to go to her home in St. Louis, and he to the then unsettled West.
+When Aspinwall was reached the streets of the town were a foot under
+water, in a blazing, tropical sun. Cholera broke out among the troops,
+as it had among the inhabitants, and a third of the people died. The
+crossing of the Isthmus of Panama, on the backs of mules, was tedious
+and trying. San Francisco was reached early in September. The
+gold-mining fever was at its height. Soon the troops passed up to Fort
+Vancouver, on the Columbia River, and a quiet and dull life began.
+Measles and small-pox were killing the Indians so rapidly that the gun
+of the white man was superfluous as an agent of destruction.
+
+In 1854, six years after Grant's marriage, despairing of supporting his
+wife and two children on the Pacific coast with his pay as an army
+officer, he resigned. His prospects now were not bright. Without a
+profession, save that of arms, he was to begin, at thirty-two, a
+struggle for support, which must have tested the affection of the woman
+who married the young officer in her hopeful girlhood. She owned a farm
+in St. Louis, and thither they moved as their home. He says of the farm:
+"I had no means to stock it. A house had to be built also. I worked very
+hard, never losing a day because of bad weather, and accomplished the
+object in a moderate way. If nothing else could be done, I would load a
+cord of wood on a wagon and take it to the city for sale. I managed to
+keep along very well until 1858, when I was attacked by fever and ague.
+I had suffered very severely and for a long time from this disease while
+a boy in Ohio. It lasted now over a year, and, while it did not keep me
+in the house, it did interfere greatly with the amount of work I was
+able to perform. In the fall of 1858 I sold out my stock, crops, and
+farming utensils at auction, and gave up farming."
+
+Four years of struggling had not paid pecuniarily. Poverty is not a
+pleasant school in which to be nurtured. Blessings upon those who do not
+grow harsh or discontented with its bitter lessons. To keep sunshine in
+the face when want knocks at the heart is to win the victory in a
+dreadful battle. And yet many are able to accomplish this, and brighten
+with their happy faces lives more prosperous than their own.
+
+In the winter of 1858 Captain Grant established a partnership with a
+cousin of his wife in the real estate business. Again separation came.
+The little family were left on the farm while the father tried another
+method of earning a living for them. "Our business," he says, "might
+have become prosperous if I had been able to wait for it to grow. As it
+was, there was no more than one person could attend to, and not enough
+to support two families. While a citizen of St. Louis, and engaged in
+the real estate agency business, I was a candidate for the office of
+county engineer, an office of respectability and emolument which would
+have been very acceptable to me at that time. The incumbent was
+appointed by the county court, which consisted of five members. My
+opponent had the advantage of birth over me (he was a citizen by
+adoption), and carried off the prize. I now withdrew from the
+co-partnership with Boggs, and, in May, 1860, removed to Galena,
+Illinois, and took a clerkship in my father's store."
+
+He was once more in the tannery business, which he had so hated when a
+boy. It is well that men and women are spurred to duty because somebody
+depends upon them for daily food, otherwise this life of often
+uncongenial labor would be unbearable. We rarely do what we like to do
+in this world;--we do what the merciless goad of circumstance forces us
+to do. He is wise who goes to his work with a smile.
+
+The year 1860 opened upon a new era in this country. Slavery and
+anti-slavery had struggled together till the election of Abraham Lincoln
+to the presidency told that the decisive hour had come. The nation could
+no longer exist "half slave and half free."
+
+When Mr. Lincoln was inaugurated, March 4, 1861, the Southern States
+seceded, one after another, until eleven had separated from the Union.
+Most of the Southern forts were already in the hands of the
+Confederates. Fort Sumter, in the harbor of Charleston, still remained
+under the control of the Union. While besieged by the South, an effort
+was made to send supplies to our starving garrison. The fort was fired
+upon April 11, 1861, and that shot, like the one at Concord, was "heard
+round the world."
+
+From that hour slavery was doomed. The President issued his first call
+for seventy-five thousand volunteers for ninety days. The North and West
+seemed to respond as one man. The intense excitement reached the little
+town of Galena. The citizens were at once called together. Business was
+suspended. In the evening the court-house was packed. Captain Grant was
+asked to conduct the meeting. The people naturally turned to one who
+understood battles, when they saw war close at hand. With much
+embarrassment Grant presided. The leather business was finished for him
+from that eventful night. The women of Galena were as deeply interested
+as the men. They came to Grant to obtain a description of the United
+States uniform for infantry, subscribed and bought the material,
+procured tailors to cut the garments, and made them with their own
+willing hands. More and more, with their superior education, women are
+to play an important part in this country, both in peace and war.
+
+Captain Grant was now asked by Governor Yates, of Illinois, to go into
+the adjutant-general's office, and render such assistance as he could,
+which position he accepted, but he modestly says, "I was no clerk, nor
+had I any capacity to become one. The only place I ever found in my life
+to put a paper so as to find it again was either a side coat-pocket or
+the hands of a clerk or secretary more careful than myself. But I had
+been quartermaster, commissary, and adjutant in the field. The army
+forms were familiar to me, and I could direct how they should be made
+out."
+
+Though a man of few words, those few could be effective if Grant chose
+to use them. Meeting in St. Louis, in a street-car, a young braggart,
+who said to him, "Where I came from, if a man dares to say a word in
+favor of the Union we hang him to a limb of the first tree we come to,"
+Grant replied, "We are not so intolerant in St. Louis as we might be. I
+have not seen a single rebel hung yet, nor heard of one. There are
+plenty of them who ought to be, however." The young man did not continue
+the conversation. In May, 1861, Grant wrote a letter to the
+adjutant-general of the army at Washington, saying that, as he had been
+in the regular army for fifteen years, and educated at government
+expense, he tendered his services for the war. No notice was ever taken
+of the letter, and, of course, no answer was returned. Soon after he
+spent a week with his parents, in Covington, Kentucky. Twice he called
+upon Major-General McClellan, at Cincinnati, just across the river, whom
+he had known slightly in the Mexican War, with the hope that he would be
+offered a position on his staff. But he failed to see the general, and
+returned to Illinois. He was not to serve under McClellan. A different
+destiny awaited him.
+
+President Lincoln now called for three hundred thousand men to enlist
+for three years or the war. Governor Yates appointed Grant colonel of
+the Twenty-First Illinois regiment. Another separation from wife and
+children had come; the beginning of a great career had come also. The
+regiment repaired to Springfield, Illinois, and, after some time spent
+in drill, was ordered to move against Colonel Thomas Harris, encamped at
+the little town of Florida. There was no bravado in the man who had
+fought so bravely in all the battles of the Mexican War. He says: "As we
+approached the brow of the hill from which it was expected we could see
+Harris' camp, and possibly find his men ready formed to meet us, my
+heart kept getting higher and higher until it felt to me as though it
+was in my throat. I would have given anything then to have been back in
+Illinois, but I had not the moral courage to halt and consider what to
+do; I kept right on. When we reached a point from which the valley below
+was in full view, I halted. The place where Harris had been encamped a
+few days before was still there, and the marks of a recent encampment
+were plainly visible, but the troops were gone. My heart resumed its
+place. It occurred to me at once that Harris had been as much afraid of
+me as I had been of him. This was a view of the question I had never
+taken before, but it was one I never forgot afterwards. From that event
+to the close of the war, I never experienced trepidation upon
+confronting an enemy, though I always felt more or less anxiety. I never
+forgot that he had as much reason to fear my forces as I had his. The
+lesson was valuable."
+
+Soon after this Lincoln asked the Illinois delegation in Congress to
+recommend some citizens of the State for the position of
+brigadier-general, and Grant, to his great surprise, was recommended
+first on a list of seven. After his appointment he spent several weeks
+in Missouri, whither he had been ordered. His first battle was at
+Belmont, where, in a severe engagement of four hours, the loss on our
+side was 485, and the Confederate loss 642. Grant's horse was shot under
+him. After the battle the Confederates received reënforcements, and
+there was danger that our men could not return to the transports on
+which they had come to Belmont. "We are surrounded," they cried.
+
+"Well," said their cool leader, "if that be so, we must cut our way out
+as we cut our way in;" and so they did.
+
+Grant, meantime, rode out into a cornfield alone to observe the enemy.
+While there, as he afterwards learned, the Southern General Polk and one
+of his staff saw the Union soldier, and said to their men, "There is a
+Yankee; you may try your marksmanship on him if you wish;" but,
+strangely enough, nobody fired, and Grant's valuable life was spared.
+
+He soon perceived that he was the only man between the Confederates and
+the boats. His horse seemed to realize the situation. Grant says: "There
+was no path down the bank, and every one acquainted with the Mississippi
+River knows that its banks, in a natural state, do not vary at any great
+angle from the perpendicular. My horse put his fore feet over the bank
+without hesitation or urging, and, with his hind feet well under him,
+slid down the bank and trotted aboard the boat, twelve or fifteen feet
+away, over a single gangplank. I dismounted and went at once to the
+upper deck.... When I first went on deck I entered the captain's room,
+adjoining the pilot-house, and threw myself on a sofa. I did not keep
+that position a moment, but rose to go out on the deck to observe what
+was going on. I had scarcely left when a musket-ball entered the room,
+struck the head of the sofa, passed through it, and lodged in the boat."
+Thus again was his life saved.
+
+Until February of the following year, 1862, little was done by the
+troops, except to become ready for the great work before them. The enemy
+occupied strong points on the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers, at Forts
+Henry and Donelson, points as essential to us as to them. These Grant
+determined to take, if possible. Truly said President Lincoln, "Wherever
+Grant is things move. I have noticed that from the beginning."
+
+On February 2 the expedition started against Fort Henry, with about
+seventeen thousand men. Several gun-boats, under Commodore Foote,
+accompanied the army. At a given hour the troops and gun-boats moved
+together, the one to invest the garrison, the other to attack the fort.
+After a severe fight of an hour and a half every gun was silenced.
+General Lloyd Tilghman surrendered, with his seventeen heavy guns,
+ammunition, and stores.
+
+Fort Donelson must now be taken, strongly fortified as it was. It stood
+on high ground, with rifle-pits running back two miles from the river,
+and was defended by fifteen heavy guns, two carronades, and sixty-five
+pieces of artillery. Outside the rifle-pits, trees had been felled, so
+that the tops lay toward the attacking army. Our men had no shelter from
+the snow and rain in this midwinter siege. No campfires could be allowed
+where the enemy could see them. In the march from Fort Henry to Fort
+Donelson numbers of the tired troops had thrown away their blankets and
+overcoats, and there was much real suffering. But war means discomfort
+and woe as well as death itself.
+
+At three o'clock, February 14, Commodore Foote's gun-boats attacked the
+water batteries, and after a severe encounter several of them were
+disabled. The one upon which the commodore stood was hit about sixty
+times, one shot killing the pilot, carrying away the wheel, and wounding
+the commander. The night came on intensely cold. The next morning, the
+enemy, taking heart, came against the national forces to cut their way
+out. Then Grant rode among his men, saying, "Whichever party first
+attacks now will whip, and the rebels will have to be very quick if they
+beat me.... Fill your cartridge-boxes quick, and get into line; the
+enemy is trying to escape, and he must not be permitted to do so."
+
+Our men worked their way through the abatis of trees, took the outer
+line of rifle-pits, and bivouacked within the enemy's lines. A driving
+storm of snow and hail set in, and many soldiers were frozen on that
+dismal night. There must have been little sleep amid the firing of the
+Confederate pickets and the groans of the wounded on that frozen ground.
+
+During the night the Confederate Generals Floyd and Pillow left the fort
+with three thousand men and Forrest with another thousand. On the
+morning of February 16, Brigadier-General S. B. Buckner sent a note to
+General Grant, suggesting an armistice. The following reply was returned
+at once:--
+
+     "Sir,--Yours of this date, proposing armistice and appointment of
+     commissioners to settle terms of capitulation, is just received. No
+     terms except an unconditional and immediate surrender can be
+     accepted. I propose to move immediately upon your works."
+
+From that day U. S. Grant became to the people of the North
+"Unconditional Surrender" Grant; precious words, indeed, to the army as
+well as the people, to whom decisive action meant peace at last.
+
+General Buckner considered the terms "ungenerous and unchivalrous," but
+he surrendered his sixty-five guns, seventeen thousand six hundred small
+arms, and nearly fifteen thousand troops. Our loss in killed, wounded,
+and missing was about two thousand; the Confederate loss was believed to
+be about twenty-five hundred.
+
+This victory, the first great victory of the war, caused much rejoicing
+at the North, and Grant was at once made major-general of volunteers.
+Two weeks from this time he was virtually under arrest for not
+conforming to orders which he never received, but he was soon restored
+to his position. The country was to learn later, what Lincoln learned
+early in the war, that one head for an army is better than several
+heads.
+
+The next great battle under Grant was at Shiloh, near Pittsburg Landing.
+On the morning of April 6, 1862, the Confederates, under General Albert
+Sidney Johnston and Beauregard, rushed upon the national lines. All day
+Sunday the battle raged, and at night the Union forces had fallen back a
+mile in the rear of their position in the morning. Sherman, who
+commanded the ridge on which stood the log meeting-house of Shiloh, was
+twice shot, once in the hand and once in the shoulder, a third ball
+passing through his hat. Grant could well say of this brave officer, "I
+never deemed it important to stay long with Sherman."
+
+During the night after the desperate battle the rain fell in torrents
+upon the two armies, who slept upon their arms. General Grant's
+headquarters were under a tree, a few hundred yards back from the river.
+"Some time after midnight," he says, "growing restive under the storm
+and the continuous rain, I moved back to the log house under the bank.
+This had been taken as a hospital, and all night wounded men were
+brought in, their wounds dressed, a leg or an arm amputated, as the case
+might require, and everything being done to save life or alleviate
+suffering. The sight was more unendurable than encountering the enemy's
+fire, and I returned to my tree in the rain."
+
+In battle, the great general could look on men falling about him
+apparently unmoved; when the battle was over, he could not bear the
+sight of pain. The men revered him, because, while he led them into
+death, he almost surely led them into victory.
+
+On April 7 the battle raged all along the line, and the enemy were
+everywhere driven back. At three o'clock Grant gathered up a couple of
+regiments, formed them into line of battle, and marched them forward,
+going in front himself to prevent long-range firing. The command
+"Charge" was given, and it was executed with loud cheers and a run, and
+the enemy broke. Grant came near losing his life. A ball struck the
+metal scabbard of his sword, just below the hilt, and broke it nearly
+off. Night closed upon a victorious Union army, but the victory had been
+gained at a fearful cost.
+
+"Shiloh," says General Grant, "was the severest battle fought at the
+West during the war, and but few in the East equalled it for hard,
+determined fighting. I saw an open field, in our possession on the
+second day, over which the Confederates had made repeated charges the
+day before, so covered with dead that it would have been possible to
+walk across the clearing, in any direction, stepping on dead bodies,
+without a foot touching the ground. On our side national and Confederate
+troops were mingled together in about equal proportions; but on the
+remainder of the field nearly all were Confederates. On one part, which
+had evidently not been ploughed for several years, probably because the
+land was poor, bushes had grown up, some to the height of eight or ten
+feet. There was not one of these left standing unpierced by bullets.
+The smaller ones were all cut down."
+
+During the first day the brave Albert Sidney Johnston was wounded. He
+would not leave the battle-field, but continued in the saddle, giving
+commands, till, exhausted by loss of blood, he was taken from his horse,
+and died soon after. The Union loss was reported to be over thirteen
+thousand. Some estimate the losses as not less than fifteen thousand on
+each side. Up to this time, Grant had hoped that a few such victories as
+Fort Donelson would dishearten the South; now he saw that conquest alone
+could compel peace, with a brave and heroic people, of our own blood and
+race. From this time the work of laying waste the enemy's country began,
+with the hope that the sooner supplies were exhausted the sooner peace
+would be possible.
+
+On October 25, the battle of Corinth having been fought October 3,
+General Grant was placed in command of the Department of the Tennessee,
+and began the Vicksburg campaign. The capture of this place would afford
+free navigation of the Mississippi. For three months plan after plan was
+tried for the reduction of this almost impregnable position. Sherman
+made a direct attack at the only point where a landing was practicable,
+and failed. Grant's army was stationed on the west bank of the river, on
+marshy ground, full of malaria, from recent rains. The troops were ill
+of fever, measles, and small-pox, and many died. There could be found
+scarcely enough dry land on which to pitch their tents.
+
+It was finally decided to cut a canal across the peninsula in front of
+Vicksburg, that the gun-boats might safely pass through to a point below
+the city. Four thousand men began work on the canal, but a sudden rise
+in the river broke the dam and stopped the work. A second method was
+tried, by breaking levees and widening and connecting streams between
+Lake Providence, seventy miles above Vicksburg, through the Red River,
+into the Mississippi again four hundred miles below, but this project
+was soon abandoned. Meantime, the North had become restless, and many
+clamored for Grant's removal, declaring him incompetent, but, amid all
+the reproaches, he kept silent. When Lincoln was urged to make a change,
+he said simply, "I rather like the man; I think we'll try him a little
+longer!"
+
+At length it was decided to attempt to run the gun-boats past the
+batteries, march the troops down the west bank of the river, cross over
+to the east side, and attack the rear of Vicksburg. The steamers were
+protected as far as possible with bales of hay, cotton, and grain, for
+the boilers could not bear the enemy's fire. On the 16th of April, 1863,
+on a dark night, the fleet was ready for the dangerous passage. As soon
+as the boats were discovered, the batteries opened fire, piles of
+combustibles being lighted along the shore that proper aim might be
+taken against the fleet. Every transport was struck. As fast as the
+shots made holes, the men put cotton bags in the openings. For nearly
+three hours the eight gun-boats and three steamers were under a
+merciless fire. The Henry Clay was disabled, and soon set on fire by the
+bursting of a shell in the cotton packed about her boilers. Grant
+watched the passage of the fleet from a steamer in the river, and felt
+relieved as though the victory were close at hand.
+
+Soon after, the whole force of thirty-three thousand men were crossed
+below Vicksburg. Fifty miles to the east, the Confederate General Joseph
+E. Johnston had a large army, which must be crippled before Vicksburg
+could be besieged. Port Gibson, near the river, was first taken by our
+troops; then Raymond, May 12; Jackson, May 18; Champion Hill, May 16;
+and then Black River Bridge. Grant had beaten Johnston in the rear; now
+he must beat Pemberton with his nearly fifty thousand men shut up in
+Vicksburg.
+
+On May 19, the city of Vicksburg was completely invested by our troops.
+Says General Grant, "Five distinct battles had been fought and won by
+the Union forces; the capital of the State had fallen, and its arsenals,
+military manufactories, and everything useful for military purposes had
+been destroyed; an average of about one hundred and eighty miles had
+been marched by the troops engaged; but five days' rations had been
+issued, and no forage; over six thousand prisoners had been captured,
+and as many more of the enemy had been killed or wounded; twenty-seven
+heavy cannon, and sixty-one field-pieces had fallen into our hands; and
+four hundred miles of the river, from Vicksburg to Port Hudson, had
+become ours."
+
+And now the siege began. By June 30, there were two hundred and twenty
+guns in position, besides a battery of heavy guns, manned and commanded
+by the navy. The besiegers had no mortars, save those of the navy in
+front of the city, but they took tough logs, bored them out for six or
+twelve-pound shells, bound them with strong iron bands, and used them
+effectively in the trenches of the enemy.
+
+The eyes of the whole country were centred on Vicksburg. Mines were dug
+by both armies, and exploded. Among the few men who reached the ground
+alive after having been thrown up by the explosions was a colored man,
+badly frightened. Some one asked how high he had gone up. "Dunno, massa;
+but tink 'bout t'ree mile," was the reply.
+
+Meantime, the people in Vicksburg were living in caves and cellars to
+escape the shot and shell. Starvation began to stare them in the face.
+Flour was sold at five dollars a pound; molasses at ten and twelve
+dollars a gallon. Yet the brave people held out against surrender. A
+Confederate woman, says General Badeau, in his graphic "Military History
+of U. S. Grant," asked Grant, tauntingly, as he stopped at her house for
+water, if he ever expected to get into Vicksburg.
+
+"Certainly," he replied.
+
+"But when?"
+
+"I cannot tell exactly when I shall take the town; but _I mean to stay
+here till I do, if it takes me thirty years_."
+
+All through the siege, the men of both armies talked to each other; the
+Confederates and Unionists calling each other respectively "Yanks" and
+"Johnnies." "Well, Yank, when are you coming into town?"
+
+"We propose to celebrate the Fourth of July there, Johnnie."
+
+The Vicksburg paper said, prior to the Fourth, in speaking of the Yankee
+boast that they would take dinner in Vicksburg that day, "The best
+receipt for cooking a rabbit is, 'First ketch your rabbit!'" The last
+number of the paper was issued on July 4, and said, "The Yankees have
+caught the rabbit."
+
+On July 3, at ten o'clock, white flags began to appear on the enemy's
+works, and two men were seen coming towards the Union lines, bearing a
+white flag. They bore a message from General Pemberton, asking that an
+armistice be granted, and three commissioners appointed to confer with a
+like number named by Grant. "I make this proposition to save the further
+effusion of blood," said General Pemberton, "which must otherwise be
+shed to a frightful extent, feeling myself fully able to maintain my
+position for a yet indefinite period."
+
+To this Grant replied: "The useless effusion of blood you propose
+stopping by this course can be ended at any time you choose, by the
+unconditional surrender of the city and garrison. Men who have shown so
+much endurance and courage as those now in Vicksburg will always
+challenge the respect of an adversary, and, I can assure you, will be
+treated with all the respect due to prisoners of war."
+
+In the afternoon of July 3, Grant and Pemberton met under a stunted
+oak-tree, a few hundred yards from the Confederate lines. They had known
+each other in the Mexican War. A kindly conference was held, and
+honorable terms of surrender agreed upon, the officers taking their
+side-arms and clothing, and staff and cavalry officers one horse each.
+When the men passed out of the works they had so gallantly defended, not
+a cheer went up from our men nor was a remark made that could cause
+pain. The garrison surrendered at Vicksburg numbered over thirty-one
+thousand men, with sixty thousand muskets, and over one hundred and
+seventy cannon. Five days later, Port Hudson, lower on the river,
+surrendered, with six thousand prisoners and fifty-one guns.
+
+There was great rejoicing at the North. Lincoln wrote to Grant: "My dear
+general, I do not remember that you and I have ever met personally. I
+write this now as a grateful acknowledgment for the almost inestimable
+service you have done the country. I write to say a word further. When
+you first reached the vicinity of Vicksburg, I thought you should do
+what you finally did, march the troops across the neck, run the
+batteries with the transports, and then go below; and I never had any
+faith, except a general hope that you knew better than I, that the Yazoo
+Pass expedition and the like could succeed. When you got below and took
+Port Gibson, Grand Gulf, and vicinity, I thought you should go down the
+river and join General Banks, and when you turned northward, east of the
+Big Black, I feared it was a mistake. I wish now to make the personal
+acknowledgment that you were right and I was wrong."
+
+Rare is that soul which is able to see itself in the wrong, and rarer
+still one which has the generosity to acknowledge it.
+
+In October, Grant, who had now been made a major-general in the regular
+army, as he had before been appointed to the same rank in the
+volunteers, was placed in command of the military division of the
+Mississippi. Later he defeated Bragg at Chattanooga, November 24 and 25,
+1863, in the memorable battles of Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain.
+General Halleck said in his annual report, "Considering the strength of
+the rebel position and the difficulty of storming his intrenchments, the
+battle of Chattanooga must be considered the most remarkable in history.
+Not only did the officers and men exhibit great skill and daring in
+their operations on the field, but the highest praise is due to the
+commanding general for his admirable dispositions for dislodging the
+enemy from a position apparently impregnable."
+
+How our brave men fought at Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain has
+never been more graphically and touchingly told than by the late
+lamented Benjamin F. Taylor: "They dash out a little way and then
+slacken; they creep up hand over hand, loading and firing, and wavering
+and halting, from the first line of works to the second; they burst into
+a charge, with a cheer, and go over it. Sheets of flame baptize them;
+plunging shots tear away comrades on left and right; it is no longer
+shoulder to shoulder; it is God for us all! Under tree-trunks, among
+rocks, stumbling over the dead, struggling with the living, facing the
+steady fire of eight thousand infantry poured down upon their heads as
+if it were the old historic curse from heaven, they wrestle with the
+Ridge. Ten, fifteen, twenty minutes go by, like a reluctant century. The
+batteries roll like a drum. Between the second and last lines of rebel
+works is the torrid zone of the battle. The hill sways up like a wall
+before them at an angle of forty-five degrees, but our brave
+mountaineers are clambering steadily on--up--upward still!... They seem
+to be spurning the dull earth under their feet, and going up to do
+Homeric battle with the greater gods."
+
+When this costly victory had been gained, President Lincoln appointed a
+day of national thanksgiving. Congress passed a unanimous vote of thanks
+to Grant and his officers and men, and ordered a medal to be struck in
+his honor: his face on one side, surrounded by a laurel wreath; on the
+other side, Fame seated on the American eagle, holding in her right hand
+a scroll with the words, Corinth, Vicksburg, Mississippi River, and
+Chattanooga.
+
+Early in 1864, a distinguished honor was paid him. Since the death of
+Washington, only one man had been appointed a lieutenant-general in the
+army of the United States,--Winfield Scott. Congress now revived this
+grade, and on March 1, 1864, Lincoln appointed Grant to this position.
+On March 9, before the President and his cabinet, his commission was
+formally presented to him, Lincoln saying, "As the country herein trusts
+you, so, under God, it will sustain you." Grant now had all the Union
+armies under his control--over seven hundred thousand men. When he was
+in the Galena leather store, men said his life was a failure! Was it a
+failure now? And yet he was the same modest, unostentatious man as when
+he tried farming to support his beloved family.
+
+Immediately Grant planned two great campaigns: one against Richmond,
+which was defended by Lee; the other against Atlanta, under Sherman,
+defended by Joseph E. Johnston. Sherman's march to the sea immortalized
+him; Grant's march to Richmond was the crowning success in the greatest
+of modern wars. President Lincoln reposed the utmost confidence in
+Grant. He wrote him: "The particulars of your plans I neither know nor
+seek to know. You are vigilant and self-reliant, and, pleased with this,
+I wish not to obtrude any constraints or restraints upon you. While I
+am very anxious that any great disaster or the capture of our men in
+great numbers shall be avoided, I know these points are less likely to
+escape your attention than they would be mine. If there is anything
+wanting which is within my power to give, do not fail to let me know it.
+And now, with a brave army and a just cause, may God sustain you."
+
+The end was coming. On May 4, 1864, Grant crossed the Rapidan with the
+Army of the Potomac, about one hundred and twenty thousand men,
+intending to put his forces between Lee and Richmond. Lee, perceiving
+this design, met the army at the Wilderness, a portion of country
+covered by a dense forest. The undergrowth was so heavy that it was
+scarcely possible to see more than one hundred paces in any direction.
+All day long, May 5, a bloody battle was waged in the woods.
+
+Says Private Frank Wilkeson, "I heard the hum of bullets as they passed
+over the low trees. Then I noticed that small limbs of trees were
+falling in a feeble shower in advance of me. It was as though an army of
+squirrels were at work cutting off nut and pine-cone laden branches
+preparatory to laying in their winter's store of food. Then, partially
+obscured by a cloud of powder smoke, I saw a straggling line of men clad
+in blue. They were not standing as if on parade, but they were taking
+advantage of the cover afforded by trees, and they were firing rapidly.
+Their line officers were standing behind them or in line with them. The
+smoke drifted to and fro, and there were many rifts in it.... We had
+charged, and charged, and charged again, and had gone wild with battle
+fever. We had gained about two miles of ground. We were doing
+splendidly. I cast my eyes upward to see the sun, so as to judge of the
+time, as I was hungry, and wanted to eat, and I saw that it was still
+low above the trees. The Confederates seemed to be fighting more
+stubbornly, fighting as though their battle-line was being fed with more
+troops. They hung on to the ground they occupied tenaciously, and
+resolutely refused to fall back further. Then came a swish of bullets
+and a fierce exultant yell, as of thousands of infuriated tigers. Our
+men fell by scores. Great gaps were struck in our lines. There was a
+lull for an instant, and then Longstreet's men sprang to the charge. It
+was swiftly and bravely made, and was within an ace of being successful.
+There was great confusion in our line. The men wavered badly. They fired
+wildly. They hesitated.... The regimental officers held their men as
+well as they could. We could hear them close behind us, or in line with
+us, saying, 'Steady, men, steady, steady, steady!' as one speaks to
+frightened and excited horses."
+
+Grant says, "More desperate fighting has not been witnessed on this
+continent than that of May 5 and 6.... The ground fought over had varied
+in width, but averaged three-quarters of a mile. The killed and many of
+the severely wounded of both armies lay within this belt where it was
+impossible to reach them. The woods were set on fire by the bursting
+shells, and the conflagration raged. The wounded who had not strength to
+move themselves were either suffocated or burned to death. Finally the
+fire communicated with our breastworks in places. Being constructed of
+wood, they burned with great fury. But the battle still raged, our men
+firing through the flames until it became too hot to remain longer."
+
+After a loss of from fourteen to fifteen thousand men on each side, Lee
+remained in his intrenchments and Grant still moved on toward Richmond.
+The armies met at Spottsylvania Court-House, and here was fought one of
+the bloodiest battles of the war, with about the same loss as in the
+Wilderness. Sometimes the conflict was hand to hand, men using their
+guns as clubs, being too close to fire. In one place a tree, eighteen
+inches in diameter, was cut entirely down by musket balls. Grant wrote
+to Washington, May 11: "We have now ended the sixth day of very hard
+fighting. The result up to this time is much in our favor. But our
+losses have been heavy, as well as those of the enemy. We have lost to
+this time eleven general officers killed, wounded, and missing, and
+probably twenty thousand men. I think the loss of the enemy must be
+greater. We have taken over four thousand prisoners in battle, whilst he
+has taken from us but few except a few stragglers. I am now sending
+back to Belle Plain all my wagons for a fresh supply of provisions and
+ammunition, and purpose _to fight it out on this line if it takes all
+summer_."
+
+After this came the battles of Drury's Bluff, North Anna, Totopotomoy,
+and Cold Harbor, with its brilliant assault and deadly repulse, with a
+loss of from ten to fourteen thousand men on the latter field.
+
+Lee had now been driven so near to Richmond, and the swamps of the
+Chickahominy were so impassable, that Grant determined to move his army,
+one hundred and fifteen thousand men, south of the James River and
+attack Richmond in the rear. The move was hazardous, but he reached City
+Point safely. General Butler here joined him, and the siege of
+Petersburg, twenty miles below Richmond, began, and was continued
+through the winter and spring.
+
+On July 30, 1864, a mine was exploded under one of the enemy's forts.
+The gallery to the mine was over five hundred feet long from where it
+entered the ground to the point where it was under the enemy's works.
+Eight chambers had been left, requiring a ton of powder each to charge
+them. It exploded at five o'clock in the morning, making a crater twenty
+feet deep and about one hundred feet in length. Instantly one hundred
+and ten cannon and fifty mortars commenced work to cover our troops as
+they entered the enemy's lines. "The effort," says Grant, "was a
+stupendous failure. It cost us about four thousand men, mostly,
+however, captured, and all due to inefficiency on the part of the corps
+commander and the incompetency of the division commander who was sent to
+lead the assault."
+
+Meanwhile Sheridan had destroyed the power of the South in the
+Shenandoah valley. Again the army began its march toward Richmond. On
+April 1, 1865, the battle of Five Forks was fought, nearly six thousand
+Confederates being taken prisoners; then Petersburg was captured, and on
+April 3 General Weitzel took possession of Richmond, the enemy having
+evacuated it, the city having been set on fire before their departure.
+
+For five days Lee's army was pursued with more or less fighting. On
+April 7, Grant wrote a letter to Lee, saying: "The results of the last
+week must convince you of the hopelessness of further resistance on the
+part of the Army of Northern Virginia in this struggle. I feel that it
+is so, and regard it as my duty to shift from myself the responsibility
+of any further effusion of blood, by asking of you the surrender of that
+portion of the Confederate States Army known as the Army of Northern
+Virginia."
+
+Lee replied, "I reciprocate your desire to avoid useless effusion of
+blood, and therefore, before considering your proposition, ask the terms
+you will offer on condition of its surrender."
+
+The answer came: "Peace being my great desire, there is but one
+condition I would insist upon, namely: that the men and officers
+surrendered shall be disqualified for taking up arms again against the
+government of the United States, until properly exchanged."
+
+A place of meeting was designated, and on April 9 Grant and Lee met at
+the house of a Mr. McLean, at Appomattox Court-House. Grant says, "When
+I had left camp that morning, I had not expected so soon the result that
+was then taking place, and consequently was in rough garb, and I was
+without a sword, as I usually was when on horseback on the field, and
+wore a soldier's blouse for a coat, with the shoulder-straps of my rank
+to indicate to the army who I was. When I went into the house I found
+General Lee. We greeted each other, and, after shaking hands, took our
+seats. I had my staff with me, a good portion of whom were in the room
+during the whole of the interview.
+
+"What General Lee's feelings were I do not know. As he was a man of much
+dignity, with an impassible face, it was impossible to say whether he
+felt inwardly glad that the end had finally come, or felt sad over the
+result, and was too manly to show it. Whatever his feelings, they were
+entirely concealed from my observation; but my own feelings, which had
+been quite jubilant on the receipt of his letter, were sad and
+depressed. I felt like anything rather than rejoicing at the downfall of
+a foe who had fought so long and valiantly, and had suffered so much for
+a cause, though that cause was, I believe, one of the worst for which a
+people ever fought, and one for which there was the least excuse. I do
+not question, however, the sincerity of the great mass of those who were
+opposed to us.
+
+"General Lee was dressed in a full uniform which was entirely new, and
+was wearing a sword of considerable value, very likely the sword which
+had been presented by the State of Virginia; at all events, it was an
+entirely different sword from the one that would ordinarily be worn in
+the field. In my rough travelling suit, the uniform of a private, with
+the straps of a lieutenant-general, I must have contrasted very
+strangely with a man so handsomely dressed, six feet high, and of
+faultless form. But this was not a matter that I thought of until
+afterwards."
+
+When the terms of surrender were completed, Lee remarked that his men
+had been living for some days on parched corn exclusively, and asked for
+rations and forage, which were cordially granted. "When news of the
+surrender first reached our lines," says Grant, "our men commenced
+firing a salute of a hundred guns in honor of the victory. I at once
+sent word, however, to have it stopped. The Confederates were now our
+prisoners, and we did not want to exult over their downfall." True and
+noble spirit! Twenty-seven thousand five hundred and sixteen officers
+and men were paroled at Appomattox. At the North, crowds came together
+to pray and give thanks, in the churches, that the war was over.
+Mourning garb seemed to be in every house, and the joy was sanctified by
+tears. The Army of the Potomac marched to Washington, and was disbanded
+June 30.
+
+The great war was ended. In July, 1866, Congress created the rank of
+general for the heroic, true-hearted, grand man, of quiet manner but
+indomitable will, who had saved the Union. He was now but forty-four
+years of age, and what a record!
+
+Two years later, in 1868, at the Chicago Republican national convention.
+Grant was unanimously nominated to the presidency. After the
+assassination of Lincoln, and the disagreement between Congress and
+Andrew Johnson in the matter of reconstruction, it was believed that
+Grant would "settle things." To the committee from the convention who
+announced his nomination to him, he said, "I shall have no policy of my
+own to enforce against the will of the people."
+
+During the eight years of Grant's presidency, from 1869 to 1877, the
+country was prosperous, save the financial depression of 1873. The
+Alabama claims were settled, whereby our country received from Great
+Britain fifteen million five hundred thousand dollars damages. Grant
+favored the annexation of the island of Santo Domingo, but the measure
+was defeated by Congress. The International Exposition was held in
+Philadelphia in 1876, with an average daily attendance, for five months,
+of over sixty-one thousand persons. While a large number of the people
+advocated a third term for General Grant, a nation loving freedom
+hesitated to establish such a precedent, and Rutherford B. Hayes was
+chosen President. It was well, in the exciting times preceding this
+election, when the number of votes for Hayes and Tilden was decided by
+an electoral commission, that a strong hand was on the helm of State, to
+keep the peace.
+
+After all these years of labor, General Grant determined to make the
+tour of the world, and, with his family and a few others, sailed for
+Europe, May 17, 1877. From the moment they arrived on the other side of
+the ocean to their return, no American ever received such an ovation as
+Grant. Thousands crowded the docks at Liverpool, and the mayor gave an
+address of welcome. At Manchester, ten thousand people listened to his
+brief address. "As I have been aware," he said, "for years of the great
+amount of your manufactures, many of which find their ultimate
+destination in my own country, so I am aware that the sentiments of the
+great mass of the people of Manchester went out in sympathy to that
+country during the mighty struggle in which it fell to my lot to take
+some humble part."
+
+In London, the present Duke of Wellington gave him a grand banquet at
+Apsley House. At Marlborough House, the Prince of Wales gave him private
+audience. The freedom of the city of London was presented to him in a
+gold casket, supported by golden American eagles, standing on a velvet
+plinth decorated with stars and stripes. He and his family dined with
+the Queen, at Windsor Castle.
+
+In Scotland, the freedom of the city of Edinburgh was conferred upon
+him. At a grand ovation at Newcastle, between forty and fifty thousand
+people were gathered on the moor to see the illustrious general. To the
+International Arbitration Union in Birmingham he said, "Nothing would
+afford me greater happiness than to know, as I believe will be the case,
+that at some future day the nations of the earth will agree upon some
+sort of congress which shall take cognizance of international questions
+of difficulty, and whose decisions will be as binding as the decision of
+our Supreme Court is binding upon us." In Belgium, the king called upon
+him, and gave a royal banquet in his honor. In Berlin, Bismarck called
+twice to see him, shaking hands cordially, and saying, "Glad to welcome
+General Grant to Germany." In Turkey, he was presented with some
+beautiful Arabian horses by the Sultan. King Humbert of Italy and the
+Czar of Russia showed him marked attentions. In Norway and Sweden,
+Spain, China, Egypt, and India, he was everywhere received as the most
+distinguished general of the age.
+
+On his return to America, at San Francisco and Sacramento, thousands
+gathered to see him. At Chicago, he said, in addressing the Army of the
+Tennessee, "Let us be true to ourselves, avoid all bitterness and
+ill-feeling, either on the part of sections or parties toward each
+other, and we need have no fear in future of maintaining the stand we
+have taken among nations, so far as opposition from foreign nations
+goes." In Philadelphia, where he was royally entertained by his friend
+Mr. George W. Childs, he said to the Grand Army of the Republic, "What I
+want to impress upon you is that you have a country to be proud of, and
+a country to fight for, and a country to die for if need be.... In no
+other country is the young and energetic man given such a chance by
+industry and frugality to acquire a competence for himself and family as
+in America. Abroad it is difficult for the poor man to make his way at
+all. All that is necessary is to know this in order that we may become
+better citizens." On his return to New York, he was presented by his
+friends with a home in that city, and also with the gift of two hundred
+and fifty thousand dollars.
+
+He was soon prevailed upon to enter a banking firm with Ferdinand Ward
+and James D. Fish. The bank failed, Grant found himself financially
+ruined, and the two partners were sent to prison. He was now to struggle
+again for a living, as in the early days in the Galena leather store. A
+timely offer came from the _Century_ magazine, to write his experiences
+in the Civil War. Very simply, so that an uneducated person could
+understand, Grant modestly and fairly described the great battles in
+which he was of necessity the central figure. Unused to literary labor,
+he bent himself to the task, working seven and eight hours a day.
+
+On October 22, 1884, cancer developed in the throat, and for nine months
+Grant fought with death, till the two great volumes of his memoirs could
+be completed and given to the world, that his family might not be left
+dependent. Early in June, 1885, as he was failing rapidly, he was taken
+to Mt. McGregor, near Saratoga, where a cottage had been offered him by
+Mr. Joseph W. Drexel. He worked now more heroically than ever, till the
+last page was written, with the words: "The war has made us a nation of
+great power and intelligence. We have but little to do to preserve
+peace, happiness, and prosperity at home, and the respect of other
+nations. Our experience ought to teach us the necessity of the first;
+our power secures the latter.
+
+"I feel that we are on the eve of a new era, when there is to be great
+harmony between the Federal and Confederate. I cannot stay to be a
+living witness to the correctness of this prophecy; but I feel it within
+me that it is to be so. The universally kind feeling expressed for me at
+a time when it was supposed that each day would prove my last seemed to
+me the beginning of the answer to 'Let us have peace.'"
+
+Night and day the nation watched for tidings from the bedside of the
+dying hero. At last, in July, when he knew that the end was near, he
+wrote an affectionate letter to the Julia Dent whom he had loved in his
+early manhood, and put it in his pocket, that she might read it after
+all was over. "Look after our dear children, and direct them in the
+paths of rectitude. It would distress me far more to think that one of
+them could depart from an honorable, upright, and virtuous life, than it
+would to know that they were prostrated on a bed of sickness from which
+they were never to arise alive. They have never given us any cause for
+alarm on their account, and I earnestly pray they never will.
+
+"With these few injunctions and the knowledge I have of your love and
+affection, and of the dutiful affection of all our children, I bid you a
+final farewell, until we meet in another, and, I trust, a better world.
+You will find this on my person after my demise." Blessed home
+affection, that brightens all the journey, and makes human nature
+well-nigh divine!
+
+On July 23, 1885, a few minutes before eight o'clock in the morning, the
+end came. In the midst of his children, Colonel Frederick, Ulysses,
+Jesse, and Nellie Grant-Sartoris, and his grandchildren, his wife
+bending over him, he sank to rest. In every city and town in the land
+there was genuine sorrow. Letters of sympathy came from all parts of the
+world. Before the body was put in its purple casket, the eldest son
+placed a plain gold ring upon the little finger of the right hand, the
+gift years before of his wife, but which had grown too large for the
+emaciated finger in life. In his pocket was placed a tiny package
+containing a lock of Mrs. Grant's hair, in a good-bye letter. Sweet and
+beautiful thought, to bury with our dead something which belongs to a
+loved one, that they may not sleep entirely alone!
+
+"We shall wake, and remember, and understand." Let the world laugh at
+sentiment outwardly--the hearts of those who laugh are often hungering
+for affection!
+
+The body, dressed in citizen's clothes, without military, was laid in
+the casket. Then, in the little cottage on the mountain-top, Dr. Newman,
+his pastor, gave a beautiful address, from the words, "Well done, thou
+good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." "His
+was the genius of common-sense, enabling him to contemplate all things
+in their true relations, judging what is true, useful, proper,
+expedient, and to adopt the best means to accomplish the largest ends.
+From this came his seriousness, thoughtfulness, penetration,
+discernment, firmness, enthusiasm, triumph.... Temperate without
+austerity; cautious without fear; brave without rashness; serious
+without melancholy, he was cheerful without frivolity. His constancy was
+not obstinacy; his adaptation was not fickleness. His hopefulness was
+not utopian. His love of justice was equalled only by his delight in
+compassion, and neither was sacrificed to the other.... The keenest,
+closest, broadest of all observers, he was the most silent of men. He
+lived within himself. His thought-life was most intense. His memory and
+his imagination were picture galleries of the world and libraries of
+treasured thought. He was a world to himself. His most intimate friends
+knew him only in part. He was fully and best known only to the wife of
+his bosom and the children of his loins. To them the man of iron will
+and nerve of steel was gentle, tender, and confiding, and to them he
+unfolded his beautiful religious life."
+
+After the services, the body of the great soldier was placed upon the
+funeral car, and conveyed to Albany, where it lay in state at the
+Capitol. At midnight dirges were sung, while eager multitudes passed by
+looking upon the face of the dead. Arriving in New York, the casket was
+laid in the midst of exquisite flowers in the City Hall. On this very
+day memorial services were held in Westminster Abbey, Canon Farrar
+delivering an eloquent address.
+
+During the first night at the City Hall, about fifteen thousand persons
+passed the coffin, and the next day ninety thousand; rich and poor,
+black and white; men, women, and little children. A man on crutches
+hobbled past the casket, bowed with grief. "Move on," said one of the
+guards of honor. "Yes," replied the old man, "as well as I can I will. I
+left this leg in the Wilderness." An aged woman wept as she said, "Oh!
+general, I gave you my husband, my sons, and my son's beautiful boys."
+
+On August 8, General Grant was laid in his tomb at Riverside Park, on
+the Hudson River, a million people joining in the sad funeral
+ceremonies. The catafalque, with its black horses led by colored grooms,
+moved up the street, followed by a procession four miles long. When the
+tomb was reached, the casket, placed in a cedar covering, leaden lined,
+was again enclosed in a great steel casket, round like an immense
+boiler, weighing thirty-eight hundred pounds. The only touching memento
+left upon the coffin was a wreath of oak-leaves wrought together by his
+grandchild Julia, on his dying day, with the words, "To Grandpa." Guns
+were fired, and cannon reverberated through the valley, as the
+pall-bearers, Confederate and Union generals, turned their footsteps
+away from the resting-place of their great leader. It was fitting that
+North and South should unite in his burial. Here, too, will sometime be
+laid his wife, for before his death he exacted a promise from his oldest
+son: "Wherever I am buried, promise me that your mother shall be buried
+by my side." Already she has received over three hundred thousand
+dollars in royalty on the memoirs which he wrote in those last months of
+agony. Beautifully wrote Richard Watson Gilder:--
+
+  "All's over now; here let our captain rest,--
+    The conflict ended, past men's praise and blame;
+    Here let him rest, alone with his great fame,--
+  Here in the city's heart he loved the best,
+      And where our sons his tomb may see
+      To make them brave as he:--
+
+    "As brave as he,--he on whose iron arm
+    Our Greatest leaned, our gentlest and most wise,--
+    Leaned when all other help seemed mocking lies,
+  While this one soldier checked the tide of harm,
+      And they together saved the State,
+      And made it free and great."
+
+[Illustration: Signature J. A. Garfield]
+
+
+
+
+JAMES A. GARFIELD.
+
+
+Not far from where I write is a tall gray stone monument, in the form of
+a circular tower, lined with various polished marbles, and exquisite
+stained-glass windows. It stands on a hill-top in the centre of three
+acres of green lawn, looking out upon blue Lake Erie and the busy city
+of Cleveland, Ohio.
+
+Within this tower rests the body of one whom the nation honors, and will
+honor in all time to come; one who was nurtured in the wilderness that
+he might have a sweet, natural boyhood; who studied in the school of
+poverty that he might sympathize with the sons of toil; who grew to an
+ideal manhood, that other American boys might learn the lessons of a
+grand life, and profit by them.
+
+In the little town of Orange, Ohio, James Abram Garfield was born,
+November 19, 1831. The home into which he came was a log cabin, twenty
+by thirty feet, made of unhewn logs, laid one upon another, to the
+height of twelve feet or more, the space between the logs being filled
+with clay or mud. Three other children were in this home in the forest
+already; Mehetabel, Thomas, and Mary.
+
+Abram, the father, descended from Revolutionary ancestors, was a
+strong-bodied, strong-brained man, who moved from Worcester, Otsego
+County, New York, to test his fortune in the wilderness. In his boyhood,
+he had played with Eliza Ballou, descended from Maturin Ballou, a
+Huguenot, from France. She also at fourteen moved with her family from
+New Hampshire, into the Ohio wilderness. Abram was more attracted to
+Ohio for that reason. They renewed the affection of their childhood, and
+were married February 3, 1821, settling first in Newburg, near
+Cleveland, and later buying eighty acres in Orange, at two dollars an
+acre. Here their four children were born, seven miles from any other
+cabin.
+
+When the boy James was eighteen months old, a shadow settled over the
+home in the woods. A fire broke out in the forest, threatening to sweep
+away the Garfield cabin. For two hours one hot July day the father
+fought the flames, took a severe cold, and died suddenly, saying to his
+wife, "I have planted four saplings in these woods; I must now leave
+them to your care." He had kept his precious ones from being homeless,
+only to leave them fatherless. Who would have thought then that one of
+these saplings would grow into a mighty tree, admired by all the world?
+
+In a corner of the wheat-field, in a plain box, the young husband was
+buried. What should the mother do with her helpless flock? "Give them
+away," said some of the relatives, or "bind them out in far-away homes."
+
+"No," said the brave mother, and put her woman's hands to heavy work.
+She helped her boy Thomas, then nine years old, to split rails and fence
+in the wheat-field. She corded the wool of her sheep, wove the cloth,
+and made garments for her children. She sold enough land to pay off the
+mortgage, because she could not bear to be in debt, and then she and
+Mehetabel and Thomas ploughed and planted, and waited in faith and hope
+till the harvest came. When the food grew meagre she sang to her helpful
+children, and looked ever toward brighter days. And such days usually
+come to those who look for them.
+
+It was not enough to widow Garfield that her children were decently
+clothed and fed in this isolated home. They must be educated; but how? A
+log school-house was finally erected, she wisely giving a corner of her
+farm for the site. The scholars sat on split logs for benches, and
+learned to read and write and spell as best they could from their
+ordinary teaching. James was now nearly three, and went and sat all day
+on the hard benches with the rest.
+
+But a school-house was not sufficient for these New England pioneers;
+they must have a church building where they could worship. Mrs. Garfield
+loved her Bible, and had taught her children daily, so that James even
+knew its stories by heart, and many of its chapters. A church was
+therefore organized in the log school-house, and now they could work
+happily, year after year, wondering perchance what the future would
+bring.
+
+James began to show great fondness for reading. As he lay on the cabin
+floor, by the big fireplace, he read by its light his "English Reader,"
+"Robinson Crusoe" again and again, and, later, when he was twelve,
+"Josephus," and "Goodrich's History of the United States." He had worked
+on the farm for years; now he must earn some money for his mother by
+work for the neighbors. He had helped his brother Thomas in enlarging
+the house, and was sure that he could be a carpenter.
+
+Going to a Mr. Trent, he asked for work.
+
+"There is a pile of boards that I want planed," said the man, "and I
+will pay you one cent a board for planing."
+
+James began at once, and at the end of a long day, to the amazement of
+Mr. Trent, he had planed one hundred boards, each over twelve feet long,
+and proudly carried home one dollar to his mother. After this he helped
+to build a barn and a shed for a potashery establishment for leeching
+ashes. The manufacturer of the "black-salts" seemed to take a fancy to
+the lad, and offered him work at nine dollars a month and his board,
+which James accepted. In the evenings he studied arithmetic and read
+books about the sea. This arrangement might have continued for some time
+had not the daughter of the salt-maker remarked one evening to her
+beau, as they sat in the room where James was reading, "I should think
+it was time for _hired servants_ to be abed."
+
+James had not realized how the presence of a third party is apt to
+restrain the confidential conversation of lovers. He was hurt and
+angered by the words, and the next day gave up his work, and went home
+to his mother, to receive her sympathy and find employment elsewhere.
+Doubtless he was more careful, all his life, from this circumstance,
+lest he wound the feelings of others.
+
+Soon after this he heard that his uncle in Newburg was hiring
+wood-choppers. He immediately went to see him, and agreed to cut one
+hundred cords of wood, at twenty-five cents a cord. It was a man's work,
+but the boy of sixteen determined to do as much as a man. Each day he
+cut two cords, and at last carried twenty-five dollars to his mother; a
+small fortune, it seemed to the earnest boy.
+
+While he chopped wood he looked out wistfully upon Lake Erie, recalled
+the sea stories which he had read, and longed more than ever to become a
+sailor. The Orange woods were growing too cramped for him. He was
+restless and eager for a broader life. It was the unrest of ambition,
+which voiced itself twenty years later in an address at Washington, D.
+C., to young men. "Occasion cannot make spurs, young men. If you expect
+to wear spurs, you must win them. If you wish to use them, you must
+buckle them to your own heels before you go into the fight. Any success
+you may achieve is not worth the having unless you fight for it.
+Whatever you win in life you must conquer by your own efforts; and then
+it is yours--a part of yourself.... Let not poverty stand as an obstacle
+in your way. Poverty is uncomfortable, as I can testify; but nine times
+out of ten the best thing that can happen to a young man is to be tossed
+overboard, and compelled to sink or swim for himself. In all my
+acquaintance I have never known one to be drowned who was worth
+saving.... To a young man who has in himself the magnificent
+possibilities of life, it is not fitting that he should be permanently
+commanded; he should be a commander. You must not continue to be
+employed; you must be an _employer_. You must be promoted from the ranks
+to a command. There is something, young men, that you can command; go
+and find it, and command it. You can at least command a horse and dray,
+can be generalissimo of them and may carve out a fortune with them."
+
+Mrs. Garfield, with her mother's heart, deprecated a life at sea for her
+boy, and tried to dissuade him. Through the summer he worked in the
+hay-field, and then, the sea-fever returning, his mother wisely
+suggested that he seek employment on Lake Erie and see if he liked the
+life.
+
+With his clothing wrapped in a bundle, he walked seventeen miles to
+Cleveland, with glowing visions of being a sailor. Reaching the wharf,
+he went on board a schooner, and asked for work. A drunken captain met
+him with oaths, and ordered him off the boat. The first phase of sea
+life had been different from what he had read in the books, and he
+turned away somewhat disheartened.
+
+However, he soon met a cousin, who gave him the opportunity of driving
+mules for a canal boat. To walk beside slow mules was somewhat prosaic,
+as compared with climbing masts in a storm, but he accepted the
+position, receiving ten dollars a month and his board. Says William M.
+Thayer, in his "From Log-Cabin to the White House": "James appeared to
+possess a singular affinity for the water. He fell into the water
+fourteen times during the two or three months he served on the canal
+boat. It was not because he was so clumsy that he could not keep right
+side up, nor because he did not understand the business; rather, we
+think, it arose from his thorough devotion to his work. He gave more
+attention to the labor in hand than he did to his own safety. He was one
+who never thought of himself when he was serving another. He thought
+only of what he had in hand to do. His application was intense, and his
+perseverance royal."
+
+After a few weeks he contracted fever and ague, and went home to be
+cared for by his mother, through nearly five months of illness. The
+sea-fever had somewhat abated. Could he not go to school again? urged
+the mother. Thomas and she could give him seventeen dollars; not much,
+to be sure, for some people, but much for the widow and her son.
+
+At last he decided to go to Geauga Seminary, at Chester; a decision
+which took him to the presidential chair. March 5, 1849, when he was
+eighteen, James and his cousins started on foot for Chester, carrying
+their housekeeping utensils, plates, knives and forks, kettle, and the
+like; for they must board themselves. A small room was hired for a
+pittance, four boys rooming together.
+
+The seventeen dollars soon melted away, and James found work in a
+carpenter's shop, where he labored nights and mornings, and every
+Saturday. Though especially fond of athletic games, he had no time for
+these. The school library contained one hundred and fifty volumes; a
+perfect mine of knowledge it seemed to the youth from Orange. He read
+eagerly biography and history; joined the debating society, where,
+despite his awkward manners and poor clothes, his eloquence soon
+attracted attention; went home to see his mother at the end of the first
+term, happy and courageous, and returned with ninepence in his pocket,
+to renew the struggle for an education. The first Sunday, at church, he
+put this ninepence into the contribution box, probably feeling no poorer
+than before.
+
+While at Chester, the early teaching of his mother bore fruit, in his
+becoming a Christian, and joining the sect called "Disciples." "Of
+course," said Garfield, years later, "that settled canal, and lake, and
+sea, and everything." A new life had begun--a life devoted to the
+highest endeavor.
+
+Each winter, while at Chester, he taught a district school, winning the
+love of the pupils by his enthusiasm and warm heart, and inciting them
+to study from his love of books. He played with them as though a boy
+like themselves, as he was, in reality, and yet demanded and received
+perfect obedience. He "boarded around," as was the custom, and thus
+learned more concerning both parents and pupils than was always
+desirable, probably; but in every house he tried to stimulate all to
+increased intelligence.
+
+During his last term at the seminary, he met a graduate of a New England
+college, who urged that he also attend college; told how often men had
+worked their way through successfully, and had come to prominence. Young
+Garfield at once began to study Latin and Greek, and at twenty years of
+age presented himself at Hiram College, Ohio, a small institution at
+that time, which had been started by the "Disciples." He sought the
+principal, and asked to ring the bell and sweep the floors to help pay
+his expenses. He took a room with four other students, not a wise plan,
+except for one who has will enough to study whether his companions work
+or play, and rose at five in the morning, to ring his bell.
+
+A lady who attended the college thus writes of him: "I can see him even
+now, standing in the morning with his hand on the bell-rope, ready to
+give the signal calling teachers and scholars to engage in the duties of
+the day. As we passed by, entering the school-room, he had a cheerful
+word for every one. He was probably the most popular person in the
+institution. He was always good-natured, fond of conversation, and very
+entertaining. He was witty and quick at repartee, but his jokes, though
+brilliant and sparkling, were always harmless, and he never would
+willingly hurt another's feelings.
+
+"Afterward, he became an assistant teacher, and while pursuing his
+classical studies, preparatory to his college course, he taught the
+English branches. He was a most entertaining teacher,--ready with
+illustrations, and possessing in a marked degree the power of exciting
+the interest of the scholars, and afterward making clear to them the
+lessons. In the arithmetic class there were ninety pupils, and I cannot
+remember a time when there was any flagging in the interest. There were
+never any cases of unruly conduct, or a disposition to shirk. With
+scholars who were slow of comprehension, or to whom recitations were a
+burden on account of their modest or retiring dispositions, he was
+specially attentive, and by encouraging words and gentle assistance
+would manage to put all at their ease, and awaken in them a confidence
+in themselves.... He was a constant attendant at the regular meetings
+for prayer, and his vigorous exhortations and apt remarks upon the
+Bible-lessons were impressive and interesting. There was a cordiality in
+his disposition which won quickly the favor and esteem of others. He had
+a happy habit of shaking hands, and would give a hearty grip which
+betokened a kind-hearted feeling for all....
+
+"One of his gifts was that of mezzotint drawing, and he gave instruction
+in this branch. I was one of his pupils in this, and have now the
+picture of a cross upon which he did some shading and put on the
+finishing touches. Upon the margin is written, in the hand of the noted
+teacher, his own name and his pupil's. There are also two other
+drawings, one of a large European bird on the bough of a tree, and the
+other a church-yard scene in winter, done by him at that time. In those
+days the faculty and pupils were wont to call him 'the second Webster,'
+and the remark was common, 'He will fill the White House yet.' In the
+Lyceum, he early took rank far above the others as a speaker and
+debater.
+
+"During the month of June the entire school went in carriages to their
+annual grove meeting at Randolph, some twenty-five miles away. On this
+trip he was the life of the party, occasionally bursting out in an
+eloquent strain at the sight of a bird or a trailing vine, or a
+venerable giant of the forest. He would repeat poetry by the hour,
+having a very retentive memory."
+
+The college library contained about two thousand volumes, and here
+Garfield read systematically and topically, a habit which continued
+through life, and made him master of every subject which he touched.
+Tennyson's poetry became, like the Bible, his daily study.
+
+Mr. J. M. Bundy, in his Life of Garfield, said, years later, "His house
+at Washington is a workshop, in which the tools are always kept within
+immediate reach. Although books overrun his house from top to bottom,
+his library contains the working material on which he mainly depends.
+And the amount of material is enormous. Large numbers of scrap-books
+that have been accumulating for over twenty years in number and
+value--made up with an eye to what either is or may become useful, which
+would render the collection of priceless value to the library of any
+first-class newspaper establishment--are so perfectly arranged and
+indexed that their owner, with his all-retentive memory, can turn in a
+moment to the facts that may be needed for almost any conceivable
+emergency in debate. These are supplemented by diaries that preserve
+Garfield's multifarious, political, scientific, literary, and religious
+inquiries, studies, and readings. And, to make the machinery of rapid
+work complete, he has a large box, containing sixty-three different
+drawers, each properly labelled, in which he places newspaper cuttings,
+documents, and slips of paper, and from which he can pull out what he
+wants as easily as an organist can play on the stops of his instrument."
+
+In Hiram College he formed an intellectual friendship with a
+fellow-student to whose inspiring help he testified gratefully to the
+end of his life; Miss Almeda A. Booth, eight years his senior, a
+brilliant and noble woman, pledged to "virgin widowhood" by the death of
+the young man to whom she was promised in marriage. Twenty years later,
+Garfield said, in a memorial address at Hiram College, "On my own behalf
+I take this occasion to say that for her generous and powerful aid, so
+often and so efficiently rendered, for her quick and never failing
+sympathy, and for her intelligent, unselfish, and unswerving friendship,
+I owe her a debt of gratitude and affection for the payment of which the
+longest term of life would have been too short.... I remember that she
+and I were members of the class that began Xenophon's 'Anabasis' in the
+fall of 1852. Near the close of that term I also began to teach in the
+Eclectic [College], and, thereafter, like her, could keep up my studies
+only outside of my own class hours. In mathematics and the physical
+sciences I was far behind her; but we were nearly at the same place in
+Greek and Latin, each having studied them about three terms. She had
+made her home at President Hayden's almost from the first; and I became
+a member of his family at the beginning of the winter term of 1852-53.
+Thereafter, for nearly two years, she and I studied together, and
+recited in the same classes (frequently without other associates) till
+we had nearly completed the classical course....
+
+"During the fall of 1853 she read one hundred pages of Herodotus, and
+about the same of Livy. During that term, also, Professors Dunshee and
+Hull, Miss Booth, and I met at her room two evenings of each week to
+make a joint translation of the Book of Romans. Professor Dunshee
+contributed his studies of the German commentators De Wette and Tholuck;
+and each of the translators made some special study for each meeting.
+How nearly we completed the translation I do not remember; but I do
+remember that the contributions and criticisms of Miss Booth were
+remarkable for suggestiveness and sound judgment. Our work was more
+thorough than rapid, for I find this entry in my diary for December 15,
+1853: 'Translation Society sat three hours at Miss Booth's room, and
+agreed upon the translation of nine verses.'
+
+"During the winter term of 1853-54 she continued to read Livy, and also
+the whole of Demosthenes 'On the Crown.' During the spring term of 1854
+she read the 'Germania' and 'Agricola' of Tacitus and a portion of
+Hesiod."
+
+To Garfield she was another Margaret Fuller. "I venture to assert that
+in native powers of mind, in thoroughness and breadth of scholarship, in
+womanly sweetness of spirit, and in the quantity and quality of
+effective, unselfish work done, she has not been excelled by any
+American woman.... I can name twenty or thirty books which will forever
+be doubly precious to me because they were read and discussed in company
+with her.... She was always ready to aid any friend with her best
+efforts. When I was in the hurry of preparing for a debate with Mr.
+Denton, in 1858, she read not less than eight or ten volumes, and made
+admirable notes for me on those points which related to the topics of
+discussion. In the autumn of 1859 she read a large portion of
+Blackstone's 'Commentaries,' and enjoyed with keenest relish the
+strength of the author's thought and the beauty of his style. From the
+rich stores of her knowledge she gave with unselfish generosity. The
+foremost students had no mannish pride that made them hesitate to ask
+her assistance and counsel. In preparing their orations and debates they
+eagerly sought her suggestions and criticisms....
+
+"It is quite probable that John Stuart Mill has exaggerated the extent
+to which his own mind and works were influenced by Harriet Mill. I
+should reject his opinion on that subject, as a delusion, did I not know
+from my own experience, as well as that of hundreds of Hiram students,
+how great a power Miss Booth exercised over the culture and opinions of
+her friends."
+
+The influence of such a woman upon an intellectual young man can
+scarcely be estimated, or over-estimated. The world is richer and nobler
+for such women. Garfield never forgot her influence. The year he died,
+he said at a Williams College banquet held in Cleveland, January 10,
+1881: "I am glad to say, reverently, in the presence of the many ladies
+here to-night, that I owe to a woman, who has long since been asleep,
+perhaps a higher debt intellectually than I owe to any one else. After
+that comes my debt to Williams College."
+
+He used to say, "Give me a log hut with only a simple bench, Mark
+Hopkins on one end and I on the other, and you may have all the
+buildings, apparatus, and libraries without him."
+
+After two years at Hiram College, Garfield decided to enter some eastern
+college, and wrote to Yale, Brown, and Williams. Their replies are shown
+in his letter to a friend at this time. "Their answers are now before
+me. All tell me I can graduate in two years. They are all brief business
+notes; but President Hopkins concludes with this sentence: 'If you come
+here, we shall be glad to do what we can for you.' Other things being so
+nearly equal, this sentence, which seems to be a kind of friendly grasp
+of the hand, has settled the question for me. I shall start for Williams
+next week." A kind sentence gave to Williams a distinguished honor for
+all coming years.
+
+Garfield had not only paid his way while at Hiram, but he had saved
+three hundred and fifty dollars for his course at Williams. Here he
+earned money, as he had at Hiram, by teaching, and borrowed a few
+hundreds from Dr. J. P. Robinson of Cleveland, Ohio, offering a life
+insurance policy as security.
+
+In college, says Dr. Hopkins, "as General Garfield was broad in his
+scholarship, so was he in his sympathies. No one thought of him as a
+recluse or as bookish. Not _given_ to athletic sports, he was fond of
+them. His mind was open to the impression of natural scenery, and, as
+his constitution was vigorous, he knew well the fine points on the
+mountains around us. He was also social in his disposition, both giving
+and inspiring confidence. So true is this of his intercourse with the
+officers of the college, as well as with others, that he was never even
+suspected of anything low or trickish.... General Garfield gave himself
+to study with a zest and delight wholly unknown to those who find in it
+a routine. A religious man and a man of principle, he pursued of his own
+accord the ends proposed by the institution. He was prompt, frank,
+manly, social, in his tendencies; combining active exercise with habits
+of study, and thus did for himself what it is the object of a college to
+enable every young man to do,--he made himself a MAN."
+
+When Garfield was at Williams, the slavery question had become the
+exciting topic of the day. Preston Brooks' attack on Charles Sumner had
+aroused the indignation of the students, who called a meeting, at which
+Garfield made an eloquent and powerful speech. At his graduation in
+1856, when he was twenty-five, he delivered the metaphysical oration,
+the highest honor awarded. He now returned to Hiram College, having been
+appointed professor of Greek and Latin. At once he began his work with
+zest. He said later: "I have taken more solid comfort in the thing
+itself, and received more moral recompense and stimulus in after life
+from capturing young men for an education than from anything else in the
+world.
+
+"As I look back over my life thus far, I think of nothing that so fills
+me with pleasure as the planning of these sieges, the revolving in my
+mind of plans for scaling the walls of the fortress; of gaining access
+to the inner soul-life, and at last seeing the besieged party won to a
+fuller appreciation of himself, to a higher conception of life and of
+the part he is to bear in it. The principal guards which I have found it
+necessary to overcome in gaining these victories are the parents or
+guardians of the young men themselves. I particularly remember two such
+instances of capturing young men from their parents. Both of those boys
+are to-day educators, of wide reputation,--one president of a college,
+the other high in the ranks of graded-school managers. Neither, in my
+opinion, would to-day have been above the commonest walks of life unless
+I, or some one else, had captured him. There is a period in every young
+man's life when a very small thing will turn him one way or the other.
+He is distrustful of himself, and uncertain as to what he should do. His
+parents are poor, perhaps, and argue that he has more education than
+they ever obtained, and that it is enough. These parents are sometimes a
+little too anxious in regard to what their boys are going to do when
+they get through with their college course. They talk to the young man
+too much, and I have noticed that the boy who will make the best man is
+sometimes most ready to doubt himself. I always remember the turning
+period in my own life, and pity a young man at this stage from the
+bottom of my heart. One of the young men I refer to came to me on the
+closing day of the spring term, and bade me good-by at my study. I
+noticed that he awkwardly lingered after I expected him to go, and had
+turned to my writing again.
+
+"'I suppose you will be back again in the fall, Henry,' I said, to fill
+in the vacuum. He did not answer, and, turning toward him, I noticed
+that his eyes were filled with tears, and that his countenance was
+undergoing contortions of pain. He at length managed to stammer out,
+'No, I am not coming back to Hiram any more. Father says I have got
+education enough, and that he needs me to work on the farm; that
+education don't help along a farmer any.'
+
+"'Is your father here?' I asked, almost as much affected by the
+statement as the boy himself. He was a peculiarly bright boy,--one of
+those strong, awkward, bashful, blond, large-headed fellows, such as
+make men. He was not a prodigy by any means; but he knew what work
+meant, and, when he had won a thing by true endeavor, he knew its value.
+
+"'Yes; father is here, and is taking my things home for good,' said the
+boy, more affected than ever.
+
+"'Well, don't feel badly,' I said. 'Please tell him Mr. Garfield would
+like to see him at his study, before he leaves the village. Don't tell
+him that it is about you, but simply that I want to see him.' In the
+course of half an hour the old gentleman, a robust specimen of a Western
+Reserve Yankee, came into the room and awkwardly sat down. I knew
+something of the man before, and I thought I knew how to begin. I shot
+right at the bull's-eye immediately.
+
+"'So you have come up to take Henry home with you, have you?' The old
+gentleman answered, 'Yes.' 'I sent for you because I wanted to have a
+little talk with you about Henry's future. He is coming back again in
+the fall, I hope?'
+
+"'Wal, I think not. I don't reckon I can afford to send him any more.
+He's got eddication enough for a farmer already, and I notice that when
+they git too much they sorter git lazy. Yer eddicated farmers are
+humbugs. Henry's got so far 'long now that he'd rather hev his head in a
+book than be workin'. He don't take no interest in the stock nor in the
+farm improvements. Everybody else is dependent in this world on the
+farmer, and I think that we've got too many eddicated fellows setting
+around now for the farmers to support.'
+
+"'I am sorry to hear you talk so,' I said; 'for really I consider Henry
+one of the brightest and most faithful students I have ever had. I have
+taken a very deep interest in him. What I wanted to say to you was, that
+the matter of educating him has largely been a constant outgo thus far,
+but, if he is permitted to come next fall term, he will be far enough
+advanced so that he can teach school in the winter, and begin to help
+himself and you along. He can earn very little on the farm in the
+winter, and he can get very good wages teaching. How does that strike
+you?'
+
+"The idea was a new and good one to him. He simply remarked, 'Do you
+really think he can teach next winter?'
+
+"'I should think so, certainly,' I replied. 'But, if he cannot do so
+then, he can in a short time, anyhow.'
+
+"'Wal, I will think on it. He wants to come back bad enough, and I guess
+I'll have to let him. I never thought of it that way afore.'
+
+"I knew I was safe. It was the financial question that troubled the old
+gentleman, and I knew that would be overcome when Henry got to teaching,
+and could earn his money himself. He would then be so far along, too,
+that he could fight his own battles. He came all right the next fall,
+and, after finishing at Hiram, graduated at an eastern college."
+
+One secret of Garfield's success in teaching was his deep interest in
+the young. He said, "I feel a profounder reverence for a boy than for a
+man. I never meet a ragged boy of the street without feeling that I may
+owe him a salute, for I know not what possibilities may be buttoned up
+under his shabby coat. When I meet you in the full flush of mature life,
+I see nearly all there is of you; but among these boys are the great men
+of the future, the heroes of the next generation, the philosophers, the
+statesmen, the philanthropists, the great reformers and moulders of the
+next age. Therefore, I say, there is a peculiar charm to me in the
+exhibitions of young people engaged in the business of an education."
+
+He made himself a student with his students. He said: "I shall give you
+a series of lectures upon history, beginning next week. I do this not
+alone to assist you; the preparation for the lectures will _compel_ me
+to study history."
+
+He was always a worker. "When I get into a place that I can easily fill,
+I always feel like shoving out of it into one that requires of me more
+exertion."
+
+His active mind was not content with teaching. He delivered lectures in
+the neighboring towns on geology, illustrated by charts of his own
+making; upon "Walter Scott;" Carlyle's "Frederick the Great;" the
+"Character of the German People;" government, and the topics of the
+times. He preached almost every Sabbath in some Disciple church. A year
+after his return from Williams he was promoted to the presidency of
+Hiram College.
+
+In 1858, when he was twenty-seven, he married Lucretia Rudolph, whom he
+had known at Geauga Seminary, and who was his pupil in Latin and Greek
+at Hiram. He had been engaged to her four years previously, when he
+entered Williams, she being a year his junior. She was his companion in
+study, as well as domestic life, and helped him onward in his great
+career.
+
+This same year, 1858, he entered his name as a student at law, with a
+Cleveland firm, carrying on his studies at home, and fitted himself for
+the bar in the usual time devoted by those who have no other work in
+hand.
+
+The following year, having taken an active part in the Republican
+campaign for John C. Fremont for the presidency, Garfield was chosen
+State senator. The same year Williams College invited him to deliver the
+master's oration on Commencement day. On the journey thither, he visited
+Quebec, taking with his wife their first pleasure trip. Only eight years
+before this he was ringing the bell at Hiram. Promotion had come
+rapidly, but deservedly.
+
+In the Legislature he naturally took a prominent part. Lincoln had been
+elected and had issued his call for seventy-five thousand men. Garfield,
+in an eloquent speech, moved, "That Ohio contribute twenty thousand men,
+and three million dollars, as the quota of the State." The motion was
+enthusiastically carried.
+
+Governor Dennison appointed Garfield colonel of the Forty-second Ohio
+Regiment, and he left the Senate for the battlefield, nearly one hundred
+Hiram students enlisting under him. At once he began to study military
+tactics in earnest. He organized a school among the officers, and kept
+the men at drill till they were efficient in the art of war. January
+10, 1862, he fought the battle of Middle Creek, with eleven hundred men,
+driving General Marshall out of Eastern Kentucky, with five thousand
+men. The battle raged for five hours, sometimes a desperate hand-to-hand
+fight. General Buell said in his official report of Garfield and his
+regiment: "They have overcome formidable difficulties in the character
+of the country, the condition of the roads, and the inclemency of the
+season, and, without artillery, have in several engagements, terminating
+in the battle of Middle Creek, driven the enemy from his intrenched
+positions and forced him back into the mountains, with the loss of a
+large amount of baggage and stores, and many of his men killed and
+captured. These services have called into action the highest qualities
+of a soldier--fortitude, perseverance, and courage." After this battle,
+President Lincoln made Garfield a brigadier-general.
+
+Says Mr. Bundy: "Having cleared out Humphrey Marshall's forces, Garfield
+moved his command to Piketon, one hundred and twenty miles above the
+mouth of the Big Sandy, from which place he covered the whole region
+about with expeditions, breaking up rebel camps and perfecting his work.
+Finally, in that poor and wretched country, his supplies gave out, and,
+as usual, taking care of the most important matter himself, he went to
+the Ohio River for supplies, got them, seized a steamer, and loaded it.
+But there was an unprecedented freshet, navigation was very perilous,
+and no captain or pilot could be induced to take charge of the boat.
+Garfield at once availed himself of his canal-boat experience, took
+charge of the boat, stood at the helm for forty out of forty-eight
+hours, piloted the steamer through an untried channel full of dangerous
+eddies and wild currents, and saved his command from starvation."
+
+Later, Garfield became chief of General Rosecrans' staff, was in the
+dreadful battle of Chickamauga, and was made major-general "for gallant
+and meritorious services" in that battle. Rosecrans said: "All my staff
+merited my warm approbation for ability, zeal, and devotion to duty; but
+I am sure they will not consider it invidious if I especially mention
+Brigadier-General Garfield, ever active, prudent, and sagacious. I feel
+much indebted to him for both counsel and assistance in the
+administration of this army. He possesses the energy and the instinct of
+a great commander."
+
+In the summer of 1862 the Nineteenth Congressional District of Ohio
+elected Garfield to Congress. He hesitated about leaving the army, but,
+being urged by his friends that it was his duty to serve his country in
+the House of Representatives, he took his seat December, 1863. Among
+such men as Colfax, Washburn, Conkling, Allison, and others, he at once
+took an honorable position. He was made chairman of military affairs,
+then of banking and currency, of appropriations, and other committees.
+
+On the slavery question he had always been outspoken. He said, on the
+constitutional amendment abolishing slavery: "All along the coast of our
+political sea these victims of slavery lie like stranded wrecks broken
+on the headlands of freedom. How lately did its advocates, with impious
+boldness, maintain it as God's own; to be venerated and cherished as
+divine! It was another and higher form of civilization. It was the holy
+evangel of America dispensing its mercies to a benighted race, and
+destined to bear countless blessings to the wilderness of the West. In
+its mad arrogance it lifted its hand to strike down the fabric of the
+Union, and since that fatal day it has been 'a fugitive and a vagabond
+in the earth.' Like the spirit that Jesus cast out, it has, since then,
+been 'seeking rest and finding none.' It has sought in all the corners
+of the republic to find some hiding-place in which to shelter itself
+from the death it so richly deserves. It sought an asylum in the
+untrodden territories of the West, but with a whip of scorpions
+indignant freemen drove it thence. I do not believe that a loyal man can
+now be found who would consent that it should again enter them. It has
+no hope of harbor there. It found no protection or favor in the hearts
+or consciences of the freemen of the republic, and has fled for its last
+hope of safety behind the shield of the Constitution. We propose to
+follow it there, and drive it thence, as Satan was exiled from
+heaven.... To me it is a matter of great surprise that gentlemen on the
+other side should wish to delay the death of slavery. I can only
+account for it on the ground of long continued familiarity and
+friendship.... Has she not betrayed and slain men enough? Are they not
+strewn over a thousand battle-fields? Is not this Moloch already gorged
+with the bloody feast? Its best friends know that its final hour is fast
+approaching. The avenging gods are on its track. Their feet are not now,
+as of old, shod with wool, nor slow and stately stepping, but winged
+like Mercury's to bear the swift message of vengeance. No human power
+can avert the final catastrophe."
+
+On the currency he spoke repeatedly and earnestly. He carefully studied
+English financial history, and mastered the French and German languages
+that he might study their works on political economy and finance. Says
+Captain F. H. Mason, late of the Forty-second Ohio Regiment, in his
+sketch of Garfield, "In May, 1868, when the country was rapidly drifting
+into a hopeless confusion of ideas on financial subjects, and when
+several prominent statesmen had come forward with specious plans for
+creating 'absolute money' by putting the government stamp upon bank
+notes, and for paying off with this false currency the bonds which the
+nation had solemnly agreed to pay in gold, General Garfield stood up
+almost single-handed and faced the current with a speech which any
+statesman of this century might be proud to have written on his
+monument. It embraced twenty-three distinct but concurrent topics, and
+occupied in delivering an entire day's session of the House."
+
+"For my own part," he said, "my course is taken. In view of all the
+facts of our situation, of all the terrible experiences of the past,
+both at home and abroad, and of the united testimony of the wisest and
+bravest statesmen who have lived and labored during the past century, it
+is my firm conviction that any considerable increase of the volume of
+our inconvertible paper money will shatter public credit, will paralyze
+public industry, and oppress the poor; and that the gradual restoration
+of our ancient standard of value will lead us by the safest and surest
+paths to national prosperity and the steady pursuits of peace."
+
+Again he said: "I for one am not willing that my name shall be linked to
+the fate of a paper currency. I believe that any party which commits
+itself to paper money will go down amid the general disaster, covered
+with the curses of a ruined people.
+
+"Mr. Speaker, I remember that on the monument of Queen Elizabeth, where
+her glories were recited and her honors summed up, among the last and
+the highest recorded as the climax of her honors was this: that she had
+restored the money of her kingdom to its just value. And when this House
+shall have done its work, when it shall have brought back values to
+their proper standard, it will deserve a monument."
+
+On the tariff question, General Garfield took the side of protection,
+yet was no extremist. His oft reiterated belief was, "As an abstract
+theory, the doctrine of free trade seems to be universally true, but as
+a question of practicability, under a government like ours, the
+protective system seems to be indispensable."
+
+He said in Congress: "We have seen that one extreme school of economists
+would place the price of all manufactured articles in the hands of
+foreign producers by rendering it impossible for our manufacturers to
+compete with them; while the other extreme school, by making it
+impossible for the foreigner to sell his competing wares in our market,
+would give the people no immediate check upon the prices which our
+manufacturers might fix for their products. I disagree with both these
+extremes. I hold that a properly adjusted competition between home and
+foreign products is the best gauge by which to regulate international
+trade. Duties should be so high that our manufacturers can fairly
+compete with the foreign product, but not so high as to enable them to
+drive out the foreign article, enjoy a monopoly of the trade, and
+regulate the price as they please. This is my doctrine of protection. If
+Congress pursues this line of policy steadily, we shall, year by year,
+approach more nearly to the basis of free trade, because we shall be
+more nearly able to compete with other nations on equal terms. I am for
+a protection which leads to ultimate free trade. I am for that free
+trade which can only be achieved through a reasonable protection.... If
+all the kingdoms of the world should become the kingdom of the Prince of
+Peace, then I admit that universal free trade ought to prevail. But that
+blessed era is yet too remote to be made the basis of the practical
+legislation of to-day. We are not yet members of 'the parliament of man,
+the federation of the world.' For the present, the world is divided into
+separate nationalities; and that other divine command still applies to
+our situation, 'He that provideth not for his own household has denied
+the faith, and is worse than an infidel,' and until that latter era
+arrives patriotism must supply the place of universal brotherhood."
+
+Again he said: "Those arts that enable our nation to rise in the scale
+of civilization bring their blessings to all, and patriotic citizens
+will cheerfully bear a fair share of the burden necessary to make their
+country great and self-sustaining. I will defend a tariff that is
+national in its aims, that protects and sustains those interests without
+which the nation cannot become great and self-sustaining.... So
+important, in my view, is the ability of the nation to manufacture all
+these articles necessary to arm, equip, and clothe our people, that if
+it could not be secured in any other way I would vote to pay money out
+of the federal treasury to maintain government iron and steel, woollen
+and cotton mills, at whatever cost. Were we to neglect these great
+interests and depend upon other nations, in what a condition of
+helplessness would we find ourselves when we should be again involved in
+war with the very nations on whom we were depending to furnish us these
+supplies? The system adopted by our fathers is wiser, for it so
+encourages the great national industries as to make it possible at all
+times for our people to equip themselves for war, and at the same time
+increase their intelligence and skill so as to make them better fitted
+for all the duties of citizenship in war and in peace. _We provide for
+the common defence by a system which promotes the general welfare...._ I
+believe that we ought to seek that point of stable equilibrium somewhere
+between a prohibitory tariff on the one hand and a tariff that gives no
+protection on the other. What is that point of stable equilibrium? In my
+judgment, it is this; a rate so high that foreign producers cannot flood
+our markets and break down our home manufacturers, but not so high as to
+keep them altogether out, enabling our manufacturers to combine and
+raise the prices, nor so high as to stimulate an unnatural and unhealthy
+growth of manufactures.
+
+"In other words, I would have the duty so adjusted that every great
+American industry can fairly live and make fair profits, and yet so low
+that, if our manufacturers attempted to put up prices unreasonably, the
+competition from abroad would come in and bring down prices to a fair
+rate."
+
+On special occasions, such as his eulogies on Lincoln and General
+Thomas, and on Decoration Day at Arlington Heights, Garfield was very
+eloquent. At the latter place, he said: "If silence is ever golden, it
+must be here, beside the graves of fifteen thousand men, whose lives
+were more significant than speech, and whose death was a poem the music
+of which can never be sung. With words, we make promises, plight faith,
+praise virtue. Promises may not be kept; plighted faith may be broken;
+and vaunted virtue may be only the cunning mask of vice. We do not know
+one promise these men made, one pledge they gave, one word they spoke;
+but we do know they summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the
+highest virtues of men and citizens. For love of country they accepted
+death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism
+and their virtue.
+
+"For the noblest man that lives there still remains a conflict. He must
+still withstand the assaults of time and fortune; must still be assailed
+with temptations before which lofty natures have fallen. But with
+_these_, the conflict ended, the victory was won, when death stamped on
+them the great seal of heroic character, and closed a record which years
+can never blot."
+
+Professor B. A. Hinsdale, the intimate friend of Garfield, says, in his
+"Hiram College Memorial," "General Garfield's readiness on all occasions
+has often been remarked. Probably some have attributed this readiness to
+the inspiration of genius. The explanation lies partly in his genius,
+but much more in his indefatigable work. He treasured up knowledge of
+all kinds. 'You never know,' he would say, 'how soon you will need it.'
+Then he forecasted occasions, and got ready to meet them. One hot day in
+July, 1876, he brought to his Washington house an old copy of _The
+Congressional Globe_. Questioned, he said, 'I have been told,
+confidentially, that Mr. Lamar is going to make a speech in the House on
+general politics, to influence the presidential canvass. If he does, I
+shall reply to him. Mr. Lamar was a member of the House before the war;
+and I am going to read some of his old speeches, and get into his mind.'
+Mr. Lamar made his speech August 2, and Mr. Garfield replied August 4.
+Men expressed surprise at the fulness and completeness of the reply,
+delivered on such short notice. But to one knowing his habits of mind,
+especially to one who had the aforesaid conversation with him, the whole
+matter was as light as day. His genius was emphatically the genius of
+preparation."
+
+Both in Congress and in the army Garfield gave a portion of each day to
+the classics, especially to his favorite, Horace. He was always an
+omnivorous reader.
+
+In 1880, he was elected United States senator. After the election he
+said, "During the twenty years that I have been in public life, almost
+eighteen of it in the Congress of the United States, I have tried to do
+one thing. Whether I was mistaken or otherwise, it has been the plan of
+my life to follow my convictions, at whatever personal cost to myself. I
+have represented for many years a district in Congress whose approbation
+I greatly desired; but, though it may seem, perhaps, a little
+egotistical to say it, I yet desired still more the approbation of one
+person, and his name was Garfield. He is the only man that I am
+compelled to sleep with, and eat with, and live with, and die with; and
+if I could not have his approbation I should have had bad
+companionship."
+
+All these years the home life had been helpful and beautiful. Of his
+seven children, two were sleeping in the Hiram church-yard. Five, Harry,
+James, Mollie, Irvin, and Abram, made the Washington home a place of
+cheer in winter, and the summer home, at Mentor, Ohio, a few miles from
+Hiram, a place of rest and pleasure. Here Garfield, beloved by his
+neighbors, ploughed and sewed and reaped, as when a boy. His mother
+lived in his family, happy in his success.
+
+When the national Republican convention met in June, 1880, at Chicago,
+the names of several presidential candidates came before the
+people,--Grant, Blaine, and others. Garfield nominated John Sherman, of
+Ohio, in a chaste and eloquent speech. He said: "I have witnessed the
+extraordinary scenes of this convention with deep solicitude. No emotion
+touches my heart more quickly than a sentiment in honor of a great and
+noble character; but, as I sat on these seats and witnessed these
+demonstrations, it seemed to me you were a human ocean in a tempest.
+
+"I have seen the sea lashed into fury and tossed into spray, and its
+grandeur moves the soul of the dullest man; but I remember that it is
+not the billows but the calm level of the sea from which all heights and
+depths are measured. When the storm has passed and the hour of calm
+settles on the ocean, when the sunlight bathes its smooth surface, then
+the astronomer and surveyor takes the level from which he measures all
+terrestrial heights and depths.
+
+"Gentlemen of the convention, your present temper may not mark the
+healthful pulse of our people. When our enthusiasm has passed, when the
+emotions of this hour have subsided, we shall find that calm level of
+public opinion, below the storm, from which the thoughts of a mighty
+people are to be measured, and by which their final action will be
+determined. Not here in this brilliant circle, where fifteen thousand
+men and women are assembled, is the destiny of the Republican party to
+be decreed. Not here, where I see the enthusiastic faces of seven
+hundred and fifty-six delegates, waiting to cast their votes into the
+urn and determine the choice of the republic, but by four million
+Republican firesides, where the thoughtful voters, with wives and
+children about them, with the calm thoughts inspired by love of home and
+country, with the history of the past, the hopes of the future, and
+reverence for the great men who have adorned and blessed our nation in
+days gone by burning in their hearts,--_there_ God prepares the verdict
+which will determine the wisdom of our work to-night. Not in Chicago, in
+the heat of June, but at the ballot-boxes of the republic, in the quiet
+of November, after the silence of deliberate judgment, will this
+question be settled."
+
+The thousands were at fever-heat hour after hour, in their intense
+excitement. After thirty-four ineffectual ballots, on the thirty-fifth,
+fifty votes were given for Garfield. The tide had turned at last. The
+delegates of State after State gathered around the man from Ohio,
+holding their flags over him, while the bands played, "Rally round the
+flag, boys," and fifteen thousand people shouted their thanksgiving for
+the happy choice. Outside the great hall, cannons were fired, and the
+crowded streets sent up their cheers. From that moment Garfield belonged
+to the nation, and was its idol.
+
+On March 4, 1881, in the presence of a hundred thousand people, the boy
+born in the Orange wilderness was inaugurated President of the United
+States. None of us who were present will ever forget the beauty of his
+address from the steps of the national Capitol, or the kiss given to
+white-haired mother and devoted wife at the close. Afterward, the great
+procession, three hours in passing a given point, was reviewed by
+President Garfield from a stand erected in front of the White House.
+
+Four months after this scene, on July 2, 1881, the nation was thrilled
+with sorrow. As General Garfield and his Secretary of State, James G.
+Blaine, arm in arm, were entering the Baltimore & Potomac Railroad
+depot, two pistol shots were fired; one passing through Garfield's
+coat-sleeve, the other into his body. He fell heavily to the floor, and
+was borne to the White House. The assassin was Charles Guiteau, a
+half-crazed aspirant for office, entirely unknown to the President. The
+man was hanged.
+
+Through four long months the nation prayed, and hoped, and agonized for
+the life of its beloved President. Gifts poured in from every part of
+the Union, but gifts were of no avail. On September 5, Garfield was
+carried to Elberon, Long Branch, New Jersey, where, in the Francklyn
+Cottage, he seemed to revive as he looked out upon the sea, the sea he
+had longed for in his boyhood. The nation took heart. But two weeks
+later, at thirty-five minutes past ten, on the evening of September 19,
+the anniversary of the battle of Chickamauga, the President passed from
+an unconscious state to the consciousness of immortality. At ten minutes
+past ten he had said to General Swaim, who was standing beside him, as
+he put his hand upon his heart, "I have great pain here."
+
+The whole world sympathized with America in her great sorrow. Queen
+Victoria telegraphed to Mrs. Garfield: "Words cannot express the deep
+sympathy I feel with you at this terrible moment. May God support and
+comfort you, as he alone can."
+
+On September 21, the body of the President was taken to Washington. At
+the Princeton Station, three hundred students from the college, with
+uncovered heads, strewed the track and covered the funeral car with
+flowers. At the Capitol, where he had so recently listened to the cheers
+of the people at his inauguration, one hundred thousand passed in
+silence before his open coffin. The casket was covered with flowers; one
+wreath bearing a card from England's queen, with the words: "Queen
+Victoria, to the memory of the late President Garfield, an expression of
+her sorrow and sympathy with Mrs. Garfield and the American nation."
+
+The body was borne to Cleveland, the whole train of cars being draped in
+black. Fifty thousand persons assembled at the station, and followed the
+casket to a catafalque on the public square. During the Sabbath, an
+almost countless throng passed beside the beloved dead. On Monday,
+September 26, through beautiful Euclid Avenue, the body was borne six
+miles, to its final resting-place. Every house was draped in mourning.
+Streets were arched with exquisite flowers on a background of black. One
+city alone, Cincinnati, sent two carloads of flowers. Among the many
+floral designs was a ladder of white immortelles, with eleven rounds,
+bearing the words: "Chester," "Hiram," "Williams," "Ohio Senate,"
+"Colonel," "General," "Congress," "United States Senate," "President,"
+"Martyr."
+
+After appropriate exercises, the sermon being preached by Rev. Isaac
+Errett, D.D., of Cincinnati, according to a promise made years before,
+the casket, followed by a procession five miles long, was carried to the
+cemetery. It was estimated that a quarter of a million people were
+gathered along the streets; not idle sight-seers, but men and women who
+loved the boy, and revered the man who had come to distinguished honor
+in their midst.
+
+Not only in Cleveland were memorial services held. The Archbishop of
+Canterbury spoke touching words in London. In Liverpool, in Manchester,
+in Glasgow, and hundreds of other cities, public services were held.
+Messages of condolence were sent from many of the crowned heads of
+Europe.
+
+Under the white stone monument in Lake View Cemetery, the statesman has
+been laid to rest. For centuries the tomb will tell to the thousands
+upon thousands who visit it the story of struggle and success; of work,
+of hope, of courage, of devotion to duty. Like Abraham Lincoln, Garfield
+was born in a log cabin, battled with poverty, was honest,
+great-hearted, a lover of America, and, like him, a martyr to the
+republic. To the world both deaths seemed unbearable calamities, but
+nations, like individuals, are chastened by sorrow, and learn great
+lessons through great trials. "Now we know in part; but then shall we
+know even as also we are known."
+
+
+
+
+"_The Best Book for Boys that has yet been written._ We say this with
+Tom Brown's delightful School Days fresh in our recollection."--_Portland
+Press._
+
+CUORÉ.
+
+_AN ITALIAN SCHOOL-BOY'S JOURNAL._
+
+By EDMONDO DE AMICIS. Translated from the 39th Italian Edition by Isabel
+F. Hapgood.
+
+12mo. $1.25.
+
+
+In this delightful volume, so unconventional in form, so fresh and
+energetic in style, Signor de Amicis has given not only the heart
+history of an Italian lad but also a very vivid and attractive picture
+of modern life in Italy. He is a genuine boy who is supposed to write
+the story, and all the events, incidents, and observations are seen
+through a boy's bright young eyes. The descriptions of school
+experiences, of festivals and public ceremonies, of scenes in city and
+country, are all full of color and charm, and are inspired by a genuine
+love for humanity.
+
+     "A charming and wholesome volume."--_Albany Journal._
+
+     "Just the thing for school-boys."--_Beacon._
+
+     "Its topics are such as boys take delight in. *** The moment a boy
+     begins to read it he decides to go through with it."--_Cleveland
+     Leader._
+
+     "Can not be spoken of in too high terms of praise."--_Boston
+     Transcript._
+
+     "Filled with incidents delightfully described."--_Albany Press._
+
+     "No wonder the work has reached its thirty-ninth
+     edition."--_Norwick Journal._
+
+     "Deserves a place beside Tom Bailey and Tom Brown."--_Commercial
+     Bulletin_, Boston.
+
+     "Written in just the style to please healthy boys."--_Ohio State
+     Journal._
+
+     "Lovers of literature will be delighted with it."--_Mail and
+     Express_, New York.
+
+     "A voyage into those wondrous regions, the heart, soul and pocket
+     of a school-boy *** Full of striking and beautiful
+     passages."--_Critic_, New York.
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO.
+
+13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.
+
+
+
+
+SIX BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
+
+By J A K
+
+12mo. Illustrated. $1.25 per Vol.
+
+
+BIRCHWOOD.
+
+"A hearty, honest boys' book, which young people are sure to
+enjoy."--_N. Y. Mail and Express._
+
+"An eminently wholesome and good book."--_Zion's Herald._
+
+"An excellent story for boys, inculcating the valuable truth that
+whether a boy be rich or poor he should learn to work. There is also a
+good temperance lesson taught; and it is all told in a simple way, that
+ought to interest young readers."--_Literary World._
+
+
+RIVERSIDE MUSEUM.
+
+"Thoroughly healthy in tone."--_Nation._
+
+"A very charming story for young folks."--_Inter-Ocean._
+
+"In a pleasant, easy style, the writer shows how children aiming at
+improvement can find around a village the objects in Nature which
+develop thought and knowledge."--_Christian Intelligencer._
+
+
+THE FITCH CLUB.
+
+"A very interesting and very profitable story."--_Hartford Post._
+
+"The author has a happy way of telling a story in just the style
+calculated to interest boys."--_Christian Union._
+
+"A pure and interesting story for the boys and girls. Ways and means of
+doing many useful things are so naturally and pleasantly told that the
+information does not appear like teaching, but like story-telling."
+--_Kansas City Times._
+
+
+PROFESSOR JOHNNY.
+
+"An admirable book for teaching boys the science of common
+things."--_Home Journal._
+
+"Combines scientific information, wise moral instruction, and capital
+entertainment in good proportions."--_The Congregationalist._
+
+"It is characterized by that uncommon thing--common sense."--_Christian
+Index._
+
+
+WHO SAVED THE SHIP.
+
+"Good wholesome reading."--_Milwaukee Sentinel._
+
+"One of the brightest books of the season."--_Ohio State Journal._
+
+"Admirable in tone and full of interest."--_Boston Traveller._
+
+
+THE GIANT DWARF.
+
+"Young and old will read the story with pleasure."--_Philadelphia
+Inquirer._
+
+"The author of 'Birchwood,' 'Prof. Johnny,' and other tales, will always
+be sure of a welcome among young people, and 'The Giant Dwarf' will be
+found to rank among his most fascinating work."--_Boston Traveller._
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO.
+
+13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.
+
+
+$1500 PRIZE STORY.
+
+THE BLIND BROTHER.
+
+_A STORY OF THE MINES._
+
+By HOMER GREENE.
+
+12mo, cloth. 230 pp. 14 illustrations. 90 cents.
+
+"The recent prize competition for stories, held by the publishers of the
+_Youth's Companion_, called forth about 5000 aspirants for literary
+honors, among that multitude, Mr. Homer Greene, of Honesdale, Pa., whose
+story, the Blind Brother, took the first prize of $1500, probably the
+largest sum ever paid for a story to a hitherto comparatively unknown
+writer. The Blind Brother deals with life in the coal-mining region of
+the Wyoming Valley, and is remarkable for its dramatic intensity, power
+of characterization, humor and pathos."
+
+     "There are 4,000,000 boys in the United States from 10 to 16 years
+     of age. This story was written for them. We wish every one of the
+     number to read it. A style of writing more simple, clear, direct,
+     forcible, and attractive could not be desired."--_National
+     Republican_, Washington, D. C.
+
+     "This wonderfully pathetic and beautiful creation."--_Wilkesbarre
+     Union-Leader._
+
+     "It is a pleasure to think of anything at once so entertaining, so
+     healthful, and so artistic, falling into the hands of youthful
+     readers."--_The Critic_, New York.
+
+     "Well conceived, prettily told, and enlivened with effective
+     touches of light and shade."--_The Epoch_, New York.
+
+     "A story of remarkable power and pathos."--_Chicago Advance._
+
+     "Replete with thrilling incidents."--_N. Y. Journal._
+
+     "Full of interest, full of information not usually stumbled upon,
+     and full of lessons of morality and true manliness."--_Christian
+     Standard._
+
+     "The plot natural and arousing deep interest, whilst the story has
+     its humorous and its touching passages."--_Presbyterian Banner_,
+     Pittsburgh.
+
+     "So sweet and touching that the moral is profound."--_New Haven
+     Palladium._
+
+     "A good strong story, told with simplicity and
+     directness."--_Christian Intelligence_, New York.
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO.
+
+13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.
+
+
+POOR BOYS WHO BECAME FAMOUS.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. Short biographical sketches of George Peabody,
+Michael Faraday, Samuel Johnson, Admiral Farragut, Horace Greeley,
+William Lloyd Garrison, Garibaldi, President Lincoln, and other noted
+persons who, from humble circumstances, have risen to fame and
+distinction, and left behind an imperishable record. Illustrated with 24
+portraits. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+"It is seldom that a book passes under our notice which we feel impelled
+to commend so highly to young readers, and especially to boys."--_N. Y.
+Observer._
+
+
+GIRLS WHO BECAME FAMOUS.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. A companion book to "Poor Boys Who Became Famous."
+Biographical sketches of Harriet Beecher Stowe, George Eliot, Helen Hunt
+Jackson, Harriet Hosmer, Rosa Bonheur, Florence Nightingale, Maria
+Mitchell, and other eminent women. Illustrated with portraits. 12mo.
+$1.50.
+
+"Give this book to your daughter; she may, perhaps, never become famous,
+but it will help her to do well her life's work."--_American Baptist._
+
+
+FAMOUS AMERICAN AUTHORS.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. Short biographical sketches of Holmes, Longfellow,
+Emerson, Lowell, Aldrich, Mark Twain, and other noted writers.
+Illustrated with portraits. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+"Bright and chatty, giving glimpses into the heart and home life of some
+whom the world delights to honor.... At once accurate, inviting,
+instructive."--_Chautauquan._
+
+
+FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. A companion book to "Famous American Authors."
+Biographical sketches of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Hamilton,
+Webster, Sumner, Garfield, and others. Illustrated with portraits. 12mo.
+$1.50.
+
+Such lives as are sketched in this book are a constant inspiration, both
+to young and old. They teach Garfield's oft-repeated maxim, that "the
+genius of success is still the genius of labor." They teach patriotism,
+a deeper love for and devotion to America. They teach that life, with
+some definite and noble purpose, is worth living.
+
+
+BOYS' BOOK OF FAMOUS RULERS.
+
+By LYDIA HOYT FARMER. Lives of Agamemnon, Julius Cćsar, Charlemagne,
+Frederick the Great, Richard Coeur de Lion, Robert Bruce, Napoleon, and
+other heroes of historic fame. Fully illustrated with portraits and
+numerous engravings. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+"A capital book for youth. Each subject has a portrait and illustrations
+of eventful scenes."--_Boston Globe._
+
+
+GIRLS' BOOK OF FAMOUS QUEENS.
+
+By LYDIA HOYT FARMER. A companion book to "Boys' Book of Famous Rulers."
+Lives of Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth, Catharine de Medici, Josephine,
+Victoria, Eugénie, etc. 12mo, cloth. 85 illustrations. $1.50.
+
+"Such a book for young people is worth a score of 'blood and thunder'
+fictions; it is worthy a place in the library of every boy and
+girl."--_Washington Post._
+
+
+LIFE OF LAFAYETTE, the Knight of Liberty.
+
+By LYDIA HOYT FARMER. A glowing narrative of the life of this renowned
+general, with 58 illustrations. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+As a large portion of the material presented in this volume has been
+gathered from French works never before translated and which are now out
+of print, and also from original files of newspapers, and various
+manuscripts written by members of the La Fayette family, a more complete
+life of General La Fayette is here offered than has before appeared,
+either in this country or in Europe.
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO., 13 Astor Place, NEW YORK.
+
+
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber Note:
+
+Minor typographical errors and inconsistencies have been corrected
+without comment.
+
+
+
+***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN***
+
+
+******* This file should be named 39012-8.txt or 39012-8.zip *******
+
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+<body>
+<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, Famous American Statesmen, by Sarah Knowles
+Bolton</h1>
+<pre>
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at <a href = "http://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a></pre>
+<p>Title: Famous American Statesmen</p>
+<p>Author: Sarah Knowles Bolton</p>
+<p>Release Date: February 29, 2012  [eBook #39012]</p>
+<p>Language: English</p>
+<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p>
+<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN***</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<h4>E-text prepared by Darleen Dove, Julia Neufeld,<br />
+    and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.pgdp.net">http://www.pgdp.net</a>)<br />
+    from page images generously made available by<br />
+    Internet Archive<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.archive.org">http://www.archive.org</a>)</h4>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;margin: 0 auto;" cellpadding="10">
+  <tr>
+    <td valign="top">
+      Note:
+    </td>
+    <td>
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive. See
+      <a href="http://www.archive.org/details/famousamericanst00bolt2">
+      http://www.archive.org/details/famousamericanst00bolt2</a>
+   </td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="full" />
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+
+<h1>
+FAMOUS<br />
+
+<span class="smcap">American Statesmen</span></h1>
+
+<h3>BY</h3>
+
+<h2>SARAH K. BOLTON</h2>
+
+<p class="center">AUTHOR OF "POOR BOYS WHO BECAME FAMOUS," "GIRLS WHO<br />
+BECAME FAMOUS," "FAMOUS AMERICAN AUTHORS,"<br />
+"STORIES FROM LIFE," "FROM HEART,<br />
+AND NATURE," ETC.<br /><br />
+
+"A nation has no possessions so valuable as its great men,
+living or dead."&mdash;<span class="smcap">Hon. John Bigelow.</span></p>
+<hr style="width: 25%;" />
+<p class="center">NEW YORK<br />
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL &amp; CO.<br />
+<span class="smcap">No. 13 Astor Place</span></p>
+<hr style="width: 25%;" />
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Copyright, 1888, by<br />
+Thomas Y. Crowell &amp; Co.</span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><br /><span class="smcap">Electrotyped
+By C. J. Peters and Son, Boston.</span><br /><br />
+
+<span class="smcap">Presswork by Berwick &amp; Smith, Boston.</span></p>
+<hr style="width: 25%;" />
+<p class="center">To<br />
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL.<br /><br />
+
+<span class="smcap">Respected as a Publisher<br />
+and<br />
+Esteemed as a Friend.</span>
+</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_v" id="Page_v">[v]</a></span></p>
+<h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+
+
+<p>"With the great, one's thoughts and manners
+easily become great; ... what this country
+longs for is personalities, grand persons, to counteract
+its materialities," says Emerson. Such lives
+as are sketched in this book are a constant inspiration,
+both to young and old. They teach Garfield's
+oft-repeated maxim, that "the genius of success is
+still the genius of labor." They teach patriotism&mdash;a
+deeper love for and devotion to America.
+They teach that life, with some definite and noble
+purpose, is worth living.</p>
+
+<p>I have written of Abraham Lincoln, one of our
+greatest and best statesmen, in "Poor Boys Who
+Became Famous," which will explain its omission
+from this volume.</p>
+
+<div class="signature">
+S. K. B.</div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_vii" id="Page_vii">[vii]</a></span></p>
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Contents">
+<tr><td align="left">&nbsp;</td><td align="right"><span class="smcap">Page</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">George Washington</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Benjamin Franklin</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_38">38</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Thomas Jefferson</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_67">67</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Alexander Hamilton</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_99">99</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Andrew Jackson</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_133">133</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Daniel Webster</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_177">177</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Henry Clay</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_230">230</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Charles Sumner</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_268">268</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Ulysses S. Grant</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_307">307</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">James A. Garfield</span></td><td align="right"><a href="#Page_361">361</a></td></tr>
+</table><br /><br /><br /></div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span></p>
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 386px;">
+
+<img src="images/illus-001.jpg" width="386" height="600" alt="G. Washington" title="G. Washington" />
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+<h2> GEORGE WASHINGTON.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The "purest figure in history," wrote William
+E. Gladstone of George Washington.</p>
+
+<p>When Frederick the Great sent his portrait to
+Washington, he sent with it these remarkable
+words: "From the oldest general in Europe to the
+greatest general in the world."</p>
+
+<p>Lord Brougham said: "It will be the duty of
+the historian, and the sage of all nations, to let no
+occasion pass of commemorating this illustrious
+man; and until time shall be no more will a test
+of the progress which our race has made in wisdom
+and virtue be derived from the veneration paid to
+the immortal name of Washington."</p>
+
+<p>At Bridge's Creek, Maryland, in a substantial
+home, overlooking the Potomac, George Washington
+was born, February 22, 1732. His father,
+Augustine, was descended from a distinguished
+family in England&mdash;William de Hertburn, a
+knight who owned the village of Wessyngton
+(Washington). He married, at the age of twenty-one,
+Jane Butler, who died thirteen years afterward.
+Two years after her death he married<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span>
+Mary Ball, a beautiful girl, of decided character
+and sterling common-sense. She became a good
+mother to his two motherless children; two having
+died in early childhood.</p>
+
+<p>Six children were born to them, George being the
+eldest. The opportunities for education in the new
+world, especially on a plantation, were limited.
+From one of his father's tenants, the sexton of the
+parish, George learned to read, write, and cipher.
+He was fond of military things, and organized
+among the scholars sham-fights and parades; taking
+the position usually of commander-in-chief, by
+common consent. This love of war might have
+come through the influence of his half-brother
+Lawrence, who had been in battles in the West
+Indies.</p>
+
+<p>When George was twelve, his father died suddenly,
+leaving Mary Ball, at thirty-seven, to care
+for her own five children, one having died in
+infancy, and two boys by the first marriage.
+Fortunately, a large estate was left them, which
+she was to control till they became of age.</p>
+
+<p>While she loved her children tenderly, she exacted
+the most complete obedience. She was dignified
+and firm, yet cheerful, and possessed an
+unusually sweet voice. To his mother's intelligence
+and moral training George attributed his
+success in life. She would gather her children
+about her daily, and read to them from Matthew
+Hale's "Contemplations, Divine and Moral." The
+book had been loved by the first wife, who wrote<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span>
+in it, "Jane Washington." Under this George's
+mother wrote, "and Mary Washington." This
+book was always preserved with tender care at
+Mount Vernon, in later years. Such teaching the
+boy never forgot. When he was thirteen, he wrote
+"Rules of courtesy and decent behavior in company
+and conversation," one hundred and ten
+maxims, which seemed to have great influence over
+him.</p>
+
+<p>At fourteen, he desired to enter the navy, and a
+midshipman's warrant was procured by his brother
+Lawrence. Now he could see the world, and was
+happy at the prospect. All winter long, the
+mother's heart ached as she thought of the separation,
+and finally, when his clothing had been taken
+on board of a British man-of-war, her affection
+triumphed, and the lad was kept in his Virginia
+home; kept for a great work. However disappointed
+he may have been, his mother's word was
+law. Those who learn to obey in youth learn also
+how to govern in later life. George went back to
+school to study arithmetic and land-surveying.
+He was thorough in his work, and his record
+books, still preserved, are neat and exact.</p>
+
+<p>It is never strange that a boy who idolizes his
+mother should think other women lovable. At
+fifteen, the bashful, manly boy had given his heart
+to a girl about his own age, and it was long before
+he could conquer the affection. A year later he
+wrote to a friend, "I might, was my heart disengaged,
+pass my time very pleasantly, as there's<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span>
+a very agreeable young lady lives in the same
+house; but as that's only adding fuel to fire, it
+makes me the more uneasy, for by often and unavoidably
+being in company with her revives my
+former passion for your Lowland Beauty; whereas,
+was I to live more retired from young women, I
+might in some measure alleviate my sorrows, by
+burying that chaste and troublesome passion in the
+grave of oblivion."</p>
+
+<p>Years afterwards, the son of this "Lowland
+Beauty," General Henry Lee, became a favorite
+with Washington in the Revolutionary War; possibly
+all the more loved from tender recollections
+of the mother. General Lee was the father of
+General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army,
+in the Civil War.</p>
+
+<p>At sixteen, the real work of Washington's life
+began. Lord Fairfax of Virginia desired his large
+estates beyond the Blue Ridge to be surveyed,
+and he knew that the youth had the courage to
+meet the Indians in the wilderness, and would do
+his work well.</p>
+
+<p>Washington and a friend set out on horseback
+for the valley called by the Indians Shenandoah,
+"the daughter of the stars." He made a record
+daily of the beauty of the trees&mdash;every refined
+soul loves trees almost as though they were human&mdash;and
+the richness of the soil, and selected the best
+sites for townships. In his diary he says, "A
+blowing, rainy night, our straw upon which we
+were lying took fire, but I was luckily preserved by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span>
+one of our men awaking when it was in a flame."
+For three years he lived this exposed life, sleeping
+out-of-doors, gaining self-reliance, and a knowledge
+of the Indians, which knowledge he was soon to
+need.</p>
+
+<p>Trouble had begun already in the Ohio valley,
+between the French and English, in their claims to
+the territory. No wonder a sachem asked, "The
+French claim all the land on one side of the Ohio,
+the English claim all the land on the other side&mdash;now,
+where does the Indians' land lie?"</p>
+
+<p>Virginia began to make herself ready for a war
+which seemed inevitable. She divided her province
+into military districts, and placed one in
+charge of the young surveyor, only nineteen, who
+was made adjutant general with the rank of major.
+Thus early did the sincere, self-poised young man
+take upon himself great responsibilities. Washington
+at once began to make himself ready for
+his duties, by studying military tactics; taking
+lessons in field-work from his brother Lawrence,
+and sword exercise from a soldier. This drill was
+broken in upon for a time by the illness and death
+of Lawrence, of whom he was very fond, and whom
+he accompanied to the Barbadoes. Here George
+took small-pox, from which he was slightly marked
+through life. The only child of Lawrence soon
+died, and Mount Vernon came to George by will.
+He was now a person of wealth, but riches did not
+spoil him. He did not seek ease; he sought work
+and honor.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span>Matters were growing worse in the Ohio valley.
+The Virginians had erected forts at what is now
+Pittsburg; and the French, about fifteen miles
+south of Lake Erie. Governor Dinwiddie determined
+to make a last remonstrance with the French
+who should thus presume to come upon English
+territory. The way to their forts lay through an
+unsettled wilderness, a distance of from five hundred
+to six hundred miles. Some Indian tribes
+favored one nation; some the other. The governor
+offered this dangerous commission&mdash;a visit
+to the French&mdash;to several persons, who hastened
+to decline with thanks the proffered honor.</p>
+
+<p>Young Washington, with his brave heart, was
+willing to undertake the journey, and started
+September 30, 1753, with horses, tents, and other
+necessary equipments. They found the rivers
+swollen, so that the horses had to swim. The
+swamps, in the snow and rain, were almost impassable.
+At last they arrived at the forts, early in
+December. Washington delivered his letter to the
+French, and an answer was written to the governor.</p>
+
+<p>On December 25, Washington and his little
+party started homeward. The horses were well-nigh
+exhausted, and the men dismounted, put on
+Indian hunting-dress, and toiled on through the
+deepening snow. Washington, in haste to reach
+the governor, strapped his pack on his shoulders,
+and, gun in hand, with one companion, Mr. Gist,
+struck through the woods, hoping thus to reach the
+Alleghany River sooner, and cross on the ice. At<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span>
+night they lit their camp-fire, but at two in the
+morning they pursued their journey, guided by the
+north star.</p>
+
+<p>Some Indians now approached, and offered their
+services as guides. One was chosen, but Washington
+soon suspected that they were being guided in
+the wrong direction. They halted, and said they
+would camp for the night, but the Indian demurred,
+and offered to carry Washington's gun, as he was
+fatigued. This was declined, when the Indian
+grew sullen, hurried forward, and, when fifteen
+paces ahead, levelled his gun and fired at Washington.
+Gist at once seized the savage, took his gun
+from him, and would have killed him on the spot
+had not the humane Washington prevented. He
+was sent home to his cabin with a loaf of bread,
+and told to come to them in the morning with
+meat. Probably he expected to return before
+morning, and, with some other braves, scalp the
+two Americans; but Washington and Gist travelled
+all night, and reached the Alleghany River
+opposite the site of Pittsburg.</p>
+
+<p>Unfortunately, the river was not frozen as they
+had hoped, but was full of broken ice. All day
+long they worked to construct a raft, with but one
+hatchet between them. After reaching the middle
+of the river the men on the raft were hurled into
+ten feet of water by the floating ice, and Washington
+was saved from drowning only by clinging to
+a log. They lay till morning on an island in the
+river, their clothes stiff with frost, and the hands<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span>
+and feet of poor Gist frozen by the intense cold.
+The agony of that night Washington never forgot,
+even in the horrors of Valley Forge.</p>
+
+<p>Happily, the river had grown passable in the
+night, and they were able to cross to a place of
+safety. He came home as speedily as possible and
+delivered the letter to Governor Dinwiddie. His
+journal was sent to London and published, because
+of the knowledge it gave of the position of the
+French. The young soldier of twenty-one had
+escaped death from the burning straw in surveying,
+from the Indian's gun, and from drowning.
+He had shown prudence, self-devotion, and heroism.
+"From that moment," says Irving, in his
+delightful life of Washington, "he was the rising
+hope of Virginia." And he was the rising hope of
+the new world as well.</p>
+
+<p>The polite letter brought by Washington to the
+governor had declared that no Englishmen should
+remain in the Ohio valley! Dinwiddie at once determined
+to send three hundred troops against the
+French, and offered the command to Washington.
+He shrunk from the charge, and it was given to
+Colonel Fry, while he was made second in command.
+Fry soon died, and Washington was obliged
+to assume control. He was equal to the occasion.
+He said, "I have a constitution hardy enough to
+encounter and undergo the most severe trials, and,
+I flatter myself, resolution enough to face what any
+man dares, as shall be proved when it comes to the
+test."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span>The test soon came. In the conflict which followed
+he was in the thickest of the fight, one man
+being killed at his side. He wrote to his brother,
+"I heard the bullets whistle, and, believe me, there
+is something charming in the sound." Years afterward,
+he said, when he had long known the sorrows
+of war, "If I said that, it was when I was
+young."</p>
+
+<p>At Great Meadows, below Pittsburg, he was defeated
+by superior numbers, and obliged to evacuate
+the fort, but the Virginia House of Burgesses
+thanked him for his bravery.</p>
+
+<p>The next year, England sent out General Braddock,
+who had been over forty years in the service,
+a fearless but self-willed officer, to take command
+of the American forces. Washington gladly joined
+him as an aide-de-camp. They set out with two
+thousand soldiers, toward Fort du Quesne (Pittsburg).
+The amount of baggage astonished Washington,
+who well knew the swamps and mountains
+that must be crossed, but Braddock could not be
+influenced. He remarked to Benjamin Franklin,
+"These savages may indeed be a formidable enemy
+to raw militia, but upon the king's regular and disciplined
+troops, sir, it is impossible they should
+make an impression." How great an "impression"
+savages could make upon the "king's regular and
+disciplined troops" was soon to be shown.</p>
+
+<p>The march was exceedingly difficult. Sometimes
+a whole day was spent in cutting a passage of two
+miles over the mountains. Washington urged that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span>
+the Virginia Rangers be put to the front, as they
+understood Indian warfare. The general haughtily
+opposed it, and the regulars in brilliant uniforms,
+bayonets fixed, colors flying, and drums beating,
+swept over the open plain to battle, July 9, 1755.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly there was a cry, "The French and
+Indians!" The Indian yell struck terror to the
+hearts of the regulars. They fired in all directions,
+killing their own men. A panic ensued.
+Braddock tried to rally his men; even striking
+them with the flat of his sword. Five horses
+were killed under him. At last a bullet entered
+his lungs, and he fell, mortally wounded. Then
+the men fled precipitately, falling over their dead
+comrades. Out of eighty-six officers, twenty-six
+were killed and thirty-six wounded. Nearly half
+of the whole army were dead or disabled. The
+Virginia Rangers covered the retreat of the flying
+regulars, and thus saved a remnant. Braddock,
+bequeathing his horse and servant, Bishop, to
+Washington, died broken-hearted, moaning, "Who
+would have thought it!... We shall better know
+how to deal with them another time." Washington
+tenderly read the funeral service, and Braddock
+was buried in the new and wild country he had
+come to save.</p>
+
+<p>Washington escaped as by a miracle. He wrote
+his brother, "By the all-powerful dispensations of
+Providence, I have been protected beyond all
+human probability or expectation; for I had four
+bullets through my coat, and two horses shot<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span>
+under me, yet escaped unhurt, though death was
+levelling my companions on every side of me."
+Through life, this man, great in all that mankind
+prize, loved and believed in the Christian religion.
+Agnosticism had no charms for him.</p>
+
+<p>Washington returned to Mount Vernon temporarily
+broken in health, and his fond mother,
+who was living at the old homestead, wrote begging
+that he would not again enter the service. In
+reply he said, "Honored Madam," for thus he
+always addressed her, "if it is in my power to
+avoid going to the Ohio again, I shall; but if the
+command is pressed upon me by the general voice
+of the country, and offered upon such terms as cannot
+be objected against, it would reflect dishonor
+on me to refuse it; and that, I am sure, must and
+ought to give you greater uneasiness than my going
+in an honorable command."</p>
+
+<p>Braddock's defeat electrified the colonies. Governor
+Dinwiddie at once called for troops, and
+Washington was made "commander-in-chief of all
+the forces raised or to be raised in Virginia." For
+two years he protected the people in the attacks of
+the Indians; his heart so full of pity that he wrote
+the governor, "I solemnly declare, if I know my
+own mind, I could offer myself a willing sacrifice
+to the butchering enemy, provided that would contribute
+to the people's ease." No wonder that
+such self-sacrifice and unselfishness won the homage
+of the State, and later of the nation.</p>
+
+<p>In May, 1758, the condition of the army was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span>
+such, the men so poorly clad and paid, that the
+young commander decided to go to Williamsburg
+to lay the matter before the council. In crossing
+the Pamunkey, a branch of the York River, he met
+a Mr. Chamberlayne, who pressed him to dine,
+more especially as a charming lady was visiting at
+his house. He accepted the invitation, and there
+met Martha Custis, a widow of twenty-six, two
+months younger than himself; a bright, frank,
+agreeable woman, with dark eyes and hair, below
+the middle size, a contrast indeed to his striking
+physique, six feet two inches tall, blue eyes, and
+grave demeanor.</p>
+
+<p>Martha Dandridge, with amiable disposition and
+winning manners, had been married at seventeen to
+Daniel Parke Custis, thirty-eight, a kind-hearted
+and wealthy land-owner. For seven years they
+lived at "The White House," on the Pamunkey
+River, where he died, leaving two children, John
+Parke and Martha Parke Custis. Mrs. Custis had
+come to visit the Chamberlaynes, and now was to
+meet the most popular officer in Virginia.</p>
+
+<p>The dinner passed pleasantly, and then Bishop,
+the servant, brought Colonel Washington's horse
+and his own to the gate at the appointed hour.
+But Colonel Washington did not appear. The
+afternoon seemed like a dream, for love takes no
+account of time. The sun was setting when he
+rose to go, but Major Chamberlayne urged his
+guest to pass the night. Probably he did not need
+to be urged, for the most sublime and beautiful<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span>
+force in all the world now controlled the fearless
+Washington. The next morning he hastened to
+Williamsburg, transacted his business, returned to
+the home of Martha Custis, where he spent a day
+and a night, and left her his betrothed.</p>
+
+<p>The commander went back to camp with a new
+joy in living. The army was now ordered against
+Fort du Quesne, under Brigadier-General Forbes of
+Great Britain; Washington leading the Virginia
+troops. He seized a moment before leaving to
+write to Mrs. Custis, which letter Lossing gives in
+his interesting lives of Mary and Martha Washington:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"A courier is starting for Williamsburg, and I embrace
+the opportunity to send a few words to one whose life is now
+inseparable from mine. Since that happy hour when we
+made our pledges to each other, my thoughts have been continually
+going to you as to another self. That an all-powerful
+Providence may keep us both in safety is the prayer of
+your ever faithful and</p>
+
+
+<div class="signature">"Ever affectionate friend,"<br />
+<span class="smcap">G. Washington</span>."</div>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>The army marched again over the field where the
+bones of Braddock's men were bleaching in the sun,
+and approached the fort, only to find that the
+French had deserted it after setting it on fire, and
+retreated down the river. Washington, who led
+the advance, planted the British flag over the smoking
+ruin of what is now Pittsburg, so called from
+the illustrious William Pitt. With the French
+driven out of the Ohio valley, Washington, having<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span>
+served five years in the army, resigned, and married
+Martha Custis, January 6, 1759. Every inch
+a soldier he must have looked in his suit of blue
+cloth lined with red silk, and ornamented with silver
+trimmings; while his bride wore white satin,
+with pearl necklace and ear-rings, and pearls in her
+hair. She rode home in a coach drawn by six
+horses, while Colonel Washington, on a fine chestnut
+horse, attended by a brilliant cortége, rode beside
+her carriage.</p>
+
+<p>The year previous, 1758, Washington had been
+elected a member of the Virginia Assembly. When
+he took his seat, the House gave him an address of
+welcome. He rose to reply, trembled, and could
+not say a word. "Sit down, Mr. Washington,"
+said the speaker; "your modesty equals your
+valor, and that surpasses the power of any language
+I possess." Beautiful attributes of character, not
+always found in conjunction; valor and modesty!</p>
+
+<p>For three months Washington remained at the
+home of his wife, to attend to the business of the
+colony; becoming also guardian of her two pretty
+children, four and six years of age, whom he seemed
+to love as his own. When he took his bride to
+Mount Vernon to live, he wrote to a relative, "I
+am now, I believe, fixed in this spot with an agreeable
+partner for life; and I hope to find more happiness
+in retirement than I ever experienced in the
+wide and bustling world."</p>
+
+<p>For seventeen years he lived on his estate of
+eight thousand acres, delighting in agriculture, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span>
+enjoying the development of the two children.
+The years passed quickly, for affection, the holiest
+thing on earth, brought rest and contentment.
+He or she is rich who possesses it. To have millions,
+and yet live in a home where there is no
+affection, is to be poor indeed.</p>
+
+<p>He was an early riser; in winter often lighting
+his own fire, and reading by candle-light; retiring
+always at nine o'clock. He was vestryman in the
+Episcopal Church, and judge of the county court,
+as well as a member of the House of Burgesses.
+So honest was he that a barrel of flour marked
+with his name was exempted from the usual inspection
+in West India ports.</p>
+
+<p>Into this busy and happy life came sorrow, as it
+comes into other lives. Martha Parke Custis, a
+gentle and lovely girl, died of consumption at
+seventeen, Washington kneeling by her bedside in
+prayer as her life went out. The love of both parents
+now centred in the boy of nineteen, John
+Parke Custis, who, the following year, left Columbia
+College to marry a girl of sixteen, Eleanor
+Calvert. While Washington attended the wedding,
+Mrs. Washington could not go, in her mourning
+robes, but sent an affectionate letter to her new
+daughter.</p>
+
+<p>The quiet life at Mount Vernon was now to be
+wholly changed. The Stamp Act and the oppressive
+taxes had stirred America. When the taxes
+were repealed, save that on tea, and Lord North
+was urged to include tea also, he said: "To temporize<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span>
+is to yield; and the authority of the mother
+country, if it is not now supported, will be relinquished
+forever; <i>a total repeal cannot be thought of
+till America is prostrate at our feet</i>." Mrs. Washington,
+like other lovers of liberty, at once ceased
+to use tea at her table.</p>
+
+<p>When the First Continental Congress met at
+Philadelphia, September 5, 1774, Washington was
+among the delegates chosen by Virginia. He rode
+thither on horseback, with his brilliant friends
+Patrick Henry and Edmund Pendleton. When
+they departed from Mount Vernon, the patriotic
+Martha Washington said: "I hope you will all
+stand firm. I know George will.... God be with
+you, gentlemen."</p>
+
+<p>To a relative, who wrote deprecating Colonel
+Washington's "folly," his wife answered: "Yes;
+I foresee consequences&mdash;dark days, and darker
+nights; domestic happiness suspended; social enjoyments
+abandoned; property of every kind put
+in jeopardy by war, perhaps; neighbors and
+friends at variance, and eternal separations on
+earth possible. But what are all these evils when
+compared with the fate of which the Port Bill
+may be only a threat? My mind is made up,
+my heart is in the cause. George is right; he
+is always right. God has promised to protect the
+righteous, and I will trust him." Blessings on the
+woman who, in the darkest hour, knows how to be
+as the sunlight in her hope and trust, and to be
+well-nigh a divine embodiment of courage and fortitude!<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span>
+Truly said Schiller: "Honor to women!
+they twine and weave the roses of heaven into the
+life of man."</p>
+
+<p>Congress remained in session fifty-one days.
+When the results of its labors were put before the
+House of Lords, the great Chatham said: "When
+your lordships look at the papers transmitted to us
+from America; when you consider their decency,
+firmness, and wisdom, you cannot but respect their
+cause, and wish to make it your own. For myself,
+I must declare and avow that, in the master states
+of the world, I know not the people, or senate, who,
+in such a complication of difficult circumstances,
+can stand in preference to the delegates of America
+assembled in General Congress at Philadelphia."</p>
+
+<p>When Patrick Henry was asked, on his return
+home, who was the greatest man in Congress, he
+replied: "If you speak of eloquence, Mr. Rutledge
+of South Carolina is by far the greatest orator; but
+if you speak of solid information and sound judgment,
+Colonel Washington is unquestionably the
+greatest man on that floor." Wise reading in all
+these years had given Washington "solid information,"
+and "sound judgment" was partly an
+inheritance from noble Mary Washington.</p>
+
+<p>People all through New England were arming
+themselves. General Gage, who had been sent to
+Boston with British troops, said: "It is surprising
+that so many of the other provinces interest themselves
+so much in this. They have some warm
+friends in New York, and I learn that the people<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span>
+of Charleston, South Carolina, are as mad as they
+are here." He was soon to possess a more thorough
+knowledge of the American character.</p>
+
+<p>The Boston troops, under Gage, numbered about
+four thousand. He determined to destroy the military
+stores at Concord, on the night of April 18,
+1775. It was to be done secretly, but as soon as
+the British regiment started, under Colonel Smith
+and Major Pitcairn, for Concord, the bells of Boston
+rang out, cannon were fired, and Paul Revere,
+with Prescott and Davis, rode at full speed in the
+bright moonlight to Lexington, to alarm the neighboring
+country. When cautioned against making
+so much noise, Revere replied: "You'll have noise
+enough here before long&mdash;the regulars are coming
+out."</p>
+
+<p>Long before morning, nearly two-score of the villagers,
+under Captain Parker, gathered on the green,
+near the church, waiting for the red-coats, who
+came at double-quick, Major Pitcairn exclaiming,
+"Disperse, ye villains! Lay down your arms, ye
+rebels, and disperse!" Unmoved, Captain Parker
+said to his men, "Don't fire unless you are fired on;
+but if they want a war, let it begin here." The
+Revolutionary War began there, to end only when
+America should be free. Seven Americans were
+killed, nine wounded, and the rest were put to
+flight; but the blood shed on Lexington Green
+made liberty dear to every heart.</p>
+
+<p>The British now marched to Concord, where, in
+the early morning, they found four hundred and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span>
+fifty men gathered to receive them. Captain Isaac
+Davis, who said, when his company led the force,
+"I haven't a man that is afraid to go," was killed at
+the first shot, at the North Bridge.</p>
+
+<p>The British troops destroyed all the stores they
+could find, though most had been removed, and
+then started toward Boston. All along the road
+the indignant Americans fired upon them from
+behind stone fences and clumps of bushes. Tired
+by their night march, having lost three hundred in
+killed and wounded, over three times as many as
+the Americans, they were glad to meet Lord Percy
+coming to their rescue with one thousand men. He
+formed a hollow square, and, faint and exhausted,
+the soldiers threw themselves on the ground within
+it, and rested.</p>
+
+<p>The whole country seemed to rise to arms. Men
+came pouring into Boston with such weapons as
+they could find. Noble Israel Putnam of Connecticut
+left his plough in the field and hastened to the
+war.</p>
+
+<p>May 10, Congress again met at Philadelphia.
+They sent a second petition to King George, which
+John Adams called an "imbecile measure." They
+made plans for the support of the army already
+gathered at Cambridge from the different States.
+Who should be the commander of this growing
+army? Then John Adams spoke of the gentleman
+from Virginia, "whose skill and experience as an
+officer, whose independent fortune, great talents,
+and excellent universal character, would command<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span>
+the approbation of all America, and unite the cordial
+exertions of all the colonies better than any
+other person in the Union." June 5, Washington
+was unanimously elected commander-in-chief.</p>
+
+<p>Rising in his seat, and thanking Congress, he
+modestly said: "I beg it may be remembered by
+every gentleman in the room that I this day declare,
+with the utmost sincerity, I do not think
+myself equal to the command I am honored with.
+As to pay, I beg leave to assure the Congress that,
+as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted
+me to accept this arduous employment, at the expense
+of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not
+wish to make any profit of it. I will keep an
+exact account of my expenses. Those, I doubt not,
+they will discharge, and that is all I desire." He
+wrote to his wife: "I should enjoy more real happiness
+in one month with you at home than I have
+the most distant prospect of finding abroad if my
+stay were to be seven times seven years. But as it
+has been a kind of destiny that has thrown me
+upon this service, I shall hope that my undertaking
+it is designed to answer some good purpose....
+I shall feel no pain from the toil or danger of the
+campaign; my unhappiness will flow from the
+uneasiness I know you will feel from being left
+alone." No wonder Martha Washington loved
+him; so brave that he could meet any danger without
+fear, yet so tender that the thought of leaving
+her brought intense pain.</p>
+
+<p>He was now forty-three; the ideal of manly<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span>
+dignity. He at once started for Boston. Soon a
+courier met him, telling him of the battle of Bunker
+Hill&mdash;how for two hours raw militia had withstood
+British regulars, killing and wounding twice
+as many as they lost, and retreating only when
+their ammunition was exhausted. When Washington
+heard how bravely they had fought, he exclaimed:
+"The liberties of the country are safe."
+Under the great elm (still standing) at Cambridge,
+Washington took command of the army, July 3,
+1775, amid the shouts of the multitude and the roar
+of artillery. His headquarters were established at
+Craigie House, afterward the home of the poet
+Longfellow. Here Mrs. Washington came later,
+and helped to lessen his cares by her cheerful
+presence.</p>
+
+<p>The soldiers were brave but undisciplined; the
+terms of enlistment were short, thus preventing
+the best work. To provide powder was well-nigh
+an impossibility. For months Washington drilled
+his army, and waited for the right moment to
+rescue Boston from the hands of the British. Generals
+Howe, Clinton, and Burgoyne had been sent
+over from England. Howe had strengthened Bunker
+Hill, and, with little respect for the feelings of
+the Americans, had removed the pulpit and pews
+from the Old South Church, covered the floor with
+earth, and converted it into a riding-school for
+Burgoyne's light dragoons. They did not consider
+the place sacred, because it was a "meeting-house
+where sedition had often been preached."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span>The "right moment" came at last. In a single
+night the soldiers fortified Dorchester Heights, cannonading
+the enemy's batteries in the opposite
+direction, so that their attention was diverted from
+the real work. When the morning dawned of
+March 5, 1776, General Howe saw, through the
+lifting fog, the new fortress, with the guns turned
+upon Boston. "I know not what to do," he said.
+"The rebels have done more work in one night
+than my whole army would have done in one
+month."</p>
+
+<p>He resolved to attack the "rebels" by night,
+and for this attack twenty-five hundred men were
+embarked in boats. But a violent storm set in,
+and they could not land. The next day the rain
+poured in torrents, and when the second night
+came Dorchester Heights were too strong to be
+attacked. The proud General Howe was compelled
+to evacuate Boston with all possible dispatch, March
+17, the navy going to Halifax and the army to
+New York. The Americans at once occupied the
+city, and planted the flag above the forts. Congress
+moved a vote of thanks to Washington, and
+ordered a gold medal, bearing his face, as the deliverer
+of Boston from British rule.</p>
+
+<p>The English considered this a humiliating defeat.
+The Duke of Manchester, in the House of Lords,
+said: "British generals, whose name never met
+with a blot of dishonor, are forced to quit that
+town, which was the first object of the war, the
+immediate cause of hostilities, the place of arms,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span>
+which has cost this nation more than a million to
+defend."</p>
+
+<p>The Continental Army soon repaired to New York.
+Washington spared no pains to keep a high moral
+standard among his men. He said, in one of his
+orders: "The general is sorry to be informed that
+the foolish and wicked practice of profane cursing
+and swearing&mdash;a vice heretofore little known in an
+American army&mdash;is growing into fashion. He
+hopes the officers will, by example as well as influence,
+endeavor to check it, and that both they and
+the men will reflect that we can have little hope of
+the blessing of Heaven on our arms if we insult it
+by our impiety and folly. Added to this, it is a
+vice so mean and low, without any temptation, that
+every man of sense and character detests and
+despises it." Noble words!</p>
+
+<p>Great Britain now realized that the fight must
+be in earnest, and hired twenty thousand Hessians
+to help subjugate the colonies. When Admiral
+Howe came over from England, he tried
+to talk about peace with "Mr." Washington, or
+"George Washington, Esq.," as it was deemed beneath
+his dignity to acknowledge that the "rebels"
+had a general. The Americans could not talk about
+peace, with such treatment.</p>
+
+<p>Soon the first desperate battle was fought, on
+Long Island, August 27, 1776, partly on the ground
+now occupied by Greenwood Cemetery, between
+eight thousand Americans and more than twice
+their number of trained Hessians. Washington,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span>
+from an eminence, watched the terrible conflict,
+wringing his hands, and exclaiming, "What brave
+fellows I must this day lose!"</p>
+
+<p>The Americans were defeated, with great loss.
+Washington could no longer hold New York with
+his inadequate forces. With great energy and
+promptness he gathered all the boats possible, and
+then, so secretly that even his aides did not know
+his intention, nine thousand men, horses, and provisions,
+were ferried over the East River. A heavy
+fog hung over the Brooklyn side, as though provided
+by Providence, while it was clear on the New
+York side, so that the men could form in line.
+Washington crossed in the last boat, having been
+for forty-eight hours without sleep.</p>
+
+<p>In the morning, the astonished Englishmen
+learned that the prize had escaped. A Tory woman,
+the night before, seeing that the Americans
+were crossing the river, sent her colored servant to
+notify the British. A Hessian sentinel, not understanding
+the servant, locked him up till morning,
+when, upon the arrival of an officer, his errand was
+known; but the knowledge came too late!</p>
+
+<p>On October 28, the Americans were again defeated,
+at White Plains, Howe beginning the engagement.
+The condition of the Continental Army
+was disheartening. They were half-fed and half-clothed;
+the "ragged rebels," the British called
+them. There was sickness in the camp, and many
+were deserting. Washington said, "Men just
+dragged from the tender scenes of domestic life,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span>
+unaccustomed to the din of arms, totally unacquainted
+with every kind of military skill, are
+timid, and ready to fly from their own shadows.
+Besides, the sudden change in their manner of living
+brings on an unconquerable desire to return to
+their homes." So great-hearted was the commander-in-chief,
+though on the field of battle he
+had no leniency toward cowards.</p>
+
+<p>Washington retreated across New Jersey to
+Trenton. When he reached the Delaware River,
+filled with floating ice, he collected all the boats
+within seventy miles, and transported the troops,
+crossing last himself. Lord Cornwallis, of Howe's
+army, came in full pursuit, reached the river just
+as the last boat crossed, and looked in vain for
+means of transportation. There was nothing to be
+done but to wait till the river was frozen, so that
+the troops could cross on the ice.</p>
+
+<p>Washington, December 20, 1776, told John Hancock,
+President of Congress, "Ten days more will
+put an end to the existence of our army." Yet, on
+the night of December 25, Christmas, with almost
+superhuman courage, he determined to recross the
+Delaware, and attack the Hessians at Trenton.
+The weather was intensely cold. The boats, in
+crossing, were forced out of their course by the
+drifting ice. Two men were frozen to death. At
+four in the morning, the heroic troops took up
+the line of march, the snow and sleet beating
+in their faces. Many of the muskets were wet
+and useless. "What is to be done?" asked<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span>
+the men. "Push on, and use the bayonet," was
+the answer.</p>
+
+<p>At eight in the morning, the Americans rushed
+into the town. "The enemy! the enemy!" cried
+the Hessians. Their leader, Colonel Rahl, fell,
+mortally wounded. A thousand men laid down
+their arms and begged for quarter. Washington
+recrossed the Delaware with his whole body of
+captives, and the American nation took heart once
+more. That fearful crossing of the Delaware, in
+the blinding storm, and the sudden yet marvellous
+victory which followed, will always live among the
+most pathetic and stirring scenes of the Revolution.
+A few days later, January 3, 1777, with five
+thousand men, Washington defeated Cornwallis at
+Princeton, exposing himself so constantly to danger
+that his officers begged him to seek a place of
+safety.</p>
+
+<p>The third year of the Revolutionary War had
+opened. France, hating England, sympathizing
+with America in her struggle for liberty, and
+being encouraged in this sympathy by the honored
+Benjamin Franklin, loaned us money, supplied
+muskets and powder, and many troops under
+such brave leaders as Lafayette and De Kalb.
+The year 1777, although our forces were defeated
+at Brandywine and Germantown, witnessed the
+defeat of a part of Burgoyne's army at Bennington,
+Vermont, and, on the 17th of October, the
+remaining part at Saratoga; over five thousand
+men, seven thousand muskets, and a great quantity<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span>
+of military stores. Two months later, France
+made a treaty of alliance with the United States,
+to the joy of the whole country.</p>
+
+<p>On December 11, Washington went into winter-quarters
+at Valley Forge, on the west side of the
+Schuylkill, about twenty miles from Philadelphia.
+Trees were felled to build huts, the men toiling
+with scanty food, often barefoot, the snow showing
+the marks of their bleeding feet. Continental
+money had so depreciated that forty dollars were
+scarcely equal in value to one silver dollar. Sickness
+was decreasing the forces. Washington
+wrote to Congress: "No less than two thousand
+eight hundred and ninety-eight men are now in
+camp unfit for duty, because they are barefoot and
+otherwise naked." From lack of blankets, he said,
+"numbers have been obliged, and still are, to sit
+up all night by fires, instead of taking comfortable
+rest in a natural and common way." A man less
+great would have been discouraged, but he trusted
+in a power higher than himself, and waited in sublime
+dignity and patience for the progress of
+events. Martha Washington had come to Valley
+Forge to share in its privations, and to minister to
+the sick and the dying.</p>
+
+<p>The years 1778 and 1779 dragged on with their
+victories and defeats. The next year, 1780, the
+country was shocked by the treason of Benedict
+Arnold, who, having obtained command at West
+Point, had agreed to surrender it to the British for
+fifty thousand dollars in money and the position<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span>
+of brigadier-general in their army. On September
+21, Sir Henry Clinton sent Major John André, an
+adjutant-general, to meet Arnold. He went ashore
+from the ship Vulture, met Arnold in a wood,
+and completed the plan. When he went back to
+the boat, he found that a battery had driven her
+down the river, and he must return by land. At
+Tarrytown, on the Hudson, he was met by three
+militiamen, John Paulding, David Williams, and
+Isaac Van Wart, who at once arrested him, and
+found the treasonable papers in his boots. He
+offered to buy his release, but Paulding assured
+him that fifty thousand dollars would be no temptation.</p>
+
+<p>André was at once taken to prison. While
+there he won all hearts by his intelligence and his
+cheerful, manly nature. He had entered the British
+army by reason of a disappointment in love.
+The father of the young lady had interfered, and
+she had become the second wife of the father of
+Maria Edgeworth. André always wore above his
+heart a miniature of Honora Sneyd, painted by
+herself. Just before his execution as a spy, he
+wrote to Washington, asking to be shot. When
+he was led to the gallows, October 2, 1780, and
+saw that he was to be hanged, for a moment he
+seemed startled, and exclaimed, "How hard is my
+fate!" but added, "It will soon be over." He put
+the noose about his own neck, tied the handkerchief
+over his eyes, and, when asked if he wished
+to speak, said only: "I pray you to bear witness<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span>
+that I meet my fate like a brave man." His death
+was universally lamented. In 1821, his body was
+removed to London by the British consul, and buried
+in Westminster Abbey.</p>
+
+<p>Every effort was made to capture Arnold, but
+without success. He once asked an American,
+who had been taken prisoner by the British, what
+his countrymen would have done with him had he
+been captured. The immediate reply was: "They
+would cut off the leg wounded in the service of
+your country, and bury it with the honors of war.
+The rest of you they would hang."</p>
+
+<p>In 1781, the condition of affairs was still gloomy.
+Some troops mutinied for lack of pay, but when
+approached by Sir Henry Clinton, through two
+agents, offering them food and money if they
+would desert the American cause, the agents were
+promptly hanged as spies. Such was the patriotism
+of the half-starved and half-clothed soldiers.</p>
+
+<p>In May of this year, Cornwallis took command
+of the English forces in Virginia, destroying about
+fifteen million dollars worth of property. Early
+in October, Washington with his troops, and Lafayette
+and De Rochambeau with their French
+troops, gathered at Yorktown, on the south bank
+of the York River. For ten days the siege was
+carried on. The French troops rendered heroic
+service. Washington was so in earnest that one
+of his aids, seeing that he was in danger, ventured
+to suggest that their situation was much exposed.
+"If you think so, you are at liberty to step back,"<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span>
+was the grave response of the general. Shortly
+afterwards a musket-ball fell at Washington's feet.
+One of his generals grasped his arm, exclaiming,
+"We can't spare you yet." When the victory was
+finally won, Washington drew a long breath and
+said, "The work is done and well done." Cornwallis
+surrendered his whole army, over seven
+thousand soldiers, October 19, 1781.</p>
+
+<p>The American nation was thrilled with joy and
+gratitude. Washington ordered divine service to
+be performed in the several divisions, saying, "The
+commander-in-chief earnestly recommends that the
+troops not on duty should universally attend,
+with that seriousness of deportment and gratitude
+of heart which the recognition of such reiterated
+and astonishing interpositions of Providence demands
+of us." Congress appointed a day of
+thanksgiving and prayer, and voted two stands of
+colors to Washington and two pieces of field-ordnance
+to the brave French commanders. When
+Lord North, Prime Minister of England, heard of
+the defeat of the British, he exclaimed, "Oh, God!
+it is all over!"</p>
+
+<p>The nearly seven long years of war were ended,
+and America had become a free nation.</p>
+
+<p>The articles of peace between Great Britain and
+the United States were not signed till September
+3, 1783. On November 4 the army was disbanded,
+with a touching address from their idolized commander.
+On December 4, in the city of New York,
+in a building on the corner of Pearl and Broad<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span>
+Streets, Washington said good-bye to his officers,
+losing for a time his wonderful self-command. "I
+cannot come to each of you to take my leave," he
+said, "but shall be obliged if each of you will come
+and take me by the hand." Tears filled the eyes
+of all, as, silently, one by one, they clasped his
+hand in farewell, and passed out of his sight.</p>
+
+<p>Then Washington repaired to Annapolis, where
+Congress was assembled, and at twelve o'clock on
+the 23d of December, before a crowded house,
+offered his resignation. "Having now finished the
+work assigned me, I retire from the great theatre of
+action; and bidding an affectionate farewell to this
+august body, under whose orders I have long acted,
+I here offer my commission, and take my leave of
+all the employments of public life." "Few tragedies
+ever drew so many tears from so many beautiful
+eyes," said one who was present.</p>
+
+<p>The beloved general returned to Mount Vernon,
+to enjoy the peace and rest which he needed, and
+the honor of his country which he so well deserved.
+John Parke Custis, Mrs. Washington's only remaining
+child, had died, leaving four children, two
+of whom&mdash;Eleanor, two years old, and George
+Washington, six months old&mdash;the general adopted
+as his own. These brought additional "sweetness
+and light" into the beautiful home.</p>
+
+<p>The following year the Marquis de Lafayette was
+a guest at Mount Vernon, and went to Fredericksburg
+to bid adieu to Washington's mother. When
+he spoke in high praise of the man whom he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span>
+so loved and honored, Mary Washington replied
+quietly, "I am not surprised at what George has
+done, for he was always a good boy." Blessed
+mother-heart, that, in training her child, could look
+into the future, and know, for a certainty, the
+result of her love and progress! She died August
+25, 1789.</p>
+
+<p>Three years later&mdash;May 25, 1787&mdash;a convention
+met at Philadelphia to form a more perfect union
+of the States, and frame a Constitution. Washington
+was made President of this convention. He
+had long been reading carefully the history and
+principles of ancient and modern confederacies,
+and he was intelligently prepared for the honor
+accorded him. When the Constitution was finished,
+and ready for his signature, he said: "Should
+the United States reject this excellent Constitution,
+the probability is that an opportunity will never
+again be offered to cancel another in peace; the
+next will be drawn in blood."</p>
+
+<p>When the various States, after long debate, had
+accepted the Constitution, a President must be
+chosen, and that man very naturally was the man
+who had saved the country in the perils of war.
+On the way to New York, then the seat of government,
+Washington received a perfect ovation. The
+bells were rung, cannon fired, and men, women,
+and children thronged the way. Over the bridge
+crossing the Delaware the women of Trenton had
+erected an arch of evergreen and laurel, with the
+words, "The defender of the mothers will be the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span>
+protector of the daughters." As he passed, young
+girls scattered flowers before him, singing grateful
+songs. How different from that crossing years
+before, with his worn and foot-sore army, amid the
+floating ice!</p>
+
+<p>The streets of New York were thronged with
+eager, thankful people, who wept as they cheered
+the hero, now fifty-seven, who had given nearly his
+whole life to his country's service. On April 30,
+1789, the inauguration took place. At nine o'clock
+in the morning, religious services were held in all
+the churches. At twelve, in the old City Hall, in
+Wall Street, Chancellor Livingston administered
+the oath of office, Washington stooping down and
+kissing the open Bible, on which he laid his hand;
+"the man," says T. W. Higginson, "whose generalship,
+whose patience, whose self-denial, had achieved
+and then preserved the liberties of the nation; the
+man who, greater than Cćsar, had held a kingly
+crown within reach, and had refused it." Washington
+had previously been addressed by some who
+believed that the Colonies needed a monarchy for
+strong government. Astonished and indignant,
+he replied: "I am much at a loss to conceive what
+part of my conduct could have given encouragement
+to an address which to me seems big with the
+greatest mischiefs that can befall my country."
+After taking the oath, all proceeded on foot to St.
+Paul's Church, where prayers were read.</p>
+
+<p>The next four years were years of perplexity and
+care in the building of the nation. The great war<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span>
+debt, of nearly one hundred millions, must be provided
+for by an impoverished nation; commerce
+and manufactures must be developed; literature
+and education encouraged, and Indian outbreaks
+quelled. With a love of country that was above
+party-spirit, with a magnanimity that knew no
+self-aggrandizement, he led the States out of their
+difficulties. When his term of office expired, he
+would have retired gladly to Mount Vernon for
+life, but he could not be spared. Thomas Jefferson
+wrote him: "The confidence of the whole Union
+is centred in you.... North and South will hang
+together, if they have you to hang on."</p>
+
+<p>Again he accepted the office of President. Affairs
+called more than ever for wisdom. He
+continually counselled "mutual forbearances and
+temporizing yieldings on all sides." France, who
+had helped us so nobly, was passing through the
+horrors of the Revolution. The blood of kings and
+people was flowing. The French Republic having
+sent M. Genet as her minister to the United States,
+he attempted to fit out privateers against Great
+Britain. Washington knew that America could not
+be again plunged into a war with England without
+probable self-destruction; therefore he held to neutrality,
+and demanded the recall of Genet. The
+people earnestly sympathized with France, and, but
+for the strong man at the head of the nation, would
+have been led into untold calamities. The country
+finally came to the verge of war with France, but
+when Napoleon overthrew the Directory, and made<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span>
+himself First Consul, he wisely made peace with
+the United States.</p>
+
+<p>Washington declined a third term of office, and
+sent his beautiful farewell address to Congress, containing
+the never-to-be-forgotten words: "Of all the
+dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity,
+religion and morality are indispensable supports....
+Observe good faith and justice towards
+all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with
+all."</p>
+
+<p>He now returned to Mount Vernon to enjoy the
+rest he had so long desired. Three years later the
+great man lay dying, after a day's illness, from
+affection of the throat. From difficulty of breathing,
+his position was often changed. With his usual
+consideration for others, he said to his secretary,
+"I am afraid I fatigue you too much." "I feel I
+am going," he said to his physicians. "I thank
+you for your attentions, but I pray you to take
+no more trouble about me." The man who could
+face death on the battle-field had no fears in the
+quiet home by the Potomac. In the midst of
+his agony, he could remember to thank those who
+aided him, and regret that he was a source of
+care or anxiety. Great indeed is that soul which
+has learned that nothing in God's universe is a
+little thing.</p>
+
+<p>At ten in the evening he gave a few directions
+about burial. "Do you understand me?" he
+asked. Upon being answered in the affirmative,
+he replied, "'Tis well!" when he expired without<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span>
+a struggle, December 14, 1799. Mrs. Washington,
+who was seated at the foot of the bed, said: "'Tis
+well. All is now over. I shall soon follow him.
+I have no more trials to pass through."</p>
+
+<p>On December 18, 1799, the funeral procession
+took its way to the vault on the Mount Vernon
+estate. The general's horse, with his saddle and
+pistols, led by his groom in black, preceded the
+body of his dead master. A deep sorrow settled
+upon the nation. The British ships lowered their
+flags to half-mast. The French draped their standards
+with crape.</p>
+
+<p>Martha Washington died three years later, May
+22, 1802, and was buried beside her husband. In
+1837, the caskets were enclosed in white marble
+coffins, now seen by visitors to Mount Vernon. In
+1885 a grand marble monument, five hundred and
+fifty-five feet high, was completed on the banks of
+the Potomac, at the capital, to the immortal Washington.</p>
+
+<p>Truly wrote Jefferson: "His integrity was most
+pure; his justice the most inflexible I have ever
+known; no motives of interest or consanguinity,
+of friendship or hatred, being able to bias his decision.
+He was, indeed, in every sense of the word,
+a wise, a good, and a great man."</p>
+
+<p>The life of George Washington will ever be an
+example to young men. He had the earnest heart
+and manner&mdash;never trivial&mdash;which women love,
+and men respect. He had the courage which the
+world honors, and the gentleness which made little<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span>
+children cling to him. He controlled an army and
+a nation, because he understood the secret of
+power&mdash;self-control. Well does Mr. Gladstone
+call him the "purest figure in history;" unselfish,
+fair, patient, heroic, true.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span></p>
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 385px;">
+<img src="images/illus-038.jpg" width="385" height="600" alt="Benj. Franklin" title="Benj. Franklin" />
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.</h2>
+
+
+<p>"To say that his life is the most interesting, the
+most uniformly successful, yet lived by any
+American, is bold. But it is, nevertheless, strictly
+true." Thus writes John Bach McMaster, in his
+life of the great statesman.</p>
+
+<p>In the year 1706, January 6 (old style), in the
+small house of a tallow-chandler and soap-boiler,
+on Milk Street, opposite the Old South Church,
+Boston, was born Benjamin Franklin. Already
+fourteen children had come into the home of
+Josiah Franklin, the father, by his two wives, and
+now this youngest son was added to the struggling
+family circle. Two daughters were born later.</p>
+
+<p>The home was a busy one, and a merry one
+withal; for the father, after the day's work, would
+sing to his large flock the songs he had learned in
+his boyhood in England, accompanying the words
+on his violin.</p>
+
+<p>From the mother, the daughter of Peter Folger
+of Nantucket, "a learned and godly Englishman,"
+Benjamin inherited an attractive face, and much of
+his hunger for books, which never lessened through
+his long and eventful life. At eight years of age,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span>
+he was placed in the Boston Latin School, and in
+less than a year rose to the head of his class. The
+father had hoped to educate the boy for the ministry,
+but probably money was lacking, for at ten his
+school-life was ended, and he was in his father's
+shop filling candle-moulds and running on errands.</p>
+
+<p>For two years he worked there, but how he hated
+it! not all labor, for he was always industrious, but
+soap and candle-making were utterly distasteful to
+him. So strongly was he inclined to run away to
+sea, as an older brother had done, that his father
+obtained a situation for him with a maker of
+knives, and later he was apprenticed to his brother
+James as a printer.</p>
+
+<p>Now every spare moment was used in reading.
+The first book which he owned was Bunyan's
+"Pilgrim's Progress," and after reading this over
+and over, he sold it, and bought Burton's "Historical
+Collections," forty tiny books of travel, history,
+biography, and adventure. In his father's small
+library, there was nothing very soul-stirring to be
+found. Defoe's "Essays upon Projects," containing
+hints on banking, friendly societies for the relief
+of members, colleges for girls, and asylums for
+idiots, would not be very interesting to most boys
+of twelve, but Benjamin read every essay, and,
+strange to say, carried out nearly every "project"
+in later life. Cotton Mather's "Essays to do
+Good," with several leaves torn out, was so eagerly
+read, and so productive of good, that Franklin
+wrote, when he was eighty, that this volume "gave<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span>
+me such a turn of thinking as to have an influence
+on my conduct through life; for I have always set
+a greater value on the character of a doer of good
+than on any other kind of reputation; and, if I
+have been a useful citizen, the public owe the advantage
+of it to that book."</p>
+
+<p>As the boy rarely had any money to buy books,
+he would often borrow from the booksellers' clerks,
+and read in his little bedroom nearly all night, being
+obliged to return the books before the shop
+was opened in the morning. Finally, a Boston
+merchant, who came to the printing-office, noticed
+the lad's thirst for knowledge, took him home to
+see his library, and loaned him some volumes.
+Blessings on those people who are willing to lend
+knowledge to help the world upward, despite the
+fact that book-borrowers proverbially have short
+memories, and do not always take the most tender
+care of what they borrow.</p>
+
+<p>When Benjamin was fifteen, he wrote a few ballads,
+and his brother James sent him about the
+streets to sell them. This the father wisely checked
+by telling his son that poets usually are beggars, a
+statement not literally true, but sufficiently near
+the truth to produce a wholesome effect upon the
+young verse-maker.</p>
+
+<p>The boy now devised a novel way to earn money
+to buy books. He had read somewhere that vegetable
+food was sufficient for health, and persuaded
+James, who paid the board of his apprentice, that
+for half the amount paid he could board himself.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span>Benjamin therefore attempted living on potatoes,
+hasty pudding, and rice; doing his own cooking,&mdash;not
+the life most boys of sixteen would
+choose. His dinner at the printing-office usually
+consisted of a biscuit, a handful of raisins, and a
+glass of water; a meal quickly eaten, and then, O
+precious thought! there was nearly a whole hour
+for books.</p>
+
+<p>He now read Locke on "Human Understanding,"
+and Xenophon's "Memorable Things of Socrates."
+In this, as he said in later years, he learned one of
+the great secrets of success; "never using, when I
+advanced anything that may possibly be disputed,
+the words <i>certainly</i>, <i>undoubtedly</i>, or any others that
+give the air of positiveness to an opinion; but
+rather say, I conceive or apprehend a thing to be
+so and so; it appears to me, or <i>I should think it so
+or so</i>, for such and such reasons; or, <i>it is so</i>, if <i>I
+am not mistaken</i>.... I wish well-meaning, sensible
+men would not lessen their power of doing good
+by a positive, assuming manner, that seldom fails
+to disgust, tends to create opposition, and to defeat
+every one of those purposes for which speech was
+given to us, to wit, giving or receiving information
+or pleasure.... To this habit I think it principally
+owing that I had early so much weight with
+my fellow-citizens, when I proposed new institutions
+or alterations in the old, and so much influence
+in public councils when I became a member;
+for I was but a bad speaker, never eloquent, subject
+to much hesitation in my choice of words, and yet<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span>
+I generally carried my points." A most valuable
+lesson to be learned early in life.</p>
+
+<p>Coming across an odd volume of the "Spectator,"
+Benjamin was captivated by the style, and resolved
+to become master of the production, by rewriting
+the essays from memory, and increasing his fulness
+of expression by turning them into verse, and then
+back again into prose.</p>
+
+<p>James Franklin was now printing the fifth newspaper
+in America. It was intended to issue the
+first&mdash;<i>Publick Occurrences</i>&mdash;monthly, or oftener,
+"if any glut of occurrences happens." When the
+first number appeared, September 25, 1690, a very
+important "occurrence happened," which was the
+immediate suspension of the paper for expressions
+concerning those in official position. The next
+newspaper,&mdash;the <i>Boston News-Letter</i>,&mdash;a weekly,
+was published April 24, 1704; the third was the
+<i>Boston Gazette</i>, which James was engaged to print,
+but, being disappointed, started one of his own,
+August 17, 1721, called the <i>New England Courant</i>.
+The <i>American Weekly Mercury</i> was printed in
+Philadelphia six months before the <i>Courant</i>.</p>
+
+<p>Benjamin's work was hard and constant. He
+not only set type, but distributed the paper to customers.
+"Why," thought he, "can I not write
+something for the new sheet?" Accordingly, he
+prepared a manuscript, slipped it under the door of
+the office, and the next week saw it in print before
+his eyes. This was joy indeed, and he wrote again
+and again.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span>The <i>Courant</i> at last gave offence by its plain
+speaking, and it ostensibly passed into Benjamin's
+hands, to save his brother from punishment. The
+position, however, soon became irksome, for the passionate
+brother often beat Benjamin, till at last he
+determined to run away. As soon as this became
+known, James went to every office, told his side of
+the story, and thus prevented Benjamin from obtaining
+work. Not discouraged, the boy sold a
+portion of his precious books, said good-bye to his
+beloved Boston, and went out into the world to
+more poverty and struggle.</p>
+
+<p>Three days after this, he stood in New York,
+asking for work at the only printing-office in the
+city, owned by William Bradford. Alas! there
+was no work to be had, and he was advised to go
+to Philadelphia, nearly one hundred miles away,
+where Andrew Bradford, a son of the former, had
+established a paper. The boy could not have been
+very light-hearted as he started on the journey.
+After thirty hours by boat, he reached Amboy,
+and then travelled fifty miles on foot across New
+Jersey. It rained hard all day, but he plodded on,
+tired and hungry, buying some gingerbread of a
+poor woman, and wishing that he had never left
+Boston. His money was fast disappearing.</p>
+
+<p>Finally he reached Philadelphia.</p>
+
+<p>"I was," he says in his autobiography, "in my
+working dress, my best clothes being to come round
+by sea. I was dirty from my journey; my pockets
+were stuffed out with shirts and stockings, and I<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span>
+knew no soul nor where to look for lodging. I was
+fatigued with travelling, rowing, and want of rest.
+I was very hungry, and my whole stock of cash
+consisted of a Dutch dollar and about a shilling in
+copper. The latter I gave the people of the boat
+for my passage, who at first refused it, on account
+of my rowing, but I insisted on their taking it;
+a man being sometimes more generous when he
+has but a little money than when he has plenty,
+perhaps through fear of being thought to have but
+little.</p>
+
+<p>"Then I walked up the street, gazing about, till
+near the Market-house I met a boy with bread. I
+had made many a meal on bread, and, inquiring
+where he got it, I went immediately to the baker's
+he directed me to, in Second Street, and asked for
+biscuit, intending such as we had in Boston; but
+they, it seems, were not made in Philadelphia.
+Then I asked for a threepenny loaf, and was told
+they had none such. So, not considering or knowing
+the difference of money, and the greater cheapness,
+nor the names of bread, I bade him give me
+threepenny-worth of any sort. He gave me, accordingly,
+three great puffy rolls. I was surprised
+at the quantity, but took it, and, having no room
+in my pockets, walked off with a roll under each
+arm, and eating the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Thus I went up Market Street as far as Fourth
+Street, passing by the door of Mr. Read, my future
+wife's father; when she, standing at the door, saw
+me, and thought I made, as I certainly did, a most<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span>
+awkward, ridiculous figure. Then I turned and
+went down Chestnut Street and part of Walnut
+Street, eating my roll all the way, and, coming
+round, found myself again at Market Street wharf,
+near the boat I came in, to which I went for a
+draught of the river water; and, being filled with
+one of my rolls, gave the other two to a woman
+and her child that came down the river in the boat
+with us, and were waiting to go farther."</p>
+
+<p>After this, he joined some Quakers who were
+on their way to the meeting-house, which he too
+entered, and, tired and homeless, soon fell asleep.
+And this was the penniless, runaway lad who was
+eventually to stand before five kings, to become
+one of the greatest philosophers, scientists, and
+statesmen of his time, the admiration of Europe
+and the idol of America. Surely, truth is stranger
+than fiction.</p>
+
+<p>The youth hastened to the office of Andrew Bradford,
+but there was no opening for him. However,
+Bradford kindly offered him a home till he could
+find work. This was obtained with Keimer, a
+printer, who happened to find lodging for the
+young man in the house of Mr. Read. As the
+months went by, and the hopeful and earnest lad
+of eighteen had visions of becoming a master printer,
+he confided to Mrs. Read that he was in love
+with, and wished to marry, the pretty daughter,
+who had first seen him as he walked up Market
+Street, eating his roll. Mr. Read had died, and the
+prudent mother advised that these children, both<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span>
+under nineteen, should wait till the printer proved
+his ability to support a wife.</p>
+
+<p>And now a strange thing happened. Sir William
+Keith, governor of the province, who knew young
+Franklin's brother-in-law, offered to establish him
+in the printing business in Philadelphia, and, better
+still, to send him to England with a letter of
+credit with which to buy the necessary outfit.</p>
+
+<p>A mine of gold seemed to open before him. He
+made ready for the journey, and set sail, disappointed,
+however, that the letter of credit did not
+come before he left. When he reached England,
+he ascertained that Sir William Keith was without
+credit, a vain man and devoid of principle. Franklin
+found himself alone in a strange country, doubly
+unhappy because he had used for himself and some
+impecunious friends one hundred and seventy-five
+dollars, collected from a business man. This he
+paid years afterward, ever considering the use of
+it one of the serious mistakes of his life.</p>
+
+<p>He and a boy companion found lodgings at
+eighty-seven cents per week; very inferior lodgings
+they must have been. There was of course
+no money to buy type, no money to take passage
+back to America. He wrote a letter to Miss Read,
+telling her that he was not likely to return, dropped
+the correspondence, and found work in a printing-office.</p>
+
+<p>After a year or two, a merchant offered him a
+position as clerk in America, at five dollars a week.
+He accepted, and, after a three-months voyage,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span>
+reached Philadelphia, "the cords of love," he said,
+drawing him back. Alas! Deborah Read, persuaded
+by her mother and other relatives; had
+married, but was far from happy. The merchant
+for whom Franklin had engaged to work soon died,
+and the printer was again looking for a situation,
+which he found with Keimer. He was now twenty-one,
+and life had been anything but cheerful or encouraging.</p>
+
+<p>Still, he determined to keep his mind cheerful
+and active, and so organized a club of eleven young
+men, the "Junto," composed mostly of mechanics.
+They came together once a month to discuss questions
+of morals, politics, and science. As most of
+these were unable to buy books&mdash;a book in those
+days often costing several dollars&mdash;Franklin conceived
+the idea of a subscription library, raised the
+funds, and became the librarian. Every day he set
+apart an hour or two for study, and for twenty
+years, in the midst of poverty and hard work, the
+habit was maintained. If Franklin himself did not
+know that such a young man would succeed, the
+world around him must have guessed it. Out of
+this collection of books&mdash;the mother of all the
+subscription libraries of this country&mdash;has grown
+a great library in the city of Philadelphia.</p>
+
+<p>Keimer proved a business failure; but kindness
+to a fellow-workman, Meredith, a youth of intemperate
+habits, led Franklin to another open door.
+The father of Meredith, hoping to save his son,
+started the young men in business by loaning them<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span>
+five hundred dollars. It was a modest beginning,
+in a building whose rent was but one hundred and
+twenty dollars a year. Their first job of printing
+brought them one dollar and twenty-five cents. As
+Meredith was seldom in a condition for labor,
+Franklin did most of the work, he having started
+a paper&mdash;the <i>Pennsylvania Gazette</i>. Some prophesied
+failure for the new firm, but one prominent
+man remarked: "The industry of that Franklin is
+superior to anything I ever saw of the kind. I see
+him still at work when I go home from the club,
+and he is at work again before his neighbors are
+out of bed."</p>
+
+<p>But starting in business had cost five hundred
+more than the five hundred loaned them. The
+young men were sued for debt, and ruin stared
+them in the face. Was Franklin discouraged?
+If so at heart, he wisely kept a cheerful face and
+manner, knowing what poor policy it is to tell our
+troubles, and made all the friends he could. Several
+members of the Assembly, who came to have
+printing done, became fast friends of the intelligent
+and courteous printer.</p>
+
+<p>In this pecuniary distress, two men offered to
+loan the necessary funds, and two hundred and fifty
+dollars were gratefully accepted from each. These
+two persons Franklin remembered to his dying day.
+Meredith was finally bought out by his own wish,
+and Franklin combined with his printing a small
+stationer's shop, with ink, paper, and a few books.
+Often he wheeled his paper on a barrow along the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span>
+streets. Who supposed then that he would some
+day be President of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?</p>
+
+<p>Franklin was twenty-four. Deborah Read's husband
+had proved worthless, had run away from his
+creditors, and was said to have died in the West
+Indies. She was lonely and desolate, and Franklin
+rightly felt that he could brighten her heart. They
+were married September 1, 1730, and for forty years
+they lived a happy life. He wrote, long afterward,
+"We are grown old together, and if she has
+any faults, I am so used to them that I don't perceive
+them." Beautiful testimony! He used to
+say to young married people, in later years, "Treat
+your wife always with respect; it will procure respect
+to you, not only from her, but from all that
+observe it."</p>
+
+<p>The young wife attended the little shop, folded
+newspapers, and made Franklin's home a resting-place
+from toil. He says: "Our table was plain
+and simple, our furniture of the cheapest. My
+breakfast was, for a long time, bread and milk (no
+tea), and I ate it out of a twopenny earthen porringer,
+with a pewter spoon: but mark how luxury
+will enter families, and make a progress in spite of
+principle. Being called one morning to breakfast,
+I found it in a china bowl, with a spoon of silver.
+They had been bought for me without my knowledge
+by my wife, and had cost her the enormous
+sum of three and twenty shillings! for which she
+had no other excuse or apology to make, but that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span>
+she thought <i>her</i> husband deserved a silver spoon
+and china bowl as well as any of his neighbors."</p>
+
+<p>The years went by swiftly, with their hard work
+and slow but sure accumulation of property. At
+twenty-seven, having read much and written considerable,
+he determined to bring out an almanac,
+after the fashion of the day, "for conveying instruction
+among the common people, who bought
+scarcely any other book." "Poor Richard" appeared
+in December, 1732; price, ten cents. It
+was full of wit and wisdom, gathered from every
+source. Three editions were sold in a month.
+The average annual sale for twenty-five years was
+ten thousand copies. Who can ever forget the
+maxims which have become a part of our every-day
+speech?&mdash;"Early to bed and early to rise, makes a
+man healthy, wealthy, and wise."&mdash;"He that hath a
+trade, hath an estate."&mdash;"One to-day is worth two
+to-morrows."&mdash;"Never leave that till to-morrow
+which you can do to-day."&mdash;"Employ thy time well
+if thou meanest to gain leisure; and since thou art
+not sure of a minute, throw not away an hour."&mdash;"Three
+removes are as bad as a fire."&mdash;"What
+maintains one vice would bring up two children."&mdash;"Many
+a little makes a mickle."&mdash;"Beware of little
+expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship."&mdash;"If
+you would know the value of money, go and
+try to borrow some; for he that goes a-borrowing
+goes a-sorrowing."&mdash;"Rather go to bed supperless
+than rise in debt."&mdash;"Experience keeps a dear
+school, but fools will learn in no other."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span>An interesting story is told concerning the proverb,
+"If you would have your business done, go; if
+not, send." John Paul Jones, one of the bravest
+men in the Revolutionary War, had become the
+terror of Britain, by the great number of vessels he
+had captured. In one cruise he is said to have
+taken sixteen prizes; burned eight and sent home
+eight. With the Ranger, on the coast of Scotland,
+he captured the Drake, a large sloop-of-war, and
+two hundred prisoners. At one time, Captain
+Jones waited for many months for a vessel which
+had been promised him. Eager for action, he
+chanced to see "Poor Richard's Almanac," and
+read, "If you would have your business done, go;
+if not, send." He went at once to Paris, sought
+the ministers, and was given command of a vessel,
+which, in honor of Franklin, he called Bon Homme
+Richard.</p>
+
+<p>The battle between this ship and the Serapis,
+when, for three hours and a half, they were lashed
+together by Jones' own hand, and fought one of the
+most terrific naval battles ever seen, is well known
+to all who read history. The Bon Homme Richard
+sunk after her victory, while her captain received
+a gold medal from Congress and an appreciative
+letter from General Washington.</p>
+
+<p>So bravely did Captain Pearson, the opponent,
+fight, that the King of England made him a knight.
+"He deserved it," said Jones, "and, should I have
+the good-fortune to fall in with him again, I will
+make a lord of him."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span>No wonder that Franklin's proverbs were copied
+all over the continent, and translated into French,
+German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Bohemian,
+Greek, and Portuguese. In all these very busy
+years, Franklin did not forget to study. When he
+was twenty-seven, he began French, then Italian,
+then Spanish, and then to review the Latin of his
+boyhood. He learned also to play on the harp,
+guitar, violin, and violoncello.</p>
+
+<p>Into the home of the printer had come two sons,
+William and Francis. The second was an uncommonly
+beautiful child, the idol of his father.
+Small-pox was raging in the city, but Franklin
+could not bear to put his precious one in the slightest
+peril by inoculation. The dread disease came
+into the home, and Francis Folger, named for his
+grandmother&mdash;at the age of four years&mdash;went suddenly
+out of it. "I long regretted him bitterly,"
+Franklin wrote years afterwards to his sister Jane.
+"My grandson often brings afresh to my mind the
+idea of my son Franky, though now dead thirty-six
+years; whom I have seldom since seen equalled in
+every respect, and whom to this day I cannot think
+of without a sigh." On a little stone in Christ
+Church burying-ground, Philadelphia, are the boy's
+name and age, with the words, "The delight of all
+that knew him."</p>
+
+<p>This same year, when Franklin was thirty, he
+was chosen clerk of the General Assembly, his
+first promotion. If, as Disraeli said, "the secret
+of success in life is for a man to be ready for his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span>
+opportunity when it comes," Franklin had prepared
+himself, by study, for his opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>The year later, he was made deputy postmaster,
+and soon became especially helpful in city affairs.
+He obtained better watch or police regulations, organized
+the first fire-company, and invented the
+Franklin stove, which was used far and wide.</p>
+
+<p>At thirty-seven, so interested was he in education
+that he set on foot a subscription for an
+academy, which resulted in the noble University of
+Pennsylvania, of which Franklin was a trustee for
+over forty years. The following year his only
+daughter, Sarah, was born, who helped to fill the
+vacant chair of the lovely boy. The father, Josiah,
+now died at eighty-seven, already proud of his son
+Benjamin, for whom in his poverty he had done
+the best he could.</p>
+
+<p>About this time, the Leyden jar was discovered
+in Europe by Musschenbroeck, and became the
+talk of the scientific world. Franklin, always
+eager for knowledge, began to study electricity,
+with all the books at his command. Dr. Spence, a
+gentleman from Great Britain, having come to
+America to lecture on the subject, Franklin bought
+all his instruments. So much did he desire to give
+his entire time to this fascinating subject that he
+sold his printing-house, paper, and almanac, for
+ninety thousand dollars, and retired from business.
+This at forty-two; and at fifteen selling ballads
+about the streets! Industry, temperance, and
+economy had paid good wages. He used to say<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[54]</a></span>
+that these virtues, with "sincerity and justice,"
+had won for him "the confidence of his country."
+And yet Franklin, with all his saving, was generous.
+The great preacher Whitefield came to Philadelphia
+to obtain money for an orphan-house in
+Georgia. Franklin thought the scheme unwise,
+and silently resolved not to give when the collection
+should be taken. Then, as his heart warmed
+under the preaching, he concluded to give the copper
+coins in his pocket; then all the silver, several
+dollars; and finally all his five gold pistoles, so
+that he emptied his pocket into the collector's
+plate.</p>
+
+<p>Franklin now constructed electrical batteries,
+introduced the terms "positive" and "negative"
+electricity, and published articles on the subject,
+which his friend in London, Peter Collinson, laid
+before the Royal Society. When he declared his
+belief that lightning and electricity were identical,
+and gave his reasons, and that points would draw
+off electricity, and therefore lightning-rods be of
+benefit, learned people ridiculed the ideas. Still,
+his pamphlets were eagerly read, and Count de
+Buffon had them translated into French. They
+soon appeared in German, Latin, and Italian.
+Louis XV. was so deeply interested that he ordered
+all Franklin's experiments to be performed
+in his presence, and caused a letter to be written
+to the Royal Society of London, expressing
+his admiration of Franklin's learning and skill.
+Strange indeed that such a scientist should arise<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[55]</a></span>
+in the new world, be a man self-taught, and one so
+busy in public life.</p>
+
+<p>In 1752, when he was forty-six, he determined
+to test for himself whether lightning and electricity
+were one. He made a kite from a large
+silk handkerchief, attached a hempen cord to it,
+with a silk string in his hand, and, with his son,
+hastened to an old shed in the fields, as the thunder-storm
+approached.</p>
+
+<p>As the kite flew upward, and a cloud passed
+over, there was no manifestation of electricity.
+When he was almost despairing, lo! the fibres of
+the cord began to loosen; then he applied his
+knuckle to a key on the cord, and a strong spark
+passed. How his heart must have throbbed as he
+realized his immortal discovery!</p>
+
+<p>A Leyden jar was charged, and Franklin went
+home from the old shed to be made a member of
+the Royal Society of London, to receive the Copley
+gold medal, degrees from Harvard and Yale Colleges,
+and honors from all parts of the world. Ah!
+if Josiah Franklin could have lived to see his son
+come to such renown! And Abiah, his mother, had
+been dead just a month! But she knew he was
+coming into greatness, for she wrote him near the
+last: "I am glad to hear you are so well respected
+in your town for them to choose you an alderman,
+although I don't know what it means, or what the
+better you will be of it besides the honor of it. I
+hope you will look up to God, and thank him for
+all his good providences towards you." Sweetest<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[56]</a></span>
+of all things is the motherhood that never lets go
+the hand of the child, and always points Godward!</p>
+
+<p>Lightning-rods became the fashion, though there
+was great opposition, because many believed that
+lightning was one of the means of punishing the
+sins of mankind, and it was wrong to attempt to
+prevent the Almighty from doing his will. Some
+learned men urged that a ball instead of a point
+be used at the end of the rod, and George III.
+insisted that the president of the Royal Society
+should favor balls. "But, sire," said Sir John
+Pringle, "I cannot reverse the laws and operations
+of nature."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, Sir John, you had perhaps better resign,"
+was the reply, and the obstinate monarch
+put knobs on his conductors.</p>
+
+<p>Through all the scientific discord, Franklin had
+the rare good-sense to remain quiet, instead of
+rushing into print. He said, "I have never entered
+into any controversy in defence of my philosophical
+opinions; I leave them to take their
+chance in the world. If they are <i>right</i>, truth and
+experience will support them; if <i>wrong</i>, they
+ought to be refuted and rejected. Disputes are
+apt to sour one's temper and disturb one's quiet."</p>
+
+<p>Franklin was not long permitted to enjoy his
+life of study. This same year, 1752, he was
+elected a member of the Pennsylvania Assembly,
+and reëlected every year for ten years, "without,"
+as he says, "ever asking any elector for his vote,
+or signifying, either directly or indirectly, any<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[57]</a></span>
+desire of being chosen." He was also, with Mr.
+William Hunter of Virginia, appointed postmaster-general
+for the colonies, having been the postmaster
+in Philadelphia for nearly sixteen years.
+So excellent was his judgment, and so conciliatory
+his manner, that he rarely made enemies, and
+accomplished much for his constituents. He cut
+down the rates of postage, advertised unclaimed
+letters, and showed his rare executive ability and
+tireless energy.</p>
+
+<p>For many years the French and English had
+been quarrelling over their claims in the New
+World, till finally the "French and Indian War,"
+or "Seven Years' War," as it was named in Europe,
+began. Delegates from the various colonies
+were sent to Albany to confer with the chiefs of
+the Six Nations about the defence of the country.
+Naturally, Franklin was one of the delegates.
+Before starting, he drew up a plan of union for
+the struggling Americans, and printed it in the
+<i>Gazette</i>, with the now well known wood-cut at the
+bottom; a snake cut into as many pieces as there
+were colonies, each piece having upon it the first
+letter of the name of a colony, and underneath the
+words, "<span class="smcap">Join</span> or <span class="smcap">Die</span>." He presented his plan of
+union to the delegates, who, after a long debate,
+unanimously adopted it, but it was rejected by
+some of the colonies because they thought it gave
+too much power to England, and the king rejected
+it because he said, "The Americans are trying to
+make a government of their own."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[58]</a></span>Franklin joined earnestly in the war, and commanded
+the forces in his own State, but was soon
+sent abroad by Pennsylvania, as her agent to bring
+some troublesome matters before royalty. He
+reached London, July 27, 1757, with his son
+William, no longer the friendless lad looking for
+a position in a printing-house, but the noted scientist,
+and representative of a rising nation. Members
+of the Royal Society hastened to congratulate
+him; the universities at Oxford and Edinburgh
+conferred degrees upon him. While he attended to
+matters of business in connection with his mission,
+he entertained his friends with his brilliant electrical
+experiments, and wrote for several magazines
+on politics and science.</p>
+
+<p>After five years of successful labor, Doctor
+Franklin went back to Philadelphia to receive
+the public thanks of the Assembly, and a gift of
+fifteen thousand dollars for his services. His son
+was also appointed governor of New Jersey, by
+the Crown. Franklin was now fifty-seven, and
+had earned rest and the enjoyment of his honors.
+But he was to find little rest in the next twenty-five
+years.</p>
+
+<p>The "Seven Years' War" had been terminated
+by the Treaty of Paris, February 10, 1763. Of
+course, great expenses had been incurred. The following
+year, Mr. Grenville, Prime Minister of England,
+proposed that a portion of the enormous debt
+be paid by America through the Stamp Act. The
+colonies had submitted already to much taxation<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[59]</a></span>
+without any representation in Parliament, and had
+many grievances. The manufacture of iron and
+steel had been forbidden. Heavy duties had been
+laid upon rum, sugar, and molasses, and constables
+had been authorized to search any place suspected
+of avoiding the duties.</p>
+
+<p>When the Stamp Act was suggested, the colonies,
+already heavily in debt by the war, remonstrated
+in public meetings, and sent their protests to the
+king. Franklin, having been reappointed agent
+for Pennsylvania, used all possible effort to prevent
+its passage, but to no avail. The bill passed
+in March, 1765. By this act, deeds and conveyances
+were taxed from thirty-seven cents to one
+dollar and twenty-five cents apiece; college degrees,
+ten dollars; advertisements, fifty cents each,
+and other printed matter in proportion.</p>
+
+<p>At once, the American heart rebelled. Bells
+were tolled, and flags hung at half-mast. In New
+York, the Stamp Act was carried about the streets,
+with a placard, "The folly of England and the
+ruin of America." The people resolved to wear no
+cloth of English manufacture. Agents appointed
+to collect the hated tax were in peril of their lives.
+Patrick Henry electrified his country by the well
+known words, "Cćsar had his Brutus, Charles I.
+had his Cromwell, and George III."&mdash;and when
+the loyalists shouted, "Treason!" he continued,
+"may profit by their example. If that be treason,
+make the most of it."</p>
+
+<p>Grenville saw, too late, the storm he had aroused.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[60]</a></span>
+Franklin was now, as he wrote to a friend, "extremely
+busy, attending members of both houses,
+informing, explaining, consulting, disputing, in a
+continual hurry from morning till night." His
+examination before the House of Commons filled
+England with amazement and America with joy.
+When asked, "If the Stamp Act should be repealed,
+would it induce the Assemblies of America to acknowledge
+the rights of Parliament to tax them,
+and would they erase their resolutions?" he replied,
+"No, never!"</p>
+
+<p>"What used to be the pride of the Americans?"</p>
+
+<p>"To indulge in the fashions and manufactures of
+Great Britain."</p>
+
+<p>"What is now their pride?"</p>
+
+<p>"To wear their old clothes over again, till they
+can make new ones," said the fearless Franklin.</p>
+
+<p>The great commoners William Pitt and Edmund
+Burke were our stanch friends. A cry of
+distress went up from the manufacturers of England,
+who needed American markets for their goods,
+and in 1766 the Stamp Act was repealed.</p>
+
+<p>America was overjoyed, but her joy was of short
+duration; for in the very next year a duty was
+placed on glass, tea, and other articles. Then riots
+ensued. The duty was repealed on all save tea.
+When the tea arrived in Boston Harbor, the indignant
+citizens threw three hundred and forty chests
+overboard; in Charlestown, the people stored it in
+cellars till it mildewed; and from New York and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[61]</a></span>
+Philadelphia they sent it home again to Old England.</p>
+
+<p>In 1774, the Boston Port Bill, which declared
+that no merchandise should be landed or shipped
+at the wharves of Boston, was received by the
+colonists with public mourning. September 5 of
+this year, the First Continental Congress met at
+Philadelphia, and again a manly protest was sent
+to George III. Again the great Pitt, Earl of Chatham,
+poured out his eloquence against what he saw
+was close at hand&mdash;"a most accursed, wicked, barbarous,
+cruel, unjust, and diabolical war." But
+George III. was immovable.</p>
+
+<p>The days for Franklin were now bitter in the
+extreme. Ten thousand more troops had been sent
+to General Gage in Boston, to compel obedience.
+Franklin's wife was dying in Philadelphia, longing
+to see her husband, who had now been absent ten
+years, each year expecting to return, and each year
+detained by the necessities of the colonies. At
+last he started homeward, landing May 5, 1775.
+His daughter had been happily married to Mr.
+Richard Bache, a merchant, but his wife was dead,
+and buried beside Franky. The battles of Lexington
+and Concord had been fought; the War for
+Freedom was indeed begun.</p>
+
+<p>Franklin was now almost seventy, but ready for
+the great work before him. He loved peace. He
+said: "All wars are follies, very expensive and
+very mischievous ones. When will mankind be
+convinced of this, and agree to settle their differences<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[62]</a></span>
+by arbitration? Were they to do it, even by
+the cast of a die, it would be better than by fighting
+and destroying each other." But now war was
+inevitable. With the eagerness of a boy he wrote
+to Edmund Burke: "General Gage's troops made
+a most vigorous retreat,&mdash;twenty miles in three
+hours,&mdash;scarce to be paralleled in history; the
+feeble Americans, who pelted them all the way,
+could scarce keep up with them."</p>
+
+<p>He was at once made a member of the Continental
+Congress, called to meet May 10, at Philadelphia.
+George Washington and Patrick Henry,
+John and Samuel Adams, were in the noted assemblage.
+They came with brave hearts and an earnest
+purpose. Franklin served upon ten committees:
+to engrave and print Continental money, to
+negotiate with the Indians, to send another but
+useless petition to George III., to find out the
+source of saltpetre, and other matters. He was
+made postmaster-general of the United States, and
+was also full of work for Pennsylvania.</p>
+
+<p>England had voted a million dollars to conquer
+the colonies, and had hired nearly twenty thousand
+Hessians to fight against them, besides her own
+skilled troops. The army under Washington had
+no proper shelter, little food, little money, and
+no winter clothing. Franklin was Washington's
+friend and helper in these early days of discouragement.
+At first the people had hoped to keep
+united to the mother country; now the time had
+arrived for the Declaration of Independence, by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[63]</a></span>
+which America was to become a great nation.
+Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin,
+Roger Sherman of Connecticut, and Robert R.
+Livingston of New York were appointed to draw
+up the document. Jefferson wrote the Declaration,
+and Franklin and Adams made a few verbal
+changes. And then, with the feeling so well
+expressed by Franklin, "We must hang together,
+or else, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately,"
+the delegates fearlessly signed their names
+to what Daniel Webster well called the "title-deed
+of our liberties."</p>
+
+<p>And now another important work devolved upon
+Franklin. The colonies believed that the French
+were friendly and would assist. He was unanimously
+chosen commissioner to France, to represent
+and plead the cause of his country. Again
+the white-haired statesman said good-bye to America,
+and sailed to Europe. As soon as he arrived,
+he was welcomed with all possible honor. The
+learned called upon him; his pictures were hung
+in the shop-windows, and his bust placed in the
+Royal Library. When he appeared on the street a
+crowd gathered about the great American. He
+was applauded in every public resort.</p>
+
+<p>"Franklin's reputation," said John Adams, "was
+more universal than that of Leibnitz or Newton,
+Frederick or Voltaire; and his character more beloved
+and esteemed than any or all of them. His
+name was familiar to government and people, to
+kings, courtiers, nobility, clergy, and philosophers,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[64]</a></span>
+as well as plebeians, to such a decree that there
+was scarcely a peasant or a citizen, a valet de
+chambre, coachman or footman, a lady's chamber-maid
+or a scullion in a kitchen, who was not
+familiar with it, and who did not consider him a
+friend to humankind. When they spoke of him
+they seemed to think he was to restore the golden
+age." Royalty made him welcome at court, and
+Marie Antoinette treated him with the graciousness
+which had at first won the hearts of the
+French to the beautiful Austrian. France made
+a treaty of alliance with America, and recognized
+her independence, February 6, 1778, which gave
+joy and hope to the struggling colonies. Franklin
+was now made minister plenipotentiary. What a
+change from the hated work of moulding tallow
+candles!</p>
+
+<p>The great need of the colonies was money to
+carry on the war, and, pressed as was France in
+the days preceding her own revolution, when M.
+Necker was continually opposing the grants, she
+loaned our country&mdash;part of it a gift&mdash;over five
+million dollars, says James Parton, in his admirable
+life of Franklin. For this reason, as well as
+for the noble men like Lafayette who came to our
+aid, the interests of France should always be dear
+to America. When the Revolutionary War was
+over, Franklin helped negotiate the peace, and
+returned to America at his own request in the fall
+of 1785, receiving among his farewell presents a
+portrait of Louis XVI., set with four hundred and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[65]</a></span>
+eight diamonds. Thomas Jefferson became minister
+in his stead. When asked if he had replaced
+Dr. Franklin, he replied, "I <i>succeed</i>; no one can
+ever <i>replace</i> him."</p>
+
+<p>He was now seventy-nine years old. He had
+been absent for nine years. When he landed,
+cannon were fired, church-bells rung, and crowds
+greeted him with shouts of welcome. He was at
+once made President of the Commonwealth of
+Pennsylvania, and at eighty-one a delegate to the
+convention that framed our Constitution, where he
+sat regularly five hours a day for four months.
+To him is due the happy suggestion, after a heated
+discussion, of equal representation for every State
+in the Senate, and representation in proportion to
+population in the House.</p>
+
+<p>At eighty-four, in reply to a letter to Washington,
+he received these tender words:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"If to be venerated for benevolence, if to be admired for
+talents, if to be esteemed for patriotism, if to be beloved for
+philanthropy, can gratify the human mind, you must have
+the pleasing consolation to know that you have not lived in
+vain. And I flatter myself that it will not be ranked
+among the least grateful occurrences of your life to be
+assured that, so long as I retain my memory, you will be
+recollected with respect, veneration, and affection, by your
+sincere friend,</p>
+
+<div class="signature">
+"<span class="smcap">George Washington</span>."
+</div></blockquote>
+
+<p>The time for the final farewell came, April 17,
+1790, near midnight, when the gentle and great
+statesman, doubly great because so gentle, slept
+quietly in death. Twenty thousand persons gathered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[66]</a></span>
+to do honor to the celebrated dead. Not only
+in this country was there universal mourning, but
+across the ocean as well. The National Assembly
+of France paid its highest eulogies.</p>
+
+<p>By his own request, Franklin was buried beside
+his wife and Franky, under a plain marble slab, in
+Christ Church Cemetery, Philadelphia, with the
+words,&mdash;</p>
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="headstone">
+<tr><td align="left">Benjamin</td><td align="left">}</td><td align="left">Franklin.</td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left">and</td><td align="left">}</td><td align="left">1790.</td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left">Deborah</td><td align="left">}</td></tr>
+</table></div>
+
+<p>He was opposed to ostentation. He used to
+quote the words of Cotton Mather to him when he
+was a boy. On leaving the minister's house, he
+hit his head against a beam. "'Stoop,' said Mather;
+'you are young, and have the world before you;
+stoop as you go through it, and you will miss
+many hard thumps!' This advice, thus beat into
+my head, has frequently been of use to me, and I
+often think of it when I see pride mortified, and
+misfortunes brought upon people by their carrying
+their heads too high."</p>
+
+<p>Tolerant with all religions, sweet-tempered, with
+remarkable tact and genuine kindness, honest, and
+above jealousy, he adopted this as his rule, which
+we may well follow: "To go straight forward in
+doing what appears to me to be right, leaving the
+consequences to Providence."</p>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[67]</a></span></p>
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 395px;">
+<img src="images/illus-067.jpg" width="395" height="600" alt="Ths. Jefferson" title="Ths. Jefferson" />
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>THOMAS JEFFERSON.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Five miles east of Charlottesville, Virginia,
+near where the River Rivanna enters the
+James, Thomas Jefferson was born, April 13, 1743,
+the third in a family of eight children.</p>
+
+<p>Peter Jefferson, his father, descended from a
+Welsh ancestry, was a self-made man. The son of
+a farmer, with little chance for schooling, he improved
+every opportunity to read, became, like
+George Washington, a surveyor, and endured cheerfully
+all the perils of that pioneer life. Often, in
+making his survey across the Blue Ridge Mountains,
+he was obliged to defend himself against the attacks
+of wild beasts, and to sleep in hollow trees.
+When the provisions gave out, and his companions
+fell fainting beside him, he subsisted on raw flesh,
+and stayed on until his work was completed.</p>
+
+<p>So strong was he physically that when two
+hogsheads of tobacco, each weighing a thousand
+pounds, were lying on their sides, he could raise
+them both upright at once. Besides this great
+strength of body, he developed great strength of
+mind. Shakespeare and Addison were his favorites.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[68]</a></span>
+It was not strange that by and by he became a
+member of the Virginia House of Burgesses.</p>
+
+<p>When Peter Jefferson was thirty-one, he married
+into a family much above his own socially&mdash;Jane,
+the daughter of Isham Randolph, a rich and cultured
+gentleman. She was but nineteen, of a most
+cheerful and hopeful temperament, with a passionate
+love of nature in every flower and tree.</p>
+
+<p>From these two the boy Thomas inherited the
+two elements that make a man's character beautiful,
+not less than a woman's&mdash;strength and sweetness.
+With his mother's nature, he found delight in every
+varying cloud, every rich sunset or sunrise, and in
+that ever new and ever wonderful change from
+new moon to full and from full to new again.
+How tender and responsive such a soul becomes!
+How it warms toward human nature from its love
+for the material world!</p>
+
+<p>When Thomas was five years old, he was sent to
+a school where English only was taught. The hours
+of confinement doubtless seemed long to a child
+used to wander at will over the fields, for one day,
+becoming impatient for school to be dismissed, he
+went out-of-doors, knelt behind the house, and repeated
+the Lord's Prayer, thus hoping to expedite
+matters!</p>
+
+<p>At nine he entered the family of Rev. William
+Douglas, a Scotch clergyman, where he learned
+Greek, Latin, and French. So fond did he become
+of the classics that he said, years later, if he were
+obliged to decide between the pleasure derived from<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[69]</a></span>
+them and the estate left him by his father, he would
+have greatly preferred poverty and education.</p>
+
+<p>All these early years at "Shadwell," the Jefferson
+home,&mdash;so named after his mother's home in
+England, where she was born,&mdash;Thomas had an
+especially dear companion in his oldest sister, Jane.
+Her mind was like his own, quick and comprehensive,
+and her especial delight, like his, was in
+music. Three things, he said, became a passion
+with him, "Mathematics, music, and architecture."
+Jane had a charming voice, and her brother became
+a skilled performer on the violin, often practising
+three hours a day in his busy student life.</p>
+
+<p>Peter Jefferson, the strong, athletic Assemblyman,
+died suddenly when Thomas was but fourteen,
+urging, as his dying request, that this boy be well
+educated. There was but one other son, and he
+an infant. The sweet-tempered Mrs. Jefferson,
+under forty, was left with eight children to care
+for; but she kept her sunny, hopeful heart.</p>
+
+<p>When Thomas was a little more than sixteen, he
+entered the college of William and Mary, at Williamsburg.
+He was a somewhat shy, tall, slight
+boy, eager for information, and warm-hearted. It
+was not surprising that he made friends with those
+superior to himself in mental acquirements. He
+says, in his Memoirs: "It was my great good-fortune,
+and what, perhaps, fixed the destinies of my
+life, that Dr. William Small of Scotland was the
+professor of mathematics, a man profound in most
+of the useful branches of science, with a happy<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[70]</a></span>
+talent of communication, correct and gentlemanly
+manners, and an enlarged and liberal mind. He,
+most happily for me, became soon attached to me,
+and made me his daily companion when not engaged
+in the school; and from his conversation I got my
+first views of the expansion of science and of the
+system of things in which we are placed. Fortunately,
+the philosophical chair became vacant soon
+after my arrival at college, and he was appointed
+to fill it <i>per interim;</i> and he was the first who ever
+gave in that college regular lectures in ethics,
+rhetoric, and belles-lettres. He returned to Europe
+in 1762, having previously filled up the measure of
+his goodness to me by procuring for me, from his
+most intimate friend, George Wythe, a reception as
+a student of law under his direction, and introduced
+me to the acquaintance and familiar table of Governor
+Fauquier, the ablest man who had ever filled
+that office."</p>
+
+<p>The governor, though an accomplished scholar
+and great patron of learning, was very fond of
+card-playing, and of betting in the play. In this
+direction his influence became most pernicious to
+Virginia. Strangely enough, young Jefferson never
+knew one card from another, and never allowed
+them to be played in his house.</p>
+
+<p>He devoted himself untiringly to his books. He
+worked fifteen hours a day, allowing himself only
+time to run out of town for a mile in the twilight,
+before lighting the candles, as necessary exercise.
+Though, from the high social position of his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[71]</a></span>
+mother, he had many acquaintances at Williamsburg,
+Thomas went little in society, save to dine
+with the prominent men above mentioned. These
+were a constant stimulant to him. A great man,
+or the written life of a great man, becomes the
+maker of other great men. The boy had learned
+early in life one secret of success; to ally one's
+self to superior men and women.</p>
+
+<p>Years afterward, he wrote to his eldest grandson,
+"I had the good-fortune to become acquainted
+very early with some characters of very high standing,
+and to feel the incessant wish that I could ever
+become what they were. Under temptations and
+difficulties, I would ask myself, what would Dr.
+Small, Mr. Wythe, Peyton Randolph do in this
+situation? What course in it will insure me their
+approbation? I am certain that this mode of deciding
+on my conduct tended more to correctness
+than any reasoning powers I possessed. Knowing
+the even and dignified lives they pursued, I could
+never doubt for a moment which of two courses
+would be in character for them. From the circumstances
+of my position, I was often thrown into the
+society of horse-racers, card-players, fox-hunters,
+scientific and professional men, and of dignified
+men; and many a time have I asked myself in the
+enthusiastic moment of the death of a fox, the
+victory of a favorite horse, the issue of a question
+eloquently argued at the bar or in the great council
+of the nation, well, which of these kinds of
+reputation should I prefer&mdash;that of a horse-jockey,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[72]</a></span>
+a fox-hunter, an orator, or the honest advocate of
+my country's rights?"</p>
+
+<p>The very fact that Jefferson thus early in life
+valued character and patriotism above everything
+else was a sure indication of a grand and successful
+manhood. We usually build for ourselves the kind
+of house we start to build in early years. If it is
+an abode of pleasure, we live in the satiety and
+littleness of soul which such a life brings. If it
+is an abode of worship of all that is pure and exalted,
+we walk among high ideals, with the angels
+for ministering spirits, and become a blessing to
+ourselves and to mankind.</p>
+
+<p>In these college-days, Jefferson became acquainted
+with the fun-loving, brilliant Patrick
+Henry, forming a friendship that became of great
+value to both. After two years in college, where
+he had obtained a fair knowledge of French, Spanish,
+and Italian, besides his Latin and Greek, he
+went home to spend the winter in reading law.
+But other thoughts continually mingled with Coke.
+On every page he read the name of a beautiful girl
+of whom he had become very fond. She had given
+him a watch-paper, which having become spoiled
+accidentally, the law-student wrote to his friend
+John Page, afterward governor of Virginia, "I
+would fain ask the favor of Miss Becca Burwell to
+give me another watch-paper of her own cutting,
+which I should esteem much more, though it were a
+plain round one, than the nicest in the world, cut
+by other hands." He asked advice of Page as to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[73]</a></span>
+whether he had better go to her home and tell her
+what was in his heart. "Inclination tells me to
+go, receive my sentence, and be no longer in suspense;
+but reason says, 'If you go, and your
+attempt proves unsuccessful, you will be ten times
+more wretched than ever.'"</p>
+
+<p>He battled with Coke all winter and all the next
+summer,&mdash;a young man in love who can thus bend
+himself to his work shows a strong will,&mdash;going to
+Williamsburg in October to attend the General
+Court, and to meet and ask Miss Burwell for her
+heart and hand. Alas! he found her engaged to
+another. Possibly, he was "ten times more
+wretched than ever," but it was wise to know the
+worst.</p>
+
+<p>A young man of twenty-one usually makes the
+best of an unfortunate matter, remembering that
+life is all before him, and he must expect difficulties.
+The following year, a sister married one of
+his dearest friends, Dabney Carr; and the same
+year, 1765, his pet sister, Jane, died. To the end
+of his life, he never forgot this sorrow; and, even
+in his extreme old age, said "that often in church
+some sacred air, which her sweet voice had made
+familiar to him in youth, recalled to him sweet
+visions of this sister, whom he had loved so well
+and buried so young."</p>
+
+<p>After five years spent in law studies, rising at
+five, even in winter, for his work, he began to practise,
+with remarkable success. He was not a gifted
+speaker, but, having been a close student, his knowledge<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[74]</a></span>
+was highly valued. Years afterward, an old
+gentleman who knew Jefferson, when asked, "What
+was his power in the court-room?" answered, "He
+always took the right side."</p>
+
+<p>Parton says, in his valuable life of Jefferson,
+"He had most of the requisites of a great lawyer;
+industry, so quiet, methodical, and sustained that
+it amounted to a gift; learning, multifarious and
+exact; skill and rapidity in handling books; the
+instinct of research, that leads him who has it to
+the fact he wants, as surely as the hound scents the
+game; a serenity of temper, which neither the inaptitude
+of witnesses nor the badgering of counsel
+could ever disturb; a habit of getting everything
+upon paper in such a way that all his stores of
+knowledge could be marshalled and brought into
+action; a ready sympathy with a client's mind; an
+intuitive sense of what is due to the opinions, prejudices,
+and errors of others; a knowledge of the
+few avenues by which alone unwelcome truth can
+find access to a human mind; and the power to
+state a case with the clearness and brevity that
+often make argument superfluous."</p>
+
+<p>In 1768, when he was only twenty-five years old,
+he offered himself as a candidate for the Virginia
+Legislature, and was elected. He entered upon
+his public life, which lasted for forty years, with
+the resolution "never to engage, while in public
+office, in any kind of enterprise for the improvement
+of my fortune;" and he kept his resolution.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[75]</a></span>Two years after he began to practise law, the
+house at "Shadwell" was burned. He was absent
+from home, and greatly concerned about his library.
+When a colored man came to tell him of his loss,
+Jefferson inquired eagerly for his books. "Oh,"
+replied the servant, carelessly, "they were all
+burnt, but ah! we saved your fiddle!"</p>
+
+<p>A new house was now begun, two miles from
+the Shadwell home, on a hill five hundred and
+eighty feet high, which he called afterwards
+"Monticello," the Italian for "Little Mountain."
+This had long been a favorite retreat for Jefferson.
+He and Dabney Carr had come here day after day,
+in the summer-time, and made for themselves a
+rustic seat under a great oak, where they read law
+together, and planned the rose-colored plans of
+youth. Sweet, indeed, is it that we have such
+plans in early years. Those get most out of life
+who live much in the ideal; who see roses along
+every pathway, and hear Nature's music in every
+terrific storm.</p>
+
+<p>Jefferson was building the Monticello home with
+bright visions for its future. Another face had
+come into his heart, this time to remain forever.
+It was a beautiful face; a woman, with a slight,
+delicate form, a mind remarkably trained for the
+times, and a soul devoted to music. She had been
+married, and was a widow at nineteen. Her father
+was a wealthy lawyer; her own portion was about
+forty thousand acres of land and one hundred and
+thirty-five slaves. Although Jefferson had less<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[76]</a></span>
+land, his annual income was about five thousand
+dollars, from this and his profession.</p>
+
+<p>Martha Skelton was now twenty-three, and Jefferson
+nearly twenty-nine. So attractive a woman
+had many suitors. The story is told that two interested
+gentlemen came one evening to her father's
+house, with the purpose of having their future definitely
+settled. When they arrived, they heard
+singing in the drawing-room. They listened, and
+the voices were unmistakably those of Jefferson
+and Martha Skelton. Making up their minds that
+"their future was definitely settled," as far as she
+was concerned, they took their hats and withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>Jefferson was married to the lady January 1,
+1772, and after the wedding started for Monticello.
+The snow had fallen lightly, but soon became so
+deep that they were obliged to quit the carriage
+and proceed on horseback. Arriving late at night,
+the fires were out and the servants in bed; but love
+keeps hearts warm, and darkness and cold were forgotten
+in the satisfaction of having won each other.
+This satisfaction was never clouded. For years,
+the home life deepened with its joys and sorrows.
+A little girl, Martha, was first born into the home;
+then Jane, who died when eighteen months old,
+and then an only son, who died in seventeen days.
+Monticello took on new beauty. Trees were set
+out and flower-beds planted. The man who so
+loved nature made this a restful and beautiful
+place for his little group.</p>
+
+<p>The year after Jefferson's marriage, Dabney Carr,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[77]</a></span>
+the brilliant young member of the Virginia Assembly,
+a favorite in every household, eloquent and
+lovable, died in his thirtieth year. His wife, for
+a time, lost her reason in consequence. Carr was
+buried at "Shadwell," as Jefferson was away from
+home; but, upon his return, the boyish promise
+was kept, and the friend was interred under the
+old oak at Monticello, with these words on the
+stone, written by Jefferson:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+"To his Virtue, Good-Sense, Learning, and Friendship,<br />
+this stone is dedicated by Thomas Jefferson, who,<br />
+of all men living, loved him most."
+</p>
+
+<p>At once, Mrs. Carr, with her six little children,
+came to Jefferson's home, and lived there ever
+after, he educating the three sons and three daughters
+of his widowed sister as though they were his
+own. Thus true and tender was he to those whom
+he loved.</p>
+
+<p>For some years past, Jefferson had been developing
+under that British teaching which led America
+to freedom. When a student of law, he had listened
+to Patrick Henry's immortal speech in the
+debate on the Stamp Act. "I attended the debate,"
+said Jefferson in his Memoir, "and heard the
+splendid display of Mr. Henry's talents as a popular
+orator. They were indeed great; such as I
+have never heard from any other man. He appeared
+to me to speak as Homer wrote.... I
+never heard anything that deserved to be called by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[78]</a></span>
+the same name with what flowed from him; and
+where he got that torrent of language from is
+inconceivable. I have frequently shut my eyes
+while he spoke, and, when he was done, asked
+myself what he had said, without being able to
+recollect a word of it. He was no logician. He
+was truly a great man, however,&mdash;one of enlarged
+views."</p>
+
+<p>The whole country had become aflame over the
+burning of the Gaspee, in March, 1772,&mdash;a royal
+schooner anchored at Providence, R. I. The
+schooner came there to watch the commerce of
+the colonies, and to search vessels. She made
+herself generally obnoxious. Having run aground
+in her chase of an American packet, a few Rhode
+Islanders determined to visit her and burn her.
+The little company set out in eight boats, muffling
+their oars, reaching her after midnight. The Gaspee
+was taken unawares, the hands of the crew tied
+behind them, and the vessel burned.</p>
+
+<p>At once a reward of five thousand dollars was
+offered for the detection of any person concerned;
+but, though everybody knew, nobody would tell.
+Word came from England "that the persons concerned
+in the burning of the Gaspee schooner, and
+in the other violences which attended that daring
+insult, should be brought to England to be tried."
+This fired the hearts of the colonists. The Virginia
+House of Burgesses appointed a committee
+to correspond with other Legislatures on topics
+which concerned the common welfare. The royal<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[79]</a></span>
+governor of Virginia had no liking for such free
+thought and free speech as this, and dissolved the
+House, which at once repaired to a tavern and continued
+its deliberations.</p>
+
+<p>Soon a convention was called, before which
+Jefferson's "Summary View of the Rights of
+British America" was laid. It was worded as
+a skilful lawyer and polished writer knew how to
+word it; and it stated the case so plainly that,
+when it was published, and sent to Great Britain,
+Jefferson, to use his own words, "had the honor of
+having his name inserted in a long list of proscriptions
+enrolled in a bill of attainder commenced
+in one of the Houses of Parliament, but
+suppressed by the hasty step of events." Remoteness
+from England doubtless saved his life.</p>
+
+<p>Jefferson went up to the Continental Congress
+at Philadelphia, which opened May 10, 1775, taking
+his "Summary View" with him. The delegates
+were waiting to see what Virginia had to say in
+these important days. She had instructed her
+men to offer a resolution that "the United Colonies
+be free and independent States," which was
+done by Richard Henry Lee, on June 7. Four
+days later, Congress appointed a committee of
+five to prepare a Declaration of Independence.
+Thomas Jefferson, only thirty-two, one of the
+youngest members of Congress, was made chairman.
+How well he had become fitted to write
+this immortal document! It was but a condensation
+of the "Summary View." He was also, says<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[80]</a></span>
+John T. Morse, in his life of Jefferson, "a man
+without an enemy. His abstinence from any active
+share in debate had saved him from giving
+irritation."</p>
+
+<p>The Declaration still exists in Jefferson's clear
+handwriting. For three days the paper was hotly
+debated, "John Adams being the colossus of the
+debate." Jefferson did not speak a word, though
+Franklin cheered him as he saw him "writhing
+under the acrimonious criticism of some of its
+parts."</p>
+
+<p>When it was adopted, the country was wild with
+joy. It was publicly read from a platform in
+Independence Square. Military companies gathered
+to listen to its words, fired salutes, and lighted
+bonfires in the evenings. The step, dreaded, yet
+for years longed for, had been taken&mdash;separation
+and freedom, or union and slavery. Jefferson
+came to that Congress an educated, true-hearted
+lover of his country; he went back to Martha
+Jefferson famous as long as America shall endure.
+He was reëlected to Congress, but declined to
+serve, as he wished to do important work in his
+own State, in the changing of her laws.</p>
+
+<p>But now, October 8, 1776, came a most tempting
+offer; that of joint commissioner with Benjamin
+Franklin and Silas Deane to represent America at
+the court of France. He had always longed for
+European travel; he was a fine French scholar,
+and could make himself most useful to his new
+country, but his wife was too frail to undertake<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[81]</a></span>
+the long journey. She was more to him than the
+French mission, and he stayed at home.</p>
+
+<p>Born with a belief in human brotherhood and a
+love for human freedom, he turned his attention
+in the Virginia Legislature to the repeal of the
+laws of entail and primogeniture, derived from
+England. He believed the repeal of these, and
+the adoption of his bill "for establishing religious
+freedom," would, as he said, form a system by
+which every fibre would be eradicated of ancient
+or future aristocracy. "The repeal of the laws of
+entail would prevent the accumulation and perpetuation
+of wealth in select families.... The
+abolition of primogeniture, and equal partition of
+inheritances, removed the feudal and unnatural
+distinctions which made one member of every
+family rich and all the rest poor.... The restoration
+of the rights of conscience relieved the people
+from taxation for the support of a religion not
+theirs."</p>
+
+<p>There was much persecution of Dissenters by
+the Established Church. Baptists were often
+thrown into prison for preaching, as Patrick
+Henry declared, "the Gospel of the Saviour to
+Adam's fallen race." For nine years the matter
+of freedom of conscience was wrestled with, before
+Virginia could concede to her people the right
+to worship God as they pleased.</p>
+
+<p>Jefferson was averse to slavery, worked for the
+colonization of the slaves, and in 1778 carried
+through a bill against their further importation.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[82]</a></span>
+He wrote later, in his "Notes on Virginia": "The
+whole commerce between master and slave is a perpetual
+exercise of the most boisterous passions, the
+most unremitting despotism, on the one part, and
+degrading submissions on the other.... I tremble
+for my country when I reflect that God is just;
+that his justice cannot sleep forever; that, considering
+numbers, nature, and natural means only, a revolution
+of the wheel of fortune, an exchange of
+situations, is among possible events; that it may
+become probable by supernatural interference!
+The Almighty has no attribute which can take
+side with us in such a contest." When his State
+could not bring itself to adopt his plan of freeing
+the slaves, he wrote in his autobiography, in 1821,
+"The day is not distant when it must bear and
+adopt it, or worse will follow. Nothing is more
+certainly written in the book of fate than that
+these people are to be free." How great indeed
+was the man who could look beyond his own personal
+interests for the well-being of the race!</p>
+
+<p>He worked earnestly for common schools and
+the establishment of a university in his native
+State, believing that it is the right and duty of
+a nation to make its people intelligent and capable
+of self-government.</p>
+
+<p>In June, 1779, Jefferson was made governor of
+Virginia, to succeed Patrick Henry, her first governor.
+The Revolutionary War had been going
+forward, with some victories and some defeats.
+Virginia had given generously of men, money, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[83]</a></span>
+provisions. The war was being transferred to the
+South, as its battle-ground. British fleets had laid
+waste the Atlantic coast. Benedict Arnold and
+Cornwallis had ravaged Virginia. When General
+Tarlton was ordered to Charlottesville, in 1781,
+and it seemed probable that Monticello would fall
+into his hands, Jefferson moved his family to a
+place of safety.</p>
+
+<p>When the British arrived, and found that the
+governor was not to be captured, they retired
+without committing the slightest injury to the
+place. This was in return for kindness shown by
+Jefferson to four thousand English prisoners, who
+had been sent from near New York, to be in camp
+at Charlottesville, where it seemed cheaper to provide
+for them. Jefferson rightly said: "It is for
+the benefit of mankind to mitigate the horrors of
+war as much as possible. The practice, therefore,
+of modern nations, of treating captive enemies
+with politeness and generosity, is not only delightful
+in contemplation, but really interesting to
+all the world&mdash;friends, foes, and neutrals."</p>
+
+<p>Two faithful servants at Monticello, fearful that
+the silver might be stolen by the red-coats, concealed
+it under a floor a few feet from the ground;
+Cćsar, removing a plank, and slipping through
+the cavity, received it from the hands of Martin.
+The soldiers came just as the last piece was
+handed to Cćsar; the plank was immediately
+restored to its place, and for nearly three days
+and nights the poor colored man remained in the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[84]</a></span>
+dark, without food, guarding his master's treasures.
+When a soldier put his gun to the breast of Martin
+and threatened to fire unless Jefferson's whereabouts
+was disclosed, the brave fellow answered,
+"Fire away, then!" A man or woman who wins
+and holds such loyalty from dependents is no
+ordinary character.</p>
+
+<p>After holding the office of governor for two
+years, Jefferson resigned, feeling that a military
+man would give greater satisfaction. Such a one
+followed him, but with no better success among
+the half-despairing patriots, destitute of money
+and supplies. Jefferson, with his sensitive spirit,
+felt keenly the criticisms of some of the people,
+saying, "They have inflicted a wound on my spirit
+which will only be cured by the all-healing grave."
+He refused to return to public life, and looked
+forward to happy years of quiet study at Monticello.</p>
+
+<p>How little we know the way which lies before
+us. We long for sunlight, and perchance have
+only storms. We love to be as children who must
+be carried over the swamps and rough places, not
+knowing that strength of manhood and womanhood
+comes generally through struggling. The "happy
+years" at Monticello were already numbered.
+Another little girl had come to gladden the heart
+of the man who so loved children, and had quickly
+taken her departure. And now Martha Jefferson,
+at thirty-four, the sweet, gentle woman who
+had lived with him only ten short years, was also<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[85]</a></span>
+going away. She talked with him calmly about
+the journey; she said she could not die content if
+she thought their children would have a stepmother.
+The young governor, without a moment's
+thought as to his future happiness, taking her
+hand, solemnly promised that he would never
+marry again, and he kept his word. It is not
+known that any person ever entered the place left
+vacant in his heart by Martha Jefferson's death.</p>
+
+<p>For four months he had watched by her bedside,
+or had his books so near her that he could
+work without being separated from her. When
+she died he fainted, and remained so long insensible
+that the attendants thought he could never be
+restored to consciousness. For three weeks he
+kept his room, ministered to by his little daughter
+Martha, who wound her arms about his neck, with
+that inexpressible consolation that only a pure,
+sweet child-nature can give. She said years later,
+"I was never a moment from his side. He walked
+almost incessantly, night and day, only lying down
+occasionally, when nature was completely exhausted....
+When, at last, he left his room, he
+rode out, and from that time he was on horseback
+rambling about the mountain, in the least frequented
+roads, and just as often through the
+woods. In those melancholy rambles I was his
+constant companion, a solitary witness to many a
+burst of grief."</p>
+
+<p>He longed now for a change of scene; Monticello
+was no more a place of peace and rest. Being<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[86]</a></span>
+elected to Congress, he took his seat in November,
+1783. To him we owe, after much heated discussion,
+the adoption of the present system of dollars
+and cents, instead of pounds and shillings. In
+May, 1784, he was appointed minister to France,
+to join Dr. Franklin and John Adams in negotiating
+commercial treaties. He sailed in July,
+taking with him his eldest child, Martha, leaving
+Mary and an infant daughter with an aunt.</p>
+
+<p>The educated governor and congressman of
+course found a cordial welcome in Parisian society,
+for was he not the author of the Declaration of
+Independence, endeared to all lovers of liberty, in
+whatever country. He was charmed with French
+courtesy, thrift, and neatness, but he was always
+an American in sentiment and affection. He wrote
+to his young friend, James Monroe, afterwards
+President: "The pleasure of the trip to Europe
+will be less than you expect, but the utility greater.
+It will make you adore your own country,&mdash;its
+soil, its climate, its equality, liberty, laws, people,
+and manners. How little do my countrymen know
+what precious blessings they are in possession of,
+and which no other people on earth enjoy!"
+More and more he loved, and believed in, a republic.
+He wrote to a friend: "If all the evils which can
+arise among us from the republican form of government,
+from this day to the day of judgment,
+could be put into scale against what this country
+suffers from its monarchical form in a week, or
+England in a month, the latter would preponderate.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[87]</a></span>
+No race of kings has ever presented above one man
+of common-sense in twenty generations. The best
+they can do is to leave things to their ministers;
+and what are their ministers but a committee badly
+chosen?"</p>
+
+<p>Jefferson spent much time in looking up the
+manufacturing and agricultural interests of the
+country, and kept four colleges&mdash;Harvard, Yale,
+William and Mary, and the College of Philadelphia&mdash;advised
+of new inventions, new books, and new
+phases of the approaching Revolution.</p>
+
+<p>He had placed his daughter Martha in a leading
+school. His letters to her in the midst of his busy
+life show the beautiful spirit of the man, who was
+too great ever to rise above his affectional nature.
+"The more you learn the more I love you," he
+wrote her; "and I rest the happiness of my life on
+seeing you beloved by all the world, which you will
+be sure to be if to a good heart you join those accomplishments
+so peculiarly pleasing in your sex.
+Adieu, my dear child; lose no moment in improving
+your head, nor any opportunity of exercising
+your heart in benevolence."</p>
+
+<p>His baby-girl, Lucy, died two years after her
+mother, and now only little Mary was left in America.
+He could not rest until this child was with
+him in France. She came, with a breaking heart
+on leaving the old Virginia home and her aunt.
+On board the vessel she became so attached to the
+captain that it was almost impossible to take her
+from him. She spent some weeks with Mrs. John<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[88]</a></span>
+Adams in London, who wrote: "A finer child I
+never saw. I grew so fond of her, and she was so
+much attached to me, that, when Mr. Jefferson sent
+for her, they were obliged to force the little creature
+away."</p>
+
+<p>Once in Paris, the affectionate child was placed
+at school with her sister Martha, to whom Jefferson
+wrote: "She will become a precious charge upon
+your hands.... Teach her, above all things, to be
+good, because without that we can neither be valued
+by others nor set any value on ourselves.
+Teach her to be always true; no vice is so mean as
+the want of truth, and at the same time so useless.
+Teach her never to be angry; anger only serves to
+torment ourselves, to divert others, and alienate
+their esteem."</p>
+
+<p>The love of truth was a strong characteristic of
+Jefferson's nature, one of the most beautiful characteristics
+of any life. There is no other foundation-stone
+so strong and enduring on which to
+build a granite character as the granite rock of
+truth. Jefferson wrote to his children and nephews:
+"If you ever find yourself in any difficulty, and
+doubt how to extricate yourself, <i>do what is right</i>,
+and you will find it the easiest way of getting out
+of the difficulty.... Give up money, give up fame,
+give up science, give the earth itself, and all it contains,
+rather than do an immoral act. And never
+suppose that, in any possible situation or any circumstances,
+it is best for you to do a dishonorable
+thing." Again he wrote: "Determine never to be<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[89]</a></span>
+idle. No person will have occasion to complain of
+the want of time, who never loses any. It is wonderful
+how much may be done if we are always
+doing."</p>
+
+<p>After five years spent in France, most of which
+time he was minister plenipotentiary, Dr. Franklin
+having returned home, and John Adams having
+gone to England, Jefferson set sail for America,
+with his two beloved children, Martha, seventeen,
+and Mary, eleven. He had done his work well,
+and been honored for his wisdom and his peace-loving
+nature. Daniel Webster said of him: "No
+court in Europe had at that time a representative
+in Paris commanding or enjoying higher
+regard, for political knowledge or for general
+attainments, than the minister of this then infant
+republic."</p>
+
+<p>Even before Jefferson reached home he had been
+appointed Secretary of State by President Washington.
+He accepted with a sense of dread, and
+his subsequent difficulties with Alexander Hamilton,
+Secretary of the Treasury, realized his worst
+fears. The one believed in centralization of power&mdash;a
+stronger national government; the other believed
+in a pure democracy&mdash;the will of the people,
+with the least possible governing power. The
+two men were opposite in character, opposite in
+financial plans, opposite in views of national polity.
+Jefferson took sides with the French, and Hamilton
+with the English in the French Revolution. The
+press grew bitter over these differences, and the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[90]</a></span>
+noble heart of George Washington was troubled.
+Finally Jefferson resigned, and retired to Monticello.
+"I return to farming," he said, "with an
+ardor which I scarcely knew in my youth."</p>
+
+<p>Three years later, he was again called into public
+life. As Washington declined a reëlection, John
+Adams and Thomas Jefferson became the two
+Presidential candidates. The one receiving the
+most votes of the electors became President, and
+the second on the list, Vice-President. John
+Adams received three more votes than Jefferson,
+and was made President.</p>
+
+<p>On March 4, 1797, Jefferson, as Vice-President,
+became the leader of the Senate, delivering a short
+but able address. Much of the next four years he
+spent at Monticello, watching closely the progress
+of events. Matters with the French republic grew
+more complicated. She demanded an alliance with
+the United States against England, which was refused,
+and war became imminent. At the last
+moment, John Adams rose above the tempest of
+the hour, went quite half-way in bringing about a
+reconciliation, and the country was saved from a
+useless and disastrous war.</p>
+
+<p>The Federalists had passed some unwise measures,
+such as the "Alien Law," whereby the President
+was authorized to send foreigners out of the
+country; and the "Sedition Law," which punished
+with fine and imprisonment freedom of speech and
+of the press. Therefore, at the next presidential
+election, when Adams and Jefferson were again<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[91]</a></span>
+candidates, the latter was made President of the
+United States, the Federalists having lost their
+power, and the Republicans&mdash;afterwards called
+Democrats&mdash;having gained the ascendancy.</p>
+
+<p>The contest had been bitter. Jefferson's religious
+belief had been strongly assailed. Through it all
+he had the common-sense to know that the cool-headed,
+good-natured man, who has only words of
+kindness, and who rarely or never makes an
+enemy, is the man who wins in the end. He controlled
+himself, and therefore his party, in a manner
+almost unexampled.</p>
+
+<p>March 4, 1801, at the age of fifty-eight, in a
+plain suit of clothes, the great leader of Democracy
+rode to the Capitol, hitched his horse to the fence,
+entered the Senate Chamber, and delivered his
+inaugural address. Thus simple was the man,
+who wished ever to be known as "the friend
+of the people." Alas! that sweet Martha Jefferson
+could not have lived to see this glad day!
+To what a proud height had come the hard-working
+college boy and the tender-hearted, tolerant
+man!</p>
+
+<p>As President, he was the idol of his party, and,
+in the main, a wise leader. He made few removals
+from office, chiefly those appointed by John Adams
+just as he was leaving the Presidency. Jefferson
+said removals "must be as few as possible, done
+gradually, and bottomed on some malversation or
+inherent disqualification." One of the chief acts
+was the purchase from France of a great tract of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[92]</a></span>
+land, called the Territory of Louisiana, for fifteen
+million dollars.</p>
+
+<p>During his second four years in office, there were
+more perplexities. Aaron Burr, Vice-President during
+Jefferson's first term, was tried on the charge
+of raising an army to place himself on the throne
+of Mexico, or at the head of a South-western confederacy.
+England, usually at war with France, had
+issued orders prohibiting all trade with that country
+and her allies; Napoleon had retorted by a like
+measure. Both nations claimed the right to take
+seamen out of United States vessels. The British
+frigate Leopard took four seamen by force from
+the American frigate Chesapeake. The nation
+seemed on the verge of war, but it was postponed,
+only to come later, in 1812, under James
+Madison.</p>
+
+<p>Congress passed the Embargo Act, by which all
+American vessels were detained in our own ports.
+It had strong advocates and strong opponents, but
+was repealed as soon as Jefferson retired from
+office. Owing to these measures our commerce
+was well-nigh destroyed.</p>
+
+<p>At the age of sixty-five years, Jefferson retired
+to Monticello, "with a reputation and popularity,"
+says Mr. Morse, "hardly inferior to that of Washington."
+He had had the wisdom never to assume
+the bearing of a leader. He had been careful to
+avoid disputes. Once, when riding, he met a
+stranger, with whom engaging in conversation, he
+found him bitterly opposed to the President. Upon<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[93]</a></span>
+being asked if he knew Mr. Jefferson personally,
+he replied, "No, nor do I wish to."</p>
+
+<p>"But do you think it fair to repeat such stories
+about a man, and condemn one whom you do not
+dare to face?"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall never shrink from meeting him if he
+ever comes in my way."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you, then, go to his house to-morrow, and
+be introduced to him, if I promise to meet you
+there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I will."</p>
+
+<p>The stranger came, to his astonishment found
+that the man he had talked with was the President
+himself, dined with him, and became his firm friend
+and supporter ever afterward.</p>
+
+<p>For the next seventeen years, Jefferson lived at
+Monticello, honored and visited by celebrities from
+all the world. Sometimes as many as fifty persons
+stayed at his home over night. One family of six
+came from abroad, and remained with him for ten
+months. His daughter Martha, married to Thomas
+Mann Randolph, presided over his hospitable
+home, and with her eleven children made the place
+a delight, for she had "the Jefferson temperament&mdash;all
+music and sunshine." The beautiful Mary,
+who married her cousin, John W. Eppes, had died
+at twenty-six, leaving two small children, who, like
+all the rest, found a home with Jefferson.</p>
+
+<p>In the midst of this loving company, the great
+man led a busy life, carrying on an immense correspondence,
+by means of which he exerted a commanding<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[94]</a></span>
+influence on the questions of the day as
+well as on all social matters. To a child named for
+him, he wrote a letter which the boy might read
+after the statesman's death. In it are these helpful
+words: "Adore God. Reverence and cherish
+your parents. Love your neighbor as yourself.
+Be just. Be true. Murmur not at the ways of
+Providence."</p>
+
+<p>To his daughter Mary he wrote these lines,
+which well might be hung up in every household:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Harmony in the married state is the very first
+object to be aimed at. Nothing can preserve affections
+uninterrupted but a firm resolution never to
+differ in will, and a determination in each to consider
+the love of the other as of more value than
+any object whatever on which a wish had been
+fixed. How light, in fact, is the sacrifice of any
+other wish when weighed against the affections of
+one with whom we are to pass our whole life. And
+though opposition in a single instance will hardly
+of itself produce alienation, yet every one has his
+pouch into which all these little oppositions are
+put. While that is filling, the alienation is insensibly
+going on, and when filled it is complete. It
+would puzzle either to say why, because no one
+difference of opinion has been marked enough to
+produce a serious effect by itself. But he finds his
+affections wearied out by a constant stream of little
+checks and obstacles.</p>
+
+<p>"Other sources of discontent, very common indeed,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[95]</a></span>
+are the little cross-purposes of husband and
+wife, in common conversation; a disposition in
+either to criticise and question whatever the other
+says; a desire always to demonstrate and make
+him feel himself in the wrong, and especially in
+company. Nothing is so goading. Much better,
+therefore, if our companion views a thing in a light
+different from what we do, to leave him in quiet
+possession of his view. What is the use of rectifying
+him, if the thing be unimportant, and, if important,
+let it pass for the present, and wait a softer
+moment and more conciliatory occasion of revising
+the subject together. It is wonderful how many
+persons are rendered unhappy by inattention to
+these little rules of prudence."</p>
+
+<p>Jefferson rose early; the sun, he said, had not for
+fifty years caught him in bed. But he bore great
+heart-sorrow in these declining years, and bore it
+bravely. His estate had diminished in value, and
+he had lost heavily by indorsements for others.
+His household expenses were necessarily great.
+Finally, debts pressed so heavily that he sold to
+Congress the dearly prized library, which he had
+been gathering for fifty years. He received nearly
+twenty-four thousand dollars for it, about half its
+original value. But this amount brought only
+temporary relief.</p>
+
+<p>Then he attempted to dispose of some of his
+land by lottery, as was somewhat the fashion of
+the times. The Legislature reluctantly gave permission,
+but as soon as his friends in New York,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[96]</a></span>
+Philadelphia, and Baltimore heard of his pecuniary
+condition, they raised about eighteen thousand
+dollars for him, and the lottery plan was abandoned.
+He was touched by this proof of esteem,
+and said: "No cent of this is wrung from the
+tax-payer; it is the pure and unsolicited offering
+of love."</p>
+
+<p>Jefferson was now, as he said, "like an old
+watch, with a pinion worn out here and a wheel
+there, until it can go no longer." On July 3, 1826,
+after a brief illness, he seemed near the end. He
+desired to live till the next day, and frequently
+asked if it were the Fourth. He lingered till
+forty minutes past the noon of July 4, and then
+slept in death. That same day, John Adams, at
+ninety-one, was dying at Quincy, Mass. His last
+words were, as he went out at sunset, the booming
+of cannon sounding pleasant to his patriotic heart,
+"Thomas Jefferson still lives." He did not know
+that his great co-laborer had gone home at midday.
+"The two aged men," says T. W. Higginson,
+"floated on, like two ships becalmed at nightfall,
+that drift together into port, and cast anchor side
+by side." Beautiful words!</p>
+
+<p>The death of two Presidents at this memorable
+time has given an additional sacredness to our
+national Independence Day.</p>
+
+<p>Among Jefferson's papers were found, carefully
+laid away, "some of my dear, dear wife's
+handwriting," and locks of hair of herself and
+children. Also a sketch of the granite stone he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[97]</a></span>
+desired for his monument, with these words to be
+inscribed upon it.</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+Here was buried<br />
+<span class="smcap">Thomas Jefferson</span>,<br />
+Author of the Declaration of Independence,<br />
+Of the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom,<br />
+And Father of the University of Virginia.
+</p>
+
+<p>He was buried by his family and servants, on the
+spot selected by himself and Dabney Carr in boyhood,
+his wife on one side and his loving Mary on
+the other.</p>
+
+<p>The beloved Monticello passed into other hands.
+Martha Jefferson and her children would have
+been left penniless had not the Legislatures of
+South Carolina and Louisiana each voted her ten
+thousand dollars. Thomas Jefferson Randolph,
+the grandson, with the assistance of his daughters,
+who established a noted school, paid all the remaining
+debts, many thousand dollars, to save the honor
+of their famous ancestor.</p>
+
+<p>To the last, Jefferson kept his sublime faith in
+human nature and in the eternal justice of republican
+principles, saying it is "my conviction that
+should things go wrong at any time, the people will
+set them to rights by the peaceable exercise of their
+elective rights." Whatever his religious belief in
+its details of creed, he said, "I am a Christian in
+the only sense in which Jesus wished any one to
+be&mdash;sincerely attached to his doctrines in preference<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[98]</a></span>
+to all others." He compiled a little book of
+the words of Christ, saying, "A more precious
+morsel of ethics was never seen."</p>
+
+<p>In his public life he was honest, in his domestic
+life lovable, and he died, as he had lived, tolerant
+of the opinions of others, even-tempered, believing
+in the grandeur and beauty of human nature.
+What though we occasionally trust too much! Far
+better that than to go through life doubting and
+murmuring! That he believed too broadly in
+States' Rights for the perpetuity of the Union,
+our late Civil War plainly showed, and his views
+on Free Trade are, of course, shared by a portion
+only of our citizens. However, he gave grandly
+of the affection of his heart and the power of his
+intellect, and he received, as he deserved, the love
+and honor of thousands, the world over.</p>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[99]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 367px;">
+<img src="images/illus-099.jpg" width="367" height="600" alt="A. Hamilton" title="A. Hamilton" />
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>ALEXANDER HAMILTON.</h2>
+
+
+<p>To the quiet and picturesque island of Nevis,
+one of the West Indies, many years ago, a
+Scotch merchant came to build for himself a home.
+He was of a proud and wealthy family, allied centuries
+before to William the Conqueror.</p>
+
+<p>On this island lived also a Huguenot family, who
+had settled there after the revocation of the Edict
+of Nantes, which drove so many Protestants out of
+the country. In this family was a beautiful and
+very intellectual girl, with refined tastes and gentle,
+cultured manners. Through the ambition of
+her mother she had contracted a marriage with a
+Dane of large wealth, followed by the usual unhappiness
+of marrying simply for money. A divorce
+resulted, and the attractive young woman married
+the Scotch merchant, James Hamilton. A son,
+Alexander, was born to them, January 11, 1757.</p>
+
+<p>But he was born into privation rather than joy
+and plenty. The generous and kindly father failed
+in business; the beautiful mother died in his childhood,
+and he was thrown upon the bounty of her
+relations.</p>
+
+<p>The opportunities for education on the island<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[100]</a></span>
+were limited. The child read all the books he
+could lay his hands upon, becoming especially fond
+of Plutarch's Lives and Pope's works. He was
+fortunate also in having the friendship of a superior
+man, Dr. Knox, a Presbyterian clergyman, who
+delighted in the boy's quick and comprehensive
+mind.</p>
+
+<p>At twelve years of age he was obliged to earn
+money, and was placed in the counting-house of
+Nicholas Cruger. Probably, like other boys, he
+wished he were rich, but found later in life that
+success is usually born of effort and economy. He
+early chose "Perseverando" for his motto, and it
+helped to carry him to the summit of power.</p>
+
+<p>That the counting-house was not congenial to
+him, a letter to a school-fellow in New York
+plainly shows. "To confess my weakness, Ned,
+my ambition is prevalent, so that I contemn the
+grovelling condition of a clerk, or the like, to which
+my fortune condemns me, and would willingly risk
+my life, though not my character, to exalt my station.
+I am confident, Ned, that my youth excludes
+me from any hopes of immediate preferment, nor
+do I desire it, but I mean to prepare the way for
+futurity. I'm no philosopher, you see, and may be
+justly said to build castles in the air; my folly
+makes me ashamed, and beg you'll conceal it; yet,
+Neddy, we have seen such schemes successful, when
+the projector is constant. I shall conclude by
+saying, I wish there was a war."</p>
+
+<p>The "projector was constant," and the "schemes<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[101]</a></span>
+became successful." He was indeed "preparing
+the way for futurity," this lad not yet fourteen.
+At this time, Mr. Cruger made a visit to New
+York, and left the precocious boy in charge of his
+business. Such reliance upon him increased his
+self-reliance, and helped to fit him to advise and
+uphold a nation in later years.</p>
+
+<p>In these early days he began to write both prose
+and poetry. When he was fifteen, the Leeward
+Islands were visited by a terrific hurricane. In one
+town five hundred houses were blown down. So
+interested was Alexander in this novel occurrence
+that he wrote a description of it for a newspaper.
+When the authorship was discovered, it was decided
+by the relatives that such a boy ought to be educated.
+The money was raised for this purpose,
+and he sailed for New York, taking with him some
+valuable letters of introduction from Dr. Knox.</p>
+
+<p>He was soon attending a grammar-school at
+Elizabeth, New Jersey. The principal, Francis
+Barber, was a fine classical scholar, patriotic, entering
+the Revolutionary War later; the right man to
+impress his pupils for good. Alexander, with his
+accustomed energy and ambition, set himself to
+work. In winter, wrapt in a blanket, he studied
+till midnight, and in summer, at dawn, resorted to
+a cemetery near by, where he found the quiet he
+desired. In a year he was ready to enter college.</p>
+
+<p>Attracted to Princeton, he asked Dr. Witherspoon,
+the president of the college, the privilege
+of taking the course in about half the usual time.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[102]</a></span>
+The good days of election in study had not yet
+dawned. The dull and the bright must have the
+same routine; the one urged to his duties, the
+other tired by the delay. The doctor could not
+establish so peculiar a precedent, and Princeton
+missed the honor of educating the great statesman.</p>
+
+<p>He entered Columbia College, and made an excellent
+record for himself. In the debating club,
+say his classmates, "he gave extraordinary displays
+of richness of genius and energy of mind." He
+won strong friendships to himself by his generous
+and unselfish nature, and his ardent love for others.
+It is only another proof of the old rule, that "Like
+begets like." Those who give love in this world
+usually receive it. Selfishness wins nothing&mdash;self-sacrifice,
+all things.</p>
+
+<p>The college-boy was often seen walking under the
+large trees on what is now Dey Street, New York,
+talking to himself in an undertone, and apparently
+in deep thought. The neighbors knew the slight,
+dark-eyed lad, as the "young West Indian," and
+wondered concerning his future. When he was
+seventeen, a "great meeting in the fields" was held
+in New York, July 6, 1774. While Hamilton was
+studying, the colonies of America had been looking
+over into the promised land of freedom, driven
+thither by some unwise task-masters. Boston had
+seasoned the waters of the Atlantic with British
+tea. New York, well filled with Tories, yet had
+some Patriots, who felt that the hour was approaching
+when all must stand together in the demand<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[103]</a></span>
+for liberty. Accordingly, the "great meeting"
+was called, to teach the people the lessons of the
+past and the duties of the future.</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton had recently returned from a visit to
+Boston, and was urged to be present and speak at
+the meeting. He at first refused, being a stranger
+in the country and unknown. He attended, however;
+and when several speakers had addressed
+the eager crowds, thoughts flowed into the youth's
+mind and pleaded for utterance. He mounted the
+platform. The audience stared at the stripling.
+Then, as he depicted the long endured oppression
+from England, urged the wisdom of resistance, and
+painted in glowing colors the sure success of the colonies,
+the hearts of the multitude took fire with
+courage and hope. When he closed, they shouted,
+"It is a collegian! it is a collegian!"</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton was no longer a West Indian; he was,
+heart and soul, an American. Liberty now grew
+more exciting than college books. Dr. Seabury,
+afterwards Bishop of Connecticut, wrote two tracts
+entitled "Free Thoughts on the Proceedings of the
+Continental Congress," and "Congress Canvassed
+by a Westchester Farmer." These pamphlets attempted
+to show the foolishness of opposing a
+monarchy like England. They were scattered
+broadcast.</p>
+
+<p>Then tracts appeared in answer; clear, terse,
+sound, and able. These said, "No reason can be
+assigned why one man should exercise any power
+or preëminence over his fellow-creatures more than<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[104]</a></span>
+another, unless they have voluntarily vested him
+with it. Since, then, Americans have not, by any
+act of theirs, empowered the British Parliament to
+make laws for them, it follows they can have no
+just authority to do it.... If, by the necessity of
+the thing, manufactures should once be established,
+and take root among us, they will pave the way
+still more to the future grandeur and glory of
+America; and, by lessening its need of external
+commerce, will render it still securer against the
+encroachments of tyranny."</p>
+
+<p>This was rank heterodoxy toward a power which
+had crippled the manufactures of America in all
+possible ways, and wished to keep her a great agricultural
+country. "The sacred rights of mankind,"
+said the writer, "are not to be rummaged for among
+old parchments or musty records; they are written,
+as with a sunbeam, in the whole volume of human
+nature, by the hand of the Divinity itself, and can
+never be erased or obscured by mortal power."
+The wonder grew as to the authorship of these
+pamphlets. Some said John Jay wrote them; some
+said Governor Livingstone. When it was learned
+that Hamilton, only eighteen, had composed them,
+the Tories stood aghast, and the Patriots saw that
+a new star had risen in the heavens.</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton knew that the war was inevitable;
+that the time must soon come for which he longed
+when he wrote to his friend Ned, "I wish there
+was a war." He immediately began to study military
+affairs. There are always places to be filled<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[105]</a></span>
+by those who make themselves ready. He was
+learning none too early. His corps, called the
+"Hearts of Oak" in green uniforms and leathern
+caps, drilled each morning. While engaged in
+removing cannon from the battery, a boat from
+the Asia, a British ship-of-war, fired into the men,
+killing the person who stood next to Hamilton.
+At once the drums were beaten, and the people
+rushed to arms. The king's store-houses were pillaged,
+and the "Liberty Boys" marched through
+the streets, threatening revenge on every Tory.</p>
+
+<p>Young Hamilton, fearless before the Asia, could
+also be fearless in defence of his friends. Dr.
+Cooper, the President of Columbia College, was a
+pronounced Tory. When the mob approached the
+steps of the institution, Hamilton, nothing daunted,
+appeared before them, and urged coolness, lest they
+bring "disgrace on the cause of liberty." Dr.
+Cooper imagined that his liberal pupil was assisting
+the mob, and cried out from an upper window,
+"Don't listen to him, gentlemen! he is crazy, he is
+crazy!" But the mob did listen, and the president
+was saved from harm.</p>
+
+<p>The Revolutionary War had begun. Lexington
+and Bunker Hill were as beacon-fires to the new
+nation. In 1776, the New York Convention ordered
+a company of artillery to be raised, and
+Hamilton applied for the command of it. Only
+nineteen, and very boyish in looks, his fitness for
+the position was doubted, till his excellent examination
+proved his knowledge, and he was appointed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[106]</a></span>
+captain. He used the last money sent him by his
+relatives in the West Indies, to equip his company.</p>
+
+<p>College days were now over, and the busy life of
+the soldier had commenced. For most young men,
+the stirring events of the times would have filled
+every moment and every thought. Not so the man
+born to have a controlling and permanent influence
+in the republic. He found time to study about
+money circulation, rates of exchange, commerce,
+taxes, increase of population, and the like, because
+he knew that a great work must be done by somebody
+after the war. How true it is that if we fit
+ourselves for a great work, the work will find us.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime, Captain Hamilton drilled his troops
+so well that General Greene observed it, made the
+acquaintance of the captain, invited him to his
+headquarters, and spoke of him to Washington.
+Had not the work been well done, it would not
+have commanded attention, but this attention was
+an important stepping-stone to fame and honor.
+Hamilton was ever after a most loyal friend to
+General Greene.</p>
+
+<p>The company was soon called into active service.
+At the disastrous battle of Long Island,
+Hamilton was in the thickest of the fight, and
+brought up the rear, losing his baggage and a field-piece.
+After the retreat up the Hudson, at Harlem
+Heights, Washington observed the skill used
+in the construction of some earthworks, and, finding
+that the engineer was the young man introduced
+to him by General Greene, invited him to his tent.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[107]</a></span>
+This was the beginning of a life-long and most
+devoted friendship between the great commander
+and the boyish captain.</p>
+
+<p>Later, at the battles of Trenton and Princeton,
+Hamilton was fearless and heroic. "Well do I
+recollect the day," said a friend, "when Hamilton's
+company marched into Princeton. It was a model
+of discipline; at their head was a boy, and I wondered
+at his youth; but what was my surprise when,
+struck with his slight figure, he was pointed out to
+me as that Hamilton of whom we had already
+heard so much.... A mere stripling, small,
+slender, almost delicate in frame, marching beside
+a piece of artillery, with a cocked hat pulled down
+over his eyes, apparently lost in thought, with his
+hand resting on a cannon, and every now and then
+patting it, as if it were a favorite horse or a pet
+plaything."</p>
+
+<p>He had so won the esteem and approbation of
+Washington that he was offered a position upon
+his staff, which he accepted March 1, 1777, with
+the rank of lieutenant-colonel. His work now
+was constant and absorbing. The correspondence
+was immense, but all was done with that clearness
+and elegance of diction which had marked the
+young collegian. He was popular with old and
+young, being called the "Little Lion," as a term of
+endearment, in appreciation of bravery and nobility
+of character.</p>
+
+<p>When the skies looked darkest, as at Valley
+Forge, Hamilton was habitually cheerful, seeing<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[108]</a></span>
+always a rainbow among the clouds. His enthusiasm
+was contagious. He carried men with him
+by a belief in his own powers, and by deep sympathy
+with others. Lafayette loved him as a
+brother. He wrote Hamilton, "Before this campaign
+I was your friend and very intimate friend,
+agreeably to the ideas of the world. Since my
+second voyage, my sentiment has increased to such
+a point the world knows nothing about. To show
+<i>both</i>, from want and from scorn of expression, I
+shall only tell you&mdash;Adieu!"</p>
+
+<p>Baron Steuben used to say, in later days, "The
+Secretary of the Treasury is my banker; my Hamilton
+takes care of me when he cannot take care of
+himself."</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton wrote to his dear friend Laurens, "Cold
+in my professions&mdash;warm in my friendships&mdash;I
+wish it were in my power, by actions rather than
+words, to convince you that I love you.... You
+know the opinion I entertain of mankind, and how
+much it is my desire to preserve myself free from
+particular attachments, and to keep my happiness
+independent of the caprices of others. You should
+not have taken advantage of my sensibility to steal
+into my affections without my consent."</p>
+
+<p>Best of all, Washington confided in him, and
+loved him, and we usually love those in whom we
+have confided. When he wanted a calcitrant general,
+like Gates, brought to terms, he sent the tactful,
+clear-headed Hamilton on the mission. When
+he wanted decisive action, he sent the same fearless<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[109]</a></span>
+young officer, who knew no such word as failure.
+Sometimes he broke down physically, but the power
+of youth triumphed, and he was soon at work
+again.</p>
+
+<p>On his expedition to General Gates, in November,
+1777, with all his desire to keep himself "free
+from particular attachments," he laid the foundation
+for the one lasting attachment of his life. At
+the house of the wealthy and distinguished General
+Philip Schuyler, he met and liked the second
+daughter, Elizabeth. Three years later, in the
+spring of 1780, when the officers brought their
+families to Morristown, the acquaintance ripened
+into love, and December 14, 1780, when Hamilton
+was twenty-three, he was married to Miss Schuyler.
+The father of the young lady was proud and happy
+in her choice. He wrote Hamilton, "You cannot,
+my dear sir, be more happy at the connection you
+have made with my family than I am. Until the
+child of a parent has made a judicious choice, his
+heart is in continual anxiety; but this anxiety was
+removed the moment I discovered it was you on
+whom she placed her affections."</p>
+
+<p>In this year, 1780, the country was shocked by
+the treason of Benedict Arnold. Hamilton was
+sent in pursuit, only to find that he had escaped to
+the British. He ministered to the heart-broken
+wife of Arnold, as best he could. He wrote to a
+friend, "Her sufferings were so eloquent that I
+wished myself her brother, to have a right to become
+her defender."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[110]</a></span>For Major André he had the deepest sympathy,
+and admiration of his manly qualities. He wrote
+to Miss Schuyler, afterward his wife, "Poor André
+suffers to-day. Everything that is amiable in virtue,
+in fortitude, in delicate sentiment and accomplished
+manners, pleads for him; but hard-hearted policy
+calls for a sacrifice. I urged a compliance with
+André's request to be shot, and I do not think it
+would have had an ill effect."</p>
+
+<p>A month after his marriage, his only difficulty
+with General Washington occurred. The commander-in-chief
+had sent for Hamilton to confer with
+him, who, meeting Lafayette, was stopped by him
+for a few moments' conversation on business.
+When he reached Washington, the general said,
+"Colonel Hamilton, you have kept me waiting at
+the head of the stairs these ten minutes. I must
+tell you, sir, you treat me with disrespect." The
+proud young aid answered, "I am not conscious
+of it, sir; but since you have thought it necessary
+to tell me so, we part." He therefore resigned his
+position, glad to be free to take a more active part
+in the war. Washington, with his usual magnanimity,
+made overtures of reconciliation, and they
+became ever after trusted co-workers.</p>
+
+<p>All these years, Hamilton had shown himself
+brave and untiring in the interests of his adopted
+country. At the battle of Monmouth, his horse
+was shot under him. At Yorktown, at his own
+earnest request, he led the perilous assault upon
+the enemy's works, and carried them. When Hamilton<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[111]</a></span>
+saw that the enemy was driven back, he
+humanely ordered that not a British soldier should
+be killed after the attack. He says in his report,
+"Incapable of imitating examples of barbarity, and
+forgetting recent provocations, the soldiers spared
+every man who ceased to resist."</p>
+
+<p>Washington appreciated his heroism, and said,
+"Few cases have exhibited greater proof of intrepidity,
+coolness, and firmness than were shown on
+this occasion."</p>
+
+<p>Letters home to his wife show the warm heart of
+Hamilton. "I am unhappy&mdash;I am unhappy beyond
+expression. I am unhappy because I am to
+be so remote from you; because I am to hear from
+you less frequently than I am accustomed to do. I
+am miserable, because I know you will be so....
+Constantly uppermost in my thoughts and affections,
+I am happy only when my moments are devoted
+to some office that respects you. I would
+give the world to be able to tell you all I feel and
+all I wish; but consult your own heart, and you will
+know mine.... Every day confirms me in the intention
+of renouncing public life, and devoting
+myself wholly to you. Let others waste their time
+and their tranquillity in a vain pursuit of power
+and glory; be it my object to be happy in a quiet
+retreat, with my better angel."</p>
+
+<p>At the close of the Revolutionary War, he repaired
+to Albany, spending the winter at the home
+of General Schuyler, his wife's father. He had but
+little money, and his dues in the service of an impoverished<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[112]</a></span>
+country were unpaid; but he had what
+was far better, ability. He determined to study law.
+For four months, he bent himself unreservedly to
+his work, and was admitted to the bar. He steadily
+refused offers of pecuniary aid from General
+Schuyler, preferring to support his wife and infant
+son by his own exertions. Such a man, of proud
+spirit and unwavering purpose, would, of course,
+succeed.</p>
+
+<p>Friends who appreciated the service he had
+rendered to his country now interceded in his
+behalf, and he was appointed Continental receiver
+of taxes for New York. To accept a position
+meant, to him, persistent labor, and success in it if
+possible. He at once repaired to Poughkeepsie,
+where the Legislature was in session; presented his
+plans of taxation, and prevailed upon that body to
+pass a resolution asking for a convention of the
+States that a Union might be effected, stronger
+than the existing Confederation.</p>
+
+<p>The position as receiver of taxes was sometimes
+a disagreeable one, but it was another round in the
+ladder which carried him to fame. He had increased
+the number of his acquaintances. His
+energy and his knowledge of public questions had
+been revealed to the people; and the result was his
+election to Congress, at the age of twenty-five.
+Thus rapidly the ambitious, energetic, and intelligent
+young man had risen in influence.</p>
+
+<p>That his voice would be heard in Congress was
+a foregone conclusion. General Schuyler wrote his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[113]</a></span>
+daughter soon after Congress met: "Participate
+afresh in the satisfaction I experience from the
+connection you have made with my beloved Hamilton.
+He affords me happiness too exquisite for
+expression. I daily experience the pleasure of
+hearing encomiums on his virtue and abilities, from
+those who are capable of distinguishing between
+real and pretended merit. He is considered, as he
+certainly is, the ornament of his country, and
+capable of rendering it the most essential services,
+if his advice and suggestions are attended to."</p>
+
+<p>The country was deeply in debt from the Revolutionary
+War. It had no money with which to
+pay its soldiers; its paper currency was nearly
+worthless; dissatisfaction was apparent on every
+hand. There was little unity of interest among
+the States. Hamilton's plans for raising money,
+and for a more centralized government, were unheeded;
+and, after a year in Congress, he returned
+to the practice of law, saying, "The more I see,
+the more I find reason for those who love this
+country to weep over its blindness."</p>
+
+<p>As soon as the war was over, the people began
+to grow more bitter than ever toward the Tories, or
+loyalists. Harsh legislative measures were passed.
+The "Trespass Act" declared that any person who
+had left his abode in consequence of invasion
+could collect damages of those who had occupied
+the premises during his absence. A widow, reduced
+to poverty by the war, brought suit against
+a rich Tory merchant, who had lived in her house<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[114]</a></span>
+while the Tories held the city. Hamilton, feeling
+that a principle of justice was involved, took the
+part of the merchant, and by a brilliant speech, in
+which he contended that "the fruits of immovables
+belong to the captor so long as he remains in
+actual possession of them," he gained the case. Of
+course, he brought upon himself much obloquy;
+was declared to be a "Britisher," and lover of
+monarchy, a charge to which he must have grown
+accustomed in later years.</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton's pen was not idle in this controversy.
+He wrote a pamphlet, advocating respect for law
+and justice, which was called "Phocion," from its
+signature. It was read widely, both in England
+and America. Among the many replies was one
+signed "Mentor," which drew from Hamilton a
+"Second letter of Phocion." So inflamed did
+public opinion become that in one of the clubs it
+was decided that one person after another should
+challenge Hamilton, till he should fall in a duel.
+This came to the knowledge of "Mentor" and the
+abhorrent plan was stopped by his timely interference.
+There are too few men and women great
+enough to be tolerant of ideas in opposition to
+their own, or to persons holding those ideas. Tolerance
+belongs to great souls only.</p>
+
+<p>Matters in the States had so grown from bad to
+worse, and Congress, with its limited powers, was
+so helpless, that a convention was finally called at
+Philadelphia, May 25, 1787, to provide for a more
+complete and efficient Union. Nine States sent<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[115]</a></span>
+delegates: Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey,
+Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina,
+South Carolina, and Georgia. General Washington
+was made president of the convention. A
+plan of government was submitted, called the
+"Virginia plan," which provided for a Congress of
+two branches, one to be elected by the people, the
+other from names suggested by the State Legislatures.
+There was to be a President, not eligible
+for a second term. Then the "New Jersey plan"
+was submitted; which was simply a revision of the
+Articles of Confederation.</p>
+
+<p>The debates were earnest, but most intelligent;
+for men in those times had studied the existing
+governments of the world, and the fate of previous
+republics. Hamilton was present as a delegate,
+and, early in the convention, gave his plan for a
+new government, in a powerful speech, six hours
+long. He reviewed the whole domain of history,
+the present condition of the States, and the reasons
+for it, and then developed his plan. Those only
+could vote for President and Senators who owned
+a certain amount of real estate. These officials
+were to hold office for life or during good behavior.
+The President should appoint the Governors of the
+various States.</p>
+
+<p>Of course, the believers in "States' Rights"
+could not for a moment concede such power to one
+man, at the head of a nation. When Hamilton
+affirmed that the "British government was the
+best model in existence," he awoke the antagonism<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[116]</a></span>
+of the American heart. He probably knew that
+his plan could not be adopted, but it strengthened
+the advocates of a central government. Many
+delegates went home under protest; but the Constitution,
+brought into its present form largely by
+James Madison, was finally adopted, and sent to
+the different States for ratification.</p>
+
+<p>The opposition to its adoption was very great.
+Hamilton, with praiseworthy spirit, accepted it as
+the best thing attainable under the circumstances,
+and worked for it night and day with all the vigor
+and power of his masterly intellect. To the <i>Federalist</i>
+he contributed fifty-one papers in defence
+of the Constitution, and did more than any other
+man to secure its ultimate adoption.</p>
+
+<p>Henry Cabot Lodge, in his clear and admirable
+"Life of Hamilton," says: "As an exposition of the
+meaning and purposes of the Constitution, the
+<i>Federalist</i> is now, and always will be cited, on the
+bench and at the bar, by American commentators,
+and by all writers on constitutional law. As a
+treatise on the principles of federal government
+it still stands at the head, and has been turned
+to as an authority by the leading minds of
+Germany, intent on the formation of the German
+Empire."</p>
+
+<p>Party feeling ran high. When a State enrolled
+herself in favor of the Constitution, bonfires, feasts,
+and public processions testified to the joy of a portion
+of the people; while the burning in effigy of
+prominent Federalists, mobs and riots, testified to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[117]</a></span>
+the anger of the opponents. In the State of New
+York the contest was extremely bitter. Hamilton
+used all his logic, his eloquence, his fire, and his
+boundless activity to carry the State in favor of the
+Constitution. Said Chancellor Kent: "He urged
+every motive and consideration that ought to sway
+the human mind in such a crisis. He touched,
+with exquisite skill, every chord of sympathy that
+could be made to vibrate in the human breast.
+Our country, our honor, our liberties, our firesides,
+our posterity were placed in vivid colors
+before us."</p>
+
+<p>When told by a friend, who was just starting on
+a journey, that he would be questioned in relation
+to the adoption of the Constitution, Hamilton replied:
+"God only knows! Several votes have been
+taken, by which it appears that there are two to
+one against us." But suddenly his face brightened,
+as he said, "Tell them that the convention shall
+never rise until the Constitution is adopted."</p>
+
+<p>The excitement in New York city became intense.
+Crowds collected on the street-corners, and
+whispered, "Hamilton is speaking yet!" Late in
+the evening of July 28, 1788, it was announced that
+the Constitution had been adopted by New York, the
+vote standing thirty to twenty-seven. At once the
+bells were rung and guns were fired. A great procession
+was formed of professional men and artisans,
+bearing pictures of Washington and Hamilton, and
+banners, with the words "Federalist," "Liberty of
+the Press," and "The Epoch of Liberty." The<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[118]</a></span>
+federal frigate Hamilton was fully manned, and
+received the plaudits of the crowds.</p>
+
+<p>When the Constitution was adopted, at last,
+Washington was made President, April 30, 1789.
+It was not strange that he chose for his Secretary of
+the Treasury the man who had studied finance by
+the camp-fires of the Revolution. At thirty-two
+Hamilton was in the Cabinet of his country. At
+once Congress asked him to prepare a report on the
+public credit, stating his plan of providing for the
+public debt. In about three months the report was
+ready. It advocated the funding of all the debts
+of the United States incurred through the war.
+As to the foreign and domestic debts, all persons
+seemed agreed that these should be paid; but the
+assumption of the debts of the different States met
+with the most violent opposition. Those who owed
+a few million dollars were unwilling to help those
+who owed many millions.</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton advocated a foreign loan, not to exceed
+twelve millions, and a revenue derived from
+taxes on imports; such a revenue as would not only
+provide funds for the new nation, but protect manufactures
+from the competition of the old world.
+The believers in protection have had no more earnest
+or able advocate than Hamilton.</p>
+
+<p>His next report was an elaborate one upon
+national banks, and the establishment of a United
+States bank, which should give a uniform system
+of bank-notes, instead of the unreliable and uneven
+values of the notes of the State banks. His financial<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[119]</a></span>
+policy, while it aroused the bitterest enmity in
+some quarters, raised the United States from bankruptcy
+to the respect of her creditors, abroad and at
+home. When the old cry of "unconstitutional!"
+was heard, as it has been heard ever since when any
+great matter is suggested, Hamilton taught the people
+to feel that the <i>implied</i> powers of the Constitution
+were great enough for all needs, and that the document
+must be interpreted by the spirit as well as
+the letter of the law. Capitalists were his strong
+advocates, as they well knew that a firm and safe
+financial policy was at the root of success and
+progress.</p>
+
+<p>Very soon after his report on banks, he transmitted
+to Congress a report on the establishment
+of a mint, showing wide research on the subject of
+coinage. Besides these papers, he reported on the
+purchase of West Point, on public lands, navigation
+laws, on the post-office, and other matters, always
+showing careful study, good judgment, and patriotism.</p>
+
+<p>That he was accused of being a monarchist signified
+little, as there were hundreds of people at
+that time who feared that the republic would go
+down, as had others in past centuries. He so
+deprecated the lack of central power in the government
+that he exaggerated the dangers of the
+people's rule. This lack of trust in the masses
+and in the power of the Constitution, and Thomas
+Jefferson's trust in self-government and belief in
+States' rights, led, at last, to the bitter and public<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[120]</a></span>
+disagreement of these two great men, the Secretary
+of the Treasury and the Secretary of State.
+Each was honest in his belief; each was tolerant
+of most men, but intolerant of the other to the
+end of life.</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton naturally became the leader of the
+Federalists, as Jefferson the leader of the Republicans,
+or Democrats, as they are now called. One
+party saw in Hamilton the great thinker, the safe
+guardian of the destinies of the people; the other
+party thought it saw a bold and unscrupulous man,
+who would sit on a throne if that were possible.
+Hamilton's character was assailed, sometimes with
+truth, but oftener without truth. He was not
+perfect, but he was great, and in most respects
+noble.</p>
+
+<p>The French Revolution was now interesting all
+minds. Genet had been sent to America by the
+French Republic, as her minister. Hamilton urged
+neutrality, and looked with horror upon the growing
+excesses in France. Jefferson, with his hatred of
+monarchy, was lenient, and, in the early part of
+the Revolution, sympathetic. The United States
+became divided into two great factions, for and
+against France. Genet fanned the flames till the
+patient Washington could endure it no longer; the
+unwise minister was recalled, and neutrality was
+proclaimed April 22, 1793.</p>
+
+<p>Through all this matter, Hamilton had the complete
+love and confidence of Washington. When
+it was deemed wise to send a special commissioner<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[121]</a></span>
+to effect a treaty with England, that proper commercial
+relations be maintained, Hamilton was at
+once suggested. Party feeling opposed, and John
+Jay was appointed. When he returned from his
+mission, Great Britain having consented to pay us
+ten million dollars for illegal seizure of vessels,
+we agreeing to pay all debts owed to her before the
+Revolutionary War, the people rose in wrath
+against the treaty, and burned Jay in effigy. When
+Hamilton was speaking for its adoption at a public
+meeting in New York, he was assaulted by stones.
+"Gentlemen," he said, coolly, "if you use such
+strong arguments, I must retire." After this he
+wrote essays, signed "Camillus," in defence of the
+treaty, and helped largely to secure its acceptance.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime, the Excise Law, whereby distilled
+spirits were taxed, caused the "Whiskey Insurrection"
+in Pennsylvania. Hamilton, who believed in
+the prompt execution of law, urged Washington to
+take decisive measures. The President called out
+thirteen thousand troops, and the refusal to pay
+the taxes was no more heard of.</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton, like Jefferson, had become weary of
+his six years of public life; his increasing family
+needed more than his limited salary, and he resigned,
+returning to his law practice in the city of
+New York.</p>
+
+<p>When a new President was chosen to succeed
+Washington, it was not the real leader of the
+party, Hamilton, but one who had elicited less opposition
+by strong measures&mdash;John Adams, a man<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[122]</a></span>
+of long and distinguished service, both in England
+and America. Hamilton seems to have preferred
+Thomas Pinckney of South Carolina, and thus to
+have gained the ill-will of Adams, which helped at
+last to split the Federal party.</p>
+
+<p>When Adams and Jefferson became the Presidential
+nominees in 1800, Hamilton threw himself
+heartily into the contest in the State of New York.
+Here he found himself pitted against a rare antagonist,
+the most famous lawyer in the State except
+himself, Aaron Burr. He was well born, being the
+son of the president of the college at Princeton,
+and the grandson of Jonathan Edwards. Like
+Hamilton, he was precocious; being ready to enter
+Princeton when he was eleven years old. He was
+short in stature, five feet and six inches in height;
+with fine black eyes, and gentle and winsome manners.
+Both these men won the most enduring
+friendships from men and women&mdash;homage indeed.
+Both were intense in nature, though Burr had far
+greater self-control. Both were brave to rashness;
+both were untiring students; both loved and always
+gained authority. Burr had won honors in
+the Revolutionary War. He had married at twenty-six,
+a woman ten years older than himself, a widow
+with two children, with neither wealth nor beauty,
+whom he idolized for the twelve years she was
+spared to him, for her rare mind and devoted affection.
+From her he learned to value intellect in
+woman. He used to write her before marriage,
+"Deal less in sentiments, and more in ideas."<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[123]</a></span>
+When she died, he said, "The mother of my Theo
+was the best woman and finest lady I have ever
+known." For his only child, his beloved Theodosia,
+he seemed to have but one wish, that she be
+a scholar. He said to his wife, "If I could foresee
+that Theo would become a mere fashionable woman,
+with all the attendant frivolity and vacuity of
+mind, adorned with whatever grace and allurement,
+I would earnestly pray God to take her forthwith
+hence. But I yet hope by her to convince the
+world what neither sex appear to believe&mdash;that
+women have souls!"</p>
+
+<p>At ten years of age, she was studying Horace
+and Terence, learning the Greek grammar, speaking
+French, and reading Gibbon.</p>
+
+<p>This Theo, the idol of his life, afterward married
+to Governor Alston of South Carolina, loved
+him with a devotion that will forever make one
+gleam of sunshine in a life full of shadows. When
+the dark days came, she wrote him, "I witness
+your extraordinary fortitude with new wonder at
+every new misfortune. Often, after reflecting on
+this subject, you appear to me so superior, so elevated
+above all other men; I contemplate you with,
+such a strange mixture of humility, admiration,
+reverence, love, and pride, very little superstition
+would be necessary to make me worship you as a
+superior being; such enthusiasm does your character
+excite in me.... I had rather not live than
+not be the daughter of such a man."</p>
+
+<p>Burr's success in the law had been phenomenal.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[124]</a></span>
+When he was studying for admission to the bar, he
+often passed twenty hours out of the twenty-four
+over his books.</p>
+
+<p>And now, Colonel Burr, at thirty-six, after being
+in the United States Senate for six years, was the
+candidate for Vice-President on the Jefferson ticket.
+Hamilton's eloquence stirred the State of New
+York in the contest; but Burr's generalship in
+politics won the votes, and he was elected.</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton went back again to his large law practice.
+Men sought him with the belief that if he
+would take their cases, there was no doubt of the
+result. An aged farmer came to him to recover a
+farm for which a deed had been obtained from him
+in exchange for Virginia land. Hamilton heard
+the case; then wrote to the wealthy speculator to
+call upon him. When he came, Hamilton said,
+"You must give me back that deed. I do not say
+that you knew that the title to these lands is bad;
+but it is bad. You are a rich&mdash;he is a poor man.
+How can you sleep on your pillow? Would you
+break up the only support of an aged man and
+seven children?" He walked the floor rapidly, as
+he exclaimed, "I will add to my professional services
+all the weight of my character and powers
+of my nature; and <i>you</i> ought to know, when I espouse
+the cause of innocence and of the oppressed,
+that character and those powers will have their
+weight."</p>
+
+<p>The property was reconveyed to the farmer, who
+gratefully asked Hamilton to name the compensation.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[125]</a></span>
+"Nothing! nothing!" said he. "Hasten
+home and make your family happy."</p>
+
+<p>Hamilton was clear in his reasoning; a master
+in constitutional law; persuasive in his manner;
+sometimes highly impassioned, sometimes solemn
+and earnest. Says Henry Cabot Lodge: "Force of
+intellect and force of will were the sources of his
+success.... Directness was his most distinguishing
+characteristic, and, whether he appealed to the
+head or the heart, he went straight to the mark....
+He never indulged in rhetorical flourishes, and his
+style was simple and severe.... That which led
+him to victory was the passionate energy of his
+nature, his absorption in his work, his contagious
+and persuasive enthusiasm."</p>
+
+<p>"There was a fascination in his manner, by which
+one was led captive unawares," says another writer.
+"On most occasions, when animated with the subject
+on which he was engaged, you could see the
+very workings of his soul, in the expression of his
+countenance; and so frank was he in manner that
+he would make you feel that there was not a
+thought of his heart that he would wish to hide
+from your view."</p>
+
+<p>"Alexander Hamilton was the greatest man this
+country ever produced," said Judge Ambrose Spencer....
+"He argued cases before me while I sat
+as judge on the bench. Webster has done the
+same. In power of reasoning Hamilton was the
+equal of Webster; and more than this can be said
+of no man. In creative power Hamilton was infinitely<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[126]</a></span>
+Webster's superior.... He, more than any
+man, did the thinking of the time."</p>
+
+<p>His chief relaxation from work was at "The
+Grange," his summer home at Harlem Heights, not
+far from the spot, it is said, where he first attracted
+the eye of Washington. Beeches, maples, and
+many evergreens abounded. The Hudson River
+added its beauty to the picturesque place. Here
+he read the classics for pleasure, and the Bible.
+To a friend he said: "I have examined carefully
+the evidence of the Christian religion; and, if I
+was sitting as a juror upon its authenticity, I
+should unhesitatingly give my verdict in its favor....
+I can prove its truth as clearly as any proposition
+ever submitted to the mind of man."</p>
+
+<p>At "The Grange" he was especially happy with
+his family. He said, "My health and comfort both
+require that I should be at home&mdash;at that home
+where I am always sure to find a sweet asylum
+from care and pain.... It will be more and more
+my endeavor to abstract myself from all pursuits
+which interfere with those of affection. 'Tis here
+only I can find true pleasure."</p>
+
+<p>When Hamilton was forty-four, he endured the
+great affliction of his life. His eldest son, Philip,
+nineteen, just graduated from Columbia College,
+deeply wounded by the political attacks upon his
+father, challenged to a duel one of the men who
+had made objectionable remarks. The lad fell at
+the first fire, a wicked sacrifice to a barbarous "code
+of honor." After twenty hours of agony, he died,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[127]</a></span>
+surrounded by the stricken family. Hamilton was
+especially proud of this son, of whom he said, when
+he gave his oration at Columbia College, "I could
+not have been contented to have been surpassed by
+any other than my son."</p>
+
+<p>For three years Hamilton worked on with a
+hope which was never broken, constantly adding
+to his fame. And then came the fatal error of his
+life. All along he had opposed Aaron Burr. When
+named for a foreign mission, Hamilton helped to defeat
+him. When the tie vote came between Jefferson
+and Burr in the Presidential returns, Hamilton
+said, "The appointment of Burr as President will
+disgrace our country abroad." When Burr was
+nominated for Governor of New York, Hamilton
+used every effort to defeat him, and succeeded.
+Burr, exasperated and disappointed at his failures,
+sent Hamilton a challenge. He wrote to Hamilton,
+"<i>Political</i> opposition can never absolve gentlemen
+from the necessity of a rigid adherence to the laws
+of honor and the rules of decorum. I neither
+claim such privilege nor indulge it in others."
+Alas! that some men in public life, even now,
+forget the "laws of honor and the rules of decorum"
+in their treatment of opponents.</p>
+
+<p>Everything in Hamilton's career protested
+against this suicidal combat. He was only forty-seven,
+distinguished and beloved, with a wife and
+seven children dependent upon him.</p>
+
+<p>Before going to the fatal meeting, he wrote his
+feelings about duelling. "My religious and moral<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[128]</a></span>
+principles are strongly opposed to the practice of
+duelling, and it would even give me pain to be
+obliged to shed the blood of a fellow-creature in a
+private combat forbidden by the laws.... To
+those who, with me, abhorring the practice of duelling,
+may think that I ought on no account to have
+added to the number of bad examples, I answer
+that my <i>relative</i> situation, as well in public as
+private, enforcing all the considerations which constitute
+what men of the world denominate honor,
+imposed on me (as I thought) a peculiar necessity
+not to decline the call. The ability to be in future
+useful, whether in resisting mischief or effecting
+good, in those crises of our public affairs which
+seem likely to happen, would probably be inseparable
+from a conformity with public prejudice in
+this particular."</p>
+
+<p>He made his will, leaving all, after the payment
+of his debts, to his "dear and excellent wife."
+"Should it happen that there is not enough for the
+payment of my debts, I entreat my dear children,
+if they, or any of them, should ever be able, to
+make up the deficiency. I, without hesitation,
+commit to their delicacy a wish which is dictated
+by my own. Though conscious that I have too
+far sacrificed the interests of my family to public
+avocations, and on this account have the less claim
+to burden my children, yet I trust in their magnanimity
+to appreciate as they ought this my request.
+In so unfavorable an event of things, the
+support of their dear mother, with the most respectful<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[129]</a></span>
+and tender attention, is a duty, all the
+sacredness of which they will feel. Probably her
+own patrimonial resources will preserve her from
+indigence. But in all situations they are charged
+to bear in mind that she has been to them the
+most devoted and best of mothers." And then,
+the great statesman, after writing two farewell
+letters to "my darling, darling wife," conformed to
+"public prejudice" by hastening with his second,
+at daybreak, to meet Aaron Burr, at Weehawken,
+two miles and a half above Hoboken. It was a
+quiet and beautiful spot, one hundred and fifty
+feet above the level of the Hudson River, shut
+in by trees and vines, but golden with sunlight on
+that fatal morning.</p>
+
+<p>At seven o'clock the two distinguished men were
+ready, ten paces apart, to take into their own
+hands that most sacred of all things, human life.
+There was no outward sign of emotion, though the
+one must have thought of his idol, Theodosia, and
+the other of his pretty children, still asleep. Hamilton
+had determined not to fire, and so permitted
+himself to be sacrificed. The word of readiness
+was given. Burr raised his pistol and fired, and
+Hamilton fell headlong on his face, his own weapon
+discharging in the air. He sank into the arms of
+his physician, saying faintly, "This is a mortal
+wound," and was borne home to a family overwhelmed
+with sorrow. The oldest daughter lost
+her reason.</p>
+
+<p>For thirty-one hours he lay in agony, talking,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[130]</a></span>
+when able, with his minister about the coming
+future, asking that the sacrament be administered,
+and saying, "I am a sinner. I look to Him for
+mercy; pray for me."</p>
+
+<p>Once when all his children were gathered around
+the bed, he gave them one tender look, and closed
+his eyes till they had left the room. He retained
+his usual composure to the last, saying to his wife,
+frenzied with grief, "Remember, my Eliza, you
+are a Christian." He died at two o'clock on the
+afternoon of July 12, 1804. The whole nation
+seemed speechless with sorrow. In New York all
+business was suspended. At the funeral, a great
+concourse of people, college societies, political associations,
+and military companies, joined in the
+common sorrow. Guns were fired from the British
+and French ships in the harbor; on a platform in
+front of Trinity Church, Governor Morris pronounced
+a eulogy, General Hamilton's four sons,
+the eldest sixteen and the youngest four, standing
+beside the speaker. Thus the great life faded
+from sight in its vigorous manhood, leaving a wonderful
+record for the aspiring and the patriotic,
+and a prophecy of what might have been accomplished
+but for that one fatal mistake.</p>
+
+<p>Aaron Burr hastened to the South, to avoid
+arrest; but public execration followed him. He
+became implicated in a scheme for putting himself
+at the head of Mexico, was arrested and tried for
+treason, and, though legally acquitted, was obliged
+to flee to England, and from there to Sweden and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[131]</a></span>
+Germany. Finally he came home, only to hear
+that Theodosia's beautiful boy of eleven was dead.
+Poor and friendless, he longed now for the one
+person who had never forsaken him, his daughter.
+She started from Charleston in a pilot-boat, for
+New York, and was never heard from afterwards.
+Probably all went down in a storm off Cape Hatteras.
+When it was reported in the papers that
+the boat had been captured by pirates, Burr said,
+"No, no, she is indeed dead. Were she alive, all
+the prisons in the world could not keep her from
+her father. When I realized the truth of her
+death, the world became a blank to me, and life
+had then lost all its value."</p>
+
+<p>When he was nearly eighty, he married a lady
+of wealth; but they were unhappy, and soon separated.
+He died on Staten Island, cared for at the
+last by the children of an old friend. His courage
+and fortitude the world will always admire; but it
+can never forget the fatal duel by which Alexander
+Hamilton was taken from his country, in the prime
+of his life and in the midst of his great work.</p>
+
+<p>The name of Hamilton will not be forgotten.
+The Hon. Chauncey M. Depew of New York, on
+February 22, 1888, gave the great statesman this
+well deserved tribute of praise:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"The political mission of the United States has so far
+been wrought out by individuals and territorial conditions.
+Four men of unequal genius have dominated our century,
+and the growth of the West has revolutionized the republic.
+The principles which have heretofore controlled the policy<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[132]</a></span>
+of the country have mainly owed their force and acceptance
+to Hamilton, Jefferson, Webster, and Lincoln.</p>
+
+<p>"The first question which met the young confederacy was
+the necessity of a central power strong enough to deal with
+foreign nations and to protect commerce between the
+States. At this period Alexander Hamilton became the
+savior of the republic. If Shakespeare is the commanding
+originating genius of England, and Goethe of Germany,
+Hamilton must occupy that place among Americans. This
+superb intelligence, which was at once philosophic and
+practical, and with unrivalled lucidity could instruct the
+dullest mind on the bearing of the action of the present on
+the destiny of the future, so impressed upon his contemporaries
+the necessity of a central government with large
+powers that the Constitution, now one hundred and one
+years old, was adopted, and the United States began their
+life as a nation."</p></blockquote>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[133]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 422px;">
+<img src="images/illus-133.jpg" width="422" height="600" alt="Andrew Jackson" title="Andrew Jackson" />
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>ANDREW JACKSON.</h2>
+
+
+<p>George Bancroft said, "No man in private
+life so possessed the hearts of all around
+him; no public man of the country ever returned
+to private life with such an abiding mastery over
+the affections of the people.... He was as sincere
+a man as ever lived. He was wholly, always, and
+altogether sincere and true. Up to the last he
+dared do anything that it was right to do. He
+united personal courage and moral courage beyond
+any man of whom history keeps the record....
+Jackson never was vanquished. He was always
+fortunate. He conquered the wilderness; he conquered
+the savage; he conquered the veterans of
+the battle-field of Europe; he conquered everywhere
+in statesmanship; and when death came to
+get the mastery over him, he turned that last
+enemy aside as tranquilly as he had done the feeblest
+of his adversaries, and passed from earth in
+the triumphant consciousness of immortality."</p>
+
+<p>Thus wrote Bancroft of the man who rose from
+poverty and sorrow to receive the highest gift
+which the American nation can bestow. The gift
+did not come through chance; it came because the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[134]</a></span>
+man was worthy of it, and had earned the love and
+honor of the people.</p>
+
+<p>In 1765, among many other emigrants, a man,
+with his wife and two sons, came to the new world
+from the north of Ireland. They were linen-weavers,
+poor, but industrious, and members of the
+Presbyterian Church. They settled at Waxhaw,
+North Carolina, not far from the South Carolina
+boundary, and the husband began to build a log
+house for his dear ones. This man was the father
+of Andrew Jackson.</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely had the log house been built, and a single
+crop raised, before the wife was left a widow
+and the children fatherless. There was a quiet
+funeral, a half-dozen friends standing around an
+open grave, and then the little house passed into
+other hands, and Mrs. Jackson went to live at the
+home of her brother-in-law.</p>
+
+<p>Not long after the funeral, a third son was born,
+March 15, 1767, whom the stricken mother named
+Andrew Jackson, after his father. He was welcomed
+in tears, and naturally became the idol of
+her young heart. Three weeks later, she moved to
+the house of another brother-in-law to assist in his
+family. She was not afraid to work, and she bent
+herself to the hard labor of pioneer life. There
+was no sorrow in the labor, for was she not doing
+it for her sons, and a noble woman knows no hardship
+in her self-sacrifice for love.</p>
+
+<p>Her ambition seems to have centred in the
+slight, light-haired, blue-eyed Andrew, who, she<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[135]</a></span>
+hoped, one day might become a Presbyterian minister.
+How he was to obtain a college education,
+perhaps, she did not discern, but she trusted, and
+trust is a divine thing.</p>
+
+<p>The barefooted boy attended a school kept by
+Dr. Waddell. He made commendable progress in
+his studies, from his quick and ardent temperament,
+but he loved fun even better than books. He was
+impulsive, ambitious, and persevering. He could
+run foot-races as rapidly as the bigger boys, and
+loved to wrestle or engage in anything which
+seemed like a battle. Says an old schoolmate, "I
+could throw him three times out of four, but he
+would never <i>stay throwed</i>. He was dead game,
+even then, and never <i>would</i> give up."</p>
+
+<p>To the younger boys he was a protector, but from
+the older he would brook no insult, and was sometimes
+hasty and overbearing. One of the best
+traits in the boy's character was his love for his
+mother. His intense nature knew no change, and
+he was loyal and single of purpose forever. He
+used to say in later life, "One of the last injunctions
+given me by my mother was never to institute
+a suit for assault and battery or for defamation;
+never to wound the feelings of others nor
+suffer my own to be outraged: these were her
+words of admonition to me; I remember them well,
+and have never failed to respect them; my settled
+course through life has been to bear them in mind,
+and never to insult or wantonly to assail the feelings
+of any one; and yet many conceive me to be<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[136]</a></span>
+a most ferocious animal, insensible to moral duty
+and regardless of the laws both of God and man."</p>
+
+<p>He did nothing slowly nor indifferently. He
+bent his will to his work, even at that early age,
+and knew no such word as failure. When the boy
+was thirteen, an incident occurred which made a
+lasting impression. The British General Tarlton,
+in the Revolutionary War, with three hundred cavalry,
+came against Waxhaw, surprised the militia,
+killing one hundred and thirteen and wounding
+one hundred and fifty. The little settlement was
+terrorized. The meeting-house became a hospital,
+and Mrs. Jackson, with her sons, helped to minister
+to the wants of the suffering soldiers. Andrew
+learned not only lessons in war, but to dream of
+future rewards to the British.</p>
+
+<p>When Cornwallis, after the surrender of General
+Gates, moved his whole army toward Waxhaw,
+Mrs. Jackson and her sons were obliged to seek a
+safe retreat with a distant relative. Here Andrew
+did "chores" for his board. "Never," said one
+who knew him well at this time, "did Andrew
+come home from the shops without bringing with
+him some new weapon with which to kill the
+enemy. Sometimes it was a rude spear, which he
+would forge while waiting for the blacksmith to
+finish his job. Sometimes it was a club or a tomahawk.
+Once he fastened the blade of a scythe to a
+pole, and, on reaching home, began to cut down the
+weeds with it that grew about the house, assailing
+them with extreme fury, and occasionally uttering<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[137]</a></span>
+words like these, 'Oh, if I were a man, how I
+would sweep down the British with my grass
+blade!'"</p>
+
+<p>A year later, when Mrs. Jackson had returned to
+Waxhaw, the brothers were both taken prisoners in
+a skirmish. Being commanded to clean the boots
+of a British officer, Andrew refused, saying, "Sir,
+I am a prisoner of war, and claim to be treated as
+such."</p>
+
+<p>The angry Englishman drew his sword, and
+rushed at the boy, who, attempting to defend himself
+from the blow, received a deep gash in his left
+hand, and also on his head, the scars of which he
+bore through life. Robert, the brother, also refused
+to clean the boots, and was prostrated by the
+sword of the brutal officer. Soon after, the boys
+were taken with other prisoners to Camden, eighty
+miles distant, a long and agonizing journey for
+wounded men.</p>
+
+<p>They found the prison a wretched place, with no
+medical supplies; the food scanty, and small-pox
+raging among the inmates. The poor mother, hearing
+of their forlorn condition, hastened to the
+place. Both her boys were ill of the dreaded
+small-pox, and both suffering from their sword-wounds.
+She arranged for the exchange of prisoners,
+and took her sons home; Robert to die in
+her arms two days later, and Andrew to be saved
+at last after a perilous illness of several months.
+Her oldest son, Hugh, had already given his life to
+his country in the war.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[138]</a></span>Almost broken-hearted with the loss of her two
+sons, yet intensely patriotic, she hastened to the
+Charleston prison-ships, to care for the wounded,
+taking with her provisions and medicine sent by
+loving wives and daughters. The blessed ministrations
+proved of short duration. Mrs. Jackson was
+taken ill of ship-fever, died after a brief illness,
+and was buried in the open plain near by. The
+grave is unmarked and unknown. When, years
+later, her illustrious son had become President, he
+tried to find the burial-place of the woman he idolized,
+but it was impossible.</p>
+
+<p>Andrew was now an orphan, and poor; but he
+had what makes any boy or man rich, the memory
+of a devoted, heroic mother. Such a person has
+an inspiration that is like martial music on the
+field of battle; he is urged onward to duty forevermore.
+The world is richer for all such instances
+of ideal womanhood; the womanhood that gives
+rather than receives; that seeks neither admiration
+nor self-aggrandizement; that, like the flowers,
+sends out the same fragrance whether in royal
+gardens or beside the peasant's door; that lives to
+lighten others' sorrows, to rest tired humanity, to
+sweeten the bitterness of life by her loveliness
+of soul; that is to the world around her</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+"A new and certain sunrise every day."
+</p>
+
+<p>Fatherless, motherless, brotherless, the boy of
+fifteen looked about him to see what his life-work
+should be. In the family of a distant relative he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[139]</a></span>
+found a home. The son was a saddler. For six
+months Andrew worked at this trade. But other
+plans were in his mind. He knew how his mother
+had desired that he might be educated. But how
+could a boy win his way without money? For two
+years or more, little is known of him. It is believed
+that he taught a small school. When nearly
+eighteen, he had made up his mind to study law,
+a somewhat remarkable decision for a boy in his
+circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>If he studied at all, it should be under the best
+of teachers; so he rode to Salisbury, seventy-five
+miles from Waxhaw, and entered the office of Mr.
+Spruce McCay, an eminent lawyer, and later a
+judge of distinction.</p>
+
+<p>For nearly two years he studied, enjoying also
+the sports of the time, and making, as he did all
+through life, close friends who were devoted to his
+interests. When in the White House, forty-five
+years afterward, he said, "I was but a raw lad
+then, but I did my best." And he did his best
+through life!</p>
+
+<p>He loved a fine horse almost as though it were
+human; he enjoyed the society of ladies, and possessed
+a grace and dignity of manner that surprised
+those who knew the hardships of his life.
+His eager intelligence, his quick, direct glance, that
+bespoke alertness of mind, won him attention, even
+more than would beauty of person. Over six feet
+in height, slender to delicacy, he gave the impression
+of leadership, from his bravery and self-reliance.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[140]</a></span>
+Emerson well says, "The basis of good
+manners is self-reliance.... Self-trust is the first
+secret of success; the belief that, if you are here,
+the authorities of the universe put you here, and
+for cause or with some task strictly appointed you
+in your constitution."</p>
+
+<p>When his two years of law-study were ended, the
+work was but just begun. There was reputation to
+be made, and perhaps a fortune, but where and
+how? For a year he seems not to have found a
+law opening; the streams of fortune do not always
+flow toward us&mdash;we have to make the journey by
+persistent and hard rowing against the tide. He
+probably worked in a store owned by some acquaintances,
+earning for daily needs.</p>
+
+<p>At twenty-one came his first opportunity; came,
+as it often comes, through a friend. Mr. John McNairy
+was appointed a judge of the Superior Court
+of the Western District of North Carolina (Tennessee),
+and young Jackson, his friend, public prosecutor
+of the same district. He moved to Nashville
+in 1788, to begin his difficult work. He was
+obliged to ride on horseback over the mountains
+and through the wilderness, often among hostile
+Indians, his life almost constantly in danger.
+Once, while travelling with a party of emigrants,
+when all slept save the sentinels, he sat against a
+tree, smoking his corn-cob pipe and keeping an
+eager watch. Soon he heard the notes of what
+seemed to be various owls! He quietly roused the
+whole party and moved them on. An hour later,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[141]</a></span>
+a company of hunters lay down by the fires which
+Jackson had left, and before daylight all save one
+man were killed by the Indians.</p>
+
+<p>Sometimes the young lawyer slept for twenty
+successive nights in the wilderness. This was no
+life of ease and luxury. At Nashville he found
+lodgings in the house of the widow of Colonel
+John Donelson, a brave pioneer from Virginia, who
+had been killed by the Indians. And here Jackson
+met the woman who was to prove his good
+angel as long as she lived. With Mrs. Donelson
+lived her dark-haired and dark-eyed daughter
+Rachel, married to Lewis Robards from Kentucky.
+Vivacious, kindly, and sympathetic, Rachel had
+been the idol of her father, and probably would
+have been of her husband had it not been for his
+jealous disposition. He became angry at Jackson,
+as he had been at others, and made her life so unhappy
+that she separated from him and went to
+friends in Natchez, with the approval of her
+mother, and the entire confidence and respect of
+her husband's relatives.</p>
+
+<p>After a divorce in 1791, Jackson married her,
+when they were each twenty-four years old. History
+does not record a happier marriage. To the
+last, she lived for him alone, but not more fully
+than he lived for her. With the world he was
+thought to be domineering and harsh, and was often
+profane; but with her he was patient, gentle, and
+deferential. When he won renown, she was happy
+for his sake, but she did not care for it for herself.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[142]</a></span>
+Her kindness of heart took her among the sick and
+the unfortunate, and everywhere she was a welcome comforter.
+She lived outside of self, and
+found her reward in the homage of her husband
+and her friends.</p>
+
+<p>Jackson soon began to prosper financially.
+Often he would receive his fee in lands, a square
+mile of six hundred and forty acres or more, so
+that after a time he was the possessor of several
+thousand acres. Success came also from other
+sources. When a convention was called to form a
+constitution for the new State of Tennessee, Jackson
+was chosen a delegate. He took an active
+part in the organization of the State&mdash;he was
+active in whatever he engaged&mdash;and bravely
+espoused her claims against the general government
+for expenses incurred in Indian conflicts.
+Tennessee felt that she had a true friend in Jackson,
+and, when she wanted a man to represent her
+in Congress, she sent him to the House of Representatives.
+This honor came at twenty-nine years
+of age&mdash;a strange contrast to the years when he
+made saddles or did "chores" for his board, and
+longed to "sweep down the British with his grass
+blade."</p>
+
+<p>Jackson served his State well by securing compensation
+for every man who had done service or
+lost his property in the Indian wars. It was not
+strange, therefore, that, when a vacancy occurred
+in the United States Senate, Jackson was chosen
+to fill the place, in the autumn of 1797. Only<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[143]</a></span>
+thirty years old! Rachel Jackson might well be
+proud of him.</p>
+
+<p>But the following year he resigned his position,
+glad to be, as he supposed, out of official life. He
+was, however, too prominent to be allowed to
+remain in private life, and was elected to a
+judgeship of the Supreme Court of Tennessee.
+As he had made it a rule "never to seek and never
+to decline public duty," he accepted, on the small
+salary of six hundred dollars a year. While many
+other men in the State were more learned in the
+law than Jackson, yet the people believed in his
+honesty and integrity, and therefore he was
+chosen. Quick to decide and slow to change his
+mind, in fifteen days he had disposed of fifty cases,
+says James Parton, in his entertaining life of
+Andrew Jackson.</p>
+
+<p>After six years, longing for a more active life,
+Jackson resigned, and was made major-general of
+the militia of the State. This position was given,
+not without opposition, he receiving only one more
+vote than his chief competitor. That one vote,
+perhaps, led to New Orleans and the Presidency.
+This office was in accordance with his natural
+tastes. Since boyhood, he had loved the stir and
+command of battle, and believed he should like to
+conquer an enemy as he had met and conquered
+every obstacle that lay athwart his path.</p>
+
+<p>As there was no war in progress, he continued
+his law practice. But, not satisfied with this
+alone, he became a merchant, trading with the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[144]</a></span>
+Indians, selling blankets, hardware, and the like,
+and receiving in return cotton and other produce
+of the country. In the panic of 1798, he became
+financially embarrassed, but, true to his manly
+nature, he worked steadily on till every dollar was
+paid. He sold twenty-five thousand acres of his
+wild land, sold his home, and moved into a log
+house at the Hermitage, seven miles out from
+Nashville, and preserved for himself the best
+thing on earth, a good name. So honest was he
+believed to be, when a Tennessean went to Boston
+bankers for a loan, with several leading names
+on his paper, they said, "Do you know General
+Jackson? Could you get his endorsement?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but he is not worth a tenth as much as
+either of these men whose names I offer you,"
+was the response.</p>
+
+<p>"No matter; General Jackson has always protected
+himself and his paper, and we'll let you
+have the money on the strength of his name."
+And the loan was granted.</p>
+
+<p>Honest and just though he was, he permitted
+his own fiery nature, or a perverted public opinion,
+to lead him into acts which tarnished his whole
+subsequent career. Quick to resent a wrong, he
+was morbidly sensitive about the circumstances of
+his marriage with Rachel Robards. When they
+were married, in 1791, they supposed that the
+divorce, applied for, had been granted, but they
+learned in 1793, two years afterward, that it was
+not legally obtained till the latter date. They<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[145]</a></span>
+were at once remarried, but the matter caused
+much idle talk, and, as General Jackson came
+into prominence, his enemies were not slow to
+rehearse the story. The slightest aspersion of his
+wife's character aroused all the anger of his
+nature, and, says Parton, "For the man who dared
+breathe her name except in honor, he kept pistols
+in perfect condition for thirty-seven years." And,
+as duelling was the disgraceful fashion of the
+times, Jackson did not hesitate to use his pistols.</p>
+
+<p>In 1806, when he was thirty-nine, one of those
+miscalled "affairs of honor" took place. Charles
+Dickinson, a prominent man of the State, in the
+course of a long quarrel, had spoken disparagingly
+of Mrs. Jackson, and he was therefore challenged
+to mortal combat. Thursday morning, May 29, he
+kissed his young wife tenderly, telling her he was
+going to Kentucky, and "would be home, sure, to-morrow
+night." He met Jackson on the banks of
+the Red River. The one was tall, erect, and intense;
+the other young, handsome, an expert marksman,
+and determined to make no mistake in his
+fatal work.</p>
+
+<p>Dickinson fired with his supposed unerring aim,
+and missed! The bullet grazed Jackson's breast,
+and years later was the true cause of his death.
+Jackson took deliberate aim, intending to kill his
+opponent, and succeeded. The ball passed quite
+through Dickinson's body. His wife was sent for,
+being told that he was dangerously wounded. On
+her way thither she met, in a rough emigrant wagon,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[146]</a></span>
+the body of her husband. He had "come home,
+sure, to-morrow night"&mdash;but dead! He was deeply
+mourned by the State, which sympathized with his
+wife and infant child. General Jackson made bitter
+enemies by this act. Rachel had been avenged,
+but at what a fearful cost!</p>
+
+<p>Eighteen years had gone by since Jackson's marriage.
+He had received distinguished honors; he
+had been a Representative, a Senator, a Judge of
+the Supreme Court of the State, a Major-General
+of the militia, but one joy was wanting. No children
+had been born in the home. Mrs. Jackson's
+nephews and nieces were often at the Hermitage,
+and he made her kindred his own; but both loved
+children, and this one blessing was denied them.
+In 1809, twins were born to Mrs. Jackson's brother.
+One of these, when but a few days old, was taken
+to the Hermitage, and the general adopted him,
+giving him his own name, Andrew Jackson.</p>
+
+<p>Ever after, this child was a comfort and a delight.
+Visitors would often find the general reading,
+with the boy in the rocking-chair beside him
+or in his lap. Hon. Thomas H. Benton, in his
+"Thirty Years' View," tells this story: "I arrived
+at his house one wet, chilly evening in February,
+and came upon him in the twilight, sitting alone
+before the fire, a lamb and a child between his
+knees. He started a little, called a servant to remove
+the two innocents to another room, and explained
+to me how it was. The child had cried
+because the lamb was out in the cold, and begged<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[147]</a></span>
+him to bring it in, which he had done to please the
+child, his adopted son, then not two years old.
+The ferocious man does not do that! and though
+Jackson had his passions and his violence, they
+were for men and enemies&mdash;those who stood up
+against him&mdash;and not for women and children,
+or the weak and helpless; for all whom his feelings
+were those of protection and support."</p>
+
+<p>Jackson was always the friend of <i>young</i> men&mdash;a
+constant inspiration to them to do their best.
+He knew the possibilities of a barefooted boy like
+himself. The world owes thanks to those who are
+its inspiration; whose minds develop ours; whose
+sweetness of nature makes us grow lovable, as plants
+grow in the sunshine; whose ideals become our
+ideals; who lead us up the mountains of faith and
+trust and hope, but the cord is silken and we never
+know that we are led; who go through life loving
+and serving&mdash;for love is service; who are our
+comfort and strength&mdash;we lean on those whom we
+love.</p>
+
+<p>While Jackson was the friend of young men,
+especially he was loyal to any who were near his
+heart. He was like another great man, in a great
+war, the hero of 1812 and the hero of 1861. Jackson
+and Grant were true to those who had been
+true to them. Only a man of small soul forgets
+the ladder by which he climbs.</p>
+
+<p>The second war with Great Britain had come
+upon the American people, June 19, 1812. Our
+country had suffered in its commerce through the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[148]</a></span>
+continued wars of England with France. Vessels
+had been searched by the English, to find persons
+suspected of being British subjects; often American
+seamen were impressed into their service. On
+the ocean, the contest between English and American
+ships became almost constant. While a portion
+of the States were not in favor of the war, one
+person was surely in favor, and ready for it; one
+who had not forgotten the deaths of his mother
+and brothers in the Revolutionary War; who had
+not forgotten the wounds on his head and hand.
+That person was General Jackson.</p>
+
+<p>He at once offered to the Governor of Louisiana,
+for the defence of New Orleans, three thousand
+soldiers. The offer was accepted, and he started
+for Natchez, there to await orders. The men were
+in the best of spirits, kept hopeful and enthusiastic
+by the ardor of their commander, who said to them:
+"Perish our friends&mdash;perish our wives&mdash;perish
+our children (the dearest pledges of Heaven)&mdash;nay,
+perish all earthly considerations&mdash;but let the
+honor and fame of a volunteer soldier be untarnished
+and immaculate. We now enjoy liberties,
+political, civil, and religious, that no other nation
+on earth possesses. May we never survive them!
+No, rather let us perish in maintaining them. And
+if we must yield, where is the man that would not
+prefer being buried in the ruins of his country than
+live the ignominious slave of haughty lords and
+unfeeling tyrants?"</p>
+
+<p>After a time the "orders" came, but what was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[149]</a></span>
+the astonishment and indignation of both officers
+and men to hear that their services were not needed,
+as the British evidently did not intend to attack
+New Orleans; that they were to disband and return
+to Tennessee. Without pay or rations, five hundred
+miles from home!&mdash;Jackson felt that it was
+an insult. He took an oath that they should never
+disband till they were at their own doors; that he
+would conduct his brave three thousand through
+the wilderness and the Indian tribes, and be responsible
+for expenses. One hundred and fifty of
+his men were ill. He put those who could ride on
+horses, and then, walking at their head, led the
+gallant company toward home.</p>
+
+<p>The soldiers used to say that he was "tough as
+hickory;" then "Old Hickory" grew to be a term
+of endearment, which he bore ever afterward. A
+month later, and the disappointed soldiers were
+at Nashville. Before they disbanded, they were
+marched out upon the public square, and received
+a superb stand of colors. The needle-work was on
+white satin; eighteen orange stars in a crescent,
+with two sprigs of laurel, and the words, "Tennessee
+Volunteers&mdash;Independence, in a state of war,
+is to be maintained on the battle-ground of the
+Republic. The tented field is the post of honor.
+Presented by the ladies of East Tennessee." Under
+these words were all the implements of war; cannons,
+muskets, drums, swords, and the like. Jackson
+and his men never forgot this offering of love,
+and showed themselves worthy of it in after years.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[150]</a></span>If Jackson was not needed at New Orleans, he
+was soon needed elsewhere. Tecumseh, the great
+Indian chief, saw the lands of his fathers passing
+into the hands of the white men. He had long
+been uniting the western tribes from Florida to
+the northern lakes, and, now that we were at war
+with England, he believed the hour of their delivery
+was come. He at once incited the Creeks of
+Alabama to arms.</p>
+
+<p>In the southern portion of that State, forty miles
+north of Mobile, stood Fort Mims. The whites
+had become alarmed at the hostile attitude of the
+Indians, and over five hundred men, women, and
+children had crowded into the fort for safety.
+On the 30th of August, 1813, a thousand Creek
+warriors in their war paint and feathers, uttering
+their terrible war-whoops, rushed into the fort,
+tomahawked the men and women, and trampled
+the children into the dust. The buildings were
+burned, and the plain was covered with dead
+bodies. The massacre at Fort Mims blanched
+every face and embittered every heart. The Tennesseans
+offered at once to march against the
+Creeks. The hot-headed General Jackson had been
+wounded in a quarrel with Thomas H. Benton,
+and was suffering from the ball in his shoulder,
+which he carried there for twenty years. But he
+put his left arm into a sling, and, though emaciated
+through long weeks of illness, he led his twenty-five
+hundred men into the Indians' country.</p>
+
+<p>The provisions did not follow them as had<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[151]</a></span>
+been arranged. Jackson wrote home earnestly for
+money and food. He said, "There is an enemy
+whom I dread much more than I do the hostile
+Creeks, and whose power, I am fearful, I shall
+first be made to feel&mdash;I mean the meagre monster,
+<span class="smcap">Famine</span>." And yet he encouraged his men with
+these brave words: "Shall an enemy wholly
+unacquainted with military evolution, and who
+rely more for victory on their grim visages and
+hideous yells than upon their bravery or their
+weapons&mdash;shall such an enemy ever drive before
+them the well trained youths of our country,
+whose bosoms pant for glory and a desire to
+avenge the wrongs they have received? Your
+general will not live to behold such a spectacle;
+rather would he rush into the thickest of the
+enemy, and submit himself to their scalping-knives....
+With his soldiers he will face all
+dangers, and with them participate in the glory
+of conquest."</p>
+
+<p>The first battle with the Creeks was fought
+under General John Coffee at Talluschatches, thirteen
+miles from Jackson's camp, the friendly
+Creeks leading the way, wearing white feathers
+and white deer's-tails to distinguish them from
+the hostile tribes. The whites, maddened by the
+memory of Fort Mims, fought like tigers; the
+Indians, sullen and revengeful at the prospect of
+losing their homes and their hunting-grounds,
+neither asked nor gave quarter, and fought heroically.
+Nearly the whole town perished.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[152]</a></span>On the battle-field was found a dead mother
+with her arms clasped about a living child. The
+babe was brought into camp, and Jackson asked
+some of the Indian women to care for it. "No!"
+said they, "all his relations are dead; kill him
+too." The baby was cared for at General Jackson's
+expense till the campaign was over, and
+then carried to the Hermitage, where he grew to
+young manhood as a petted son. The general and
+his wife gave him the name of Lincoyer. In his
+seventeenth year he died of consumption, sincerely
+mourned by his devoted friends.</p>
+
+<p>Following the battle of Talluschatches, General
+Jackson moved against Talladega, and, after
+a bloody conflict, rescued one hundred and fifty
+friendly Creeks. Returning to camp, he found
+starvation staring him in the face. The men were
+becoming desperate; yet he kept his cheerfulness,
+dividing with them the last crust. One morning a
+gaunt, hungry-looking soldier approached General
+Jackson as he was sitting under a tree, eating, and
+asked for some food, saying that he was nearly
+starving.</p>
+
+<p>"It has been a rule with me," said the general,
+"never to turn away a hungry man, when it is in
+my power to relieve him, and I will most cheerfully
+divide with you what I have." Putting his
+hand in his pocket, he drew forth a few acorns.
+"This is the best and only fare I have," he said,
+and the soldier was comforted.</p>
+
+<p>Many of the men had enlisted for three months<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[153]</a></span>
+only, and were impatient to return home. Finally,
+the militia determined to return with or without
+the general's consent. Jackson heard of their intention,
+and at once ordered the volunteers to detain
+them, peaceably if they could, forcibly if they
+must. Then the volunteers, in turn, attempted to
+go back, but were met by Jackson's firm resolve to
+shoot the first man who took a step toward home.</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot," he said, "must not believe that the
+'Volunteers of Tennessee,' a name ever dear to
+fame, will disgrace themselves, and a country
+which they have honored, by abandoning her
+standard, as mutineers and deserters; but should
+I be disappointed, and compelled to resign this
+pleasing hope, one thing I will not resign&mdash;my
+duty. Mutiny and sedition, so long as I possess
+the power of quelling them, shall be put down;
+and even when left destitute of this, I will still
+be found in the last extremity endeavoring to
+discharge the duty I owe my country and myself."
+That one word, "duty," was the key-note
+of Jackson's life. It was his religion&mdash;it was
+his philosophy.</p>
+
+<p>With all Jackson's kindness to his men, they
+knew that he could be severe. John Woods, a boy
+not eighteen, the support of aged parents, was shot
+for refusing to obey a superior officer. That he
+could have been spared seems probable, but Jackson
+taught hard lessons to his undisciplined troops,
+and sometimes in a harsh manner.</p>
+
+<p>In seven months the Creeks had been utterly<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[154]</a></span>
+routed; half their warriors were dead, and the
+rest were broken in spirit. Weathersford, their
+most heroic chief, the leader at the Fort Mims
+massacre, sought General Jackson at his camp.</p>
+
+<p>"How dare you," said Jackson, "ride up to my
+tent, after having murdered the women and children
+at Fort Mims?"</p>
+
+<p>"General Jackson, I am not afraid of you,"
+was the reply. "I fear no man, for I am a Creek
+warrior. I have nothing to request in behalf of
+myself. You can kill me, if you desire. But I
+come to beg you to send for the women and children
+of the war party, who are now starving in the
+woods. Their fields and cribs have been destroyed
+by your people, who have driven them to the
+woods without an ear of corn. I hope that you
+will send out parties, who will conduct them safely
+here, in order that they may be fed. I exerted
+myself in vain to prevent the massacre of the
+women and children at Fort Mims. I am now
+done fighting. The Red Sticks are nearly all
+killed. If I could fight you any longer, I would
+most heartily do so. Send for the women and
+children. They never did you any harm. But
+kill me, if the white people want it done."</p>
+
+<p>"Kill him! kill him!" shouted several voices.</p>
+
+<p>"Silence!" exclaimed Jackson. "Any man
+who would kill as brave a man as this would rob
+the dead!"</p>
+
+<p>Weathersford's request was granted, and the
+women and children of the war party were provided<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[155]</a></span>
+for. The chief died many years afterward,
+a planter in Alabama, respected by the Americans
+for his bravery and his honor.</p>
+
+<p>The Creek war over, Jackson went back to
+Tennessee, a noted, successful soldier. He had
+not only conquered the Creeks, but he had won
+for himself the position of major-general in the
+United States army, having in charge the department
+of the South. He was now forty-seven, and
+had indeed reached a high position. Mississippi
+voted him a sword, and other States sent testimonials
+of appreciation. All this time he was a
+constant sufferer in body, and only kept himself
+from his bed by his indomitable will. The Hermitage
+could not long keep the ardent, tireless
+general from the front. He soon established his
+headquarters at Mobile, and prepared to defend a
+thousand miles of coast from the British. He had
+but a small army at his command, and was far
+from Washington, with scarcely any means of
+communication. Indeed, the English had captured
+that city already, and burned most of its
+public buildings.</p>
+
+<p>The English had attacked Mobile Point, been
+defeated, and retired to Pensacola, Florida. Spain
+owned Florida, and was supposed to be neutral,
+but she was in reality friendly and helpful to
+England, and allowed her to use the State as a base
+of operations. Jackson wrote to Washington asking
+leave to attack Pensacola. The answer did
+not come back till the war of 1812 was over and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[156]</a></span>
+Jackson had won renown for himself and his country.
+He did not wait for an answer, however, but
+stormed Pensacola, captured it, and then hastened
+to New Orleans, where he expected the next attack
+would be made. He used to say to young men,
+"Always take all the time to reflect that circumstances
+will permit; but when the time for action
+has come, stop thinking." And at Pensacola he
+stopped thinking, and acted. Nothing was ready
+for his coming, but all eyes turned to the conquerer
+of the Creeks as the savior of New Orleans.
+Women gathered around him and looked trustingly
+toward the erect, self-centred, bronzed soldier.
+Men flocked willingly to his service, glad to
+do his bidding. He summoned the engineers of
+the city and ordered every bayou to be obstructed
+by earth and sunken logs. The city was put
+under martial law. No person was permitted to
+leave the place without a written permit signed by
+the general or one of his staff. The street lamps
+were extinguished at nine o'clock, after which
+hour any person without the necessary permit or
+not having the countersign was apprehended as a
+spy and held for examination. All able-bodied
+men, black and white, were compelled to serve as
+soldiers or sailors.</p>
+
+<p>He had with him about two thousand troops,
+and four thousand more within ten or fifteen days'
+march. Against these, for the most part undisciplined
+troops, a British force of twenty thousand
+men was coming, with a fleet of fifty ships, carrying<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[157]</a></span>
+a thousand guns. Much of this army had
+served under the great Wellington in France;
+its present leader, General Packenham, was Wellington's
+brother-in-law. He was only thirty-eight,
+brave, and the idol of his men. Some of the
+ships had been with Nelson in the battle of the
+Nile. The flower of England's army and navy had
+been sent to conquer the independent and self-reliant
+Americans.</p>
+
+<p>So certain were the British of conquest that
+several families were with the fleet, husbands and
+brothers having been appointed already to civil
+offices. Another person was also confident of victory&mdash;the
+man who had seen but fourteen months
+of service, but who from boyhood had never known
+what it was to be defeated. He inspired others
+with the same confidence. Says Latour, in his
+history of the war in West Florida and Louisiana,
+"The energy manifested by General Jackson
+spread, as it were, by contagion, and communicated
+itself to the whole army. There was nothing
+which those who composed it did not feel themselves
+capable of performing, if he ordered it to
+be done. It was enough that he expressed a wish
+or threw out the slightest intimation, and immediately
+a crowd of volunteers offered themselves to
+carry his views into execution."</p>
+
+<p>The English fleet entered Lake Borgne, sixty
+miles north-east from New Orleans, on December
+10, 1814. Twelve days later they had reached the
+Mississippi River, nine miles below the city. The<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[158]</a></span>
+next day, when Jackson was informed of their
+approach, he said, bringing his clenched fist down
+upon the table, "By the Eternal, they shall not
+sleep on our soil!"</p>
+
+<p>At once, with, as Parton says, that "calm impetuosity
+and that composed intensity which belonged
+to him," he sent word to the various regiments
+to meet him at three o'clock at a specified
+place. And then he lay down and slept for a short
+time, his only rest during the next three days and
+three nights. Few men except General Jackson,
+with his iron will, could have slept at such a time.
+A messenger came, sent by some ladies, asking
+what they should do if the city were attacked.</p>
+
+<p>"Say to them not to be uneasy. No British soldier
+shall enter the city as an enemy, unless over
+my dead body," and he kept his word.</p>
+
+<p>At three o'clock the men were hastening on to
+meet the "red-coats." Twilight came early, and
+the moon rose dimly over the battle-field. The signal
+of attack was to be a shot fired from the ship
+Carolina. At half-past seven, the first gun was
+heard, then seven others, and the word was given&mdash;<span class="smcap">Forward</span>.</p>
+
+<p>And forward they went, with quick steps and
+eager hearts. A tremendous fire opened upon our
+artillery-men. The horses attached to the cannon
+became unmanageable, and one of the pieces was
+turned over into the ditch. Jackson dashed into
+the midst of the fray, exclaiming, "Save the
+guns, my boys, at every sacrifice," and the guns<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[159]</a></span>
+were saved. Men fought hand to hand in the
+smoke and the darkness; the British using their
+bayonets, and the Americans their long hunting-knives.
+Prisoners were taken and retaken. Till
+ten o'clock the battle raged; when our men fell
+back upon the Roderiguez canal, to wait till the
+morning sun should show where to begin the deadly
+work. When the morning came, the battle-field
+presented a ghastly appearance. Says a British
+officer concerning the American dead, "Their hair,
+eyebrows, and lashes were thickly covered with
+hoar-frost, or rime, their bloodless cheeks vying
+with its whiteness. Few were dressed in military
+uniforms, and most of them bore the appearance of
+farmers or husbandmen. Peace to their ashes!
+they had nobly died in defending their country."</p>
+
+<p>The Roderiguez canal was now strongly fortified.
+Spades, crowbars, and wheelbarrows had been sent
+from the city. The canal was deepened and the
+earth thrown up on the side. Fences were torn
+away, and rails driven down to keep the sand from
+falling back into the canal. The line of defence, a
+mile long, was four or five feet high in some places.
+Cotton bales from a neighboring ship were used.</p>
+
+<p>"Here," said Jackson, "we will plant our stakes,
+and not abandon them until we drive these 'red-coat'
+rascals into the river or the swamp."</p>
+
+<p>While these busy preparations were going on,
+food was brought to General Jackson, which he ate
+in the saddle. Christmas day came. The English
+Admiral Cochrane had said, "I shall eat my Christmas<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[160]</a></span>
+dinner in New Orleans." General Jackson
+heard of it, and remarked, "Perhaps so; but I
+shall have the honor of presiding at that dinner."</p>
+
+<p>The Americans were ready, but the British did
+not make the expected attack. Every man was at
+his post. When an officer, the son of one of Jackson's
+best friends, said to him, "May I go to town
+to-day?" the reply was, "Of course, Captain Livingston,
+you <i>may</i> go; but <i>ought</i> you to go?" The
+young man blushed, bowed, and returned to duty.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime, the British were not idle. They had
+determined to silence the guns of the American
+ships, and, with great toil, had brought up into the
+swampy ground nine field-pieces, two howitzers, one
+mortar, a furnace for heating balls, and the necessary
+ammunition. At dawn on the morning of
+December 27 the firing began. The Carolina, after
+a terrific bombardment, blew up. The Louisiana
+fought her way out into a place of safety.</p>
+
+<p>The days went by slowly under the dreadful suspense.
+On New Year's day, General Packenham
+cannonaded the Americans and was driven back.
+On January 8, the final battle began. Early in the
+morning, the British moved against the Americans.
+Jackson walked along the lines, cheering the men,
+"Stand to your guns. Don't waste your ammunition.
+See that every shot tells. Give it to them,
+boys! Let us finish the business to-day."</p>
+
+<p>And every shot did tell. The sharpshooters
+aimed at the officers, and the batteries mowed down
+the British regulars. Seeing them falter, Packenham<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[161]</a></span>
+rushed among the men, shouting, "For shame!
+recollect that you are British soldiers!" Taking
+off his hat, he spurred his horse to the head of the
+wavering column. A ball splintered his right arm.
+Then the Highlanders came to the support of their
+comrades.</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah! brave Highlanders!" he said, as a mass
+of grape-shot tore open his thigh and killed his
+horse. Another shot struck him, and he was borne
+under a live-oak to die. The great tree is still
+standing.</p>
+
+<p>At nine o'clock in the morning the battle was
+virtually over. The English lost seven hundred
+killed, fourteen hundred wounded, and five hundred
+taken prisoners; while the Americans lost but
+eight killed and thirteen wounded. "The field
+was so thickly strewn with the dead that, from the
+American ditch, you could have walked a quarter
+of a mile to the front on the bodies of the killed
+and disabled.... The course of the column could
+be distinctly traced in the broad red line of the
+victims of the terrible batteries and unerring guns
+of the Americans. They fell in their tracks; in
+some places, whole platoons lay together, as if
+killed by the same discharge."</p>
+
+<p>The news of this great victory at New Orleans
+astonished the North, and made Jackson the hero
+of his time. The whole country was proud of a
+man who could win such a battle, losing the lives
+of so few of his men. Nearly every State passed
+resolutions in his praise. The Senate and House<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[162]</a></span>
+of Representatives ordered a gold medal to be
+struck in his honor. Philadelphia enjoyed a general
+illumination; one of the transparencies representing
+the general on horseback in pursuit of the
+enemy, with the words, "This day shall ne'er go
+by, from this day to the ending of the world, but
+He in it shall be remembered." Henry Clay said,
+"Now I can go to England without mortification."</p>
+
+<p>When Jackson and his army returned to New
+Orleans, men, women, and children came out to
+meet them. Young ladies strewed flowers along
+the way; children crowned the general with laurel,
+and an impressive service was held in his honor in
+the Cathedral. He replied, "For myself, to have
+been instrumental in the deliverance of such a
+country is the greatest blessing that Heaven could
+confer. That it has been effected with so little loss&mdash;that
+so few tears should cloud the smiles of our
+triumph, and not a cypress leaf be interwoven in
+the wreath which you present, is a source of the
+most exquisite enjoyment."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Jackson and little Andrew, now seven years
+old, came down from the Hermitage, and his cup
+of joy was indeed full. To have Rachel's commendation
+was more than to have that of all of
+the world besides. The ladies of New Orleans
+gave to her a valuable set of topaz jewelry, and to
+the general a diamond pin. A month later, they
+were at home once more. He had shown the good
+judgment, the calm bravery, the comprehensive
+outlook, the quick decision, the tender compassion<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[163]</a></span>
+of the great soldier. Perhaps the busy public life
+was over&mdash;who could tell?</p>
+
+<p>Four months later, General Jackson went to
+Washington, at the request of the Secretary of
+War, to arrange about the stations of the army in
+the South. The journey thither was one constant
+ovation. At a great banquet tendered him at
+Lynchburg, Virginia, Thomas Jefferson, then seventy-two,
+gave this toast: "Honor and gratitude to
+those who have filled the measure of their country's
+honor." At Washington also he received
+distinguished attention.</p>
+
+<p>In 1817, the Seminole Indians of Georgia and
+Alabama had become hostile. General Jackson
+was the man to conquer them. He immediately
+marched into their country with eighteen hundred
+whites and fifteen hundred friendly Indians, and
+in five months subjugated them.</p>
+
+<p>Florida was purchased in 1819, and two years
+later Jackson was appointed its governor, with a
+salary of five thousand dollars. Mrs. Jackson
+joined him there, but neither was happy, and he
+soon resigned, and returned with her to the Hermitage.
+He had built for her a new house, a
+two-story brick, surrounded by a double piazza.
+He was at this time frail in health, and did not
+expect ever to live in the home, but wished it to
+be made beautiful for her. He hoped now to live
+a quiet life, enjoying his garden and his farm; but
+the nation had other plans for him.</p>
+
+<p>In 1823, Jackson was elected to the United<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[164]</a></span>
+States Senate, twenty-six years after his first appearance
+in that body. He was now prominently
+mentioned as a candidate for the Presidency.
+Strange contrast indeed to the days when, bare-footed
+and orphaned, he struggled for the rudiments
+of an education.</p>
+
+<p>While he had many ardent friends, he had
+strong opponents. Daniel Webster said, "If General
+Jackson is elected, the government of our
+country will be overthrown; the judiciary will be
+destroyed;" yet he added, "His manners are
+more presidential than those of any of the candidates.
+He is grave, mild, and reserved. My wife
+is for him decidedly." Jefferson said, "I feel
+very much alarmed at the prospect of seeing General
+Jackson President. He is one of the most
+unfit men I know of for the place. He has had
+very little respect for laws or constitution, and is,
+in fact, an able military chief. His passions are
+terrible.... He has been much tried since I knew
+him, but he is a dangerous man." But the people
+knew he had conquered the Indians and the British,
+and they believed in him.</p>
+
+<p>The candidates for the Presidency in 1824 were
+Jackson, John Quincy Adams, William H. Crawford,
+and Henry Clay. While Jackson received
+the largest popular vote, the House of Representatives,
+balloting by States, elected John Quincy
+Adams. It was believed that Clay used his influence
+for Adams against Jackson, and this caused
+the election of Adams, a scholarly man, the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[165]</a></span>
+son of John Adams, and long our representative
+abroad.</p>
+
+<p>Four years later, in 1828, the people made their
+voices heard at the ballot-box, and Jackson was
+elected by a large majority. The contest had
+been exceedingly personal and annoying. The
+old stories about his marriage were again dragged
+through the press. Mrs. Jackson, a victim of
+heart-disease, was unduly troubled, and became
+broken in health. When he was elected, she said,
+"Well, for Mr. Jackson's sake, I am glad; for my
+own part, I never wished it."</p>
+
+<p>Jackson had built for her a small brick church
+in the Hermitage grounds, and here, where the
+neighbors and servants gathered, she found her
+deepest happiness, and sighed for no greater
+sphere of usefulness. When she urged the general
+to join her church, he said, "My dear, if I were to
+do that now, it would be said, all over the country,
+that I had done it for the sake of political effect.
+My enemies would all say so. I cannot do it <i>now</i>,
+but I promise you that, when once more I am clear
+of politics, I will join the church."</p>
+
+<p>The people of Nashville were of course proud
+that one from their city had been chosen to so
+high a position, and tendered him a banquet on
+December 23, the anniversary of the first battle
+at New Orleans. A few days before this, Mrs.
+Jackson was taken ill, but she urged her husband
+to make himself ready for the banquet. While he
+had watched by her bedside constantly, on the evening<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[166]</a></span>
+of December 22, she was so much better that
+he consented to lie down on a sofa in an adjoining
+room. He had not been there five minutes
+before a cry was heard from Mrs. Jackson. He
+hastened to her, but she never breathed again.</p>
+
+<p>He could not believe that she was dead. When
+they brought a table to lay her body upon it, he
+said tenderly, in a choking voice, "Spread four
+blankets upon it. If she does come to, she will
+lie so hard upon the table."</p>
+
+<p>All night long he sat beside the form of his
+beloved Rachel, often feeling of her heart and
+pulse. In the morning he was wholly inconsolable,
+and, when he found that she was really dead,
+the body could scarcely be forced from his arms.</p>
+
+<p>At the funeral, the road to the Hermitage was
+almost impassable. The press said of her, "Her
+pure and gentle heart, in which a selfish, guileful,
+or malicious thought, never found entrance, was
+the throne of benevolence.... To feed the hungry,
+to clothe the naked, to supply the indigent, to
+raise the humble, to notice the friendless, and to
+comfort the unfortunate, were her favorite occupations....
+Thus she lived, and when death approached,
+her patience and resignation were equal
+to her goodness; not an impatient gesture, not
+a vexatious look, not a fretful accent escaped her:
+but her last breath was charged with an expression
+of tenderness for the man whom she loved more
+than her life, and honored next to her God."
+Only such a nature could have held the undivided<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[167]</a></span>
+love of an impetuous, imperious man. Jackson,
+like so many other unchristian men, had the wisdom
+to desire and to choose for himself a Christian
+wife.</p>
+
+<p>He prepared a tomb for her like an open summer-house,
+and buried her under the white dome supported
+by marble pillars. On the tablet above her
+are the words, "Here lie the remains of Mrs.
+Rachel Jackson, wife of President Jackson....
+Her face was fair, her person pleasing, her temper
+amiable, her heart kind; she delighted in relieving
+the wants of her fellow-creatures, and cultivated
+that divine pleasure by the most liberal and unpretending
+methods; to the poor she was a benefactor;
+to the rich an example; to the wretched a comforter;
+to the prosperous an ornament; her piety
+went hand in hand with her benevolence, and she
+thanked her Creator for being permitted to do good.
+A being so gentle and so virtuous, slander might
+wound, but could not dishonor. Even Death, when
+he tore her from the arms of her husband, could
+but transport her to the bosom of her God."</p>
+
+<p>Such a woman need have no fear that she will
+fade out of a human heart. While Jackson lived,
+he wore her miniature about his neck, and every
+night laid it open beside her prayer-book at his
+bedside. Her face was the last thing upon which
+his eyes rested before he slept, through those eight
+years at the White House, and the first thing upon
+which his eyes opened in the morning. Possibly it
+is not given to all women to win and hold so<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[168]</a></span>
+complete and beautiful an affection; perchance the
+fault is sometimes theirs.</p>
+
+<p>Andrew Jackson went to Washington, having
+grown "twenty years older in a night," his friends
+said. His nephew, Andrew Jackson Donelson, and
+his lovely wife accompanied him. Earl, the artist,
+who had painted <i>her</i> picture ("her" always meant
+Rachel with General Jackson), for this reason
+found a home also at the White House.</p>
+
+<p>The inauguration seemed to have drawn the
+whole country together. Webster said, "I never
+saw such a crowd here before. Persons have come
+five hundred miles to see General Jackson, and
+they really seem to think that the country is rescued
+from some dreadful danger." After the ceremony,
+crowds completely filled the White House.</p>
+
+<p>During the first year of the Presidency, the unfortunate
+maxim which had found favor in New
+York politics, "To the victors belong the spoils,"
+began to be carried out in the removal, it is believed,
+of nearly two thousand persons from office,
+and substituting those of different political opinions.
+The removals raised a storm of indignation
+from the opposite party, which did not in the least
+disturb General Jackson.</p>
+
+<p>In his first message to Congress, after maintaining
+that a long tenure of office is corrupting, urging
+that the surplus revenue be apportioned among
+the several States for works of public utility, he
+took strong ground against rechartering the United
+States Bank. This caused much alarm, for the influence<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[169]</a></span>
+of the bank was very great. Its capital
+was thirty-five million dollars. The parent bank
+was at Philadelphia, with twenty-five branches in
+the large cities and towns. Since Alexander Hamilton's
+time, a government bank had been a matter
+of contention. When the second was started in
+1816, after the war of 1812, business seemed to revive,
+but many persons believed, with Henry Clay,
+that such a bank was unconstitutional, and a vast
+political power that might be, and was, corruptly
+used. Complaints were constantly heard that officials
+were favored.</p>
+
+<p>When the bill to recharter the bank passed Congress,
+Jackson promptly vetoed the bill. He said,
+"We can, at least, take a stand against all new
+grants of monopolies and exclusive privileges,
+against any prostitution of our government to the
+advancement of the few at the expense of the
+many." A few years later he determined to put an
+end to the bank by removing all the surplus funds,
+amounting to ten millions, and placing them in certain
+State banks. When Mr. Duane, the Secretary
+of the Treasury, would not remove the deposits,
+General Jackson immediately removed him, putting
+Roger B. Taney in his place. Congress passed a
+vote of censure on the President, but it was afterward
+expunged from the records. Speculation resulted
+from the distribution of the money; the
+panic of 1836-37 followed, which the Whigs said
+was caused by the destruction of the bank, and the
+Democrats by the bank itself.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[170]</a></span>The United States Bank was not the only disturbing
+question in these times. The tariff, which
+was advantageous to the manufacturers of the
+North, was considered disadvantageous to the agricultural
+interests of the South. Bitter feeling was
+engendered by the discussion, till South Carolina,
+under the leadership of John C. Calhoun, declared
+that the acts of Congress on the tariff were null
+and void; therefore, nullification or disunion became
+the absorbing topic. Then came the great
+dispute between Robert Y. Hayne and Daniel
+Webster.</p>
+
+<p>If the nullifiers or believers in extreme States'
+rights supposed Jackson to be on their side, they
+were quickly undeceived. When Jefferson's birthday,
+April 13, was observed in Washington, as it
+had been for twenty years, Jackson sent the following
+toast: "<span class="smcap">Our Federal Union: it must
+be preserved</span>." He wrote to the citizens of
+Charleston, "Every enlightened citizen must know
+that a separation, could it be effected, would begin
+with civil discord, and end in colonial dependence
+on a foreign power, and obliteration from the list
+of nations." He said, "If this thing goes on, our
+country will be like a bag of meal with both ends
+open. Pick it up in the middle or endwise, it will
+run out."</p>
+
+<p>Still, South Carolina was not to be deterred, with
+the eloquent Calhoun as her leader, and the Nullification
+Ordinance was passed November 24, 1832.
+At once the governor was authorized to accept the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[171]</a></span>
+service of volunteers. Medals were struck bearing
+the words, "John C. Calhoun, First President of
+the Southern Confederacy."</p>
+
+<p>By the time South Carolina was ready to break
+the laws, another person was ready to enforce them.
+Jackson at once sent General Scott to take command
+at Charleston, with gun-boats close by, and
+sent also an earnest and eloquent protest to the
+seceding State. Public meetings were held in the
+large cities of the North. The tariff was modified
+at the next session of Congress, but the disunion
+doctrines were allowed to grow till thirty years
+later, when they bore the bitter fruit of civil war.</p>
+
+<p>When Jackson was asked, years afterward, what
+he would have done with Calhoun and the nullifiers
+if they had continued, he replied, "Hung
+them as high as Haman. They should have been
+a terror to traitors to all time, and posterity would
+have pronounced it the best act of my life." When
+difficulties arose about the Cherokees of Georgia,
+he removed them to the Indian Territory; a harsh
+measure it seemed, but perhaps not harder for the
+tribes than to have attempted to live among hostile
+whites. When the French king neglected to pay
+the five million dollars agreed upon for injuries
+done to our shipping, Jackson recommended to
+make reprisals on French merchantmen, and the
+money was paid. The national debt was paid under
+Jackson, who believed rightly that this, as
+well as every other kind of debt, is a curse. The
+Eaton affair showed his loyalty to friends. John<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[172]</a></span>
+H. Eaton, Secretary of War, had married the widow
+of a purser in the Navy, formerly the daughter of
+a tavern-keeper in Washington. Her conduct had
+caused criticism, and the ladies of the Cabinet
+would not associate with her&mdash;even though President
+Jackson tried every means in his power to
+compel it, as Eaton was his warm friend.</p>
+
+<p>When the eight years of presidential life were
+over, Jackson sent his farewell address to the
+people of the country, who had idolized him, and
+whom he had loved, he said, "with the affection of
+a son," and retired to the Hermitage. The people
+of Nashville met him with outstretched arms and
+tearful faces. He was seventy years old, <i>their</i>
+President, and he had come home to live and die
+with them.</p>
+
+<p>He was now through with politics, and wanted
+to carry out <i>her</i> wishes, to join the little Hermitage
+church. The night of decision was full of
+meditation and prayer. One morning in 1843, the
+church was crowded to see the ex-President make
+a public confession of the Christian religion. He
+went home to read his Bible more carefully than
+ever&mdash;he had never read less than three chapters
+daily for thirty-five years, such is the influence
+of early education received at a mother's knee.</p>
+
+<p>The following year, 1844, Commodore Elliot
+offered the sarcophagus which he brought from
+Palestine, believed to have contained the remains
+of the Roman Emperor, Alexander Severus, to
+President Jackson for his final resting-place.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[173]</a></span>A letter of cordial thanks was returned, with
+the words, "I cannot consent that my mortal
+body shall be laid in a repository prepared for an
+emperor or a king. My republican feelings and
+principles forbid it; the simplicity of our system
+of government forbids it.... I have prepared an
+humble depository for my mortal body beside that
+wherein lies my beloved wife, where, without any
+pomp or parade, I have requested, when my God
+calls me to sleep with my fathers, to be laid."</p>
+
+<p>The May of 1845 found General Jackson feeble
+and emaciated, but still deeply interested in his
+country, writing letters to President Polk and
+other statesmen about Texas, hoping ever to avert
+war if possible. "If not," he said, "let war come.
+There will be patriots enough in the land to repel
+foreign aggression, come whence it may, and to
+maintain sacredly our just rights and to perpetuate
+our glorious constitution and liberty, and to preserve
+our happy Union." He made his will, bequeathing
+all his property to his adopted son, because, said
+he, "If <i>she</i> were alive, she would wish him to
+have it all, and to me her wish is law."</p>
+
+<p>On Sunday, June 8, 1845, the family and servants
+gathered about the great man, who was
+dying at the age of seventy-eight, having fought
+against wounds and disease all his life. "My dear
+children," he said, "do not grieve for me; it is
+true I am going to leave you; I am well aware of
+my situation. I have suffered much bodily pain,
+but my sufferings are but as nothing compared<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[174]</a></span>
+with that which our blessed Saviour endured upon
+that accursed cross, that all might be saved who
+put their trust in him.... I hope and trust to
+meet you all in Heaven, both white and black&mdash;both
+white and black." Then he kissed each one,
+his eyes resting last, affectionately, upon his granddaughter
+Rachel, named for his wife, and closely
+resembling her in loveliness of character; then
+death came.</p>
+
+<p>Two days before he died, he said, "Heaven will
+be no Heaven to me if I do not meet my wife
+there." Who can picture that meeting? He
+used to say, "All I have achieved&mdash;fame, power,
+everything&mdash;would I exchange, if she could be
+restored to me for a moment." How blessed must
+have been the restoration, not "for a moment,"
+but for eternity!</p>
+
+<p>The lawn at the Hermitage was crowded with
+the thousands who came to attend the funeral.
+From the portico, the minister spoke from the
+words, "These are they which came out of great
+tribulation, and washed their robes white in the
+blood of the Lamb."</p>
+
+<p>All over the country, public meetings were held
+in honor of the illustrious dead; the man who had
+said repeatedly, "I care nothing about clamors; I
+do precisely what I think just and right."</p>
+
+<p>"He had had honors beyond anything which
+his own heart had ever coveted," says Prof. William
+G. Sumner, in his life of Jackson. "His
+successes had outrun his ambition. He had held<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[175]</a></span>
+more power than any other American had ever
+possessed. He had been idolized by the great
+majority of his countrymen, and had been surfeited
+with adulation."</p>
+
+<p>Politicians sometimes sneered about his "kitchen
+cabinet" at Washington, the devoted friends who
+influenced him but did not hold official position,
+for, self-reliant though he was to a marvellous
+degree, he was neither afraid nor ashamed to be
+influenced by those who loved him. He was absolutely
+sincere and unselfish. He hated intensely,
+and loved intensely; with an affection as unchanging
+as his adamantine will. Patriotic, determined,
+energetic, and heroic, he attained success where
+others would have failed. He illustrated Emerson's
+words, "The man who stands by himself, the
+universe will stand by him also." Francis P.
+Blair, his devoted friend, used to say, "Of all the
+men I have known, Andrew Jackson was the one
+most entirely sufficient for himself." During his
+presidency, the steamboat which once conveyed
+him and his party down the Chesapeake was unseaworthy,
+and one of the men exhibited much alarm.
+"You are uneasy," said the general; "you never
+sailed with <i>me</i> before, I see."</p>
+
+<p>As a soldier, he was a brave, wise, skilful
+leader; as a statesman, honest, earnest, fearless,
+true&mdash;"I do precisely what I think just and right."</p>
+
+<p>Said a friend who knew him well, "There was
+more of the woman in his nature than in that of
+any man I ever knew&mdash;more of woman's tenderness<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[176]</a></span>
+toward children, and sympathy with them.
+Often has he been known, though he never had a
+child of his own, to walk up and down by the hour
+with an infant in his arms, because by so doing he
+relieved it from the cause of its crying; more also
+of woman's patience and uncomplaining, unnoticing
+submissiveness to trivial causes of irritation.
+There was in him a womanly modesty and delicacy....
+By no man was the homage due to
+woman, the only true homage she can receive&mdash;faith
+in her&mdash;more devoutly rendered.... This
+peculiar tenderness of nature entered largely, no
+doubt, into the composition of that <i>manner</i> of his,
+with which so many have been struck, and which
+was of the highest available stamp as regards
+both dignity and grace."</p>
+
+<p>Much of what he was in character he owed to
+Rachel Jackson. He once said to a prominent
+man, "My wife was a pious Christian woman.
+She gave me the best advice, and I have not been
+unmindful of it. When the people, in their
+sovereign pleasure, elected me President of the
+United States, <i>she</i> said to me, 'Don't let your popularity
+turn your mind away from the duty you
+owe to God. Before him we are all alike sinners,
+and to him we must all alike give account. All
+these things will pass away, and you and I and
+all of us must stand before God.' I have never
+forgotten it, and I never shall."</p>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[177]</a></span></p>
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 413px;">
+<img src="images/illus-177.jpg" width="413" height="600" alt="Daniel Webster" title="Daniel Webster" />
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>DANIEL WEBSTER.</h2>
+
+
+<p>In the little town of Salisbury, New Hampshire,
+now called Franklin, Daniel Webster was born,
+January 18, 1782, the ninth in a family of ten
+children. Ebenezer, the father, descended from a
+sturdy Puritan ancestry, had fought in the French
+and Indian Wars; a brave, hardy pioneer. He
+had cleared the wilderness for his log house, married
+a wife who bore him five children, after which
+she died, and then married a second time, Abigail
+Eastman, a woman of vigorous understanding, yet
+tender and self-sacrificing. Of the five children
+of the latter wife, three daughters and two sons,
+Daniel was the fourth, a slight, delicate child,
+whose frail body made him especially dear to the
+mother, who felt that at any time he might be
+taken out of her arms forever.</p>
+
+<p>"In this hut," said Webster, years later, speaking
+of his father and mother, "they endured
+together all sorts of privations and hardships; my
+mother was constantly visited by Indians, who had
+never gone to a white man's house but to kill its
+inhabitants, while my father, perhaps, was gone,
+as he frequently was, miles away, carrying on his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[178]</a></span>
+back the corn to be ground, which was to support
+his family."</p>
+
+<p>The father was absent from home, also, on more
+important errands. When the news of the battle
+of Bunker Hill thrilled the colonies, Captain
+Webster, who had won his title in the earlier wars,
+raised a company, and at once started for the scene
+of action. He fought at Bennington under Stark,
+being the first to scale the Tory breastworks, at
+White Plains, and was at West Point when Arnold
+attempted to surrender it to the British. He
+stood guard before General Washington's headquarters,
+the night of Arnold's treason. No wonder,
+when Washington looked upon the robust
+form nearly six feet high, with black hair and
+eyes, and firm decisive manner, he said, "Captain
+Webster, I believe I can trust <i>you</i>."</p>
+
+<p>And so thought the people of New Hampshire,
+for they made him a member of both Houses of
+the State Legislature at various times, and a Judge
+of the Court of Common Pleas in his own county.</p>
+
+<p>The delicate boy Daniel was unable to work on
+the farm like his brother Ezekiel, two years older,
+but found his pleasure and pastime in reading, and
+in studying nature. The home, "Elms Farm," as
+it was called later, from the elms about it, was in a
+valley at a bend of the Merrimac. From here the
+boy gazed upon Mount Kearsarge, and Mount Washington,
+the king of the White Mountain peaks,
+and if he did not dream of what the future had in
+store for him, he grew broad in soul from such<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[179]</a></span>
+surroundings. Great mountains, great reaches of
+sea or plain, usually bring great thoughts and plans
+to those who view them with a loving heart.</p>
+
+<p>Daniel had little opportunity for schooling in
+those early years. He says, in his autobiography,
+"I do not remember when or by whom I was
+taught to read, because I cannot, and never could,
+recollect a time when I could not read the Bible.
+I suppose I was taught by my mother, or by my
+elder sisters. My father seemed to have no higher
+object in the world than to educate his children to
+the full extent of his very limited ability. No
+means were within his reach, generally speaking,
+but the small town-schools. These were kept by
+teachers, sufficiently indifferent, in the several
+neighborhoods of the township, each a small part
+of the year. To these I was sent with the other
+children.... In these schools nothing was taught
+but reading and writing; and as to these, the first
+I generally could perform better than the teacher,
+and the last a good master could hardly instruct
+me in; writing was so laborious, irksome, and
+repulsive an occupation to me always."</p>
+
+<p>Much of the boy's time was spent in rambles
+along the Merrimac river, formed by the Winnipiseogee
+and the Pemigewasset, "the beau ideal
+of a mountain stream; cold, noisy, winding, and
+with banks of much picturesque beauty." He
+loved to fish along the streams, having for company
+an old British soldier and sailor, Robert Wise.
+"He was," says Webster, "my Isaac Walton. He<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[180]</a></span>
+had a wife but no child. He loved me, because I
+would read the newspapers to him, containing the
+accounts of battles in the European wars. When
+I have read to him the details of the victories of
+Howe and Jervis, etc., I remember he was excited
+almost to convulsions, and would relieve his excitement
+by a gush of exulting tears. He finally
+picked up a fatherless child, took him home, sent
+him to school, and took care of him, only, as he
+said, that he might have some one to read the
+newspaper to him. He could never read himself.
+Alas, poor Robert! I have never so attained the
+narrative art as to hold the attention of others as
+thou, with thy Yorkshire tongue, hast held mine.
+Thou hast carried me many a mile on thy back,
+paddled me over and over and up and down the
+stream, and given whole days in aid of my boyish
+sports, and asked no meed but that, at night, I
+would sit down at thy cottage door, and read to
+thee some passage of thy country's glory!"</p>
+
+<p>Daniel heard of battles from another source
+beside Robert Wise. In the long winter evenings,
+when the family were snow-bound, Captain Webster
+would tell stories of the Revolutionary War,
+and the boy grew patriotic, as he heard of the
+brave soldiers who died to bring freedom to unborn
+generations. When he was eight years old, with
+all the money at his command, twenty-five cents,
+he went into a little shop "and bought," as he
+says, "a small cotton pocket-handkerchief, with
+the Constitution of the United States printed on<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[181]</a></span>
+its two sides. From this I learned either that
+there was a Constitution, or that there were thirteen
+States. I remember to have read it, and have
+known more or less of it ever since." Years afterward
+he said, "that there was not an article, a section,
+a clause, a phrase, a word, a syllable, or even
+a comma, of that Constitution, which he had not
+studied and pondered in every relation and in
+every construction of which it was susceptible."</p>
+
+<p>How important a part this twenty-five cent
+handkerchief played in the lives of the two Webster
+boys! There is no soil so mellow as that of a
+child's mind; it needs no enriching save love that
+warms it like sunshine. What is planted there
+early, grows rank and tall, and mothers do most of
+the planting.</p>
+
+<p>The lad's reading in these boyish days was confined
+mostly to the "Spectator," and Pope's "Essay
+on Man." The whole of the latter he learned to
+repeat. "We had so few books," he says, "that to
+read them once or twice was nothing. We thought
+they were all to be got by heart." The yearly almanac
+was regarded as "an acquisition." Once
+when Ezekiel and he had a dispute, after retiring, as
+to a couplet at the head of the April page, Daniel
+got up, groped his way to the kitchen, lighted a
+candle, looked at the quotation, found himself in
+the wrong, and went back to bed. But he had inadvertently,
+at two o'clock at night in midwinter,
+set the house on fire, which was saved by his
+father's presence of mind. Daniel said, "They<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[182]</a></span>
+were in pursuit of light, but got more than they
+wanted."</p>
+
+<p>Exceedingly fond of poetry, at twelve he could
+repeat many of the hymns of Dr. Watts. Later, he
+found delight in Don Quixote, of which he says,
+"I began to read it, and it is literally true that I
+never closed my eyes until I had finished it; nor
+did I lay it down, so great was the power of that
+extraordinary book on my imagination." Later
+still, Milton, Shakespeare, and the Bible became
+his inspiration.</p>
+
+<p>Years after, he used to say, "I have read through
+the entire Bible many times. I now make it a
+practice to go through it once a year. It is the
+book of all others for lawyers as well as for divines;
+and I pity the man that cannot find in it a
+rich supply of thought, and of rules for his conduct.
+It fits man for life&mdash;it prepares him for death!"</p>
+
+<p>Captain Webster had secretly nourished the
+thought that he should send Daniel to college, but
+he was not a man to awaken false hopes, so he made
+no mention of his thoughts. An incident related
+by Daniel shows his father's heart in the matter.
+"Of a hot day in July, it must have been in one of
+the last years of Washington's administration, I
+was making hay with my father. About the middle
+of the forenoon, the Honorable Abiel Foster,
+who lived in Canterbury, six miles off, called at the
+house, and came into the field to see my father.
+He was a worthy man, college-learned, and had
+been a minister, and was not a person of any considerable<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[183]</a></span>
+natural power. He talked a while in the
+field and went on his way. When he was gone, my
+father called me to him, and we sat down beneath
+the elm, on a haycock. He said, 'My son, that is
+a worthy man; he is a member of Congress; he
+goes to Philadelphia, and gets six dollars a day,
+while I toil here. It is because he had an education,
+which I never had. If I had had his early
+education, I should have been in Philadelphia in his
+place. I came near it as it was. But I missed it,
+and now I must work here.' 'My dear father,'
+said I, 'you shall not work. Brother and I shall
+work for you, and will wear our hands out, and you
+shall rest.' And I remember to have cried, and I
+cry now at the recollection. 'My child,' said he,
+'it is of no importance to me. I now live but for
+my children. I could not give your elder brothers
+the advantages of knowledge, but I can do something
+for you. Exert yourself, improve your opportunities,
+learn, learn, and, when I am gone, you
+will not need to go through the hardships which I
+have undergone, and which have made me an old
+man before my time.'"</p>
+
+<p>Daniel never forgot those precious words, "Improve
+your opportunities, learn, learn." The next
+year, 1796, he went to Phillips Exeter Academy,
+where he found ninety boys. He had come with
+his plain clothes from his plain home, while many
+of the others had come from rich and aristocratic
+families. Sometimes the boys ridiculed his country
+ways and country dress. Little they knew of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[184]</a></span>
+future that was to give them some slight renown
+simply because they happened to be in the same
+class with this country lad! When will the world
+learn not to judge a person by his clothes! When
+the first term at Exeter was near its close, the usher,
+Nicholas Emery, afterward an eminent lawyer in
+Portland, Maine, said to Webster, "You may stop a
+few minutes after school: I wish to speak to you."
+He then told the lad that he was a better scholar
+than any in his class, that he learned more readily
+and easily, and that if he returned to school he
+should be put into a higher class, and not be hindered
+by boys who cared more for play and dress
+than for solid improvement.</p>
+
+<p>"These were the first truly encouraging words,"
+said Mr. Webster, "that I ever received with regard
+to my studies. I then resolved to return, and
+pursue them with diligence and so much ability as
+I possessed." Blessings on thee, Nicholas Emery!
+Strange that either from indifference, or what we
+think the world will say, we forget to speak a helpful
+or an encouraging word. True appreciation is
+not flattery.</p>
+
+<p>Daniel was at this time extremely diffident&mdash;a
+manner that speaks well for a boy or girl generally&mdash;and
+was helped out of it by a noble young teacher,
+Joseph Stevens Buckminster, who died at twenty-eight.
+Mr. Webster says, "I believe I made tolerable
+progress in most branches which I attended to
+while in this school; but there was one thing I
+could not do&mdash;I could not make a declamation. I<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[185]</a></span>
+could not speak before the school. The kind and
+excellent Buckminster sought, especially, to persuade
+me to perform the exercise of declamation
+like other boys, but I could not do it. Many a
+piece did I commit to memory, and recite and rehearse
+in my own room, over and over again, yet,
+when the day came, when the school collected to
+hear declamations, when my name was called, and
+I saw all eyes turned to my seat, I could not raise
+myself from it. Sometimes the instructors frowned,
+sometimes they smiled. Mr. Buckminster always
+pressed and entreated, most winningly, that I would
+venture, but I could never command sufficient resolution.
+When the occasion was over, I went home
+and wept bitter tears of mortification."</p>
+
+<p>After nine months at Exeter, Daniel began to
+study with Rev. Samuel Wood, a minister in the
+adjoining town of Boscawen, six miles from Salisbury.
+As Captain Webster was driving over with
+his son, he communicated to him his plan of sending
+him to college. "I remember," says Daniel
+Webster, "the very hill which we were ascending,
+through deep snows, in a New England sleigh,
+when my father made known this purpose to me.
+I could not speak. How could he, I thought, with
+so large a family, and in such narrow circumstances,
+think of incurring so great an expense for
+me? A warm glow ran all over me, and I laid my
+head on my father's shoulder and wept."</p>
+
+<p>All through life, Mr. Webster, greatest of American
+orators, was never afraid nor ashamed to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[186]</a></span>
+weep. Children are not, and the nearer we keep
+to the naturalness of children, with reasonable
+self-control, the more power we have over others,
+and the sweeter and purer grow our natures.</p>
+
+<p>While Daniel was at Dr. Wood's, a characteristic
+incident occurred. He says: "My father sent for
+me in haying time to help him, and put me into
+a field to turn hay, and left me. It was pretty
+lonely there, and, after working some time, I found
+it very dull; and as I knew my father was gone
+away, I walked home, and asked my sister Sally if
+she did not want to go and pick some whortle-berries.
+She said, yes. So I went and got some
+horses, and put a side-saddle on one, and we set
+off. We did not get home until it was pretty late,
+and I soon went to bed. When my father came
+home he asked my mother where I was, and what
+I had been about. She told him. The next morning,
+when I awoke, I saw all the clothes I had
+brought from Dr. Wood's tied up in a small bundle
+again. When I saw my father, he asked me how I
+liked haying. I told him I found it 'pretty dull
+and lonesome yesterday.' 'Well,' said he, 'I
+believe you may as well go back to Dr. Wood's.'
+So I took my bundle under my arm, and on my
+way I met Thomas W. Thompson, a lawyer in
+Salisbury; he laughed very heartily when he saw
+me. 'So,' said he, 'your farming is over, is it?'"</p>
+
+<p>In August, 1797, when Daniel was fifteen, he
+entered Dartmouth College; there he proved a
+genial, affectionate friend, and a devoted student.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[187]</a></span>
+But for this natural warmth of heart, he probably
+never would have been an orator, for those only
+move others whose own hearts are moved. "He
+had few intimates," says Henry Cabot Lodge, in
+his admirably written and discriminating "Life of
+Webster," "but many friends. He was generally
+liked as well as universally admired, was a leader
+in the college societies, active and successful in
+sports, simple, hearty, unaffected, without a touch
+of priggishness, and with a wealth of wholesome
+animal spirits."</p>
+
+<p>After two years, the unselfish student could bear
+no longer the thought that his beloved brother
+Ezekiel was not to enjoy a college education.
+When he went home in vacation, he confided to his
+brother his unhappiness for his sake, and for a
+whole night they discussed the subject. It was
+decided that Daniel should consult the father.
+"This, we knew," said Mr. Webster, "would be a
+trying thing to my father and mother and two
+unmarried sisters. My father was growing old,
+his health not good, and his circumstances far
+from easy.... The farm was to be carried on, and
+the family taken care of; and there was nobody to
+do all this but him, who was regarded as the mainstay&mdash;that
+is to say, Ezekiel. However, I ventured
+on the negotiation, and it was carried, as
+other things often are, by the earnest and sanguine
+manner of youth. I told him that I was unhappy
+at my brother's prospects. For myself, I saw my
+way to knowledge, respectability, and self-protection;<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[188]</a></span>
+but, as to him, all looked the other way;
+that I would keep school, and get along as well as
+I could, be more than four years in getting through
+college, if necessary,&mdash;provided he also could be
+sent to study.... He said that to carry us both
+through college would take all he was worth; that,
+for himself, he was willing to run the risk; but
+that this was a serious matter to our mother and
+two unmarried sisters; that we must settle the
+matter with them, and, if their consent was obtained,
+he would trust to Providence, and get
+along as well as he could."</p>
+
+<p>Captain Webster consulted with his wife; told
+her that already the farm was mortgaged for Daniel's
+education, and that if Ezekiel went to college
+it would take all they possessed. "Well," said
+she, with her brave mother-heart, "I will trust
+the boys;" and they lived to make her glad that
+she had trusted them.</p>
+
+<p>The boy of seventeen went back to Dartmouth
+to struggle with poverty alone, but he was happy;
+the boy of nineteen began a new life, studying
+under Dr. Wood, and, later, entered Dartmouth
+College.</p>
+
+<p>Daniel, as he had promised, began to earn money
+to pay his own and his brother's way. By superintending
+a small weekly paper, called the <i>Dartmouth
+Gazette</i>, he earned enough to pay his
+board. In the winter he taught school, and gave
+the money to Ezekiel. While in college, his wonderful
+powers in debate began to manifest themselves.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[189]</a></span>
+He wrote his own declamations. Said one
+of his classmates: "In his movements he was
+rather slow and deliberate, except when his feelings
+were aroused; then his whole soul would
+kindle into a flame. We used to listen to him with
+the deepest respect and interest, and no one ever
+thought of equalling the vigor and flow of his
+eloquence."</p>
+
+<p>Beside his regular studies, he devoted himself to
+history and politics. From the old world he
+learned lessons in finance, in commerce, in the stability
+of governments, that he was able to use in
+after life. He remembered what he read. He
+says, "So much as I read I made my own. When
+a half-hour or an hour, at most, had elapsed, I
+closed my book, and thought over what I had read.
+If there was anything peculiarly interesting or
+striking in the passage, I endeavored to recall it,
+and lay it up in my memory, and commonly I could
+recall it. Then, if, in debate or conversation afterward,
+any subject came up on which I had read
+something, I could talk very easily so far as I had
+read, and then I was very careful to stop." In this
+manner Mr. Webster became skilled in the art of
+conversation, and could be the life of any social
+gathering.</p>
+
+<p>On July 4, 1800, he delivered his first public
+speech, at the request of the people of Hanover,
+tracing the history of our country to the grand
+success of the Revolution.</p>
+
+<p>On leaving college he entered the law office of Mr.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[190]</a></span>
+T. W. Thompson, of Salisbury. He seems not to
+have inclined strongly to the law, his tastes leading
+him toward general literature, but he was guided
+by the wishes of his father and other friends. His
+first reading was in the Law of Nations&mdash;Vattel,
+Burlamaqui, and Montesquieu, followed by Blackstone's
+Commentaries. After four months, he was
+obliged to quit his studies and earn money for
+Ezekiel.</p>
+
+<p>He obtained a school at Fryeburg, Maine, promising
+to teach for six months for one hundred and
+seventy-five dollars. Four nights each week he
+copied deeds, and made in this way two dollars a
+week. Thirty years afterward he said, "The ache
+is not yet out of my fingers; for nothing has ever
+been so laborious to me as writing, when under the
+necessity of writing a good hand."</p>
+
+<p>When May came with its week of vacation, he
+says, "I took my quarter's salary, mounted a horse,
+went straight over all the hills to Hanover, and
+had the pleasure of putting these, the first earnings
+of my life, into my brother's hands for his
+college expenses. Having enjoyed this sincere and
+high pleasure, I hied me back again to my school
+and my copying of deeds." Thus at twenty was
+the great American living out Emerson's sublime
+motto, "Help somebody," founded on that broadest
+and sweetest of all commands, "Love one another."</p>
+
+<p>"In these days," says George Ticknor Curtis'
+delightful life of Webster, "he was always dignified<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[191]</a></span>
+in his deportment. He was usually serious,
+but often facetious and pleasant. He was an
+agreeable companion, and eminently social with all
+who shared his friendship. He was greatly beloved
+by all who knew him. His habits were
+strictly abstemious, and he neither took wine nor
+strong drink. He was punctual in his attendance
+upon public worship, and ever opened his school
+with prayer. I never heard him use a profane
+word, and never saw him lose his temper."</p>
+
+<p>While teaching and copying deeds, he read
+Adam's "Defence of the American Constitutions,"
+Williams' "Vermont," Mosheim's "Ecclesiastical
+History," and continued his Blackstone. He walked
+much in the fields, alone, and thus learned to know
+himself; gaining that power of thought and mastery
+of self which are essential to those who would
+have mastery over others. He said, "I loved this
+occasional solitude then, and have loved it ever
+since, and love it still. I like to contemplate nature,
+and to hold communion, unbroken by the
+presence of human beings, with 'this universal
+frame&mdash;this wondrous fair.' I like solitude also,
+as favorable to thoughts less lofty. I like to let
+the thoughts go free, and indulge excursions. And
+when thinking is to be done one must, of course,
+be alone. No man knows <i>himself</i> who does not
+thus sometimes keep his own company. At a subsequent
+period of life, I have found that my lonely
+journeys, when following the court on its circuits,
+have afforded many an edifying day."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[192]</a></span>And yet in this busy life he called himself
+"naturally indolent," which was true, probably.
+Seeing that most of us do not love work, it is wise
+that in early life, if we would accomplish anything,
+we are drilled into habits of industry.</p>
+
+<p>When he went back to the study of law, he says,
+"I really often despaired. I thought I never could
+make myself a lawyer, and was almost going back
+to the business of school-keeping. There are propositions
+in Coke so abstract, and distinctions so
+nice, and doctrines embracing so many conditions
+and qualifications, that it requires an effort not
+only of a mature mind, but of a mind both strong
+and mature, to understand him." And yet he adds,
+"If one can keep up an acquaintance with general
+literature in the meantime, the law may help to
+invigorate and unfold the powers of the mind."</p>
+
+<p>He longed, as every ambitious young man longs,
+for a wider sphere. If he could only go to Boston,
+and mingle with the cultivated society there!&mdash;but
+this seemed an impossibility. At this time Ezekiel,
+through a college friend, was offered a private
+school in Boston. He accepted the position, and
+wrote to Daniel urging him to come and teach
+Latin and Greek for an hour and a half each day,
+thus earning enough to pay his board.</p>
+
+<p>Daniel went to Boston, poor and unknown.
+His first efforts in finding an office in which to
+study were unsuccessful, for who cares about a
+young stranger in a great city? If we looked
+upon a human being as his Maker looks, doubtless<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[193]</a></span>
+we should be interested in him. He desired to
+study with some one already prominent. He found
+his way to the office of Christopher Gore, who was
+the first district attorney of the United States for
+Massachusetts, a commissioner to England under
+Jay's treaty for eight years, Ex-Governor of the
+State, and ex-senator. Mr. Webster thus narrates
+his early experience: "A young man, as little
+known to Mr. Gore as myself, undertook to introduce
+me to him. We ventured into Mr. Gore's
+rooms, and my name was pronounced. I was
+shockingly embarrassed, but Mr. Gore's habitual
+courtesy of manner gave me courage to speak. I
+had the grace to begin with an unaffected apology,
+told him my position was very awkward, my
+appearance there very like an intrusion; and that
+if I expected anything but a civil dismission, it was
+only founded in his known kindness and generosity
+of character. I was from the country, I said; had
+studied law for two years; had come to Boston to
+study a year more; had some respectable acquaintances
+in New Hampshire, not unknown to him,
+but had no introduction; that I had heard he had
+no clerk; thought it possible he would receive
+one; that I came to Boston to work, not to play;
+was most desirous, on all accounts, to be his pupil;
+and all I ventured to ask at present was that he
+would keep a place for me in his office till I could
+write to New Hampshire for proper letters, showing
+me worthy of it. I delivered this speech <i>trippingly</i>
+on the tongue, though I suspect it was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[194]</a></span>
+better composed than spoken. Mr. Gore heard
+me with much encouraging good-nature. He evidently
+saw my embarrassment; spoke kind words,
+and asked me to sit down. My friend had already
+disappeared. Mr. Gore said what I had suggested
+was very reasonable, and required little apology....
+He inquired, and I told him, what gentlemen
+of his acquaintance knew me and my father in
+New Hampshire. Among others, I remember I
+mentioned Mr. Peabody, who was Mr. Gore's
+classmate. He talked to me pleasantly for a quarter
+of an hour; and, when I rose to depart, he
+said: 'My young friend, you look as though you
+might be trusted. You say you come to study, and
+not to waste time. I will take you at your word.
+You may as well hang up your hat at once; go
+into the other room; take your book, and sit down
+to reading it, and write at your convenience to
+New Hampshire for your letters.'"</p>
+
+<p>The young man must have had the same earnest,
+frank look as the father when Washington said to
+him, "Captain Webster, I believe I can trust you,"
+else he would not have won his way so quickly to
+the lawyer's confidence. Mr. Gore was a man of
+indefatigable research and great amenity of manners.
+The younger man probably unconsciously
+took on the habits of the older, for, says Emerson,
+"With the great we easily become great."</p>
+
+<p>Webster now read, in addition to books on the
+common and municipal law, Ward's "Law of
+Nations," Lord Bacon's "Elements," Puffendorff's<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[195]</a></span>
+"Latin History of England," Gifford's "Juvenal,"
+Boswell's "Tour to the Hebrides," Moore's
+"Travels," and other works. When we know
+what books a man or woman reads, we generally
+know the person. The life in Mr. Gore's office
+was one long step on the road to fame, and it did
+not come by chance; it came because, even in
+timidity, Webster had the courage to ask for a high
+place.</p>
+
+<p>When about ready for admission to the bar, the
+position of Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of
+Hillsborough County was offered to him, an appointment
+which had been the desire of the family
+for him for years. The salary was fifteen hundred dollars.
+This seemed a fortune indeed. "I
+could pay all the debts of the family," he says,
+"could help on Ezekiel&mdash;in short, I was independent.
+I had no sleep that night, and the next
+morning when I went to the office I stepped up
+the stairs with a lighter heart than I ever had
+before." He conveyed the good news to Mr.
+Gore.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, my young friend," said he, "the gentlemen
+have been very kind to you; I am glad of it.
+You must thank them for it. You will write immediately,
+of course."</p>
+
+<p>"I told him that I felt their kindness and liberality
+very deeply; that I should certainly thank
+them in the best manner I was able; but that, I
+should go up to Salisbury so soon, I hardly thought
+it was necessary to write. He looked at me as if<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[196]</a></span>
+he was greatly surprised. 'Why,' said he, 'you
+don't mean to accept it, surely!' The bare idea of
+not accepting it so astounded me that I should have
+been glad to have found any hole to have hid
+myself in.... 'Well,' said he, 'you must decide
+for yourself; but come, sit down, and let us talk it
+over. The office is worth fifteen hundred a year,
+you say. Well, it never will be any more. Ten to
+one, if they find out it is so much, the fees will
+be reduced. You are appointed now by friends;
+others may fill their places who are of different
+opinions, and who have friends of their own to
+provide for. You will lose your place; or, supposing
+you to retain it, what are you but a clerk
+for life? And your prospects as a lawyer are good
+enough to encourage you to go on. Go on, and
+finish your studies; you are poor enough, but
+there are greater evils than poverty: live on no
+man's favor; what bread you do eat, let it be the
+bread of independence; pursue your profession,
+make yourself useful to your friends and a little
+formidable to your enemies, and you have nothing
+to fear.'"</p>
+
+<p>Young Webster went home and passed another
+sleepless night. Then he borrowed some money,
+hired a sleigh, and started for Salisbury. When
+he reached his father's house, the pale old man
+said to him, "Well, Daniel, we have got that office
+for you."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, father," was the reply, "the gentlemen
+were very kind; I must go and thank them."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[197]</a></span>"They gave it to you without my saying a word
+about it."</p>
+
+<p>"I must go and see Judge Farrar, and tell him
+I am much obliged to him."</p>
+
+<p>"Daniel, Daniel," said he, at last, with a searching
+look, "don't you mean to take that office?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, indeed, father," was the response, "I hope
+I can do much better than that. I mean to use my
+tongue in the courts, not my pen; to be an actor,
+not a register of other men's acts. I hope yet, sir,
+to astonish your honor in your own court by my
+professional attainments."</p>
+
+<p>He looked half proud, half sorrowful, and said
+slowly, "Well, my son, your mother has always
+said you would come to something or nothing. She
+was not sure which; I think you are now about
+settling that doubt for her." He never spoke a
+word more upon the subject. The fifteen-hundred-dollar
+clerkship was gone forever, but Daniel had
+chosen the right road to fame and prosperity.</p>
+
+<p>He returned finally to the quiet town of Boscawen,
+and, not willing to be separated from his
+father, began the life of a country lawyer. His
+practice brought not more than five or six hundred
+dollars a year, but it gave self-support. He had
+also time for study. "Study," he said, "is the
+grand requisite for a lawyer. Men may be born
+poets, and leap from their cradle painters. Nature
+may have made them musicians, and called on them
+only to exercise, and not to acquire, ability; but
+law is artificial. It is a human science, to be<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[198]</a></span>
+learned, not inspired. Let there be a genius for
+whom nature has done so much as apparently to
+have left nothing for application, yet, to make a
+lawyer, application must do as much as if nature
+had done nothing. The evil is that an accursed
+thirst for money violates everything.... The love
+of fame is extinguished, every ardent wish for
+knowledge repressed; conscience put in jeopardy,
+and the best feelings of the heart indurated by the
+mean, money-catching, abominable practices which
+cover with disgrace a part of the modern practitioners
+of the law."</p>
+
+<p>Webster's first speech at the bar was listened to
+by his proud and devoted father, who did not live
+to hear him a second time. He died in 1806, at
+sixty-seven, and was buried beneath a tall pine-tree
+on his own field. Daniel assumed his debts, and
+for ten years bore the burden, if that may be
+called a burden which we do willingly for love's
+sake.</p>
+
+<p>The next year he removed to Portsmouth. He
+was now twenty-five, pale, slender, and of refined
+and apparently delicate organization. He had
+written considerable for the press, made several
+Fourth of July orations, and published a little
+pamphlet, "Considerations on the Embargo Laws."</p>
+
+<p>In June, 1808, when he was twenty-six, he made
+the wisest choice of his life in his marriage to
+Grace Fletcher, daughter of Rev. Elijah Fletcher
+of Hopkinton. She was twenty-seven, a rare combination
+of intellect and sweetness, just the woman<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[199]</a></span>
+to inspire an educated man by her cultivated and
+sympathetic mind, and to rest him with her gentle
+and genial presence. She had a quiet dignity
+which won respect, and her manners were unaffected,
+frank, and winning. From the first time
+he saw her she looked "like an angel" to him, and
+such she ever remained to his vision.</p>
+
+<p>And now began the happiest years of his life.
+The small, wooden house in which they lived grew
+into a palace, because love was there. His first
+child, little Grace, named for her mother, became
+the idol of his heart. Business increased and
+friends multiplied during the nine years he lived at
+Portsmouth. He was fortunate in having for an
+almost constant opponent in the law the renowned
+Jeremiah Mason, fourteen years his senior, and the
+acknowledged head of the legal profession in New
+Hampshire. Mr. Webster studied him closely.
+"He had a habit," said Webster, "of standing
+quite near to the jury, so near that he might have
+laid his finger on the foreman's nose; and then he
+talked to them in a plain conversational way, in
+short sentences, and using no word that was not
+level to the comprehension of the least educated
+man on the panel. This led me to examine my
+own style, and I set about reforming it altogether."
+Before this his style had been somewhat florid;
+afterward it was terse, simple, and graphic.</p>
+
+<p>On July 4, 1812, Webster delivered an oration
+before the "Washington Benevolent Society," in
+which he stoutly opposed the war then being carried<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[200]</a></span>
+on with England. The address immediately
+passed through two editions, and led to his appointment
+as delegate to an assembly of the people
+of Rockingham County, to express disapproval of
+the war. The "Rockingham Memorial," which
+was presented to the President, was written by Mr.
+Webster, and showed a thorough knowledge of the
+condition of affairs, and an ardent devotion to the
+Union, even though the various sections of the country
+might differ in opinion. The result of this
+meeting was the sending of Mr. Webster to Congress,
+where he took his seat May 24, 1813. He
+was thirty-one; the poverty, the poor clothes in
+Dartmouth College, the burden of the father's debts
+had not kept him from success.</p>
+
+<p>Once in Congress, it was but natural that his influence
+should be felt. He did not speak often, but
+when he did speak the House listened. He was
+placed on the committee on Foreign Relations, with
+Mr. Calhoun as chairman. He helped to repeal the
+Embargo Laws, spoke on the Tariff, showing that
+he was a Free Trader in principle, but favored Protection
+as far as expediency demanded it, and took
+strong grounds against the war of 1812. He urged
+the right and necessity of free speech on all questions.
+He said, "It is the ancient and undoubted
+prerogative of this people to canvas public measures
+and the merits of public men. It is a 'home-bred
+right,' a fireside privilege. It has ever been
+enjoyed in every house, cottage, and cabin in the
+nation.... It is as undoubted as the right of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[201]</a></span>
+breathing the air, or walking on the earth. Belonging
+to private life as a right, it belongs to public
+life as a duty; and it is the last duty which
+those whose representative I am shall find me to
+abandon."</p>
+
+<p>He was active in that almost interminable discussion
+concerning a United States Bank. The first
+bank, chartered in 1791, had Hamilton for its defender,
+and Jefferson for its opponent. In 1811,
+the bank failed to obtain a renewal of its charter.
+During the war of 1812, the subject was again
+urged. The Jeffersonians were opposed to any
+bank; another party favored a bank which should
+help the government by heavy loans, and be relieved
+from paying its notes in specie; still another
+party, to which Webster belonged, favored a
+bank with reasonable capital, compelled to redeem
+its notes in specie, and at liberty to make loans or
+not to the government. On the subject of the currency
+he made some remarkable speeches, showing
+a knowledge of the subject perhaps unequalled
+since Hamilton.</p>
+
+<p>The bank bill passed in 1816, shorn of some of
+its objectionable features. On April 26, Mr. Webster
+presented his resolutions requiring all dues to
+the government to be paid in coin, or in Treasury
+notes, or in notes of the Bank of the United
+States, and by a convincing speech aided in its
+adoption, thus rendering his country a signal service.</p>
+
+<p>During this session of Congress, Webster received<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[202]</a></span>
+a challenge to a duel from John Randolph
+of Roanoke, and was brave enough to refuse, saying,
+"It is enough that I do not feel myself bound,
+at all times and under any circumstances, to accept
+from any man, who shall choose to risk his own
+life, an invitation of this sort."</p>
+
+<p>The time had come now in Mr. Webster's life for
+a broader sphere; he decided to move to Boston.
+His law practice had never brought more than two
+thousand dollars a year, and he needed more than
+this for his growing family. Besides, his house at
+Portsmouth, costing him six thousand dollars, had
+been burned, his library and furniture destroyed,
+and he must begin the world anew.</p>
+
+<p>The loss of property was small compared with
+another loss close at hand. Grace, the beautiful,
+precocious first-born, the sunshine of the home,
+died in her father's arms, smiling full in his face as
+she died. He wept like a child, and could never
+forget that parting look.</p>
+
+<p>After settling in Boston, business flowed in upon
+him, until he earned twenty thousand dollars a
+year. He would work hard in the early morning
+hours, coming home tired from the courts in the
+afternoon. Says a friend, "After dinner, Mr. Webster
+would throw himself upon the sofa, and then
+was seen the truly electrical attraction of his character.
+Every person in the room was drawn immediately
+into his sphere. The children squeezing
+themselves into all possible places and postures
+upon the sofa, in order to be close to him; Mrs.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[203]</a></span>
+Webster sitting by his side, and the friend or social
+visitor only too happy to join in the circle. All
+this was not from invitation to the children; he
+did nothing to amuse them, he told them no stories;
+it was the irresistible attraction of his character,
+the charm of his illumined countenance, from
+which beamed indulgence and kindness to every
+one of his family."</p>
+
+<p>Among the celebrated cases which helped Mr.
+Webster's renown was the Dartmouth College case
+in 1817. The college was originally a charity
+school for the instruction of the Indians in the
+Christian religion, founded by Rev. Eleazer Wheelock.
+He solicited and obtained subscriptions in
+England, the Earl of Dartmouth being a generous
+giver. A charter was obtained from the Crown in
+1769, appointing Dr. Wheelock president, and empowering
+him to name his successor, subject to the
+approval of the trustees. In 1815 a quarrel began
+between two opposite political and religious factions.
+The Legislature was applied to, which
+changed the name from college to university, enlarged
+the number of trustees, and otherwise modified
+the rights of the corporation under the charter
+from England. The new trustees took possession
+of the property. The old board brought action
+against the new, but the courts of New Hampshire
+decided that the acts of the Legislature were constitutional.
+The case was appealed to Washington,
+and on March 10, 1818, Mr. Webster made his
+famous speech of over four hours, proving that by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[204]</a></span>
+the Constitution of the United States the charter
+of an institution is a contract which a State Legislature
+cannot annul.</p>
+
+<p>In closing he said to the Chief Justice, "This,
+sir, is my case. It is the case, not merely of that
+humble institution, it is the case of every college in
+our land. It is more. It is the case of every eleemosynary
+institution throughout our country&mdash;of
+all those great charities founded by the piety of
+our ancestors, to alleviate human misery and scatter
+blessings along the pathway of life. It is
+more! It is, in some sense, the case of every man
+among us who has property of which he may be
+stripped, for the question is simply this: Shall our
+State Legislatures be allowed to take that which is
+not their own, to turn it from its original use, and
+apply it to such ends or purposes as they in their
+discretion shall see fit? Sir, you may destroy this
+little institution; it is weak; it is in your hands!
+I know it is one of the lesser lights in the literary
+horizon of our country. You may put it out.
+But, if you do so, you must carry through your
+work! You must extinguish, one after another,
+all those greater lights of science which, for more
+than a century, have thrown their radiance over
+our land!</p>
+
+<p>"It is, sir, as I have said, a small college. And
+yet there are those who love it&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>Here Mr. Webster broke down, overcome by the
+recollections of those early days of poverty, and
+the self-sacrifice of the dead father. The eyes of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[205]</a></span>
+Chief Justice Marshall were suffused with tears, as
+were those of nearly all present. When Mr. Webster
+sat down, for some moments the silence was
+death-like, and then the people roused themselves
+as though awaking from a dream. Nearly seventy
+years after this, when the Hon. Mellen Chamberlain,
+Librarian of the Boston Public Library, gave his
+eloquent address at the dedication of Wilson Hall,
+the library building of Dartmouth College, he held
+in his hand the very copy of Blackstone from
+which Webster quoted in his great argument, with
+his autograph on the fly-leaf. Of Webster he said,
+"His imagination transformed the soulless body
+corporate&mdash;the fiction of the king's prerogative&mdash;into
+a living personality, the object of his filial devotion,
+the beloved mother whose protection called
+forth all his powers, and enkindled in his bosom a
+quenchless love."</p>
+
+<p>Several years later, Webster won the great case
+of Gibbons vs. Ogden, which settled that the State
+of New York had no right, under the Constitution,
+to grant a monopoly of steam navigation, on its
+waters, to Fulton and Livingston.</p>
+
+<p>He now took an active part in the revision of the
+Constitution of Massachusetts, helping to do away
+with the religious test, that a person holding office
+must declare his belief in the Christian religion.
+A believer himself, he was unwilling to force his
+views upon others. December 22, 1820, he delivered
+an oration at Plymouth, commemorating the
+two-hundredth anniversary of the landing of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[206]</a></span>
+Pilgrims. It was a grand theme, and the theme
+had a master to handle it. He began simply, "Let
+us rejoice that we behold this day. Let us be
+thankful that we have lived to see the bright and
+happy breaking of the auspicious morn which
+commences the third century of the history of
+New England.... Forever honored be this, the
+place of our fathers' refuge! Forever remembered
+the day which saw them, weary and distressed,
+broken in everything but spirit, poor in all but
+faith and courage, at last secure from the danger of
+wintry seas, and impressing this shore with the first
+footsteps of civilized man!"</p>
+
+<p>Then the picture was sketched on a glowing canvas;&mdash;the
+noble Pilgrims; the progress of New
+England during the century; the grand government
+under which we live and develop, with the Christian
+religion for our comfort and our hope. In closing
+he said, "The hours of this day are rapidly
+flying, and this occasion will soon be passed.
+Neither we nor our children can expect to behold
+its return. They are in the distant regions of
+futurity, they exist only in the all-creating power
+of God, who shall stand here, a hundred years
+hence, to trace through us their descent from the
+Pilgrims, and to survey, as we have now surveyed,
+the progress of their country during the lapse of a
+century. We would anticipate their concurrence
+with us in our sentiments of deep regard for our
+common ancestors. We would anticipate and partake
+the pleasure with which they will then recount<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[207]</a></span>
+the steps of New England's advancement.
+On the morning of that day, although it will not
+disturb us in our repose, the voice of acclamation
+and gratitude, commencing on the Rock of Plymouth,
+shall be transmitted through millions of the
+sons of the Pilgrims, till it lose itself in the murmurs
+of the Pacific seas."</p>
+
+<p>The people heard the oration as though entranced.
+Said Mr. Ticknor, a man of remarkable
+culture, "I was never so excited by public speaking
+before in my life. Three or four times I thought
+my temples would burst with the gush of blood;
+for, after all, you must know that I am aware it is
+no connected and compacted whole, but a collection
+of wonderful fragments of burning eloquence, to
+which his whole manner gave tenfold force. When
+I came out I was almost afraid to come near to
+him. It seemed to me as if he was like the mount
+that might not be touched, and that burned with
+fire."</p>
+
+<p>John Adams wrote him, "If there be an American
+who can read it without tears, I am not that
+American.... Mr. Burke is no longer entitled to
+the praise&mdash;the most consummate orator of modern
+times.... This oration will be read five hundred
+years hence with as much rapture as it was heard.
+It ought to be read at the end of every century,
+and indeed at the end of every year, forever and
+ever."</p>
+
+<p>From the day he delivered that oration, Mr. Webster
+was the leading orator of America. From<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[208]</a></span>
+that day he belonged not to Grace Webster alone,
+not to Massachusetts, not to one political party,
+but to the people of the United States. Five years
+after that, he delivered the address at the laying of
+the corner-stone of Bunker Hill monument. Who
+does not remember the impassioned words to the
+survivors of the Revolution, "Venerable men! you
+have come down to us from a former generation.
+Heaven has bounteously lengthened out your lives
+that you might behold this joyous day. You are
+now where you stood fifty years ago, this very hour,
+with your brothers and your neighbors, shoulder to
+shoulder, in the strife for your country. Behold,
+how altered! The same heavens are indeed over
+your heads; the same ocean rolls at your feet; but
+all else, how changed! You hear now no roar of
+hostile cannon, you see no mixed volumes of smoke
+and flame rising from burning Charlestown. The
+ground strewed with the dead and the dying; the
+impetuous charge; the steady and successful repulse;
+the loud call to repeated assault, the summoning
+of all that is manly to repeated resistance;
+a thousand bosoms freely and fearlessly bared in an
+instant to whatever of terror there may be in war
+and death,&mdash;all these you have witnessed, but you
+witness them no more.... All is peace; and God
+has granted you this sight of your country's happiness,
+ere you slumber in the grave forever. He
+has allowed you to behold and to partake the reward
+of your patriotic toils, and he has allowed us,
+your sons and countrymen, to meet you here, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[209]</a></span>
+in the name of the present generation, in the name
+of your country, in the name of liberty, to thank you!</p>
+
+<p>"But, alas! you are not all here! Time and the
+sword have thinned your ranks. Prescott, Putnam,
+Stark, Brooks, Read, Pomeroy, Bridge! our eyes
+seek for you in vain amidst this broken band. You
+are gathered to your fathers, and live only to your
+country in her grateful remembrance and your own
+bright example."</p>
+
+<p>Who has not read that address delivered at Faneuil
+Hall, Boston, in commemoration of the lives
+and services of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson,
+who died July 4, 1826. Who does not remember
+that imaginary speech of John Adams, "Sink
+or swim, live or die, survive or perish, I give my
+hand and my heart to this vote. It is true, indeed,
+that in the beginning we aimed not at independence.
+But there's a Divinity which shapes our
+ends.... Sir, I know the uncertainty of human
+affairs, but I see, I see clearly through this day's
+business. You and I, indeed, may rue it. We may
+not live to see the time when this declaration shall
+be made good. We may die,&mdash;die colonists,&mdash;die
+slaves;&mdash;die, it may be, ignominiously and on the
+scaffold. Be it so. Be it so. If it be the pleasure
+of Heaven that my country shall require the poor
+offering of my life, the victim shall be ready at the
+appointed hour of sacrifice, come when that hour
+may. But, while I do live, let me have a country,
+or at least the hope of a country, and that a free
+country."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[210]</a></span>Concerning this speech of John Adams, beginning,
+"Sink or swim, live or die," Mr. Webster
+said, "I wrote that speech one morning before
+breakfast, in my library, and when it was finished
+my paper was wet with my tears." In delivering
+this oration, his manuscript lay near him on a small
+table, but he did not once refer to it. As far as
+possible in his addresses, he preferred Anglo-Saxon
+words to those with Latin origin; therefore, this
+great speech is so simple that school-boys the country
+over can declaim it and understand it.</p>
+
+<p>In 1823, when Webster was forty-one, Boston
+elected him to Congress. He was, of course, widely
+known and observed; courtly in physique, impassioned
+yet calm, easy yet dignified, comprehensive
+in thought, a lover of and expounder of the Constitution.</p>
+
+<p>The following year he visited Marshfield, on the
+south-east shore of Massachusetts, and saw the
+home which he afterward purchased, and which,
+with its eighteen hundred acres, became the joy of
+his later years. Here he planted flowers and trees.
+He would often say to others, "Plant trees, adorn
+your grounds, live for the benefit of those who shall
+come after you." Here he watched every sunrise
+and sunset, every moonrise from new to full, and
+grew rested and refreshed by these ever recurring
+glimpses of divine power. He said, "I know the
+morning; I am acquainted with it, and I love it,
+fresh and sweet as it is, a daily creation, breaking
+forth and calling all that have life, and breath, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[211]</a></span>
+being, to new adoration, new enjoyments, and new
+gratitude."</p>
+
+<p>Here he enjoyed the ocean as he had enjoyed it
+in his boyhood, and years later, when his brain was
+tired from overwork, he would exclaim, plaintively,
+"Oh, Marshfield! the Sea! the Sea!"</p>
+
+<p>This year also Webster paid a visit to Thomas
+Jefferson at Monticello. In his conversation with
+the ex-President, he told this story of himself,
+which well illustrates the fact that all the knowledge
+which we can acquire becomes of use to us at
+one time or another in life. When a young lawyer
+in Portsmouth, a blacksmith brought him a case
+under a will. As the case was a difficult one, he
+spent one month in the study of it, buying fifty dollars'
+worth of books to help him in the matter. He
+argued the case, won it, and received a fee of fifteen
+dollars. Years after, Aaron Burr sent for him to
+consult with him on a legal question of consequence.
+The case was so similar to that of the blacksmith
+that Webster could cite all the points bearing upon
+it from the time of Charles II. Mr. Burr was astonished,
+and suspected he was the counsel for the opposite
+side. Webster received enough compensation
+from Burr to cover the loss of time and money
+in the former case, and gained, besides, Burr's admiration
+and respect.</p>
+
+<p>In the winter of 1824, Webster's youngest child,
+Charles, died, at the age of two years. Mrs. Webster
+wrote her absent husband, "I have dreaded
+the hour which should destroy your hopes, but<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[212]</a></span>
+trust you will not let this event afflict you too
+much, and that we both shall be able to resign him
+without a murmur, happy in the reflection that he
+has returned to his Heavenly Father pure as I received
+him.... Do not, my dear husband, talk of
+your own 'final abode;' that is a subject I never
+can dwell on for a moment. With you here, my
+dear, I can never be desolate. Oh, may Heaven, in
+its mercy, long preserve you!"</p>
+
+<p>Four years later, "the blessed wife," as he called
+her, went to her "final abode." Mr. Webster
+watched by her side till death took her. Then at
+the funeral, in the wet and cold of that January
+day, he walked close behind the hearse, holding
+Julia and Fletcher, his two children, by the hand.
+Her body was placed beneath St. Paul's Church,
+Boston, beside her children. All were removed
+afterward to Marshfield.</p>
+
+<p>Webster went back to Washington, having been
+made United States senator, but he seemed broken-hearted,
+and unable to perform his duties. He
+wrote to a friend, "Like an angel of God, indeed.
+I hope she is in purity, in happiness, and in immortality;
+but I would fain hope that, in kind remembrance
+of those she has left, in a lingering human
+sympathy and human love, she may yet be, as God
+originally created her, a 'little lower than the angels.'
+I cannot pursue these thoughts, nor turn
+back to see what I have written." Again he wrote,
+"I feel a vacuum, an indifference, a want of motive,
+which I cannot describe. I hope my children, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[213]</a></span>
+the society of my best friends, may rouse me; but
+I can never see such days as I have seen. Yet I
+should not repine; I have enjoyed much, very
+much; and, if I were to die to-night, I should bless
+God most fervently that I have lived."</p>
+
+<p>Judge Story spoke of Mrs. Webster as a sister
+with "her kindness of heart, her generous feelings,
+her mild and conciliatory temper, her warm and
+elevated affections, her constancy, purity, and
+piety, her noble disinterestedness, and her excellent
+sense."</p>
+
+<p>Later, Mr. Webster married Caroline Le Roy,
+the daughter of a New York merchant, but no
+affection ever effaced from his heart the memory of
+Grace Webster, whom he always spoke of as "the
+mother of his children."</p>
+
+<p>The next year, 1829, his idolized brother Ezekiel
+died suddenly at forty-nine, while he was addressing
+a jury in the court-house at Concord, New
+Hampshire.</p>
+
+<p>Daniel Webster said of this shock, "I have felt
+but one such in life; and this follows so soon that
+it requires more fortitude than I possess to bear it
+with firmness, and, perhaps, as I ought. I am
+aware that the case admits no remedy, nor any
+present relief; and endeavor to console myself
+with reflecting that I have had much happiness
+with lost connections, and that they must expect
+to lose beloved objects in this world who have beloved
+objects to lose."</p>
+
+<p>Recently, at the home of Kate Sanborn in New<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[214]</a></span>
+York, the grand-niece of Daniel Webster, I met
+the sweet-faced wife of Ezekiel, young in her feelings
+and young in face despite her four-score
+years. Here I saw a picture of the great orator in
+his youth, the desk on which he wrote, and scores
+of mementos of Marshfield and "Elms Farms,"
+treasured by the cultivated woman who bears
+token of her renowned kinship.</p>
+
+<p>With all these sorrows crowded into Mr. Webster's
+life, he could not cease his pressing work in
+Congress. Andrew Jackson had become President,
+and John C. Calhoun had preached his Nullification
+doctrines till South Carolina was ready to separate
+herself from the Union, because of her dissatisfaction
+with the tariff laws. Webster had
+somewhat changed his views, and had become
+a supporter of the "American System" of Henry
+Clay, the system of "protection," because he
+thought the interests of his constituents demanded
+it. For himself, he loved agriculture, but he saw
+the need of fostering manufactures if we would
+have a great and prosperous country.</p>
+
+<p>On December 29, 1829, Mr. Foote, a senator
+from Connecticut, introduced a resolution to inquire
+respecting the sales and surveys of western
+lands. In a long debate which followed, General
+Hayne of South Carolina took occasion to chastise
+New England, in no tender words, for her desire to
+build up herself in wealth at the expense of the
+West and South. On January 20, Webster made
+his first reply to the General, having only a night<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[215]</a></span>
+in which to prepare his speech. The notes filled
+three pages of ordinary letter paper, while the
+speech, as reported, filled twenty pages.</p>
+
+<p>Again General Hayne spoke in an able yet personal
+manner, asserting the doctrines of nullification,
+and attempting to justify the position of his
+State in seceding. Mr. Webster took notes while
+he was speaking, but, as the Senate adjourned, his
+speech did not come till the following day. Again
+he had but a night in which to prepare.</p>
+
+<p>When the morning of January 26 came, the
+galleries, floor, and staircase were crowded with
+eager men and women. "It is a critical moment,"
+said Mr. Bell, of New Hampshire, to Mr. Webster,
+"and it is time, it is high time, that the people of
+this country should know what this Constitution
+<i>is</i>." "Then," answered Webster, "by the blessing
+of Heaven they shall learn, this day, before the
+sun goes down, what I understand it to be."</p>
+
+<p>When Webster began speaking his words were
+slowly uttered. "Mr. President,&mdash;When the
+mariner has been tossed, for many days, in thick
+weather, and on an unknown sea, he naturally
+avails himself of the first pause in the storm, the
+earliest glance of the sun, to take his latitude, and
+ascertain how far the elements have driven him
+from his true course. Let us imitate this prudence,
+and before we float farther on the waves of
+this debate, refer to the point from which we departed,
+that we may at least be able to conjecture
+where we now are. I ask for the reading of the
+resolution."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[216]</a></span>And then with trenchant sarcasm, unanswerable
+logic, and the intense feeling which belongs to
+true oratory, Mr. Webster taught the American
+people the strength and holding power of the Constitution,
+which a civil war, thirty years later,
+was to prove unalterably. The speech, which
+filled seventy printed pages, came from only five
+pages of notes. When asked how long he was in
+preparation for the reply to Hayne, he answered,
+his "whole life."</p>
+
+<p>How often his loving defence of Massachusetts
+has been quoted! "Mr. President, I shall enter on
+no encomiums upon Massachusetts. She needs
+none. There she is&mdash;behold her, and judge for
+yourselves. There is her history: the world knows
+it by heart. The past, at least, is secure. There
+is Boston, and Concord, and Lexington, and Bunker
+Hill,&mdash;and there they will remain forever.
+The bones of her sons, falling in the great struggle
+for Independence, now lie mingled with the soil of
+every State, from New England to Georgia; and
+there they will lie forever. And, sir, where
+American liberty raised its first voice, and where
+its youth was nurtured and sustained, there it still
+lives, in the strength of its manhood and full of its
+original spirit. If discord and disunion shall
+wound it&mdash;if party strife and blind ambition shall
+hawk at and tear it&mdash;if folly and madness, if
+uneasiness under salutary and necessary restraint,
+shall succeed to separate it from that union, by
+which alone its existence is made sure, it will<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[217]</a></span>
+stand, in the end, by the side of that cradle in
+which its infancy was rocked: it will stretch forth
+its arm, with whatever of vigor it may still retain,
+over the friends who gather round it; and it will
+fall at last, if fall it must, amidst the proudest
+monuments of its own glory, and on the very spot
+of its origin.</p>
+
+<p>"When my eyes shall be turned to behold for
+the last time the sun in heaven, may I not see
+him shining on the broken and dishonored fragments
+of a once glorious Union; on States dissevered,
+discordant, belligerent; on a land rent
+with civil feuds, or drenched, it may be, in fraternal
+blood!&mdash;Let their last feeble and lingering
+glance rather behold the gorgeous ensign of the
+republic, now known and honored throughout the
+earth, still full high advanced, its arms and trophies
+streaming in their original lustre, not a stripe
+erased or polluted, nor a single star obscured&mdash;bearing
+for its motto no such miserable interrogatory
+as <i>What is all this worth</i>? Nor those other
+words of delusion and folly, <i>Liberty first</i>, and
+<i>Union</i> afterwards&mdash;but everywhere, spread all
+over in characters of living light, blazing on all its
+ample folds, as they float over the sea and over the
+land, and in every wind under the whole heavens,
+that other sentiment, dear to every true American
+heart&mdash;Liberty and Union, now and forever, one
+and inseparable!"</p>
+
+<p>Of course, this reply to Hayne electrified the
+country, and Webster began to be mentioned for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[218]</a></span>
+the presidential chair. No one who ever heard
+him speak, with his wonderful magnetism, his
+majestic enthusiasm, his rich, full voice, and his
+unsurpassed physique, could ever forget the man,
+his words, or his presence. When he visited
+Europe, some said, "There goes a king." When
+Sydney Smith saw him, he exclaimed, "Good
+Heavens! he is a small cathedral by himself."</p>
+
+<p>Through Jackson's administration Webster was
+his courteous opponent in most measures, but in
+the nullification scheme he was heart and hand
+with the fearless, self-willed general. When Henry
+Clay brought forward his compromise tariff bill,
+which pacified the nullifiers, Webster opposed it,
+believing that, in the face of this opposition
+to the Constitution, concession was unwise.</p>
+
+<p>In 1833, the famous statesman made an extended
+journey through the West, and was everywhere
+honored and fęted. Church-bells were rung, cannon
+fired, and houses decorated at his coming.
+Great crowds gathered everywhere to hear him
+speak.</p>
+
+<p>By this time a party was developing in opposition
+to the unusual powers exercised by General
+Jackson, whose great victory at New Orleans had
+made him the idol of the people. The party was
+the more easily formed from the financial troubles
+under Van Buren, he having reaped the harvest of
+which Jackson had sown the seed. Naturally, Mr.
+Webster became the leader of this Whig party, so
+called from the Whig party in England, formed to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[219]</a></span>
+resist the ultra demands of the king. Massachusetts
+favored him for the presidency. Boston presented
+him with a massive silver vase, before an
+audience of four thousand persons. Philadelphia
+and Baltimore gave him public dinners. Letters
+came from various States urging his name upon
+the National Convention, which met at Harrisburg,
+Pennsylvania, December 4, 1839. But Mr. Webster
+had been so prominent that his views upon
+all public questions were too well known, therefore
+General William Henry Harrison, of Ohio, an
+honored soldier of the War of 1812, was chosen, as
+being a more "available" candidate.</p>
+
+<p>Webster must have been sorely disappointed, as
+were his friends, but he at once began to work
+earnestly for his party, spoke constantly at meetings,
+and helped to elect Harrison, who died one
+month after the exciting election, at the age of
+sixty-eight. John Tyler, of Virginia, the Vice-President,
+succeeded him, and Mr. Webster remained
+Secretary of State under him, as he had
+been under Harrison. Here the duties were arduous
+and complicated.</p>
+
+<p>For many years the north-eastern boundary had
+been a matter of dispute between England and the
+United States. Bitter feeling had been engendered
+also by trouble in Canada in 1837. Several of
+those in rebellion had fled from Canada to the
+States, had fitted out an American steamboat, the
+Carolina, to make incursions into that country.
+She was burned by a party of Canadians, and an<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[220]</a></span>
+American was killed. McLeod, from Canada,
+acknowledged himself the slayer, was arrested,
+and committed for murder. The British were
+angered by this, as were the Americans by the
+search of their vessels by British cruisers. Lord
+Ashburton was finally sent as a special envoy to
+the United States, and largely through the statesmanship
+of Mr. Webster the Ashburton treaty was
+concluded, and war between the nations avoided.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime, President Tyler had vetoed the bill
+for establishing another United States Bank, and
+thereby set his own party against him. Most of
+the cabinet resigned, and although much pressure
+was brought by the Whig party upon Mr. Webster,
+that he resign also, he remained till the treaty
+matter was settled. Then he returned to Marshfield,
+and devoted himself once more to the law.</p>
+
+<p>He had spent lavishly upon his farm; he had
+also bought western land, and lost money by his
+investments. He felt obliged to entertain friends,
+and this was expensive. Besides, he never kept
+regular accounts, often in his generosity gave five
+hundred dollars when he should have given but
+five, and now found himself embarrassed by debts
+which were a source of sorrow to his friends as
+well as to himself, and a source of advantage to his
+enemies. Thirty-five thousand dollars were now
+given him by his admirers, from which he received
+a yearly income.</p>
+
+<p>In 1844, the annexation of Texas was a leading
+presidential question. Until 1836 she was a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[221]</a></span>
+province of Mexico, but in 1835 she resorted to
+arms to free herself. On March 6, 1836, a Texan
+fort, called the Alamo, was surrounded by eight
+thousand Mexicans, led by Santa Anna. The
+garrison was massacred. The next month the
+battle of San Jacinto was fought, and Texas
+became independent. When she asked admission
+to the Union, the Democrats favored and the
+Whigs opposed, because she would naturally become
+slave territory. Already, August 30, 1843,
+the "Liberty Party" had assembled at Baltimore
+and nominated a candidate for the presidency.
+The North was becoming agitated on the subject
+of slavery, but the Whigs avoided both the subjects
+of slavery and Texas in their platform, and
+nominated as their presidential candidate not Daniel
+Webster but Henry Clay.</p>
+
+<p>Again Webster worked earnestly for his party
+and its nominee, but the Whigs were defeated, as
+is usually the case when a party fears to touch the
+great questions which public opinion demands.
+They learned a lesson when it was too late, and
+other political parties should profit by their example.</p>
+
+<p>James K. Polk of Tennessee was elected, Texas
+was admitted to the Union, and the Mexican War
+resulted. War was declared by Congress May 11,
+1846, vigorously prosecuted, and Mexico was
+defeated. By the terms of the treaty, concluded
+February 2, 1848, New Mexico and Upper California
+were given to the United States.</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[222]</a></span>
+Webster, who had been returned to the Senate
+by Massachusetts, opposed the war as he had the
+annexation of Texas. At this time a double
+sorrow came to him. His second son, Major
+Edward Webster, a young man of fine abilities,
+courage, and high sense of honor, died near the
+city of Mexico, from disease induced by exposure.
+His body arrived in Boston May 4, and, only
+three days before, Webster's lovely daughter,
+Julia, who had married Samuel Appleton of Boston,
+was carried to her grave by consumption.
+Her death, at thirty, was beautiful in its resignation
+and faith, even though she left five little children
+to the care of others. Her last words were, "Let
+me go, for the day breaketh," which words were
+placed upon her tombstone.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Webster was indeed crushed by this new
+sorrow. He wrote to his friend Mrs. Ticknor, "I
+cannot speak of the lost ones; but I submit to the
+will of God. I feel that I am nothing, less even
+than the merest dust of the balance; and that the
+Creator of a million worlds, and the judge of all
+flesh, must be allowed to dispose of me and
+mine as to his infinite wisdom shall seem best."</p>
+
+<p>In 1848, when Mr. Webster was sixty-six, the
+presidency once more eluded his grasp by the
+nomination of another "available" man, General
+Zachary Taylor, one of the heroes of the Mexican
+War. Webster had spoken earnestly for Harrison
+and Clay; now he was unwilling longer to work
+for the party which had ignored him and nominated<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[223]</a></span>
+a man whom, though an able soldier, he
+thought unfitted for the place as a statesman. If
+it was a mistake to show that he was wounded in
+spirit, as it undoubtedly was for so great a man, it
+was nevertheless human.</p>
+
+<p>The thing which Mr. Webster had feared these
+many years was now coming to pass. A violent
+agitation of the slavery question in the Territories
+was upon the nation. For thirty years slavery had
+been odious to the North, and carefully nurtured
+by the South. In 1820, when Missouri was admitted
+as a State, the North insisted that a clause
+prohibiting slavery should be inserted as a condition
+of her admission to the Union. Henry Clay
+devised the compromise by which slavery was
+prohibited in all the new territory lying north of
+latitude 36° 30', which was the southern boundary
+of Missouri. This line was called Mason and
+Dixon's line, from the names of the two surveyors
+who ran the boundary line between Maryland and
+Pennsylvania.</p>
+
+<p>Year by year the hatred of slavery had intensified
+at the North. February 1, 1847, David Wilmot
+of Pennsylvania introduced in Congress his
+famous proviso, by which slavery was to be excluded
+from all territory thereafter acquired or
+annexed by the United States. And now, in 1849,
+the conflict on the slavery question was more
+virulent than ever. California, having framed
+a constitution prohibiting slavery, applied for
+admission to the Union. New Mexico asked for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[224]</a></span>
+a territorial government and for the exclusion of
+slavery.</p>
+
+<p>The South claimed that the Missouri Compromise,
+extending to the Pacific coast, guaranteed the
+right to introduce slavery into California and New
+Mexico, and threatened secession from the Union.
+Again Henry Clay settled the matter,&mdash;for a time
+only, as it proved,&mdash;by his famous Compromise of
+1850, by which California was admitted as a free
+State, the Territories taken from Mexico left to decide
+the slavery question as they chose, the slave-trade
+abolished in the District of Columbia, more
+effectual enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law
+demanded, with some other minor provisions.</p>
+
+<p>The Fugitive Slave Law, which provided for the
+return of the fugitives without trial by jury, and
+expected Christian people to aid the slave-dealers
+in capturing their slaves, was especially obnoxious
+to the North. Some of the States had passed
+"Personal Liberty Bills," punishing as kidnappers
+persons who sought to take away alleged slaves.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Webster saw with dismay all this bitterness,
+and knew that the Union which he loved was in
+danger. He hoped to avert civil war, perhaps to
+still the tumult forever, and so gave his great
+heart and brain to the Clay compromise. On
+March 7, 1850, he delivered in Congress his famous
+speech on the Compromise bill. The Senate chamber
+was crowded with an intensely excited audience.
+Mr. Webster discussed the whole history
+of slavery, opposed the Wilmot Proviso, because he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[225]</a></span>
+thought every part of the country settled as to
+slavery, either by law or nature,&mdash;he could not
+look into the future and see Kansas,&mdash;and then
+condemned the course of the North in its resistance
+to the Fugitive Slave Law, which he held to
+be constitutional. The words in reference to restoring
+fugitive slaves created a storm of indignation
+at the North, which had looked upon Webster
+as a great anti-slavery leader, and who had said in
+the oration at Plymouth, "I hear the sound of the
+hammer, I see the smoke of the furnaces where
+manacles and fetters are still forged for human
+limbs. I see the visages of those who, by stealth
+and at midnight, labor in this work of hell, foul
+and dark, as may become the artificers of such instruments
+of misery and torture. Let that spot be
+purified, or let it cease to be of New England.
+Let it be purified, or let it be set aside from the
+Christian world; let it be put out of the circle of
+human sympathies and human regards, and let civilized
+man henceforth have no communion with it."
+In his speech to Hayne he had said, "I regard
+domestic slavery as one of the greatest evils, both
+moral and political."</p>
+
+<p>Probably Mr. Webster had not changed his mind
+at all in regard to the enormity of slavery, but he
+hoped to save the Union from war. He indeed
+helped to postpone the conflict, but if the presidency
+had before this been a possibility to him, it
+became now an impossibility forever, and his own
+words had done it.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[226]</a></span>President Taylor died July 9, 1850, when the
+discussion of the Compromise matter was at its
+height, and Millard Fillmore became President.
+He at once made Webster Secretary of State. Mr.
+Webster bore bravely the reproaches of the North.
+He said, "I cared for nothing, I was afraid of nothing,
+but I meant to do my duty. Duty performed
+makes a man happy; duty neglected makes a man
+unhappy.... If the fate of John Rogers had
+stared me in the face, if I had seen the stake, if I
+had heard the fagots already crackling, by the blessing
+of Almighty God I would have gone on and
+discharged the duty which I thought my country
+called upon me to perform."</p>
+
+<p>At the next national Whig convention, General
+Winfield Scott was nominated to the presidency.
+Multitudes throughout the country were disappointed
+that Webster was not chosen. Boston gave
+him a magnificent reception. Marshfield welcomed
+him with a gathering of thousands of people nine
+miles from his home, who escorted him thither,
+scattering garlands along the way. "I remember
+how," says Charles Lanman, "after the crowd had
+disappeared, he entered his house fatigued beyond
+measure, and covered with dust, and threw himself
+into a chair. For a moment his head fell upon his
+breast, as if completely overcome, and he then
+looked up like one seeking something he could not
+find. It was the portrait of his darling but departed
+daughter, Julia, and it happened to be in
+full view. He gazed upon it for some time in a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[227]</a></span>
+kind of trance, and then wept like one whose heart
+was broken, and these words escaped his lips, 'Oh,
+I am so thankful to be here. If I could only have
+my will, never, never would I again leave this
+home!'"</p>
+
+<p>Here he was happy. Here he had gathered a
+large library, many of his books being on science,
+of which he was very fond. Of geology and physical
+geography he had made a careful study. Humboldt's
+"Cosmos" was an especial favorite.</p>
+
+<p>In the spring of 1852, Mr. Webster fell from his
+carriage, and from this fall he never entirely recovered.
+In the fall he made his will, and wrote these
+words for his monument, "Lord, I believe; help
+thou mine unbelief. Philosophical argument, especially
+that drawn from the vastness of the universe
+in comparison with the apparent insignificance
+of this globe, has sometimes shaken my reason
+for the faith that is in me; but my heart has
+assured and reassured me that the Gospel of Jesus
+Christ must be a Divine Reality.</p>
+
+<p>"The Sermon on the Mount cannot be a merely
+human production. This belief enters into the very
+depth of my conscience. The whole history of man
+proves it."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Webster had repeatedly given his testimony
+in favor of the Christian religion. "Religion," he
+said, "is a necessary and indispensable element in
+any great human character. There is no living
+without it. Religion is the tie that connects man
+with his Creator, and holds him to his throne. If<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[228]</a></span>
+that tie be all sundered, all broken, he floats away,
+a worthless atom in the universe; its proper attractions
+all gone, its destiny thwarted, and its
+whole future nothing but darkness, desolation, and
+death."</p>
+
+<p>Once, at a dinner party of gentlemen, he was
+asked by one present, "What is the most important
+thought that ever occupied your mind?"</p>
+
+<p>The reply came slowly and solemnly, "My individual
+responsibility to God!"</p>
+
+<p>When the last of October came, Mr. Webster
+was nearing the end of life. About a week before
+he died he asked that a herd of his best oxen
+might be driven in front of his windows, that he
+might see their honest faces and gentle eyes. A
+man who thus loves animals must have a tender
+heart.</p>
+
+<p>A few hours before Mr. Webster died, he said
+slowly, "My general wish on earth has been to do
+my Maker's will. I thank him now for all the
+mercies that surround me.... No man, who is
+not a brute, can say that he is not afraid of death.
+No man can come back from <i>that</i> bourne; no man
+can comprehend the will or the works of God.
+That there <i>is</i> a God all must acknowledge. I see
+him in all these wondrous works&mdash;himself how
+wondrous!</p>
+
+<p>"The great mystery is Jesus Christ&mdash;the Gospel.
+What would the condition of any of us be if
+we had not the hope of immortality?... Thank
+God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ brought life and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[229]</a></span>
+immortality to <i>light</i>, <i>rescued</i> it&mdash;brought it to
+<i>light</i>." He then began to repeat the Lord's
+prayer, saying earnestly, "Hold me up, I do not
+wish to pray with a fainting voice."</p>
+
+<p>He longed to be conscious when death came. At
+midnight he said, "I still live," his last coherent
+words. A little after three he ceased to breathe.</p>
+
+<p>He was buried as he had requested to be, "without
+the least show or ostentation," on October 29,
+1852. The coffin was placed upon the lawn, and
+more than ten thousand persons gazed upon the
+face of the great statesman. One unknown man,
+in plain attire, said as he looked upon him, all unconscious
+that anybody might hear his words,
+"Daniel Webster, the world without you will seem
+lonesome." Six of his neighbors bore him to his
+grave and laid him beside Grace and his children.</p>
+
+<p>When the Civil War came, which Mr. Webster
+had done all in his power to avert, it took the last
+child out of his family: Fletcher, a colonel of the
+Twelfth Massachusetts volunteers, fell in the battle
+of August 29, 1862, near Bull Run.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[230]</a></span></p>
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 367px;">
+<img src="images/illus-230.jpg" width="367" height="600" alt=" H. Clay" title="Your friend &amp; obe Serv H. Clay" />
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>HENRY CLAY.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Henry Clay, the "mill-boy of the Slashes,"
+was born April 12, 1777, in Hanover
+County, Virginia, in a neighborhood called the
+"Slashes," from its low, marshy ground. The
+seventh in a family of eight children, says Dr.
+Calvin Colton, in his "Life and Times of Henry
+Clay," he came into the home of Rev. John Clay, a
+true-hearted Baptist minister, poor, but greatly
+esteemed by all who knew him. Mr. Clay used
+often to preach out-of-doors to his impecunious
+flock, who, beside loving him for his spiritual
+nature, admired his fine voice and manly presence.</p>
+
+<p>When Henry was four years old the father died,
+leaving the wife to struggle for her daily bread,
+rich only in the affection which poverty so often
+intensifies and makes heroic. She was a devoted
+mother, a person of more than ordinary mind, and
+extremely patriotic, a quality transmitted to her
+illustrious son.</p>
+
+<p>Says Hon. Carl Schurz, in his valuable Life of
+Clay, "There is a tradition in the family that,
+when the dead body [of the father] was still lying
+in the house, Colonel Tarleton, commanding a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[231]</a></span>
+cavalry force under Lord Cornwallis, passed
+through Hanover County on a raid, and left a
+handful of gold and silver on Mrs. Clay's table as
+a compensation for some property taken or destroyed
+by his soldiers; but that the spirited
+woman, as soon as Tarleton was gone, swept the
+money into her apron and threw it into the fireplace.
+It would have been in no sense improper,
+and more prudent, had she kept it, notwithstanding
+her patriotic indignation."</p>
+
+<p>Anxious that her children be educated, Mrs.
+Clay sent them to the log school-house in the
+neighborhood, to learn reading, writing, and arithmetic
+from Peter Deacon, an Englishman, who
+seems to have succeeded well in teaching, when
+sober. The log house was a small structure, with
+earth floor, no windows, and an entrance which
+served for continuous ventilation, as there was no
+door to keep out cold or heat. Henry had nothing
+of consequence to remember of this school save
+the marks of a whipping received from Peter Deacon
+when he was angry.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as school hours were over each day, he
+had to work to help support the family. Now the
+bare-footed boy might be seen ploughing; now,
+mounted on a pony guided by a rope bridle, with a
+bag of meal thrown across the horse's back, he
+might be seen going from his home to Mrs. Darricott's
+mill, on the Pamunky River. The people
+nicknamed him "The mill-boy of the Slashes," and,
+years later, when the same bare-footed, mother-loving<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[232]</a></span>
+boy was nominated for the presidency, the
+term became one of endearment and pride to hundreds
+of thousands, who knew by experience what
+a childhood of toil and hardship meant. He became
+the idol of the poor not less than of the rich,
+because he could sympathize in their privations,
+and sympathy is usually born of suffering. Perchance
+we ought to welcome bitter experiences,
+for he alone has power who has great sympathy.</p>
+
+<p>After some years of widowhood, Mrs. Clay
+married Captain Henry Watkins of Richmond,
+Virginia, and, though she bore him seven children,
+he did not forget to be a father to the children of
+her former marriage. When Henry was fourteen,
+Captain Watkins placed him in Richard Denny's
+store in Richmond. For a year the boy sold groceries
+and dry-goods in the retail store, reading in
+every moment of leisure. His step-father thought
+rightly that a boy who was so eager to read should
+have better advantages, and therefore applied to
+his friend, Colonel Tinsley, for a position in the
+office of the Clerk of the High Court of Chancery,
+the clerk being the brother of the colonel.</p>
+
+<p>"There is no vacancy," said the clerk.</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind," said the colonel, "you <i>must</i> take
+him;" and so he did.</p>
+
+<p>The glad mother cut and made for Henry an ill-fitting
+suit of gray "figinny" (Virginia) cloth,
+cotton and silk mixed, and starched his linen to a
+painful stiffness. When he appeared in the
+clerk's office he was tall and awkward, and the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[233]</a></span>
+occupants at the desks could scarcely restrain their
+mirth at the appearance of the new-comer. Henry
+was put to the task of copying. The clerks wisely
+remained quiet, and soon found that the boy was
+proud, ambitious, quick, willing to work, and
+superior to themselves in common-sense and the
+use of language.</p>
+
+<p>Every night when they went in quest of amusement
+young Clay went home to read. It could not
+have been mere chance which attracted to the
+studious, bright boy the attention of George
+Wythe, the Chancellor of the High Court of Chancery.
+He was a noted and noble man, one of the
+signers of the Declaration of Independence, for ten
+years teacher of jurisprudence at William and
+Mary's College, a man so liberal in his views in
+the days of slavery that he emancipated all his
+slaves and made provision for their maintenance;
+the same great man in whose office Thomas Jefferson
+gained inspiration in his youth.</p>
+
+<p>George Wythe selected Clay for his amanuensis
+in writing out the decisions of the courts. He
+soon became greatly attached to the boy of fifteen,
+directed his reading, first in grammatical studies,
+and then in legal and historical lines. He read
+Homer, Plutarch's Lives, and similar great works.
+The conversation of such a man as Mr. Wythe was
+to Clay what that of Christopher Gore was to
+Daniel Webster, or that of Judge Story to Charles
+Sumner. Generally men who have become great
+have allied themselves to great men or great principles<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[234]</a></span>
+early in life. When Clay had been four
+years with the chancellor he naturally decided to
+become a lawyer. Poverty did not deter him;
+hard work did not deter him. Those who fear to
+labor must not take a step on the road to fame.</p>
+
+<p>Clay entered the office of Attorney-General
+Robert Brooke, a man prominent and able. Here
+he studied hard for a year, and was admitted to
+the bar, having gained much legal knowledge in
+the previous four years. During this year he mingled
+with the best society of Richmond, his own
+intellectual ability, courteous manners, and good
+cheer making him welcome, not less than the well
+known friendship of Chancellor Wythe for him.
+Clay organized a debating society, and the "mill-boy
+of the Slashes" quite astonished, not only the
+members but the public as well, by his unusual
+powers of oratory.</p>
+
+<p>The esteem of Richmond society did not bring
+money quickly enough to the enterprising young
+man. His parents had removed to Kentucky, and
+he decided to go there also, "and grow up with the
+country." He was now twenty-one, poor, not as
+thoroughly educated as he could have wished, but
+determined to succeed, and when one has this determination
+the battle is half won. That he regretted
+his lack of early opportunities, a speech
+made on the floor of Congress years afterward
+plainly showed. In reply to Hon. John Randolph
+he said, "The gentleman from Virginia was pleased
+to say that in one point, at least, he coincided with<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[235]</a></span>
+me in an humble estimate of my grammatical and
+philological acquisitions. I know my deficiencies.
+I was born to no proud patrimonial estate. I inherited
+only infancy, ignorance, and indigence. I
+feel my defects. But, so far as my situation in
+early life is concerned, I may, without presumption,
+say it was more my misfortune than my fault.
+But, however I regret my want of ability to furnish
+the gentleman with a better specimen of
+powers of verbal criticism, I will venture to say
+it is not greater than the disappointment of
+this committee as to the strength of his argument."</p>
+
+<p>When Clay arrived in Lexington, Kentucky, he
+found not the polished society of Richmond, but a
+genial, warm-hearted, high-spirited race of men and
+women, who cordially welcomed the young lawyer
+with his sympathetic manner and distinguished air,
+the result of an inborn sense of leadership. Soon
+after he began to practise law, he joined a debating
+society, and, with his usual good-sense, did not take
+an active part until he became acquainted with the
+members.</p>
+
+<p>One evening, after a subject had been long debated,
+and the vote was to be taken, Clay, feeling
+that the matter was not exhausted, rose to speak.
+At first he was embarrassed, and began, "Gentlemen
+of the jury!" The audience laughed. Roused
+to self-control by this mistake, his words came fast
+and eloquent, till the people held their breath in
+amazement. From that day, Lexington knew that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[236]</a></span>
+a young man of brilliancy and power had come
+within her borders.</p>
+
+<p>Nearly fifty years later, he said in the same city,
+when he retired from public life, "In looking back
+upon my origin and progress through life, I have
+great reason to be thankful. My father died in 1781,
+leaving me an infant of too tender years to retain
+any recollection of his smiles or endearments. My
+surviving parent removed to this State in 1792,
+leaving me, a boy fifteen years of age, in the
+office of the High Court of Chancery, in the city of
+Richmond, without guardian, without pecuniary
+means of support, to steer my course as I might or
+could. A neglected education was improved by my
+own irregular exertions, without the benefit of systematic
+instruction. I studied law principally in
+the office of a lamented friend, the late Governor
+Brooke, then attorney-general of Virginia, and also
+under the auspices of the venerable and lamented
+Chancellor Wythe, for whom I had acted as amanuensis.
+I obtained a license to practise the profession
+from the judges of the court of appeals of Virginia,
+and established myself in Lexington in 1797,
+without patrons, without the favor or countenance
+of the great or opulent, without the means of paying
+my weekly board, and in the midst of a bar uncommonly
+distinguished by eminent members. I
+remember how comfortable I thought I should be
+if I could make one hundred pounds, Virginia
+money, per year, and with what delight I received
+the first fifteen-shilling fee. My hopes were more<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[237]</a></span>
+than realized. I immediately rushed into a successful
+and lucrative practice."</p>
+
+<p>His cases at first were largely criminal. His
+first marked case was that of a woman who, in a
+moment of passion, shot her sister-in-law. Clay
+could not bear to see a woman hanged, and she
+heretofore the respected wife of a respected man.
+He pleaded "temporary delirium," and saved her
+life.</p>
+
+<p>It is said that no murderer ever suffered the extreme
+penalty of the law who was defended by
+Henry Clay. He saved the life of one Willis, accused
+of an atrocious murder. Meeting the man
+later, he said, "Ah! Willis, poor fellow, I fear I
+have saved too many like you who ought to be
+hanged." When Clay was public prosecutor, he
+took up the case of a slave, much valued for his intelligence
+and honor, who, in the absence of his
+owner, had been unmercifully treated by an overseer.
+In self-defence the slave killed the overseer
+with an axe. Clay argued that had the deed been
+done by a free man it would have been man-slaughter,
+but by a slave, who should have submitted,
+it was murder. The colored man was
+hanged, meeting death heroically. Clay was so
+overcome by the painful result of his own unfortunate
+reasoning that he at once resigned his position,
+and never ceased to be sorry for his connection
+with the affair.</p>
+
+<p>Sometimes the ending of a case was ludicrous as
+well as pathetic. Two Germans, father and son,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[238]</a></span>
+were indicted for murder in the first degree. The
+mother and wife were present, and, of course, intensely
+interested. When Clay obtained the
+acquittal of the accused, the old lady rushed
+through the crowd, flung her arms around the
+neck of the stylish young attorney, and clung to
+him so persistently that it was difficult for him to
+free himself!</p>
+
+<p>He soon began to engage more exclusively in
+civil suits, especially those growing out of the land
+laws of Virginia and Kentucky, and quickly acquired
+a leading position at the bar. He had already
+married, at twenty-two, Lucretia Hart, eighteen
+years old, the daughter of Colonel Thomas Hart,
+a well known and respected citizen of Lexington.
+She was a woman of practical common-sense, devoted
+to him, and a tender mother to their eleven
+children, six daughters and five sons.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Mr. Clay had earned sufficient money
+he bought Ashland, an estate of six hundred acres,
+a mile and a half south-east from Lexington court-house.
+A spacious brick mansion, with flower
+gardens and groves, made it in time one of the
+most attractive places in the South. Here, later,
+Clay entertained Lafayette, Webster, Monroe, and
+other famous men from Europe and America.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Clay began his political life when but
+twenty-two. Kentucky, in 1799, in revising her
+constitution, considered a project for the gradual
+abolition of slavery in the State. Clay was an
+ardent advocate of the measure. He wrote in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[239]</a></span>
+favor of it in the press, and spoke earnestly in its
+behalf in public. He, however, received more
+censure than praise for the position he took, but
+his conduct was in keeping with his declaration
+years later: "I had rather be right than be President."</p>
+
+<p>All his life he rejoiced that he had thus early
+favored the abolition of slavery. He said, thirty
+years later, "Among the acts of my life which I
+look back to with most satisfaction is that of my
+having coöperated with other zealous and intelligent
+friends to procure the establishment of that
+system in this State. We were overpowered by
+numbers, but submitted to the decision of the
+majority with that grace which the minority in a
+republic should ever yield to that decision. I
+have, nevertheless, never ceased, and shall never
+cease, to regret a decision the effects of which have
+been to place us in the rear of our neighbors, who
+are exempt from slavery, in the state of agriculture,
+the progress of manufactures, the advance of improvements,
+and the general progress of society."</p>
+
+<p>From this time Clay spoke on all important
+political questions. Once, when he and George
+Nicholas had spoken against the alien and sedition
+laws of the Federalists, so pleased were the Kentuckians
+that both speakers were placed in a carriage
+and drawn through the streets, the people
+shouting applause. Thus foolishly are persons&mdash;usually
+young men&mdash;willing to be considered
+horses through their excitement!</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[240]</a></span>When Clay was twenty-six, so effective had
+been his eloquence that he was elected to the
+State Legislature. Who would have prophesied
+this when he carried meal to Mrs. Darricott's mill!
+Reading evenings, when other boys roamed the
+streets, had been an important element in this
+success; friendship with those older and stronger
+than himself had given maturity of thought and
+plan.</p>
+
+<p>When he was thirty he was chosen to the
+United States Senate, to fill the unexpired term of
+another. At once, despite his youth, he took an
+active part in debate, was placed on important
+committees, and advocated "internal improvements,"
+as he did all the rest of his life, desiring
+always that America become great and powerful.
+He was happy in this first experience at the
+national capital. He wrote home to his wife's
+father: "My reception in this place has been
+equal, nay, superior to my expectations. I have
+experienced the civility and attention of all I was
+desirous of obtaining. Those who are disposed to
+flatter me say that I have acquitted myself with
+great credit in several debates in the Senate. But,
+after all I have seen, Kentucky is still my favorite
+country. There amidst my dear family I shall
+find happiness in a degree to be met with nowhere
+else."</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Clay was home again, Kentucky sent
+him to her State Legislature, where he was elected
+speaker. Already the conflicts between England<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[241]</a></span>
+and France under Napoleon had seriously affected
+our commerce by the unjust decrees of both
+nations. Mr. Clay strongly denounced the Orders
+in Council of the British, and praised Jefferson for
+the embargo. He urged, also, partly as a retaliatory
+measure, and partly as a measure of self-protection,
+that the members of the Legislature wear
+only such clothes as were made by our own manufacturers.
+Humphrey Marshall, a strong Federalist,
+and a man of great ability, denounced this resolution
+as the work of a demagogue. The result was
+a duel, in which, after Clay and Marshall were
+both slightly wounded, the seconds prevented
+further bloodshed. Once before this Clay had
+accepted a challenge, and the duel was prevented
+only by the interference of friends. Had death
+resulted at either time, America would have missed
+from her record one of the brightest and fairest
+names in her history.</p>
+
+<p>When Clay was thirty-three he was again sent
+to the Senate of the United States, to fill an unexpired
+term of two years. At the end of that time
+Kentucky was too proud of him to allow his
+returning to private life. He was therefore elected
+to the House of Representatives, and took his seat
+November 4, 1811. He was at once chosen
+speaker, an honor conferred for seven terms, fourteen
+years.</p>
+
+<p>"Henry Clay stands," says Carl Schurz, "in the
+traditions of the House of Representatives as the
+greatest of its speakers. His perfect mastery of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[242]</a></span>
+parliamentary law, his quickness of decision in
+applying it, his unfailing presence of mind and
+power of command in moments of excitement and
+confusion, the courteous dignity of his bearing, are
+remembered as unequalled by any one of those who
+had preceded or who have followed him."</p>
+
+<p>Here in the excitement of debate he was happy.
+He could speak at will against the British, who had
+seized more than nine hundred American ships, and
+the French more than five hundred and fifty.
+When several thousand Americans had been impressed
+as British seamen, the hot blood of the
+Kentuckian demanded war. He said in Congress,
+"We are called upon to submit to debasement, dishonor,
+and disgrace; to bow the neck to royal insolence,
+as a course of preparation for manly resistance
+to Gallic invasion! What nation, what
+individual was ever taught in the schools of ignominious
+submission these patriotic lessons of freedom
+and independence?... An honorable peace
+is attainable only by an efficient war. My plan
+would be to call out the ample resources of the
+country, give them a judicious direction, prosecute
+the war with the utmost vigor, strike wherever we
+can reach the enemy, at sea or on land, and negotiate
+the terms of a peace at Quebec or at Halifax.
+We are told that England is a proud and lofty nation,
+which, disdaining to wait for danger, meets it
+half way. Haughty as she is, we once triumphed
+over her, and, if we do not listen to the counsels of
+timidity and despair, we shall again prevail. In<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[243]</a></span>
+such a cause, with the aid of Providence, we must
+come out crowned with success; but if we fail,
+let us fail like men, lash ourselves to our gallant
+tars, and expire together in one common
+struggle, fighting for <span class="smcap"><small>FREE TRADE AND SEAMEN'S
+RIGHTS</small></span>."</p>
+
+<p>The War of 1812 came, even though New England
+strongly opposed it. The country was poorly
+prepared for a great contest by land or by sea, but
+Clay's enthusiasm seemed equal to a dozen armies.
+He cheered every regiment by his hope and his
+patriotism. When defeats came at Detroit and in
+Canada, Josiah Quincy of Massachusetts, leader of
+the Federalists, said, "Those must be very young
+politicians, their pin-feathers not yet grown, and,
+however they may flutter on this floor, they are not
+fledged for any high or distant flight, who think
+that threats and appealing to fear are the ways of
+producing any disposition to negotiate in Great
+Britain, or in any other nation which understands
+what it owes to its own safety and honor."</p>
+
+<p>Clay answered in a two-days speech that was
+never forgotten. He scourged the Federalists with
+stinging words: "Sir, gentlemen appear to me to
+forget that they stand on American soil; that they
+are not in the British House of Commons, but in
+the chamber of the House of Representatives of the
+United States; that we have nothing to do with
+the affairs of Europe, the partition of territory and
+sovereignty there, except so far as these things affect
+the interests of our own country. Gentlemen<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[244]</a></span>
+transform themselves into the Burkes, Chathams,
+and Pitts of another country, and forgetting, from
+honest zeal, the interests of America, engage with
+European sensibility in the discussion of European
+interests.... I have no fears of French or English
+subjugation. If we are united we are too powerful
+for the mightiest nation in Europe, or all
+Europe combined. If we are separated and torn
+asunder, we shall become an easy prey to the weakest
+of them. In the latter dreadful contingency,
+our country will not be worth preserving.</p>
+
+<p>"The war was declared because Great Britain arrogated
+to herself the pretension of regulating our
+foreign trade, under the delusive name of retaliatory
+orders in council&mdash;a pretension by which she undertook
+to proclaim to American enterprise, 'Thus
+far shalt thou go, and no further'&mdash;orders which
+she refused to revoke, after the alleged cause of
+their enactment had ceased; because she persisted
+in the practice of impressing American seamen;
+because she had instigated the Indians to commit
+hostilities against us; and because she refused indemnity
+for her past injuries upon our commerce.
+I throw out of the question other wrongs. The
+war in fact was announced on our part to meet the
+war which she was waging on her part."</p>
+
+<p>The speech electrified the country. The army
+was increased, the nation encouraged, and the war
+carried to a successful issue. Such a power had
+Clay become that Madison talked of making him
+commander-in-chief of the army, but Gallatin dissuaded<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[245]</a></span>
+him, saying, "What shall we do without
+Clay in Congress?"</p>
+
+<p>When the war was nearing its end&mdash;before
+Jackson had fought his famous battle at New Orleans&mdash;and
+a treaty of peace was to be effected,
+the President appointed five commissioners to confer
+with the British government: John Quincy
+Adams, Clay, Bayard, Jonathan Russell, Minister
+to Sweden, and Albert Gallatin.</p>
+
+<p>They reached Ghent, in the Netherlands, July 6,
+1814, a company of earnest men, not always in accord,
+but desirous of accomplishing the most possible
+for America. Adams was able, courageous, irritable,
+and sometimes domineering; Clay, impetuous,
+spirited, genial, making friends of the British
+commissioners as they played at whist&mdash;he
+never allowed cards to come into his home at Ashland;
+Gallatin, discreet, a peace-maker, and dignified
+counsellor.</p>
+
+<p>For five months the commissioners argued, waited
+to see if their respective countries would accede to
+the terms proposed, and finally settled an honorable
+peace. Then Clay, Adams, and Gallatin spent
+three months in London negotiating a treaty of
+commerce. Clay had meantime heard of the battle
+of New Orleans, and said, "Now I can go to England
+without mortification." In Paris he met Madame
+de Staël. "I have been in England," said
+she, "and have been battling for your cause there.
+They were so much enraged against you that at
+one time they thought seriously of sending the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[246]</a></span>
+Duke of Wellington to lead their armies against
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am very sorry," replied Clay, "that they did
+not send the duke."</p>
+
+<p>"And why?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Because if he had beaten us, we should have
+been in the condition of Europe, without disgrace.
+But if we had been so fortunate as to defeat him,
+we should have greatly added to the renown of our
+arms."</p>
+
+<p>When Clay returned to America, he was welcomed
+in New York and Lexington with public
+dinners. That the war had produced good results
+was well stated in his Lexington address. "Abroad,
+our character, which, at the time of its declaration,
+was in the lowest state of degradation, is raised to
+the highest point of elevation. It is impossible for
+any American to visit Europe without being sensible
+of this agreeable change in the personal attentions
+which he receives, in the praises which are
+bestowed on our past exertions, and the predictions
+which are made as to our future prospects.
+At home, a government, which, at its formation, was
+apprehended by its best friends, and pronounced
+by its enemies to be incapable of standing the
+shock, is found to answer all the purposes of its
+institution."</p>
+
+<p>Clay was now famous; commanding in presence,
+with a winsome rather than handsome face, exuberant
+in spirits, generous by nature, polite to the
+poorest, self-possessed, with a voice unsurpassed, if<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[247]</a></span>
+ever equalled, for its musical tone; a man who
+made friends everywhere and among all classes,
+and never lost them; who was always a gentleman,
+because always kind at heart. Manner,
+which Emerson calls the "finest of the fine arts,"
+gave Clay the "mastery of palace and fortune"
+wherever he went. That voice and hand-grasp,
+that remembrance of a face and a name, won him
+countless admirers.</p>
+
+<p>President Madison offered him the mission to
+Russia, which he declined, as also a place in the
+Cabinet, as Secretary of War, preferring to speak
+on all those matters which helped to build up
+America. On the question of the United States
+Bank he made a strong speech against its constitutionality,
+which Andrew Jackson said later was his
+most convincing authority when he destroyed the
+bank. Clay's views changed in after years, and
+made him at bitter enmity with Andrew Jackson
+and John Tyler, both of whom vigorously opposed
+a bank, with its vast capital and consequent power
+in politics.</p>
+
+<p>Clay's desire for the rapid development of America
+led him to become a "protectionist," and the
+leader of the so-called "American system," as
+opposed to Free Trade or the Foreign System.
+He believed that only as we encourage our own
+manufactures can we become a powerful nation,
+paying high wages, shutting out the products of
+the cheap labor of Europe, increasing our home
+market, and becoming independent of the foreign<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[248]</a></span>
+market. Clay's speeches were read the country
+over, and won him thousands of followers.</p>
+
+<p>Like others in public life, he now and then gave
+offence to his constituents. He had voted for a
+bill to increase the pay of members of Congress
+from six dollars a day to a salary of fifteen hundred
+dollars a year. To the farmers of Kentucky
+this amount seemed far too great. He one day met
+an old hunter who had always voted for him, but
+was now determined to vote against a man so
+extravagant in his ideas!</p>
+
+<p>"My friend," said Clay, "have you a good
+rifle?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Did it ever flash?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but only once."</p>
+
+<p>"What did you do with the rifle when it
+flashed?&mdash;throw it away?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I picked the flint, tried again, and brought
+down the game."</p>
+
+<p>"Have I ever flashed, except upon the compensation
+bill?"</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, will you throw me away?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, Mr. Clay; I will pick the flint and try you
+again."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Clay was returned to Congress, and voted
+for the repeal of the fifteen hundred dollar salary.</p>
+
+<p>The subject which was to surpass all other subjects
+in interest, and well-nigh destroy the Union,
+was coming into prominence&mdash;slavery. Henry<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[249]</a></span>
+Clay, from a boy, when George Wythe, the Virginia
+chancellor, freed his slaves, had looked upon
+human bondage as a curse. He used to say, "If I
+could be instrumental in eradicating this deepest
+stain from the character of our country, and removing
+all cause of reproach on account of it, by
+foreign nations; if I could only be instrumental in
+ridding of this foul blot that revered State that
+gave me birth, or that not less beloved State which
+kindly adopted me as her son, I would not exchange
+the proud satisfaction which I should
+enjoy for the honor of all the triumphs ever
+decreed to the most successful conqueror.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>"When we consider the cruelty of the origin of
+negro slavery, its nature, the character of the
+free institutions of the whites, and the irresistible
+progress of public opinion throughout
+America, as well as in Europe, it is impossible
+not to anticipate frequent insurrections among the
+blacks in the United States; they are rational beings
+like ourselves, capable of feeling, of reflection,
+and of judging of what naturally belongs to them
+as a portion of the human race. By the very condition
+of the relation which subsists between us,
+we are enemies of each other. They know well
+the wrongs which their ancestors suffered at the
+hands of our ancestors, and the wrongs which they
+believe they continue to endure, although they
+may be unable to avenge them. They are kept in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[250]</a></span>
+subjection only by the superior intelligence and
+superior power of the predominant race."</p>
+
+<p>At the North, anti-slavery sentiments had intensified;
+at the South, where slavery was at first regarded
+as an evil, the consequent ease and wealth
+from slave labor had changed public opinion, and
+had made the people jealous of northern discussion.
+Through the invention of the cotton-gin, by Eli
+Whitney, the value of cotton exports had quadrupled
+in twenty years, and the value of slaves had
+trebled. Comparatively good feeling was maintained
+by the two sections of the country as long
+as for every slave State admitted to the Union a
+free State was also admitted.</p>
+
+<p>In 1818, the people of Missouri desired to be admitted
+to the Union. Mr. Tallmadge of New
+York proposed that the further introduction of
+slavery should be prohibited, and that all children
+born within the said State should be free at the age
+of twenty-five years. The discussion grew strong
+and bitter. Two years later the inhabitants of the
+State proceeded to adopt a constitution which forbade
+free negroes from coming into the territory or
+settling in it. The discussion grew more bitter
+still. Threats of disunion and civil war were
+heard. Jefferson wrote from his Monticello home,
+"The Missouri question is the most portentous one
+that ever threatened the Union. In the gloomiest
+moments of the Revolutionary War I never had
+any apprehension equal to that I feel from this
+source."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[251]</a></span>A senator from Illinois, Mr. Thomas, proposed
+that no restriction as to slavery be imposed upon
+Missouri, but that in all the rest of the territory
+ceded by France to the United States, north of 36°
+30', this being the southern boundary of Missouri,
+there should be no slavery. Then Mr. Clay, with
+his intense love for the Union, bent all his energies
+to effect this compromise suggested by Thomas.
+He spoke earnestly in its behalf, and went from
+member to member, persuading and beseeching
+with all his genius and winsomeness. When Clay
+had effected the passage of the bill, the "great
+pacificator" became more beloved than ever. He
+had saved the Union, and now was talked of as the
+successor to President Monroe.</p>
+
+<p>Clay was now forty-seven, the polished orator,
+the consummate leader, one of the great trio whom
+all visitors to Washington wished to look upon:
+Clay, Webster, and Calhoun. Kentucky was earnest
+in her support of Clay as President.</p>
+
+<p>When the time came for voting, six candidates
+were before the people: John Quincy Adams,
+Jackson, Clay, Calhoun, Clinton of New York, and
+Crawford of Georgia. Hon. Thomas H. Benton of
+Missouri was an ardent supporter of Clay, and
+travelled over several States speaking in his behalf.</p>
+
+<p>Clay was anxious for the position, but would do
+nothing unworthy to obtain it. He wrote to a
+friend, "On one resolution, my friends may rest assured,
+I will firmly rely, and that is, to participate<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[252]</a></span>
+in no intrigue, to enter into no arrangements, to
+make no promises or pledges; but that, whether I
+am elected or not, I will have nothing to reproach
+myself with. If elected, I will go into the office
+with a pure conscience, to promote with my utmost
+exertions the common good of our country, and free
+to select the most able and faithful public servants.
+If not elected, acquiescing most cheerfully in the
+better selection which will thus have been made, I
+will at least have the satisfaction of preserving my
+honor unsullied and my heart uncorrupted."</p>
+
+<p>After the vote had been taken, as no candidate
+received a clear majority, the election necessarily
+went to the House of Representatives. Though
+Jackson received the most electoral votes, Clay,
+not friendly to him, used his influence for Adams
+and helped obtain his election. Clay was, of
+course, bitterly censured by the followers of Jackson,
+and when Adams made him Secretary of
+State the cry of "bargain and sale" was heard
+throughout the country. Though both Adams and
+Clay denied any promise between them, the Jackson
+men believed, or professed to believe it, and
+helped in later years to spoil his presidential success.
+Adams said, "As to my motives for tendering
+him the Department of State when I did, let
+the man who questions them come forward. Let
+him look around among the statesmen and legislators
+of the nation and of that day. Let him then
+select and name the man whom, by his preëminent
+talents, by his splendid services, by his ardent patriotism,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[253]</a></span>
+by his all-embracing public spirit, by his
+fervid eloquence in behalf of the rights and liberties
+of mankind, by his long experience in the
+affairs of the Union, foreign and domestic, a President
+of the United States, intent only upon the
+honor and welfare of his country, ought to have
+preferred to Henry Clay."</p>
+
+<p>Returning to Kentucky before taking the position
+of Secretary of State, his journey thither was
+one constant ovation. Public dinners were given
+him in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. In the
+midst of this prosperity, sorrow laid her hand
+heavily upon the great man's heart. His children
+were his idols. They obeyed him because they
+loved him and were proud of him. Lucretia,
+named for her mother, a delicate and much beloved
+daughter, died at fourteen. Eliza, a most
+attractive girl, with her father's magnetic manners,
+died on their journey to Washington. A few days
+after her death, another daughter, Susan Hart, then
+Mrs. Durolde of New Orleans, died, at the age of
+twenty.</p>
+
+<p>There was work to be done for the country, and
+Mr. Clay tried to put away his sorrow that he
+might do his duty. As Secretary of State he
+helped to negotiate treaties with Prussia, Denmark,
+Austria, Russia, and other nations. The
+opposition to Adams and Clay became intense.
+The Jackson party felt itself defrauded. John
+Randolph of Virginia was an outspoken enemy,
+closing a scathing speech with the words, "by the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[254]</a></span>
+coalition of Blifil and Black George&mdash;by the
+combination, unheard of till then, of the Puritan
+with the blackleg."</p>
+
+<p>Clay was indignant, and sent Randolph a challenge,
+which he accepted. On the night before the
+duel, Randolph told a friend that he had determined
+not to return Clay's fire. "Nothing," he
+said, "shall induce me to harm a hair of his head.
+I will not make his wife a widow and his children
+orphans. Their tears would be shed over his
+grave; but when the sod of Virginia rests on my
+bosom, there is not in this wide world one individual
+to pay this tribute upon mine."</p>
+
+<p>The two men met on the banks of the Potomac,
+near sunset. Clay fired and missed his adversary,
+while Randolph discharged his pistol in the air.
+As soon as Clay perceived this he came forward
+and exclaimed, "I trust in God, my dear sir, that
+you are unhurt; after what has occurred, I would
+not have harmed you for a thousand worlds."
+Years afterward, a short time before Randolph's
+death, as he was on his way to Philadelphia,
+he stopped in Washington, and was carried into
+the Senate chamber during its all-night session.
+Clay was speaking. "Hold me up," he said
+to his attendants; "<i>I have come to hear that
+voice.</i>"</p>
+
+<p>At the presidential election of 1828 Andrew
+Jackson was the successful candidate, and Clay
+retired to his Ashland farm, where he took especial
+delight in his fine horses, cattle, and sheep.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[255]</a></span>
+But he was soon returned to the Senate by his
+devoted State.</p>
+
+<p>The tariff question was now absorbing the public
+mind. The South, under Calhoun's leadership, had
+been opposed to protection, which they believed
+aided northern manufacturers at the expense of
+southern agriculturists. When the tariff bill of
+1832 was passed, and South Carolina talked of
+nullification and secession, Clay said: "The great
+principle which lies at the foundation of all free
+government is that the majority must govern, from
+which there can be no appeal but the sword. That
+majority ought to govern wisely, equitably, moderately,
+and constitutionally; but govern it must,
+subject only to that terrible appeal. If ever one
+or several States, being a minority, can, by menacing
+a dissolution of the Union, succeed in forcing
+an abandonment of great measures deemed essential
+to the interests and prosperity of the whole, the
+Union from that moment is practically gone. It
+may linger on in form and name, but its vital
+spirit has fled forever."</p>
+
+<p>South Carolina passed her nullification ordinance,
+and prepared to resist the collection of
+revenues at Charleston. Then Jackson, with his
+undaunted courage and indomitable will, ordered
+a body of troops to South Carolina, and threatened
+to hang Calhoun and his nullifiers as "high as
+Haman."</p>
+
+<p>Then the "great pacificator" came forward to
+heal the wounds between North and South, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[256]</a></span>
+preserve the Union. He prepared his "Compromise
+Bill," which provided for a gradual reduction
+of duties till the year 1842, when twenty per cent.
+at a home valuation should become the rate on
+dutiable goods. He spent much time and thought
+on this bill, visiting the great manufacturers of the
+country, and urging them to accede for the sake of
+peace.</p>
+
+<p>After this bill passed he was more esteemed
+than ever. He visited by request the Northern
+and Eastern States, and spoke to great gatherings
+of people in nearly all the large cities. A platform
+having been erected on the heights of Bunker Hill,
+Edward Everett addressed him in the presence of
+an immense audience, and Clay responded with his
+usual eloquence. The young men of Boston presented
+him a pair of silver pitchers, weighing one
+hundred and fifty ounces. The young men of
+Troy, New York, gave him a superbly mounted
+rifle. Other cities made him expensive presents.</p>
+
+<p>After the first four years of Jackson's "reign,"
+as it was called by those who deprecated the
+unusual power held by the executive, Clay was
+again nominated for the presidency by the Whigs,
+and again defeated, Jackson receiving two hundred
+and nineteen electoral votes and Clay only forty-nine.</p>
+
+<p>Again in 1840, after the four years' term of Van
+Buren, the protégé of Jackson, all eyes turned
+toward Clay as the coming President. But already
+he had been twice the nominee and been twice<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[257]</a></span>
+defeated. The anti-slavery element had become
+a serious factor in party plans. The secretary of
+the American Anti-Slavery Society in New York
+wrote Clay: "I should consider the election of
+a slave-holder to the presidency a great calamity to
+the country." The slave-holders meantime denounced
+Clay as an abolitionist.</p>
+
+<p>When the Whig national convention met, December
+4, 1839, they chose, not Clay, but General
+William Henry Harrison, a good man and a successful
+soldier, but a very different man from the
+popular Clay. The statesman was sorely disappointed.
+"I am," he said, "the most unfortunate
+man in the history of parties: always run by my
+friends when sure to be defeated, and now betrayed
+for a nomination when I or any one would be sure
+of an election."</p>
+
+<p>His friends throughout the country were grieved
+and indignant. But Clay supported with all his
+power the true-hearted old soldier, who, when
+elected, offered him the first place in the Cabinet,
+which was declined. Harrison died a month after
+his inauguration, and John Tyler became President.
+Clay and Tyler differed constantly, till
+Clay determined to retire from the Senate. He
+said: "I want rest, and my private affairs want
+attention. Nevertheless, I would make any personal
+sacrifice if, by remaining here, I could do any
+good; but my belief is I can effect nothing, and
+perhaps my absence may remove an obstacle to
+something being done by others." When it became<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[258]</a></span>
+known that Clay would make a farewell address,
+the Senate chamber was crowded.</p>
+
+<p>He spoke of his long career of public service,
+and the memorable scenes they had witnessed together.
+His feelings nearly overcame him as he
+said: "I emigrated from Virginia to the State of
+Kentucky now nearly forty-five years ago; I went
+as an orphan boy who had not yet attained the
+age of majority, who had never recognized a father's
+smile nor felt his warm caresses, poor, penniless,
+without the favor of the great, with an imperfect
+and neglected education, hardly sufficient for the
+ordinary business and common pursuits of life;
+but scarce had I set foot upon her generous soil
+when I was embraced with parental fondness, caressed
+as though I had been a favorite child, and
+patronized with liberal and unbounded munificence.
+From that period the highest honors of the
+State have been freely bestowed upon me; and
+when, in the darkest hour of calumny and detraction,
+I seemed to be assailed by all the rest of the
+world, she interposed her broad and impenetrable
+shield, repelled the poisoned shafts that were
+aimed for my destruction, and vindicated my good
+name from every malignant and unfounded aspersion.
+I return with indescribable pleasure to
+linger a while longer, and mingle with the warm-hearted
+and whole-souled people of that State;
+and, when the last scene shall forever close upon
+me, I hope that my earthly remains will be laid
+under her green sod with those of her gallant and
+patriotic sons."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[259]</a></span>When Clay reached Lexington he was welcomed
+like a prince. A great public feast was given in
+his honor. In his speech to the people he said:
+"I have been accused of ambition, often accused
+of ambition. If to have served my country during
+a long series of years with fervent zeal and unshaken
+fidelity, in seasons of peace and war, at
+home and abroad, in the legislative halls and in an
+executive department; if to have labored most
+sedulously to avert the embarrassment and distress
+which now overspread this Union, and, when
+they came, to have exerted myself anxiously, at
+the extra session and at this, to devise healing
+remedies; if to have desired to introduce economy
+and reform in the general administration, curtail
+enormous executive power, and amply provide, at
+the same time, for the wants of the government
+and the wants of the people, by a tariff which
+would give it revenue and then protection; if to
+have earnestly sought to establish the bright but
+too rare example of a party in power faithful to
+its promises and pledges made when out of power,&mdash;if
+these services, exertions, and endeavors
+justify the accusation of ambition, I must plead
+guilty to the charge.</p>
+
+<p>"I have wished the good opinion of the world;
+but I defy the most malignant of my enemies to
+show that I have attempted to gain it by any low
+or grovelling acts, by any mean or unworthy sacrifices,
+by the violation of any of the obligations of
+honor, or by a breach of any of the duties which I
+owed to my country."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[260]</a></span>In 1844, at the Whig convention at Baltimore,
+May 1, Clay was unanimously nominated for the
+presidency, with a great shout that shook the
+building. It seemed as though his hour of triumph
+had come at last. James K. Polk was the
+Democratic nominee. Another party now appeared,
+the "Liberty Party," with James G. Birney of
+Kentucky as its candidate. He was an able lawyer,
+and a man who had liberated his slaves
+through principle. The contest was one of the
+most acrimonious in our national history. Texas
+was clamoring for admission to the Union, with
+the Mexican War sure to result. The Whigs
+feared to commit themselves on the slavery question.
+When the votes were counted Birney had
+received over sixty-two thousand, enough to throw
+the election into the hands of the Democrats. The
+abolitionists had done what they were willing to
+do,&mdash;bury the Whig party, that from its grave
+might arise another party, which should fearlessly
+grapple with slavery, and they accomplished their
+desire, when, in 1860, the Republican party made
+Abraham Lincoln President.</p>
+
+<p>The disappointment to Mr. Clay was extreme,
+but he bore it bravely. His friends all over the
+country seemed broken-hearted. Letters of sorrow
+poured into Ashland. "I write," said one,
+"with an aching heart, and ache it must. God
+Almighty save us! Although our hearts are
+broken and bleeding, and our bright hopes are
+crushed, we feel proud of our candidate. God<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[261]</a></span>
+bless you! Your countrymen do bless you. All
+know how to appreciate the man who has stood in
+the first rank of American patriots. Though unknown
+to you, you are by no means a stranger to
+me." Another wrote: "I have buried a revolutionary
+father, who poured out his blood for his
+country; I have followed a mother, brothers, sisters,
+and children to the grave; and, although I
+hope I have felt, under all these afflictions, as a
+son, a brother, and a father should feel, yet nothing
+has so crushed me to the earth, and depressed
+my spirits, as the result of our late political contest."</p>
+
+<p>"Permit me, a stranger, to address you. From
+my boyhood I have loved no other American statesman
+so much except Washington. I write from
+the overflowing of my heart. I admire and love you
+more than ever. If I may never have the happiness
+of seeing you on earth, may I meet you in
+heaven."</p>
+
+<p>A lady wrote, "I had indulged the most joyous
+anticipations in view of that political campaign
+which has now been so ingloriously ended. I considered
+that the nation could never feel satisfied until
+it had cancelled, in some degree, the onerous
+obligations so long due to its faithful and distinguished
+son."</p>
+
+<p>Another lady wrote, "My mind is a perfect
+chaos when I dwell upon the events which have
+occurred within the last few weeks. My heart refused
+to credit the sad reality. Had I the eloquence<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[262]</a></span>
+of all living tongues, I could not shadow
+forth the deep, deep sorrow that has thrilled
+my inmost soul. The bitterest tears have flowed
+like rain-drops from my eyes. Never, till now,
+could I believe that truth and justice would not
+prevail."</p>
+
+<p>A lady in Maryland, ninety-three years old,
+wrought for Clay a counterpane of almost numberless
+pieces. New York friends sent a silver
+vase three feet high. The ladies of Tennessee sent
+a costly vase. Tokens of affection came from all
+directions. But the grief was so great that in
+some towns business was almost suspended, while
+the people talked "of the late blow that has fallen
+upon our country."</p>
+
+<p>Other troubles were pressing upon Mr. Clay's
+heart. By heavy expenditures and losses through
+his sons, his home had become involved to the extent
+of fifty thousand dollars. The mortgage was
+to be foreclosed, and Henry Clay would be penniless.
+A number of friends had learned these facts,
+and sent him the cancelled obligation. He was
+overcome by this proof of affection, and exclaimed,
+"Had ever any man such friends or enemies as
+Henry Clay!"</p>
+
+<p>Two years later, his favorite son, Colonel Henry
+Clay, was killed under General Taylor, in the battle
+of Buena Vista. "My life has been full of
+domestic affliction," said the father, "but this last
+is the severest among them." A few years before,
+while in Washington, a brilliant and lovely married<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[263]</a></span>
+daughter had died. When Mr. Clay opened the
+letter and read the sad news, he fainted, and remained
+in his room for days.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Clay was now seventy years old. Chastened
+by sorrow, he determined to unite with the Episcopal
+Church. Says one who was present in the
+little parlor at Ashland, "When the minister entered
+the room on this deeply solemn and interesting
+occasion, the small assembly, consisting of the
+immediate family, a few family connections, and
+the clergyman's wife, rose up. In the middle of
+the room stood a large centre-table, on which was
+placed, filled with water, the magnificent cut-glass
+vase presented to Mr. Clay by some gentlemen of
+Pittsburg. On one side of the room hung the
+large picture of the family of Washington, himself
+an Episcopalian by birth, by education, and a
+devout communicant of the church; and immediately
+opposite, on a side-table, stood the bust of the
+lamented Harrison, with a chaplet of withered
+flowers hung upon his head, who was to have been
+confirmed in the church the Sabbath after he died,&mdash;fit
+witnesses of such a scene. Around the room
+were suspended a number of family pictures, and
+among them the portrait of a beloved daughter,
+who died some years ago, in the triumphs of that
+faith which her noble father was now about to embrace;
+and the picture of the late lost son, who
+fell at the battle of Buena Vista. Could these
+silent lookers-on at the scene about transpiring
+have spoken from the marble and the canvas, they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[264]</a></span>
+would heartily have approved the act which dedicated
+the great man to God."</p>
+
+<p>In 1848, Clay was again talked of for the presidency,
+but the party managers considered General
+Taylor, of the Mexican War, a more available candidate,
+and he was nominated and elected. Clay was
+again unanimously chosen to the Senate for six
+years from March 4, 1849. Seven years before, he
+had said farewell. Now, at seventy-two, he was
+again to debate great questions, and once more save
+the nation from disruption and civil war,&mdash;for a
+time; he hoped, for all time.</p>
+
+<p>The territory obtained from Mexico became a
+matter of contention as to whether it should be
+slave territory or not. California asked to be admitted
+to the Union without slavery. The North
+favored this, while the South insisted that the
+Missouri Compromise of 1820, which forbade slavery
+north of 36° 30', if continued to the Pacific
+Ocean, would entitle them to California. Already
+the Wilmot Proviso, which sought to exclude slavery
+from all territory hereafter acquired by the United
+States, had aroused bitter feeling at the South.
+Clay, loving the Union beyond all things else,
+thought out his compromise of 1850. As he
+walked up to the Capitol to make his last great
+speech upon the measure, he said to a friend accompanying
+him, "Will you lend me your arm? I
+feel myself quite weak and exhausted this morning."
+The friend suggested that he postpone his
+speech.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[265]</a></span>"I consider our country in danger," replied
+Clay; "and if I can be the means in any measure
+of averting that danger, my health and life are of
+little consequence."</p>
+
+<p>Great crowds had come from Philadelphia, New
+York, Boston, and elsewhere to hear the speech,
+which occupied two days. He said: "War and
+dissolution of the Union are identical; they are
+convertible terms; and such a war!... If the
+two portions of the confederacy should be involved
+in civil war, in which the effort on the one side
+would be to restrain the introduction of slavery
+into the new territories, and, on the other side, to
+force its introduction there, what a spectacle should
+we present to the contemplation of astonished
+mankind! An effort to propagate wrong! It
+would be a war in which we should have no sympathy,
+no good wishes, and in which all mankind
+would be against us, and in which our own history
+itself would be against us."</p>
+
+<p>For six months the measure was debated. Clay
+came daily to the Senate chamber, so ill he could
+scarcely walk, but determined to save the Union.
+"Sir," said the grand old man, "I have heard something
+said about allegiance to the South. I know
+no South, no North, no East, no West, to which I
+owe any allegiance.... Let us go to the fountain
+of unadulterated patriotism, and, performing a
+solemn lustration, return divested of all selfish,
+sinister, and sordid impurities, and think alone of
+our God, our country, our conscience, and our<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[266]</a></span>
+glorious Union.... If Kentucky to-morrow unfurls
+the banner of resistance unjustly, I never will
+fight under that banner. I owe a paramount allegiance
+to the whole Union,&mdash;a subordinate one to
+my own State. When my State is right, when it
+has a cause for resistance, when tyranny and
+wrong and oppression insufferable arise, I will
+then share her fortunes; but if she summons me
+to the battlefield, or to support her in any cause
+which is unjust against the Union, never, <i>never</i>
+will I engage with her in such a cause!"</p>
+
+<p>Finally the Compromise Bill of 1850 was substantially
+adopted. Among its several provisions
+were the admission of California as a free State,
+the abolition of the slave-trade in the District of
+Columbia, the organization of the Territories of
+New Mexico and Utah without conditions as to
+slavery, and increased stringency of the Fugitive
+Slave Laws.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Clay's hopes as to peace seemed for a few
+brief months to be realized. Then the North, exasperated
+by the provisions of the Fugitive Slave
+Bill, by which all good citizens were required to
+aid slave-holders in capturing their fugitive slaves,
+began to resist the bill by force. Clay could do no
+more. He must have foreseen the bitter end.
+Worn and tired, he went to Cuba to seek restoration
+of health.</p>
+
+<p>In 1852 he was urged to allow his name to be
+used again for the presidency. It was too late
+now. He returned to Washington at the opening<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[267]</a></span>
+of the thirty-second Congress, but he entered the
+Senate chamber but once. During the spring,
+devoted friends and two of his sons watched by his
+bedside. He said: "As the world recedes from
+me, I feel my affections more than ever concentrated
+on my children and theirs."</p>
+
+<p>The end came peacefully, June 29, 1852, when he
+was seventy-six. On July 1 the body lay in state
+in the Senate chamber, and was then carried to
+Lexington. In all the principal cities through
+which the cortege passed, Baltimore, Philadelphia,
+New York, Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland, Cincinnati,
+and others, thousands gathered to pay their homage
+to the illustrious dead, weeping, and often
+pressing their lips upon the shroud. On July 10,
+when the body, having reached Lexington, was
+ready for burial, nearly a hundred thousand persons
+were gathered. In front of the Ashland
+home, on a bier covered with flowers, stood the
+iron coffin. Senators and scholars, the rich and
+the poor, the white and the black, mourned together
+in their common sorrow. The great man
+had missed the presidency, but he had not missed
+the love of a whole nation. The "mill-boy of the
+Slashes," winsome, sincere, had, unaided, become
+the only and immortal Henry Clay.</p>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[268]</a></span></p>
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 432px;">
+<img src="images/illus-fpc.jpg" width="432" height="600" alt="Charles Sumner" title="Charles Sumner" />
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>CHARLES SUMNER.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Henry Ward Beecher said of Charles
+Sumner: "He was raised up to do the work
+preceding and following the war. His eulogy will
+be, a lover of his country, an advocate of universal
+liberty, and the most eloquent and high-minded of
+all the statesmen of that period in which America
+made the transition from slavery to liberty."</p>
+
+<p>"The most eloquent and high-minded." Great
+praise, but worthily bestowed!</p>
+
+<p>Descended from an honorable English family
+who came to Massachusetts in 1637, settling in
+Dorchester, and the son of a well known lawyer,
+Charles Sumner came into the world January 6,
+1811, with all the advantages of birth and social
+position. That he cared comparatively little for
+the family coat-of-arms of his ancestors is shown
+by his words in his address on "The True Grandeur
+of Nations." "Nothing is more shameful for
+a man than to found his title to esteem not on his
+own merits, but on the fame of his ancestors. The
+glory of the fathers is, doubtless, to their children,
+a most precious treasure; but to enjoy it without<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[269]</a></span>
+transmitting it to the next generation, and without
+adding to it yourselves,&mdash;this is the height of
+imbecility."</p>
+
+<p>Sumner added to the "glory of the fathers,"
+not by ease and self-indulgence, not by conforming
+to the opinions of the society about him, but by a
+life of labor, and heroic devotion to principle. He
+had such courage to do the right as is not common
+to mankind, and such persistency as teaches a lesson
+to the young men of America.</p>
+
+<p>Charles was the oldest of nine children, the
+twin brother of Matilda, who grew to a beautiful
+womanhood, and died of consumption at twenty-one.
+The family home was at No. 20 Hancock
+Street, Boston, a four-story brick building.</p>
+
+<p>Charles Pinckney Sumner, the father, a scholarly
+and well bred man of courtly manners, while
+he taught his children to love books, had the severity
+of nature which forbade a tender companionship
+between him and his oldest son. This was
+supplied, however, by the mother, a woman of
+unusual amiability and good-sense, who lived to
+be his consolation in the struggles of manhood,
+and to be proud and thankful when the whole
+land echoed his praises.</p>
+
+<p>The boy was tall, slight, obedient, and devoted
+to books. He was especially fond of reading and
+repeating speeches. When sent to dancing-school
+he showed little enjoyment in it, preferring to go
+to the court-room with his father, to listen to the
+arguments of the lawyers. When he visited his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[270]</a></span>
+mother's early home in Hanover, he had the extreme
+pleasure of reciting in the country woods
+the orations which he had read in the city.</p>
+
+<p>In these early days he was an aspiring lad, with
+a manner which made his companions say he was
+"to the manor born." The father had decided to
+educate him in the English branches only, thus
+fitting him to earn his living earlier, as his income
+from the law, at this time, was not large. Charles,
+however, had purchased some Latin books with his
+pocket money, and surprised his father with the
+progress he had made by himself when ten years
+old. He was therefore, at this age, sent to the
+Boston Latin School. So skilful was he in the
+classics that at thirteen he received a prize for a
+translation from Sallust, and at fifteen a prize for
+English prose and another for a Latin poem. At
+the latter age he was ready to enter Harvard College.
+He had desired to go to West Point, but,
+fortunately, there was no opening. The country
+needed him for other work than war. To lead a
+whole nation by voice and pen up to heroic deeds
+is better than to lead an army.</p>
+
+<p>All this time he read eagerly in his spare moments,
+especially in history, enjoying Gibbon's
+"Rome," and making full extracts from it in his
+notebooks. At fourteen he had written a compendium
+of English history, from Cćsar's conquest
+to 1801, which filled a manuscript book of eighty-six
+pages.</p>
+
+<p>His first college room at Harvard was No. 17<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[271]</a></span>
+Stoughton Hall. "When he entered," says one of
+his class-mates, "he was tall, thin, and somewhat
+awkward. He had but little inclination for engaging
+in sports or games, such as kicking foot-ball
+on the Delta, which the other students were in
+almost the daily habit of enjoying. He rarely
+went out to take a walk; and almost the only
+exercise in which he engaged was going on foot to
+Boston on Saturday afternoon, and then returning
+in the evening. He had a remarkable fondness
+for reading the dramas of Shakespeare, the works
+of Walter Scott, together with reviews and magazines
+of the higher class. He remembered what
+he read, and quoted passages afterwards with the
+greatest fluency.... In declamation he held rank
+among the best; but in mathematics there were
+several superior. He was always amiable and gentlemanly
+in deportment, and avoided saying anything
+to wound the feelings of his class-mates."
+One of the chief distinguishing marks of a well
+bred man is that he speaks ill of no one and
+harshly to no one.</p>
+
+<p>In Sumner's freshman year his persistency
+showed itself, as in his childhood, when, in quarrelling
+with a companion over a stick, he held it
+till his bleeding hands frightened his antagonist,
+who ran away. By the laws of the college, students
+wore a uniform, consisting of an Oxford
+cap, coat, pantaloons, and vest of the color known
+as "Oxford mixed." In summer a white vest was
+allowed. Sumner, having a fancy for a buff vest,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[272]</a></span>
+purchased one, wore it, and was summoned before
+the teachers for non-conformity to rules. He
+insisted, with much eloquence, that his vest was
+white. Twice he was admonished, and finally, as
+the easiest way to settle with the good-principled
+but persistent student, it was voted by the board,
+"that in future Sumner's vest be regarded as
+white!"</p>
+
+<p>In scholarship in college he ranked among the
+first third. He gave much time to general reading,
+especially the old English authors, Milton,
+Pope, Dryden, Addison, Goldsmith. Hazlitt's
+"Select British Poets" and Harvey's "Shakespeare"
+he kept constantly on his table in later
+life, ready for use. The latter, which he always
+called <span class="smcap">The Book</span>, was found open on the day of
+his death, with the words marked in Henry VI:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">"Would I were dead! if God's good will were so;</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">For what is in this world but grief and woe?"</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>On leaving college, Sumner's mind was not made
+up as to his future work. He was somewhat
+inclined to the law, but questioned his probable
+success in it. He spent a year at home in study,
+mastering mathematics, which he so disliked, and
+reading Tacitus, Juvenal, Persius, Hume, Hallam,
+and the like. In the winter he composed an essay
+on commerce, and received the prize offered by the
+"Boston Society for the Diffusion of Useful
+Knowledge." Daniel Webster, the president of
+the society, gave the prize, Liebner's "Encyclopćdia<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[273]</a></span>
+Americana," to Sumner, taking his hand and
+calling him his "young friend." He did not know
+that this youth would succeed him in the Senate,
+and thrill the nation by his eloquence, as Webster
+himself had done.</p>
+
+<p>Sumner's class-mates were proud that he had
+gained this prize, and one wrote to another, "Our
+friend outstrips all imagination. He will leave us
+all behind him.... He has been working hard to
+lay a foundation for the future. I doubt whether
+one of his class-mates has filled up the time since
+commencement with more, and more thorough
+labor; and to keep him constant he has a pervading
+ambition,&mdash;not an intermittent, fitful gust of
+an affair, blowing a hurricane at one time, then
+subsiding to a calm, but a strong, steady breeze,
+which will bear him well on in the track of honor."</p>
+
+<p>In the fall of 1831 Sumner had decided to study
+law, and began in earnest at the Harvard Law
+School. Early and late he was among his books,
+often until two in the morning. He soon knew
+the place of each volume in the law library, so
+that he could have found it in the dark. He read
+carefully in common law, French law, and international
+law; procured a common-place book, and
+wrote out tables of English kings and lord-chancellors,
+sketches of lawyers, and definitions and incidents
+from Blackstone. He made a catalogue of
+the law library, and wrote articles for legal magazines.
+He went little into society, because he preferred
+his books. Judge Story, a man twice his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[274]</a></span>
+own age, became his most devoted friend, and to
+the end of his life Sumner loved him as a brother.</p>
+
+<p>Chief Justice Story, whom Lord Brougham
+called the "greatest justice in the world," was a
+man of singularly sweet nature, appreciative of the
+beautiful and the pure, as well as a man of profound
+learning. The influence of such a lovable
+and strong nature over an ambitious youth, who can
+estimate?</p>
+
+<p>The few friends Sumner made among women
+were, as a rule, older than himself, a thing not
+unusual with intellectual men. He chose those
+whose minds were much like his own, and who
+were appreciative, refining, and stimulating. Brain
+and heart seemed to be the only charms which
+possessed any fascination for him.</p>
+
+<p>The eminent sculptor, W. W. Story of Rome,
+says, "Of all men I ever knew at his age, he was
+the least susceptible to the charms of women.
+Men he liked best, and with them he preferred to
+talk. It was in vain for the loveliest and liveliest
+girl to seek to absorb his attention. He would at
+once desert the most blooming beauty to talk to
+the plainest of men. This was a constant source
+of amusement to us, and we used to lay wagers
+with the pretty girls that with all their art they
+could not keep him at their side a quarter of an
+hour. Nor do I think we ever lost one of these
+bets. I remember particularly one dinner at my
+father's house, when it fell to his lot to take out
+a charming woman, so handsome and full of <i>esprit</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[275]</a></span>
+that any one at the table might well have envied
+him his position. She had determined to hold him
+captive, and win her bet against us. But her efforts
+were all in vain. Unfortunately, on his other
+side was a dry old <i>savant</i>, packed with information;
+and within five minutes Sumner had completely
+turned his back on his fair companion and
+engaged in a discussion with the other, which
+lasted the whole dinner. We all laughed. She
+cast up her eyes deprecatingly, acknowledged herself
+vanquished, and paid her bet. Meantime,
+Sumner was wholly unconscious of the jest or of
+the laughter. He had what he wanted&mdash;sensible
+men's talk. He had mined the <i>savant</i> as he
+mined every one he met, in search of ore, and was
+thoroughly pleased with what he got."</p>
+
+<p>In manner Sumner was natural and sincere,
+friendly to all, winning at the first moment by his
+radiant smile. A sunny face is a constant benediction.
+How it blesses and lifts burdens from aching
+hearts! Sumner had heart-aches like all the
+rest of mankind, but his face beamed with that
+open, kindly expression which is as sweet to hungering
+humanity as the sunshine after rain. And
+this "genial illuminating smile," says Mr. Story,
+"he never lost."</p>
+
+<p>These days in the law school were happy days
+for the lover of learning. Forty years afterward,
+Mr. Sumner said, in an address to the colored law
+students of Howard University, Washington,
+"These exercises carry me back to early life....<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[276]</a></span>
+I cannot think of those days without fondness.
+They were the happiest of my life.... There is
+happiness in the acquisition of knowledge, which
+surpasses all common joys. The student who feels
+that he is making daily progress, constantly learning
+something new,&mdash;who sees the shadows by
+which he was originally surrounded gradually exchanged
+for an atmosphere of light,&mdash;cannot fail
+to be happy. His toil becomes a delight, and all
+that he learns is a treasure,&mdash;with this difference
+from gold and silver, that it cannot be lost. It is
+a perpetual capital at compound interest."</p>
+
+<p>While at the law school, Sumner wrote a friend,
+"A lawyer must know everything. He must know
+law, history, philosophy, human nature; and, if he
+covets the fame of an advocate, he must drink of
+all the springs of literature, giving ease and elegance
+to the mind, and illustration to whatever subject
+it touches. So experience declares, and reflection
+bears experience out.... The lower floor
+of Divinity Hall, where I reside, is occupied by
+law students. There are here Browne and Dana of
+our old class, with others that I know nothing of,&mdash;not
+even my neighbor, parted from me by a
+partition wall, have I seen yet, and I do not wish
+to see him. I wish no acquaintances, for they eat
+up time like locusts. The old class-mates are
+enough." To another he wrote, "Determine that
+you will master the whole compass of law; and do
+not shrink from the crabbed page of black-letter,
+the multitudinous volumes of reports, or even the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[277]</a></span>
+gigantic abridgments. Keep the high standard in
+your mind's eye, and you will certainly reach some
+desirable point.... You cannot read history too
+much, particularly that of England and the United
+States. History is the record of human conduct
+and experience; and it is to this that jurisprudence
+is applied.... Above all love and honor your profession.
+You can make yourself love the law,
+proverbially dry as it is, or any other study. Here
+is an opportunity for the exercise of the will. Determine
+that you will love it, and devote yourself
+to it as to a bride."</p>
+
+<p>When the study at the law school was over,
+Sumner returned to Boston, and entered the office
+of Benjamin Rand, Court Street, a man distinguished
+for learning rather than for oratory. The
+young lawyer succeeded fairly well, though he
+loved study better than general practice. Two
+years later he gave instruction at the law school
+when Judge Story was absent, and then reported
+his opinions in the Circuit Court, in three volumes.
+He assisted Professor Greenleaf in preparing "Reports
+of the Decisions of the Supreme Court of
+Maine," revised, with much labor, Dunlap's "Admiralty
+Practice," and edited "The American
+Jurist."</p>
+
+<p>In the midst of this hard work he spent a brief
+vacation at Washington, writing to his father, "I
+shall probably hear Calhoun, and he will be the
+last man I shall ever hear speak in Washington. I
+probably shall never come here again. I have little<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[278]</a></span>
+or no desire ever to come again in any capacity.
+Nothing that I have seen of politics has made me
+look upon them with any feeling other than loathing.
+The more I see of them the more I love law,
+which, I feel, will give me an honorable livelihood."</p>
+
+<p>When he visited Niagara, he wrote home, "I
+have sat for an hour contemplating this delightful
+object, with the cataract sounding like the voice of
+God in my ears. But there is something oppressive
+in hearing and contemplating these things.
+The mind travails with feelings akin to pain, in the
+endeavor to embrace them. I do not know that it
+is so with others; but I cannot disguise from myself
+the sense of weakness, inferiority, and incompetency
+which I feel."</p>
+
+<p>When Sumner was twenty-six, he determined to
+carry out a life-long plan of visiting Europe, to
+study its writers, jurists, and social customs. He
+needed five thousand dollars for this purpose. He
+had earned two thousand, and, borrowing three
+from three friends, he started December 8, 1837.
+Emerson gave him a letter of introduction to Carlyle,
+Story to some leading lawyers, and Washington
+Allston to Wordsworth. Judge Story said in
+his letter, "Mr. Sumner is a practising lawyer at
+the Boston bar, of very high reputation for his
+years, and already giving the promise of the most
+eminent distinction in his profession; his literary
+and judicial attainments are truly extraordinary.
+He is one of the editors, indeed, the principal editor,
+of 'The American Jurist,' a quarterly journal<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[279]</a></span>
+of extensive circulation and celebrity among us,
+and without a rival in America. He is also the reporter
+of the court in which I preside, and has
+already published two volumes of reports. His
+private character, also, is of the best kind for
+purity and propriety."</p>
+
+<p>His friend Dr. Lieber gave him some good suggestions
+about travelling. "Plan your journey.
+Spend money carefully. Keep steadily a journal.
+Never think that an impression is too vivid to be
+forgotten. Believe me, <i>time</i> is more powerful than
+senses or memory. Keep little books for addresses.
+Write down first impressions of men and countries."</p>
+
+<p>Just before Sumner started from New York, he
+wrote to his little sister, Julia, then ten years old,
+"I am very glad, my dear, to remember your cheerful
+countenance.... Let it be said of you that
+you are always amiable.... Cultivate an affectionate
+disposition. If you find that you can do
+anything which will add to the pleasure of your
+parents, or anybody else, be sure to do it. Consider
+every opportunity of adding to the pleasure
+of others as of the highest importance, and do not
+be unwilling to sacrifice some enjoyment of your
+own, even some dear plaything, if by doing so you
+can promote the happiness of others. If you follow
+this advice, you will never be selfish or ungenerous,
+and everybody will love you."</p>
+
+<p>To his brother George, six years younger than
+himself, he wrote, "Do not waste your time in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[280]</a></span>
+driblets. Deem every moment precious,&mdash;far
+more so than the costliest stones.... Keep some
+good book constantly on hand to occupy every stray
+moment."</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Sumner reached Paris he devoted
+himself to the study of the language, so as to be
+able to speak what he could write already. He attended
+lectures given by the professors of colleges,
+became acquainted with Victor Cousin, the noted
+writer on morals and metaphysics, and the friend
+of authors, lawyers, and journalists. He said,
+years later, in an eloquent tribute to Judge Story:
+"It has been my fortune to know the chief jurists
+of our time in the classical countries of jurisprudence,&mdash;France
+and Germany. I remember well
+the pointed and effective style of Dupin, in one of
+his masterly arguments before the highest court
+of France; I recall the pleasant converse of Pardessus,
+to whom commercial and maritime law is
+under a larger debt, perhaps, than to any other mind,
+while he descanted on his favorite theme; I wander
+in fancy to the gentle presence of him with flowing
+silver locks who was so dear to Germany, Thibaut,
+the expounder of Roman law, and the earnest
+and successful advocate of a just scheme for the
+reduction of the unwritten law to the certainty of
+a written text; from Heidelberg I pass to Berlin,
+where I listen to the grave lecture and mingle in
+the social circle of Savigny, so stately in person
+and peculiar in countenance, whom all the continent
+of Europe delights to honor; but my heart and my<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[281]</a></span>
+judgment, untravelled, fondly turn with new love
+and admiration to my Cambridge teacher and
+friend. Jurisprudence has many arrows in her
+quiver, but where is one to compare with that
+which is now spent in the earth?"</p>
+
+<p>After some months in Paris, Sumner went to
+England, remaining ten months, and receiving attentions
+rarely if ever accorded to an American.
+He used some letters of introduction, but generally
+he was welcomed to the houses of lords and authors
+simply because the young man of learning was
+honored for his refinement and nobility of soul.
+He was admitted to the clubs, attended debates in
+Parliament, was present at the coronation of
+Queen Victoria in Westminster Abbey, sat on the
+bench at Westminster Hall, dined often with Lord
+Brougham, Sir William Hamilton, Jeffrey of the
+<i>Edinburgh Review</i>, Lord Morpeth the Chief Secretary
+for Ireland, Hallam, Carlyle, Lord Holland,
+Lord Houghton, Grote, Sydney Smith, Macaulay,
+Landor, Leigh Hunt, and scores of others,
+the greatest in the kingdom. An English writer
+said: "He presents in his own person a decisive
+proof that an American gentleman, without official
+rank or widespread reputation, by mere dint of
+courtesy, candor, an entire absence of pretension,
+an appreciating spirit, and a cultivated mind, may
+be received on a perfect footing of equality in the
+best English circles, social, political, and intellectual."</p>
+
+<p>Sumner wrote back to his friends in America:<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[282]</a></span>
+"I have made myself master of English practice
+and English circuit life. I cannot sufficiently express
+my admiration of the heartiness and cordiality
+which pervade all the English bar. They are
+truly a band of brothers, and I have been received
+among them as one of them. I have visited many&mdash;perhaps
+I may say most&mdash;of the distinguished
+men of these glorious countries (England, Scotland,
+and Ireland), at their seats, and have seen English
+country life, which is the height of refined luxury,
+in some of its most splendid phases. For all
+the opportunities I have had I feel grateful."</p>
+
+<p>Sumner found, what all travellers find, that cultivated,
+well bred people all speak a common language,
+that of universal courtesy and kindness.
+The English did not ask if he had wealth or
+distinguished parentage; it was enough that he
+was intelligent on all topics, considerate, gentle in
+manner, a gentleman in every possible situation.</p>
+
+<p>Every letter home teemed with descriptions of
+visits to Wordsworth, then sixty-nine years of age;
+to Macaulay, whom Sydney Smith called "a tremendous
+machine for colloquial oppression;" to
+the beautiful Caroline Norton, the poet, "one of
+the brightest intellects I have ever met," with
+"the grace and ease of the woman, with a strength
+and skill of which any man might well be proud;"
+to Lord Brougham, with "a fulness of information
+and physical spirits, which make him more commanding
+than all."</p>
+
+<p>Sumner spent three months in Rome, at first<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[283]</a></span>
+studying the language from six to twelve hours a
+day. He became the friend of the artist Thomas
+Crawford, then poor, but with high ambition. He
+wrote his praises home to his friends, induced
+them to buy one of his earliest works and exhibit
+it in Boston; cheered the half-despairing artist by
+assuring him that he would be "a great and successful
+sculptor, and be living in a palace," all of
+which came true. A noble nature, indeed, that
+could pause in its own aspiring work and lift another
+to fame and success!</p>
+
+<p>Six months were spent in Germany by Sumner,
+where he studied language and law as earnestly as
+he had in France and Italy. The rich, full days
+of literary intercourse were coming to an end. He
+wrote to his intimate friend Longfellow: "I shall
+soon be with you; and I now begin to think of
+hard work, of long days filled with uninteresting
+toil and humble gains. I sometimes have a moment
+of misgiving, when I think of the certainties
+which I abandoned for travel, and of the uncertainties
+to which I return. But this is momentary;
+for I am thoroughly content with what I
+have done. If clients fail me; if the favorable
+opinion of those on whom professional reputation
+depends leaves me; if I find myself poor and solitary,&mdash;still
+I shall be rich in the recollection of
+what I have seen, and will make companions of the
+great minds of these countries I have visited."</p>
+
+<p>In the spring of 1840 Sumner was home again,
+having been abroad for two and one-half years.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[284]</a></span>
+The father and his sister Jane, a lovely girl of
+seventeen, had both died during his absence. He
+went at once to the Hancock Street home, and
+began his professional labors from nine till five or
+six in the afternoon. In the evening he read as
+formerly till midnight or later, going every Saturday
+evening to spend the night with Longfellow at
+Craigie House.</p>
+
+<p>This affection for Longfellow never changed.
+When the poet went abroad in 1842, Sumner wrote
+him, "We are all sad at your going; but I am
+more sad than the rest, for I lose more than they
+do. I am desolate. It was to me a source of
+pleasure and strength untold to see you; and,
+when I did not see you, to feel that you were near,
+with your swift sympathy and kindly words. I
+must try to go alone,&mdash;hard necessity in this rude
+world of ours, for our souls always in this life need
+support and gentle beckonings, as the little child
+when first trying to move away from its mother's
+knee. God bless you, my dear friend, from my
+heart of hearts. My eyes overflow as I now trace
+these lines."</p>
+
+<p>Sumner was full of incident and vivid description
+of his life abroad, and the most charming
+homes of Boston were open to him whenever he
+had the time to visit, which was seldom. The
+letters from Europe made the long days of law
+practice less monotonous. He wrote much on
+legal matters; and now, at thirty-three, undertook
+to edit the "Equity Reports" of Francis Vesey,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[285]</a></span>
+Jr., numbering twenty volumes, for two thousand
+dollars. By the terms agreed upon, a volume was
+to be ready each fortnight. He worked night and
+day, took no recreation, and soon broke down in
+health; and his life was despaired of. He welcomed
+death, for he had before this time become
+somewhat despondent. Most of his friends were
+married, and some, like Prescott and Longfellow,
+had come to fame already. He felt that his life
+was not showing the results of which his youth
+gave promise.</p>
+
+<p>Had he found at this time "the perfect woman"
+for whom he used to tell his friends he was seeking,
+and made her his wife, there would doubtless
+have come into his life satisfaction and rest.
+That he did not marry was the more strange since
+women admired him for the qualities which are
+especially attractive to the sex; a knightly sense
+of honor, fidelity in friendship, fearlessness, and
+affectionate confidence.</p>
+
+<p>Sumner recovered his health, while his beloved
+sister Mary, at the age of twenty-two, faded from
+his sight by consumption. He wrote his brother
+George: "She herself wished to die; and I believe
+that we all became anxious at last that the angel
+should descend to bear her aloft. From the beautiful
+flower of her life the leaves had all gently
+fallen to the earth; and there remained but little
+for the hand of death to pluck. During the night
+preceding the morning on which she left us, she
+slept like a child; and within a short time of her<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[286]</a></span>
+death, when asked if she were in pain, she said,
+'No; angels are taking care of me.'"</p>
+
+<p>To Charles Sumner this death was an incomparable
+loss. She was especially beautiful and
+lovely, and the idol of his heart. Possibly it
+helped to make him ready for his great work.</p>
+
+<p>Into most lives, especially those designed for
+great deeds, there seem to come decisive moments
+when events open the door from the darkness of
+obscurity into the noonday glare of fame. Such a
+time came to Sumner in 1845. He was asked to
+deliver the usual Fourth of July address at Tremont
+Temple, Boston, as Charles Francis Adams,
+Horace Mann, and others had done in previous
+years. He chose for his subject "The True Grandeur
+of Nations," showing that the "true grandeur"
+is peace and not war. He dealt vigorously with
+the Mexican War, then impending, as a result of
+the annexation of Texas, with consequent enlargement
+of slave territory.</p>
+
+<p>Sumner was now thirty-four, well developed
+physically, his face handsome and radiant as ever,
+with the smile of his boyhood, his voice clear and
+resonant, his mind full to overflowing. He spoke
+for two hours, without notes. He said: "The true
+greatness of a nation cannot be in triumphs of the
+intellect alone. Literature and art may widen
+the sphere of its influence; they may adorn it;
+but they are in their nature but accessories. <i>The
+true grandeur of humanity is in moral elevation,
+sustained, enlightened, and decorated by the intellect
+of man....</i> <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[287]</a></span>In our age there can be no peace
+that is not honorable; there can be no war that is
+not dishonorable. The true honor of a nation is
+to be found only in deeds of justice and beneficence,
+securing the happiness of its people,&mdash;all
+of which are inconsistent with war. In the clear
+eye of Christian judgment, vain are its victories,
+infamous are its spoils. He is the true benefactor,
+and alone worthy of honor, who brings comfort
+where before was wretchedness; who dries the
+tear of sorrow; who pours oil into the wounds of
+the unfortunate; who feeds the hungry, and clothes
+the naked; who unlooses the fetter of the slave;
+who does justice; who enlightens the ignorant;
+who, by his virtuous genius in art, in literature, in
+science, enlivens and exalts the hours of life; who,
+by words or actions, inspires a love for God and for
+man. This is the Christian hero; this is the man
+of honor in a Christian land."</p>
+
+<p>The believers in war felt somewhat hurt by
+Sumner's plainness of speech, but the city of Boston
+and the State of Massachusetts awoke to the
+knowledge of an eloquent man in their midst, who
+had doubtless a work before him. Mrs. Lydia
+Maria Child wrote him: "How I did thank you for
+your noble and eloquent attack upon the absurd
+barbarism of war! It was worth living for to have
+done that, if you never do anything more. But
+the soul that could do that <i>will</i> do more."</p>
+
+<p>Chancellor Kent wrote him, "I am very strongly
+in favor of the institution of a congress of nations<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[288]</a></span>
+or system of arbitration without going to war.
+Every effort ought to be made by treaty stipulation,
+remonstrance, and appeal to put a stop to the
+resort to brutal force to assert claims of right.
+The idea of war is horrible. I remember I was
+very much struck, even in my youth, by the observation
+(I think it was in Tom Paine's 'Crisis')
+that 'he who is the author of war lets loose the
+whole contagion of hell, and opens a vein that
+bleeds a nation to death.'"</p>
+
+<p>Seven thousand copies of this oration were distributed
+by the Peace Societies of England, and it
+had a wide reading in our own country.</p>
+
+<p>Sumner was now called upon to speak with Garrison,
+Phillips, and others, on the question of the
+annexation of Texas with her slave territory. He
+said, "God forbid that the votes and voices of the
+freemen of the North should help to bind anew the
+fetters of the slave! God forbid that the lash of
+the slave-dealer should be nerved by any sanction
+from New England! God forbid that the blood
+which spurts from the lacerated quivering flesh of
+the slave should soil the hem of the white garments
+of Massachusetts."</p>
+
+<p>The educated Boston lawyer, the friend of hosts
+of authors and jurists on both sides of the ocean,
+the accomplished and aristocratic scholar, Sumner
+had placed himself among the despised Abolitionists!
+Many of his friends stood aghast, even refusing
+to recognize him on the street. This act
+required great moral heroism, but he was equal to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[289]</a></span>
+the occasion. The door had opened to fame and
+immortality, even though they came to him through
+contumely and well-nigh martyrdom.</p>
+
+<p>In 1846, Mr. Sumner spoke before the Phi Beta
+Kappa Society of Harvard University: "We stand
+on the threshold of a new age, which is preparing
+to recognize new influences. The ancient divinities
+of violence and wrong are retreating to their kindred
+darkness. The sun of our moral universe is
+entering a new ecliptic, no longer deformed by
+those images, Cancer, Taurus, Leo, Sagittarius, but
+beaming with the mild radiance of those heavenly
+signs, Faith, Hope, and Charity.</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+
+<span class="i0">&nbsp;"'There's a fount about to stream;</span><br />
+<span class="i1">There's a light about to beam;</span><br />
+<span class="i1">There's a warmth about to glow;</span><br />
+<span class="i1">There's a flower about to blow;</span><br />
+<span class="i1">There's a midnight blackness changing</span><br />
+<span class="i4">Into gray:</span><br />
+<span class="i1">Men of thought and men of action,</span><br />
+<span class="i4">Clear the way!'"</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Theodore Parker wrote to the orator, "You have
+planted a seed, 'out of which many and tall branches
+shall arise,' I hope. <i>The people are always true to
+a good man who truly trusts them.</i> You have had
+opportunity to see, hear, and feel the truth of that
+oftener than once. I think you will have enough
+more opportunities yet; men will look for deeds
+noble as the words <i>a man speaks</i>."</p>
+
+<p>And Charles Sumner became as noble as the
+words he had spoken. It makes us stronger to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[290]</a></span>
+commit ourselves before the world. We are compelled
+to live up to the standard of our speech, or
+be adjudged hypocrites.</p>
+
+<p>Before the Boston Mercantile Library Association,
+Sumner read a brilliant paper on "White Slavery
+in the Barbary States," and gave an address before
+Amherst College on "Fame and Glory." He
+spoke earnestly in the Whig conventions, asking
+them to come out against slavery. He urged Daniel Webster,
+the Defender of the Constitution, to
+become the "Defender of Humanity," "by the side
+of which that earlier title shall fade into insignificance,
+as the Constitution, which is the work of
+mortal hands, dwindles by the side of man, who is
+created in the image of God." But the words of
+entreaty came too late; the Whig party did not
+dare take up the cause of human freedom.</p>
+
+<p>In 1851, when Sumner was forty, the new era of
+his life came. The Free-Soil party, organized August
+9, 1848, the successor of the "Liberty" party
+formed eight years earlier, wanted him as their
+leader. Would he separate from the Whigs?
+Yes, for he had said, "Loyalty to principle is
+higher than loyalty to party. The first is a heavenly
+sentiment from God; the other is a device of
+this earth.... I wish it to be understood that I
+belong to the party of freedom,&mdash;to that party
+which plants itself on the Declaration of Independence
+and the Constitution of the United States....
+It is said that we shall throw away our votes,
+and that our opposition will fail. Fail, sir! No<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[291]</a></span>
+honest, earnest effort in a good cause ever fails.
+It may not be crowned with the applause of man;
+it may not seem to touch the goal of immediate
+worldly success, which is the end and aim of so
+much of life; but still it is not lost. It helps to
+strengthen the weak with new virtue, to arm the
+irresolute with proper energy, to animate all with
+devotion to duty, which in the end conquers all.
+Fail! Did the martyrs fail when with their precious
+blood they sowed the seed of the Church?...
+Did the three hundred Spartans fail when, in the
+narrow pass, they did not fear to brave the innumerable
+Persian hosts, whose very arrows darkened
+the sun? No! Overborne by numbers, crushed to
+earth, they have left an example which is greater
+far than any victory. And this is the least we can
+do. Our example shall be the source of triumph
+hereafter."</p>
+
+<p>Millard Fillmore had signed the hated Fugitive
+Slave Bill, and Webster had made his disastrous
+speech of March 7, 1850, urging conformity to the
+demands of the bill. Sumner's hour had come.
+By a union of the Free-Soil and Democratic parties,
+he was elected to the Senate of the United States
+for six years, over the eloquent Robert C. Winthrop,
+the Whig candidate. The contest was bitter.
+Sumner would give no pledges, and said he
+would not walk across the room to secure the election.
+On Monday, December 1, 1851, he took his
+seat. Devotion to principle had gained him an exalted
+position.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[292]</a></span>Months went by before he could possibly obtain
+a hearing on the slavery question, on which issue
+he had been elected. Finally, the long sought
+opportunity came by introducing an amendment
+that the Fugitive Slave Bill should be repealed.
+He spoke for four hours as only Charles Sumner
+could speak. Despised by the slave-holders, they
+listened to his burning words. In closing, he
+said: "Be admonished by those words of oriental
+piety,&mdash;'Beware of the groans of wounded souls.
+Oppress not to the utmost a single heart; for a
+solitary sigh has power to overset a whole world.'"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Polk of Tennessee said to him: "If you
+should make that speech in Tennessee, you would
+compel me to emancipate my niggers."</p>
+
+<p>The vote on the repeal stood: Yeas, four; nays,
+forty-seven. Alas! how many years he wrought
+before the repeal came.</p>
+
+<p>Sumner had been heard not merely by Congress;
+he had been heard by two continents. Henceforward,
+for twenty-three years, he was to be in Congress
+the great leader in the cause of human
+freedom.</p>
+
+<p>In 1854 the advocates of slavery brought forward
+the Kansas-Nebraska Bill, by which a large
+territory, at the recommendation of Stephen A.
+Douglas, was to be left open for slavery or no
+slavery, as the dwellers therein should decide. On
+the night of the passage of this bill, Sumner made
+an eloquent protest. "Sir, the bill which you are
+now about to pass is at once the worst and the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[293]</a></span>
+best bill on which Congress ever acted. Yes, sir,
+<span class="smcap"><small>WORST</small></span> and <span class="smcap"><small>BEST</small></span> at the same time.</p>
+
+<p>"It is the worst bill, inasmuch as it is a present
+victory of slavery.... It is the best, for it prepares
+the way for that 'All hail hereafter,' when
+slavery must disappear.... Thus, sir, now standing
+at the very grave of freedom in Kansas and
+Nebraska, I lift myself to the vision of that happy
+resurrection by which freedom will be secured
+hereafter, not only in these Territories but everywhere
+under the national government. More
+clearly than ever before, I now see 'the beginning
+of the end' of slavery. Proudly I discern the flag
+of my country as it ripples in every breeze, at last
+become in reality, as in name, the flag of freedom,&mdash;undoubted,
+pure, and irresistible. Am I not
+right, then, in calling this bill the best on which
+Congress ever acted?</p>
+
+<p>"Sorrowfully I bend before the wrong you are
+about to enact. Joyfully I welcome all the promises
+of the future."</p>
+
+<p>After the passage of the bill the excitement at
+the North was intense. Public meetings were
+held, denouncing the new scheme of the slave-power
+to acquire more territory. So bitter grew
+the feeling that Sumner was urged by his friends
+to leave Washington, lest harm come to him; but
+he walked the streets unarmed. "He was assailed,"
+said the noble Joshua R. Giddings of Ohio,
+"by the whole slave-power in the Senate, and, for a
+time, he was the constant theme of their vituperation.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[294]</a></span>
+The maddened waves rolled and dashed
+against him for two or three days, until eventually
+he obtained the floor himself; then he arose and
+threw back the dashing surges with a power of
+inimitable eloquence utterly indescribable."</p>
+
+<p>The Kansas-Nebraska Bill produced its legitimate
+result,&mdash;civil war in the Territory. Slave-holders
+rushed in from Missouri, bringing their
+slaves with them; free men came from the East to
+build homes, school-houses, and churches on these
+fertile lands. The struggles at the ballot-box over
+illegal elections were followed by struggles on the
+battle-field. At the village of Ossawatomie twenty-eight
+Free State men led by John Brown defeated
+on the open prairie fifty-six Slave State
+men. Houses were burned, and men murdered.
+Two State constitutions were adopted: one at Lecompton,
+representing the pro-slavery element; the
+other at Lawrence, representing the anti-slavery
+party. Finally, the President, in 1855, appointed a
+military governor to restore Kansas to order. But,
+while order might be restored there, the whole
+country seemed on the verge of civil war.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime the Republican party had been formed
+in 1854, the outgrowth of the "Liberty" and
+"Free Soil" parties. A "Bill for the Admission
+of Kansas into the Union" having been presented,
+Sumner made his celebrated speech "The Crime
+against Kansas," on the 19th and 20th of May,
+1856. He spoke eloquently and fearlessly, arousing
+more than ever the hot blood of the South.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[295]</a></span>
+Two days later, as Mr. Sumner was sitting at his
+desk in the Senate chamber, his head bent forward
+in writing, the Senate having adjourned,
+Preston S. Brooks, a nephew of Mr. Butler, a senator
+of South Carolina, stood before him. "I have
+read your speech twice over, carefully," he said.
+"It is a libel on South Carolina and Mr. Butler,
+who is a relative of mine." Instantly he struck
+Mr. Sumner on the back of the head, with his hollow
+gutta-percha cane, making a long and fearful
+gash, repeating the blows in rapid succession.
+Sumner wrenched the desk from the floor, to
+which it was screwed, but, unable to defend himself,
+fell forward bleeding and insensible. He was
+carried by his friends to a sofa in the lobby, and
+during the night lay pale and bewildered, scarcely
+speaking to any one about him.</p>
+
+<p>The indignation and horror of the North beggar
+description. That a man, in this age of free speech,
+should be publicly beaten, and that by a member
+of the House of Representatives, was, of course, a
+disgrace to the nation. Said Joseph Quincy:
+"Charles Sumner needs not our sympathy. If he
+dies his name will be immortal&mdash;his name will be
+enrolled with the names of Warren, Sidney, and
+Russell; if he lives he is destined to be the light
+of the nation." Wendell Phillips said: "The
+world will yet cover every one of those scars with
+laurels. He must not die! We need him yet, as
+the van-guard leader of the hosts of Liberty.
+Nay, he shall yet come forth from that sick-chamber,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[296]</a></span>
+and every gallant heart in the commonwealth
+be ready to kiss his very footsteps."</p>
+
+<p>Brooks was censured by the House of Representatives,
+resigned his seat, and died the following
+year. Sumner returned to Boston as soon as he
+was able. Houses were decorated for his coming,
+and banners flung to the breeze with the words,
+"Welcome, Freedom's Defender," "Massachusetts
+loves, honors, will sustain and defend her noble
+<span class="smcap">Sumner</span>." The home on Hancock Street was surrounded
+by a dense crowd. He appeared at the
+window with his widowed mother, and bowed to
+their cheers. For several months he enjoyed the
+tender care of this mother, now almost alone. Her
+son Horace had been lost in the ship Elizabeth,
+July 16, 1850, when Margaret Fuller, her husband,
+and child were drowned. Albert, a sea-captain,
+had been lost with his wife and only
+daughter on their way to France. And now, perhaps,
+her distinguished son Charles was to give his
+life to help bring freedom to four millions in
+slavery.</p>
+
+<p>In 1857 Sumner was almost unanimously reëlected
+to the Senate for six years, but Brooks had
+done his dreadful work too well. Broken in
+health, he sailed for Europe. Nearly twenty
+years before he had gone to meet the honored and
+famous, his future all unknown; now he went as
+the stricken leader of a great cause, one of the
+most able and eloquent men of the new world.
+Twenty years before he was restless and unhappy<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[297]</a></span>
+because he did not see his life-work before him;
+now he was happy in spite of physical agony, because
+he knew he was helping humanity.</p>
+
+<p>After travelling in Switzerland, Germany, and
+Great Britain, he returned and took his seat in
+Congress, but, finding his health still impaired, he
+sailed again to Europe. He regretted to leave the
+country, but was, as he says, "often assured and
+encouraged to feel that to every sincere lover of
+civilization my vacant chair was a perpetual
+speech." On this second visit he came under the
+treatment of Dr. Brown-Séquard, who, when asked
+by Mr. Sumner what would cure him, replied,
+"Fire." At once the dreadful remedy was applied.
+The physician says, when he first met the senator,
+"He could not make use of his brain at all. He
+could not read a newspaper, could not write a
+letter. He was in a frightful state as regards the
+activity of the mind, as every effort there was most
+painful to him.... I told him the truth,&mdash;that
+there would be more effect, as I thought, if he did
+not take chloroform; and so I had to submit him
+to the martyrdom of the greatest suffering that
+can be inflicted on mortal man. I burned him with
+the first moxa. I had the hope that after the first
+application he would submit to the use of chloroform;
+but for five times after that he was burned
+in the same way, and refused to take chloroform.
+I have never seen a patient who submitted to such
+treatment in that way."</p>
+
+<p>Sumner wrote home: "It is with a pang unspeakable<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[298]</a></span>
+that I find myself thus arrested in the
+labors of life and in the duties of my position.
+This is harder to bear than the fire."</p>
+
+<p>Four years elapsed before he regained his health;
+indeed his death finally resulted from the attack of
+Brooks. No sooner had he returned to the Senate
+than he made another great speech against slavery.
+The country was agitated by the coming presidential
+election. John Brown had captured, with a
+force of twenty-two men, the United States arsenal
+at Harper's Ferry, with the fallacious hope of setting
+the slaves at liberty. He was of course overpowered,
+his sons killed at his side, as others of
+his sons had been on the Kansas battlefields, and
+he led out to execution, December 2, 1859, with a
+radiant face and an overflowing heart, because he
+knew that his death would arouse the nation to
+action.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Sumner spoke to an immense audience at
+Cooper Institute, urging the election of Abraham
+Lincoln. By this election, he said, "we shall save
+the Territories from the five-headed barbarism of
+slavery; we shall save the country and the age
+from that crying infamy, the slave-trade; we
+shall help save the Declaration of Independence,
+now dishonored and disowned in its essential, life-giving
+truth,&mdash;<i>the equality of men</i>.... A new
+order of things will begin; and our history will
+proceed on a grander scale, in harmony with those
+sublime principles in which it commenced. Let
+the knell sound!&mdash;</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[299]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<span class="i0">&nbsp;"'Ring out the old, ring in the new!</span><br />
+<span class="i1">Ring out the false, ring in the true!</span><br />
+<span class="i2">Ring out a slowly dying cause,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">And ancient forms of party strife!</span><br />
+<span class="i1">Ring in the nobler modes of life,</span><br />
+<span class="i2">With sweeter manners, purer laws.'"</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>A "new order of things" was indeed begun.
+South Carolina very soon seceded from the Union,
+and other southern States followed her example.
+Sumner now spoke and wrote constantly. He
+urged Massachusetts to be "<i>firm</i>, <span class="smcap"><small>FIRM</small></span>, FIRM!
+against every word or step of concession....
+More than the loss of forts, arsenals, or the national
+capital, I fear the loss of our principles."</p>
+
+<p>In 1861, Mr. Sumner was made chairman of the
+Committee on Foreign Relations. How different
+his position from that day, ten years before, when
+he stood almost alone in the Senate, a hated abolitionist!</p>
+
+<p>When the war began, he saw with prophetic eye
+the necessity of emancipating the slaves. He
+urged it in his public speeches. When Lincoln
+hesitated and the country feared the result, he said
+to a vast assembly at Cooper Institute, "There has
+been the cry, 'On to Richmond!' and still another
+worse cry, 'On to England!' Better than either
+is the cry, 'On to freedom!'"</p>
+
+<p>As the war went forward he was ever at his post,
+working for Henry Wilson's bill for the abolishing
+of slavery in the District of Columbia, for the
+recognition of the independence of Hayti and Liberia,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[300]</a></span>
+for the final suppression of the coastwise
+trade in slaves, for the employment of colored
+troops in the army, and for a law that "no person
+shall be excluded from the cars on account of color,"
+on various specified lines of railroad. He spoke
+words of encouragement constantly to the North,
+"This is no time to stop. <span class="smcap">Forward! Forward!</span>
+Thus do I, who formerly pleaded so often for peace,
+now sound to arms; but it is because, in this terrible
+moment, there is no other way to that sincere
+and solid peace without which there will be endless
+war.... Now, at last, by the death of slavery,
+will the republic begin to live; for what is
+life without liberty?</p>
+
+<p>"Stretching from ocean to ocean, teeming with
+population, bountiful in resources of all kinds, and
+thrice happy in universal enfranchisement, it will
+be more than conqueror, nothing too vast for its
+power, nothing too minute for its care."</p>
+
+<p>He wrote for the magazines on the one great subject.
+He helped organize the Freedman's Bureau,
+which he called the "Bridge from Slavery to Freedom."
+He urged equal pay to colored soldiers.
+He was invaluable to President Lincoln. Though
+they did not always think alike, Lincoln said to
+Sumner, "There is no person with whom I have
+more advised throughout my administration than
+with yourself."</p>
+
+<p>When Lincoln was assassinated, Sumner wept by
+his bedside. "The only time," said an intimate
+friend, "I ever saw him weep." When he delivered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[301]</a></span>
+his eloquent eulogy on Lincoln in Boston, he
+said, "That speech, uttered on the field of Gettysburg,
+and now sanctified by the martyrdom of its
+author, is a monumental act. In the modesty of
+his nature, he said, 'The world will little note, nor
+long remember, what we say here; but it can never
+forget what they did here.'</p>
+
+<p>"He was mistaken. The world noted at once
+what he said, and will never cease to remember it.
+The battle itself was less important than the
+speech. Ideas are more than battles."</p>
+
+<p>And so the great slavery pioneer and the great
+emancipator will go down in history together.
+How the world worships heroic manhood! Those
+who, with sweet and unselfish natures, seek not their
+own happiness, but are ready to die if need be for
+the right and the truth!</p>
+
+<p>Sumner aided in those three grand amendments
+to the Constitution, the thirteenth, fourteenth, and
+fifteenth. "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude,
+except as a punishment for crime, whereof
+the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist
+within the United States, or any place subject
+to their jurisdiction.... All persons born or
+naturalized in the United States, and subject to the
+jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United
+States and of the State wherein they reside. No
+State shall make or enforce any law which shall
+abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of
+the United States; nor shall any State deprive any
+person of life, liberty, or property, without due<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[302]</a></span>
+process of law, nor deny to any person within its
+jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws....
+The right of citizens of the United States to vote
+shall not be denied or abridged by the United
+States, or by any State, on account of race, color,
+or previous condition of servitude."</p>
+
+<p>In June, 1866, Mr. Sumner came home to say
+good-bye to his dying mother. True to her noble
+womanhood, she urged that he should not be sent
+for, lest the country could not spare him from his
+work. Beautiful self-sacrifice of woman! Heaven
+can possess nothing more angelic. O mother, wife,
+and loved one, know thine unlimited powers, and
+hold them forever for the ennobling of men!</p>
+
+<p>When Mrs. Sumner was buried, her son turned
+away sorrowfully, and exclaimed, "I have now no
+home." He had a house in Washington, where he
+had lived for many years, but it was only home to
+him where a sweet-faced and sweet-voiced woman
+loved him.</p>
+
+<p>In 1869, Mr. Sumner made his remarkable speech
+on the "Alabama" claims, which for a time caused
+some bitter feeling in England. This vessel, built
+at Liverpool, and manned by a British crew, was
+sent out by the Confederate government, and destroyed
+sixty-six of our vessels, with a loss of ten
+million dollars. In 1864, she was overtaken in the
+harbor of Cherbourg, France, by Captain Winslow,
+commander of the steamer Kearsarge, and sunk,
+after an hour's desperate fighting. Her commander,
+Captain Raphael Semmes, was picked up<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[303]</a></span>
+by the English Deerhound, and taken to Southampton.
+In the summer of 1872, a board of arbitration
+met at Geneva, Switzerland, and awarded the United
+States over fifteen million dollars as damages,
+which Great Britain paid.</p>
+
+<p>On May 12, 1870, Mr. Sumner introduced his
+supplementary Civil-Rights Bill, declaring that all
+persons, without regard to race or color, are entitled
+to equal privileges afforded by railroads, steamboats,
+hotels, places of amusement, institutions of
+learning, religion, and courts of law. His maxim
+was, "Equality of rights is the first of rights."</p>
+
+<p>He supported Horace Greeley for President, thus
+separating himself from the Republican party, and
+carrying out his life-long opinion that principle is
+above party. After another visit to Europe, in
+1872, when he was sixty-one years old, feeling that,
+the war being over and slavery abolished, the two
+portions of the country should forget all animosity
+and live together in harmony, he introduced a resolution
+in the Senate, "That the names of battles
+with fellow-citizens shall not be continued in the
+army register or placed on the regimental colors of
+the United States."</p>
+
+<p>Massachusetts hastily passed a vote of censure
+upon her idolized statesman, which she was wise
+enough to rescind soon after. This latter action
+gave Mr. Sumner great comfort. He said, "The
+dear old commonwealth has spoken for me, and
+that is enough."</p>
+
+<p>In his freestone house, full of pictures and books,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[304]</a></span>
+overlooking Lafayette Square in Washington, on
+March 11, 1874, Charles Sumner lay dying. The
+day previous, in the Senate, he had complained to a
+friend of pain in the left side. On the morning of
+the eleventh he was cold and well nigh insensible.
+At ten o'clock he said to Judge Hoar, "Don't forget
+my Civil-Rights Bill." Later, he said, "My
+book! my book is not finished.... I am so tired!
+I am so tired!"</p>
+
+<p>He had worked long and hard. He passed into
+the rest of the hereafter at three o'clock in the
+afternoon. Grand, heroic soul! whose life will be
+an inspiration for all coming time.</p>
+
+<p>The body, enclosed in a massive casket, upon
+which rested a wreath of white azaleas and lilies,
+was borne to the Capitol, followed by a company
+of three hundred colored men and a long line of
+carriages. The most noticeable among the floral
+gifts, says Elias Nason, in his Life of Sumner,
+"was a broken column of violets and white azaleas,
+placed there by the hands of a colored girl. She
+had been rendered lame by being thrust from the
+cars of a railroad, whose charter Mr. Sumner, after
+hearing the girl's story, by a resolution, caused to
+be revoked." From there it was carried to the
+State House in Boston, and visited by at least fifty
+thousand people. In the midst of the beautiful
+floral decorations was a large heart of flowers, from
+the colored citizens of Boston, with the words,
+"Charles Sumner, you gave us your life; we give
+you our hearts."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[305]</a></span>Through a dense crowd the coffin was borne to
+Mount Auburn cemetery, and placed in the open
+grave just as the sun was setting, Longfellow,
+Holmes, Emerson, and other dear friends standing
+by. The grand old song of Luther was sung,
+"Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott." Strange contrast!
+the quiet, unknown Harvard law student;&mdash;the
+great senator, doctor of laws, author, and
+orator. Sumner had his share of sorrow. He
+lived to see seven of his eight brothers and sisters
+taken away by death. He who had longed for
+domestic bliss did not find it. He married, when
+he was fifty-five, Mrs. Alice Mason Hooper, but
+the companionship did not prove congenial, and a
+divorce resulted, by mutual consent.</p>
+
+<p>He forgot the heart-hunger of his early years in
+living for the slaves and the down-trodden, whether
+white or black. Through all his struggles he kept
+a sublime hope. He used to say, "All defeats in a
+good cause are but resting-places on the road to
+victory at last." He had defeats, as do all, but he
+won the victory.</p>
+
+<p>Well says Hon. James G. Blaine, in his "Twenty
+Years of Congress," "Mr. Sumner must ever be regarded
+as a scholar, an orator, a philanthropist, a
+philosopher, a statesman, whose splendid and unsullied
+fame will always form part of the true
+glory of the nation."</p>
+
+<p>"He belongs to all of us, in the North and in the
+South," said Hon. Carl Schurz, in his eulogy delivered
+in Music Hall, Boston, "to the blacks he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[306]</a></span>
+helped to make free, and to the whites he strove to
+make brothers again. On the grave of him whom
+so many thought to be their enemy, and found to
+be their friend, let the hands be clasped which so
+bitterly warred against each other. Upon that
+grave let the youth of America be taught, by the
+story of his life, that not only genius, power, and
+success, but, more than these, patriotic devotion
+and virtue, make the greatness of the citizen."</p>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[307]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 406px;">
+<img src="images/illus-307.jpg" width="406" height="600" alt="U. S. Grant" title="U. S. Grant" />
+
+</div>
+
+<h2>U. S. GRANT.</h2>
+
+
+<p>What Longfellow wrote of Charles Sumner
+may well be applied to Grant:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+
+<span class="i0">&nbsp;"Were a star quenched on high,</span><br />
+<span class="i2">For ages would its light,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">Still travelling downward from the sky,</span><br />
+<span class="i2">Shine on our mortal sight.</span>
+</div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">&nbsp;"So when a great man dies,</span><br />
+<span class="i2">For years beyond our ken</span><br />
+<span class="i1">The light he leaves behind him lies</span><br />
+<span class="i2">Upon the paths of men."</span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>The light left by General Grant will not fade out
+from American history. To be a great soldier is
+of course to be immortal; but to be magnanimous
+to enemies, heroic in affections, a master of self,
+without vanity, honest, courageous, true, invincible,&mdash;such
+greatness is far above the glory of
+battlefields. Such greatness he possessed, who,
+born in comparative obscurity, came to be numbered
+in that famous trio, dear to every American
+heart: Washington, Lincoln, Grant.</p>
+
+<p>Ulysses Simpson Grant was born April 27, 1822,
+in a log house at Mount Pleasant, Ohio. The boy
+seems to have had the blood of soldiers in his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[308]</a></span>
+veins, for his great-grandfather and great-uncle
+held commissions in the English army in 1756, in
+the war against the French and Indians, and both
+were killed. His grandfather served through the
+entire war of the Revolution.</p>
+
+<p>His father, Jesse R. Grant, left dependent upon
+himself, learned the trade of a tanner, and by his
+industry made a home for himself and family.
+Unable to attend school more than six months in
+his life, he was a constant reader, and through his
+own privations became the more anxious that his
+children should be educated.</p>
+
+<p>Ulysses was the first-born child of Jesse Grant
+and Hannah Simpson, who were married in June,
+1821. When their son was about a year old, they
+moved to Georgetown, Ohio, and here the boy
+passed a happy childhood, learning the very little
+which the schools of the time were able to impart.</p>
+
+<p>He was not fond of study, and enjoyed the more
+active life of the farm. He says in his personal
+memoirs: "While my father carried on the manufacture
+of leather and worked at the trade himself,
+he owned and tilled considerable land. I detested
+the trade, preferring almost any other labor; but
+I was fond of agriculture, and of all employment in
+which horses were used. We had, among other
+lands, fifty acres of forest within a mile of the
+village. In the fall of the year, choppers were
+employed to cut enough wood to last a twelve-month.
+When I was seven or eight years of age,
+I began hauling all the wood used in the house<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[309]</a></span>
+and shops. I could not load it on the wagons, of
+course, at that time, but I could drive, and the
+choppers would load, and some one at the house
+unload. When about eleven years old, I was strong
+enough to hold a plough. From that age until
+seventeen I did all the work done with horses,
+such as breaking up the land, furrowing, ploughing
+corn and potatoes, bringing in the crops when
+harvested, hauling all the wood, besides tending
+two or three horses, a cow or two, and sawing
+wood for stoves, etc., while still attending school.
+For this I was compensated by the fact that there
+never was any scolding or punishing by my parents;
+no objection to rational enjoyments, such as fishing,
+going to the creek a mile away to swim in
+summer, taking a horse and visiting my grandparents
+in the adjoining county, fifteen miles off,
+skating on the ice in winter, or taking a horse and
+sleigh when there was snow on the ground."</p>
+
+<p>The indulgent father allowed his son some unique
+experiences. Ulysses, at fifteen, having made a
+journey to Flat Rock, Kentucky, seventy miles
+away, with a carriage and two horses, took a
+fancy to a saddle-horse and offered to trade one
+which he was driving, for this animal. The owner
+hesitated about trading with a lad, but finally consented,
+and the untried colt was hitched to the
+carriage with his new mate. After proceeding a
+short distance, the animal became frightened by a
+dog, kicked, and started to run over an embankment.
+Ulysses, nothing daunted, took from his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[310]</a></span>
+pocket a large handkerchief, tied it over the horse's
+eyes, and sure that the terrified creature would see
+no more dogs, though he trembled like an aspen
+leaf, drove peacefully homeward.</p>
+
+<p>Young Grant was as truthful as he was calm
+and courageous. He tells this story of himself.
+"There was a Mr. Ralston living within a few
+miles of the village, who owned a colt which I
+very much wanted. My father had offered twenty
+dollars for it, but Ralston wanted twenty-five. I
+was so anxious to have the colt that after the
+owner left I begged to be allowed to take him at
+the price demanded. My father yielded, but said
+twenty dollars was all the horse was worth, and
+told me to offer that price; if it was not accepted,
+I was to offer twenty-two and a half, and if that
+would not get him, to give the twenty-five. I at
+once mounted a horse and went for the colt. When
+I got to Mr. Ralston's house, I said to him: 'Papa
+says I may offer you twenty dollars for the colt;
+but if you won't take that, I am to offer twenty-two
+and a half; and if you won't take that, to give you
+twenty-five.' It would not require a Connecticut
+man to guess the price finally agreed upon....</p>
+
+<p>"I could not have been over eight years at the
+time. This transaction caused me great heart-burning.
+The story got out among the boys of
+the village, and it was a long time before I heard
+the last of it. Boys enjoy the misery of their
+companions, at least village boys in that day did,
+and in later life I have found that all adults are<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[311]</a></span>
+not free from the peculiarity. I kept the horse
+until he was four years old, when he went blind,
+and I sold him for twenty dollars. When I went
+to Maysville to school, in 1836, at the age of fourteen,
+I recognized my colt as one of the blind
+horses working on the tread-wheel of the ferry-boat."</p>
+
+<p>All this time the father was desirous of an education
+for his child. The son of a neighbor had
+been appointed to West Point, and had failed in
+his examinations. Mr. Grant applied for his son.
+"Ulysses," he said one day, "I believe you are
+going to receive the appointment." "What appointment!"
+was the response. "To West Point.
+I have applied for it." "But I won't go," said the
+impetuous boy. But the father's will was law, and
+the son began to prepare himself. He bought an
+algebra, but, having no teacher, he says, it was
+Greek to him. He had no love for a military life,
+and looked forward to the West Point experience
+only as a new opportunity to travel East and see
+the country.</p>
+
+<p>At seventeen he took passage on a steamer for
+Pittsburg, in the middle of May, 1839. Fortunately
+the accommodating boat remained for several days
+at every port, for passengers or freight, and meantime
+the curious boy used his eyes to learn all that
+was possible. When he reached Harrisburg, he
+rode to Philadelphia on the first railroad which he
+had ever seen except the one on which he had just
+crossed the summit of the Alleghany Mountains.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[312]</a></span>
+"In travelling by the road from Harrisburg," he
+says, "I thought the perfection of rapid transit had
+been reached. We travelled at least eighteen miles
+an hour, when at full speed, and made the whole
+distance averaging probably as much as twelve
+miles an hour. This seemed like annihilating
+space. I stopped five days in Philadelphia; saw
+about every street in the city, attended the theatre,
+visited Girard College (which was then in course of
+construction), and got reprimanded from home
+afterwards, for dallying by the way so long....</p>
+
+<p>"I reported at West Point on the 30th or 31st
+of May, and about two weeks later passed my
+examinations for admission, without difficulty, very
+much to my surprise. A military life had no
+charms for me, and I had not the faintest idea
+of staying in the army even if I should be graduated,
+which I did not expect. The encampment
+which preceded the commencement of academic
+studies was very wearisome and uninteresting.
+When the 28th of August came&mdash;the date for
+breaking up camp and going into barracks&mdash;I felt
+as though I had been at West Point always, and
+that if I stayed to graduation I would have to
+remain always. I did not take hold of my studies
+with avidity, in fact I rarely ever read over a lesson
+the second time during my entire cadetship.
+I could not sit in my room doing nothing. There
+is a fine library connected with the academy, from
+which cadets can get books to read in their quarters.
+I devoted more time to these than to books<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[313]</a></span>
+relating to the course of studies. Much of the
+time, I am sorry to say, was devoted to novels, but
+not those of a trashy sort. I read all of Bulwer's
+then published, Cooper's, Marryat's, Scott's, Washington
+Irving's works, Lever's, and many others
+that I do not now remember. Mathematics was
+very easy to me, so that when January came I
+passed the examination, taking a good standing in
+that branch. In French, the only other study at
+that time in the first year's course, my standing
+was very low. In fact, if the class had been turned
+the other end foremost, I should have been near
+the head."</p>
+
+<p>The years at West Point did not go by quickly;
+only the ten weeks of vacation which seemed shorter
+than one week in school. Sometimes at the academy
+a great general, like Winfield Scott, came to
+review the cadets. "With his commanding figure,"
+says young Grant, "his quite colossal size, and
+showy uniform, I thought him the finest specimen
+of manhood my eyes had ever beheld, and the most
+to be envied. I could never resemble him in appearance,
+but I believe I did have a presentiment,
+for a moment, that some day I should occupy his
+place on review&mdash;although I had no intention then
+of remaining in the army. My experience in a
+horse trade ten years before, and the ridicule it
+caused me, were too fresh in my mind for me to
+communicate this presentiment to even my most
+intimate chum." How often into lives there
+comes a feeling that there is a specified work to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[314]</a></span>
+be done by us that no other person can or will
+ever do!</p>
+
+<p>When the years were over at West Point, each
+"four times as long as Ohio years," young Grant
+was anxious to enter the cavalry, especially as he
+had suffered from a cough for six months, and his
+family feared consumption. Having gone home,
+he waited anxiously for his new uniform. "I was
+impatient," he says, "to get on my uniform and
+see how it looked, and probably wanted my old
+school-mates, particularly the girls, to see me in
+it. The conceit was knocked out of me by two
+little circumstances that happened soon after the
+arrival of the clothes, which gave me a distaste
+for military uniform that I never recovered from.
+Soon after the arrival of the suit I donned it, and
+put off for Cincinnati on horseback. While I was
+riding along a street of that city, imagining that
+every one was looking at me with a feeling akin
+to mine when I first saw General Scott, a little
+urchin, bareheaded, barefooted, with dirty and
+ragged pants held up by a single gallows&mdash;that's
+what suspenders were called then&mdash;and a shirt that
+had not seen a washtub for weeks, turned to me
+and cried: 'Soldier, will you work? No sir-ee;
+I'll sell my shirt first!' The horse trade and its
+dire consequences were recalled to mind.</p>
+
+<p>"The other circumstance occurred at home.
+Opposite our house in Bethel stood the old stage
+tavern where 'man and beast' found accommodation.
+The stable-man was rather dissipated, but<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[315]</a></span>
+possessed of some humor. On my return, I found
+him parading the streets, and attending in the
+stable, barefooted, but in a pair of sky-blue nankeen
+pantaloons&mdash;just the color of my uniform
+trousers&mdash;with a strip of white cotton sheeting
+sewed down the outside seams in imitation of mine.
+The joke was a huge one in the minds of many of
+the people, and was much enjoyed by them; but I
+did not appreciate it so highly."</p>
+
+<p>In September, 1843, Grant reported for duty at
+Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis, the largest military
+post in the United States at that time. His hope
+was to become assistant professor of mathematics
+at West Point, and he would have been appointed
+had not the Mexican War begun soon after.</p>
+
+<p>A new page was now to be turned in the eventful
+life of the young officer; when he was to have,
+as Emerson beautifully says of love, "the visitation
+of that power to his heart and brain which
+created all things anew; which was the dawn in
+him of music, poetry, and art; which made the
+face of nature radiant with purple light; the morning
+and the night varied enchantments; when a
+single tone of one voice could make the heart bound,
+and the most trivial circumstance associated with
+one form is put in the amber of memory; when he
+became all eye when one was present, and all memory
+when one was gone; ... when the moonlight
+was a pleasing fever, and the stars were letters,
+and the flowers ciphers, and the air was coined
+into song; when all business seemed an impertinence,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[316]</a></span>
+and all the men and women running to and
+fro in the streets were pictures."</p>
+
+<p>At West Point, Grant's class-mate was F. T.
+Dent, whose family resided five miles west of Jefferson
+Barracks. "Two of his unmarried brothers,"
+says Grant, "were living at home at that
+time, and, as I had taken with me from Ohio my
+horse, saddle, and bridle, I soon found my way out
+to White Haven, the name of the Dent estate.
+As I found the family congenial, my visits became
+frequent. There were at home, besides the young
+men, two daughters, one a school miss of fifteen,
+the other a girl of eight or nine. There was still
+an older daughter, of seventeen, who had been
+spending several years at boarding-school in St.
+Louis, but who, though through school, had not
+yet returned home.... In February she returned
+to her country home. After that I do not know
+but my visits became more frequent; they certainly
+did become more enjoyable. We would often
+take walks, or go on horseback together to
+visit the neighbors, until I became quite well
+acquainted in that vicinity.... If the fourth infantry
+had remained at Jefferson Barracks it is
+possible, even probable, that this life might have
+continued for some years without my finding out
+that there was anything serious the matter with
+me; but in the following May a circumstance occurred
+which developed my sentiment so palpably
+that there was no mistaking it."</p>
+
+<p>This "circumstance" was the annexation of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[317]</a></span>
+Texas, the probability of a war with Mexico, and
+the necessity of leaving Jefferson Barracks for the
+Texan frontier. Alas! now that days full of hope,
+and the sweet realization of a divine companionship
+had come, they must have sudden ending.
+Grant took a brief furlough, went to say good-bye
+to his father and mother, and then to White Haven
+to see Julia Dent. In crossing a swollen stream,
+his uniform was wet through, but he donned the
+suit of a future brother-in-law, and appeared before
+his beloved to ask her hand in marriage, to
+receive her acceptance, and then to hasten to the
+scene of action. He saw her but once in the next
+four years and three months; four anxious years to
+her, when death often stared her lover in the face.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Texas was admitted to the Union, in
+1845, the "army of occupation," as the three thousand
+men under General Zachary Taylor were
+called, advanced to the Rio Grande and built a fort.
+When the first hostile gun was fired, Grant says,
+"I felt sorry that I had enlisted. A great many
+men, when they smell battle afar off, chafe to get
+into the fray. When they say so themselves, they
+generally fail to convince their hearers that they
+are as anxious as they would like to make believe,
+and as they approach danger they become more
+subdued. This rule is not universal, for I have
+known a few men who were always aching for a
+fight when there was no enemy near, who were as
+good as their word when the battle did come on.
+But the number of such men is small."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[318]</a></span>The first battle was at Palo Alto, meaning "tall
+trees or woods," six miles from the Rio Grande.
+Early in the forenoon of May 8, Taylor's three
+thousand men were drawn up in line of battle,
+opposed by superior numbers. The infantry was
+armed with flintlock muskets and paper cartridges
+charged with powder, buckshot, and ball. "At
+the distance of a few hundred yards," says Grant,
+"a man might fire at you all day without your finding
+it out." The artillery consisted of two batteries
+and two eighteen-pounder iron guns, with three or
+four twelve-pounder howitzers throwing shell. The
+firing was brisk on both sides. One cannon-ball
+passed near Grant, killing several of his companions.
+After a hard day's fight, the enemy retreated
+in the night. The war had now begun in earnest,
+and the man who at the first hostile gun "felt
+sorry that he had enlisted" was ready to brave
+danger on any field.</p>
+
+<p>In the hard-fought battle of Monterey, between
+sixty-five hundred men under Taylor and ten thousand
+Mexicans, Grant's curiosity got the better of
+his judgment, and, leaving the camp, where he had
+been ordered to remain, he mounted a horse and
+rode to the front. He made the charge with the
+men, when about a third of their number were
+killed. He loaned his horse to the adjutant of the
+regiment, Lieutenant Hoskins, who was soon killed,
+and Grant was designated to act in his place.</p>
+
+<p>The ammunition became low, and to return for it
+was so dangerous that the general commanding did<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[319]</a></span>
+not like to order any one to fetch it, so called for a
+volunteer. Grant modestly says, "I volunteered
+to go back to the point we had started from....
+My ride back was an exposed one. Before starting,
+I adjusted myself on the side of my horse furthest
+from the enemy, and with only one foot holding to
+the cantle of the saddle, and an arm over the neck
+of the horse exposed, I started at full run. It was
+only at street-crossings that my horse was under
+fire, but these I crossed at such a flying rate that
+generally I was past and under cover of the next
+block of houses before the enemy fired. I got out
+safely, without a scratch."</p>
+
+<p>When Monterey was conquered, and the garrison
+marched out as prisoners, young Grant was moved
+to pity, as he says in his Memoirs, thus showing a
+gentle nature, which he bore years later when thousands
+were falling around him, and he was still
+obliged to say, "Forward."</p>
+
+<p>After the capture of Vera Cruz and the surprise
+at Cerro Gordo, where three thousand Mexicans
+were made prisoners, the army advanced toward the
+City of Mexico. Between three and four miles
+from the city stood Molino del Rey, the "mill of
+the King," an old stone structure, one story high,
+flat-roofed, and several hundred feet long. Sandbags
+were laid along the roof, and good marksmen
+fought behind them. Near by was Chepultepec,
+three hundred feet high, fortified on the top and on
+its rocky sides. From the front, guns swept the
+approach to Molino. Yet, on the morning of September<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[320]</a></span>
+8, the assault upon Molino was made, young
+Grant being among the foremost. The loss was
+severe, especially among commissioned officers.</p>
+
+<p>Grant says, "I was with the earliest of the
+troops to enter the mills. In passing through to
+the north side, looking toward Chepultepec, I happened
+to notice that there were armed Mexicans
+still on top of the building, only a few feet from
+many of our men. Not seeing any stairway or ladder
+reaching to the top of the building, I took a
+few soldiers, and had a cart that happened to be
+standing near brought up, and, placing the shafts
+against the wall, and chocking the wheels so that
+the cart could not back, used the shafts as a sort of
+ladder, extending to within three or four feet of
+the top. By this I climbed to the roof of the
+building, followed by a few men, but found a private
+soldier had preceded me by some other way.
+There were still quite a number of Mexicans on
+the roof, among them a major and five or six officers
+of lower grades, who had not succeeded in
+getting away before our troops occupied the building.
+They still had their arms, while the soldier
+before mentioned was walking as sentry, guarding
+the prisoners he had <i>surrounded</i>, all by himself. I
+halted the sentinel, received the swords from the
+commissioned officers, and proceeded, with the
+assistance of the soldiers now with me, to disable
+the muskets by striking them against the edge
+of the wall, and throwing them to the ground
+below."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[321]</a></span>Five days after the fall of Molino, Chepultepec
+was taken, with severe loss. Grant was mentioned
+in the official report as having "behaved with distinguished
+gallantry." Just before the City of
+Mexico fell into our hands, Grant was made first
+lieutenant. Promotion had not come rapidly. It
+is sometimes better if success does not come to us
+early in life. To learn how to work steadily, day
+after day, with an unalterable purpose; to learn
+how to concentrate thought and will-power, how to
+conquer self through failure and hope deferred, is
+often essential for him who is to govern either by
+physical or moral power.</p>
+
+<p>After Mexico fell, and General Scott lived in the
+halls of the Montezumas, he controlled the city as
+a Havelock or a Gordon might have done; and
+Grant learned by observation the best of all lessons
+for a soldier, to be magnanimous to a fallen
+foe. He learned other valuable lessons in this
+war; made the acquaintance of the officers with
+whom he was to measure his strength, in the
+most stupendous war of modern times, twenty
+years later.</p>
+
+<p>When the treaty of peace was signed between
+our country and Mexico, February 2, 1848, whereby
+we paid fifteen million dollars for the territory
+ceded to us, Grant obtained leave of absence for
+four months. One person must have been inexpressibly
+thankful that his life had been spared.
+Four years, and she had seen him but once! How
+noble we often become by the mellowing power of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[322]</a></span>
+circumstances which prevent our having our own
+way! Discipline may be only another word for
+achievement.</p>
+
+<p>U. S. Grant and Julia Dent were married August
+22, 1848, when he was twenty-six, and began a life
+of affection and helpfulness, which grew brighter till
+the end came on Mt. McGregor. There was reason
+why the affection lasted through all the years; in
+the best sense they lived for each other. Those
+who find their happiness outside the home are apt
+to find little inside the home. Devotion begets devotion,
+and men and women must expect to receive
+only what they give. Affection scattered produces
+a scanty harvest.</p>
+
+<p>The winter of 1848 was spent at the post at
+Sackett's Harbor, New York; the next two years
+at Detroit, Michigan. In 1852, Grant was ordered
+to the Pacific coast. And now the young husband
+and wife must be separated; she to go to her home
+in St. Louis, and he to the then unsettled West.
+When Aspinwall was reached the streets of the town
+were a foot under water, in a blazing, tropical sun.
+Cholera broke out among the troops, as it had
+among the inhabitants, and a third of the people
+died. The crossing of the Isthmus of Panama, on
+the backs of mules, was tedious and trying. San
+Francisco was reached early in September. The
+gold-mining fever was at its height. Soon the
+troops passed up to Fort Vancouver, on the Columbia
+River, and a quiet and dull life began. Measles
+and small-pox were killing the Indians so rapidly<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[323]</a></span>
+that the gun of the white man was superfluous as
+an agent of destruction.</p>
+
+<p>In 1854, six years after Grant's marriage, despairing
+of supporting his wife and two children on
+the Pacific coast with his pay as an army officer,
+he resigned. His prospects now were not bright.
+Without a profession, save that of arms, he was to
+begin, at thirty-two, a struggle for support, which
+must have tested the affection of the woman who
+married the young officer in her hopeful girlhood.
+She owned a farm in St. Louis, and thither they
+moved as their home. He says of the farm: "I
+had no means to stock it. A house had to be
+built also. I worked very hard, never losing a day
+because of bad weather, and accomplished the
+object in a moderate way. If nothing else could
+be done, I would load a cord of wood on a wagon
+and take it to the city for sale. I managed to
+keep along very well until 1858, when I was
+attacked by fever and ague. I had suffered very
+severely and for a long time from this disease
+while a boy in Ohio. It lasted now over a year,
+and, while it did not keep me in the house, it did
+interfere greatly with the amount of work I was
+able to perform. In the fall of 1858 I sold out my
+stock, crops, and farming utensils at auction, and
+gave up farming."</p>
+
+<p>Four years of struggling had not paid pecuniarily.
+Poverty is not a pleasant school in which
+to be nurtured. Blessings upon those who do not
+grow harsh or discontented with its bitter lessons.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[324]</a></span>
+To keep sunshine in the face when want knocks at
+the heart is to win the victory in a dreadful battle.
+And yet many are able to accomplish this, and
+brighten with their happy faces lives more prosperous
+than their own.</p>
+
+<p>In the winter of 1858 Captain Grant established
+a partnership with a cousin of his wife in the real
+estate business. Again separation came. The
+little family were left on the farm while the
+father tried another method of earning a living for
+them. "Our business," he says, "might have
+become prosperous if I had been able to wait for
+it to grow. As it was, there was no more than one
+person could attend to, and not enough to support
+two families. While a citizen of St. Louis, and
+engaged in the real estate agency business, I was a
+candidate for the office of county engineer, an
+office of respectability and emolument which would
+have been very acceptable to me at that time.
+The incumbent was appointed by the county court,
+which consisted of five members. My opponent
+had the advantage of birth over me (he was a citizen
+by adoption), and carried off the prize. I now
+withdrew from the co-partnership with Boggs, and,
+in May, 1860, removed to Galena, Illinois, and took
+a clerkship in my father's store."</p>
+
+<p>He was once more in the tannery business, which
+he had so hated when a boy. It is well that men
+and women are spurred to duty because somebody
+depends upon them for daily food, otherwise this
+life of often uncongenial labor would be unbearable.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[325]</a></span>
+We rarely do what we like to do in this
+world;&mdash;we do what the merciless goad of circumstance
+forces us to do. He is wise who goes to his
+work with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>The year 1860 opened upon a new era in this
+country. Slavery and anti-slavery had struggled
+together till the election of Abraham Lincoln to
+the presidency told that the decisive hour had
+come. The nation could no longer exist "half
+slave and half free."</p>
+
+<p>When Mr. Lincoln was inaugurated, March 4,
+1861, the Southern States seceded, one after
+another, until eleven had separated from the
+Union. Most of the Southern forts were already
+in the hands of the Confederates. Fort Sumter, in
+the harbor of Charleston, still remained under the
+control of the Union. While besieged by the
+South, an effort was made to send supplies to our
+starving garrison. The fort was fired upon April
+11, 1861, and that shot, like the one at Concord,
+was "heard round the world."</p>
+
+<p>From that hour slavery was doomed. The President
+issued his first call for seventy-five thousand
+volunteers for ninety days. The North and West
+seemed to respond as one man. The intense excitement
+reached the little town of Galena. The
+citizens were at once called together. Business
+was suspended. In the evening the court-house
+was packed. Captain Grant was asked to conduct
+the meeting. The people naturally turned to one
+who understood battles, when they saw war close at<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[326]</a></span>
+hand. With much embarrassment Grant presided.
+The leather business was finished for him from that
+eventful night. The women of Galena were as
+deeply interested as the men. They came to Grant
+to obtain a description of the United States uniform
+for infantry, subscribed and bought the material,
+procured tailors to cut the garments, and
+made them with their own willing hands. More
+and more, with their superior education, women
+are to play an important part in this country, both
+in peace and war.</p>
+
+<p>Captain Grant was now asked by Governor Yates,
+of Illinois, to go into the adjutant-general's office,
+and render such assistance as he could, which position
+he accepted, but he modestly says, "I was no
+clerk, nor had I any capacity to become one. The
+only place I ever found in my life to put a paper
+so as to find it again was either a side coat-pocket
+or the hands of a clerk or secretary more careful
+than myself. But I had been quartermaster, commissary,
+and adjutant in the field. The army forms
+were familiar to me, and I could direct how they
+should be made out."</p>
+
+<p>Though a man of few words, those few could be
+effective if Grant chose to use them. Meeting in
+St. Louis, in a street-car, a young braggart, who
+said to him, "Where I came from, if a man dares
+to say a word in favor of the Union we hang him
+to a limb of the first tree we come to," Grant
+replied, "We are not so intolerant in St. Louis as we
+might be. I have not seen a single rebel hung yet,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[327]</a></span>
+nor heard of one. There are plenty of them who
+ought to be, however." The young man did not continue
+the conversation. In May, 1861, Grant wrote
+a letter to the adjutant-general of the army at
+Washington, saying that, as he had been in the regular
+army for fifteen years, and educated at government
+expense, he tendered his services for the war.
+No notice was ever taken of the letter, and, of
+course, no answer was returned. Soon after he
+spent a week with his parents, in Covington, Kentucky.
+Twice he called upon Major-General McClellan,
+at Cincinnati, just across the river, whom
+he had known slightly in the Mexican War, with
+the hope that he would be offered a position on his
+staff. But he failed to see the general, and returned
+to Illinois. He was not to serve under McClellan.
+A different destiny awaited him.</p>
+
+<p>President Lincoln now called for three hundred
+thousand men to enlist for three years or the war.
+Governor Yates appointed Grant colonel of the
+Twenty-First Illinois regiment. Another separation
+from wife and children had come; the beginning
+of a great career had come also. The regiment
+repaired to Springfield, Illinois, and, after some time
+spent in drill, was ordered to move against Colonel
+Thomas Harris, encamped at the little town of
+Florida. There was no bravado in the man who
+had fought so bravely in all the battles of the Mexican
+War. He says: "As we approached the brow
+of the hill from which it was expected we could
+see Harris' camp, and possibly find his men ready<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[328]</a></span>
+formed to meet us, my heart kept getting higher
+and higher until it felt to me as though it was in
+my throat. I would have given anything then to
+have been back in Illinois, but I had not the moral
+courage to halt and consider what to do; I kept
+right on. When we reached a point from which
+the valley below was in full view, I halted. The
+place where Harris had been encamped a few days
+before was still there, and the marks of a recent
+encampment were plainly visible, but the troops
+were gone. My heart resumed its place. It occurred
+to me at once that Harris had been as much
+afraid of me as I had been of him. This was a
+view of the question I had never taken before, but
+it was one I never forgot afterwards. From that
+event to the close of the war, I never experienced
+trepidation upon confronting an enemy, though I
+always felt more or less anxiety. I never forgot
+that he had as much reason to fear my forces as I
+had his. The lesson was valuable."</p>
+
+<p>Soon after this Lincoln asked the Illinois delegation
+in Congress to recommend some citizens of
+the State for the position of brigadier-general, and
+Grant, to his great surprise, was recommended first
+on a list of seven. After his appointment he spent
+several weeks in Missouri, whither he had been
+ordered. His first battle was at Belmont, where,
+in a severe engagement of four hours, the loss on
+our side was 485, and the Confederate loss 642.
+Grant's horse was shot under him. After the battle
+the Confederates received reënforcements, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[329]</a></span>
+there was danger that our men could not return to
+the transports on which they had come to Belmont.
+"We are surrounded," they cried.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said their cool leader, "if that be so,
+we must cut our way out as we cut our way in;"
+and so they did.</p>
+
+<p>Grant, meantime, rode out into a cornfield alone
+to observe the enemy. While there, as he afterwards
+learned, the Southern General Polk and one
+of his staff saw the Union soldier, and said to their
+men, "There is a Yankee; you may try your marksmanship
+on him if you wish;" but, strangely
+enough, nobody fired, and Grant's valuable life was
+spared.</p>
+
+<p>He soon perceived that he was the only man
+between the Confederates and the boats. His
+horse seemed to realize the situation. Grant says:
+"There was no path down the bank, and every one
+acquainted with the Mississippi River knows that
+its banks, in a natural state, do not vary at any
+great angle from the perpendicular. My horse put
+his fore feet over the bank without hesitation or
+urging, and, with his hind feet well under him,
+slid down the bank and trotted aboard the boat,
+twelve or fifteen feet away, over a single gangplank.
+I dismounted and went at once to the
+upper deck.... When I first went on deck I
+entered the captain's room, adjoining the pilot-house,
+and threw myself on a sofa. I did not
+keep that position a moment, but rose to go out on
+the deck to observe what was going on. I had<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[330]</a></span>
+scarcely left when a musket-ball entered the room,
+struck the head of the sofa, passed through it, and
+lodged in the boat." Thus again was his life
+saved.</p>
+
+<p>Until February of the following year, 1862, little
+was done by the troops, except to become ready
+for the great work before them. The enemy occupied
+strong points on the Tennessee and Cumberland
+rivers, at Forts Henry and Donelson, points
+as essential to us as to them. These Grant determined
+to take, if possible. Truly said President
+Lincoln, "Wherever Grant is things move. I have
+noticed that from the beginning."</p>
+
+<p>On February 2 the expedition started against
+Fort Henry, with about seventeen thousand men.
+Several gun-boats, under Commodore Foote, accompanied
+the army. At a given hour the troops and
+gun-boats moved together, the one to invest the
+garrison, the other to attack the fort. After a severe
+fight of an hour and a half every gun was silenced.
+General Lloyd Tilghman surrendered, with his
+seventeen heavy guns, ammunition, and stores.</p>
+
+<p>Fort Donelson must now be taken, strongly fortified
+as it was. It stood on high ground, with
+rifle-pits running back two miles from the river,
+and was defended by fifteen heavy guns, two carronades,
+and sixty-five pieces of artillery. Outside
+the rifle-pits, trees had been felled, so that the tops
+lay toward the attacking army. Our men had no
+shelter from the snow and rain in this midwinter
+siege. No campfires could be allowed where the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[331]</a></span>
+enemy could see them. In the march from Fort
+Henry to Fort Donelson numbers of the tired
+troops had thrown away their blankets and overcoats,
+and there was much real suffering. But
+war means discomfort and woe as well as death
+itself.</p>
+
+<p>At three o'clock, February 14, Commodore
+Foote's gun-boats attacked the water batteries, and
+after a severe encounter several of them were disabled.
+The one upon which the commodore stood
+was hit about sixty times, one shot killing the
+pilot, carrying away the wheel, and wounding the
+commander. The night came on intensely cold.
+The next morning, the enemy, taking heart, came
+against the national forces to cut their way out.
+Then Grant rode among his men, saying, "Whichever
+party first attacks now will whip, and the
+rebels will have to be very quick if they beat me....
+Fill your cartridge-boxes quick, and get into
+line; the enemy is trying to escape, and he must
+not be permitted to do so."</p>
+
+<p>Our men worked their way through the abatis
+of trees, took the outer line of rifle-pits, and
+bivouacked within the enemy's lines. A driving
+storm of snow and hail set in, and many soldiers
+were frozen on that dismal night. There must
+have been little sleep amid the firing of the Confederate
+pickets and the groans of the wounded on
+that frozen ground.</p>
+
+<p>During the night the Confederate Generals
+Floyd and Pillow left the fort with three thousand<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[332]</a></span>
+men and Forrest with another thousand. On the
+morning of February 16, Brigadier-General S. B.
+Buckner sent a note to General Grant, suggesting
+an armistice. The following reply was returned at
+once:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"Sir,&mdash;Yours of this date, proposing armistice
+and appointment of commissioners to settle terms
+of capitulation, is just received. No terms except
+an unconditional and immediate surrender can be
+accepted. I propose to move immediately upon
+your works."</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>From that day U. S. Grant became to the people
+of the North "Unconditional Surrender" Grant;
+precious words, indeed, to the army as well as the
+people, to whom decisive action meant peace at last.</p>
+
+<p>General Buckner considered the terms "ungenerous
+and unchivalrous," but he surrendered his
+sixty-five guns, seventeen thousand six hundred
+small arms, and nearly fifteen thousand troops.
+Our loss in killed, wounded, and missing was
+about two thousand; the Confederate loss was believed
+to be about twenty-five hundred.</p>
+
+<p>This victory, the first great victory of the war,
+caused much rejoicing at the North, and Grant was
+at once made major-general of volunteers. Two
+weeks from this time he was virtually under arrest
+for not conforming to orders which he never received,
+but he was soon restored to his position.
+The country was to learn later, what Lincoln
+learned early in the war, that one head for an
+army is better than several heads.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[333]</a></span>The next great battle under Grant was at Shiloh,
+near Pittsburg Landing. On the morning of April
+6, 1862, the Confederates, under General Albert
+Sidney Johnston and Beauregard, rushed upon the
+national lines. All day Sunday the battle raged,
+and at night the Union forces had fallen back a
+mile in the rear of their position in the morning.
+Sherman, who commanded the ridge on which stood
+the log meeting-house of Shiloh, was twice shot,
+once in the hand and once in the shoulder, a third
+ball passing through his hat. Grant could well say
+of this brave officer, "I never deemed it important
+to stay long with Sherman."</p>
+
+<p>During the night after the desperate battle the
+rain fell in torrents upon the two armies, who slept
+upon their arms. General Grant's headquarters
+were under a tree, a few hundred yards back from
+the river. "Some time after midnight," he says,
+"growing restive under the storm and the continuous
+rain, I moved back to the log house under the
+bank. This had been taken as a hospital, and all
+night wounded men were brought in, their wounds
+dressed, a leg or an arm amputated, as the case
+might require, and everything being done to save
+life or alleviate suffering. The sight was more unendurable
+than encountering the enemy's fire, and
+I returned to my tree in the rain."</p>
+
+<p>In battle, the great general could look on men
+falling about him apparently unmoved; when the
+battle was over, he could not bear the sight of
+pain. The men revered him, because, while he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[334]</a></span>
+led them into death, he almost surely led them
+into victory.</p>
+
+<p>On April 7 the battle raged all along the line,
+and the enemy were everywhere driven back. At
+three o'clock Grant gathered up a couple of regiments,
+formed them into line of battle, and marched
+them forward, going in front himself to prevent long-range
+firing. The command "Charge" was given,
+and it was executed with loud cheers and a run,
+and the enemy broke. Grant came near losing
+his life. A ball struck the metal scabbard of
+his sword, just below the hilt, and broke it
+nearly off. Night closed upon a victorious Union
+army, but the victory had been gained at a fearful
+cost.</p>
+
+<p>"Shiloh," says General Grant, "was the severest
+battle fought at the West during the war, and but
+few in the East equalled it for hard, determined
+fighting. I saw an open field, in our possession on
+the second day, over which the Confederates had
+made repeated charges the day before, so covered
+with dead that it would have been possible to walk
+across the clearing, in any direction, stepping on
+dead bodies, without a foot touching the ground.
+On our side national and Confederate troops were
+mingled together in about equal proportions; but on
+the remainder of the field nearly all were Confederates.
+On one part, which had evidently not been
+ploughed for several years, probably because the
+land was poor, bushes had grown up, some to the
+height of eight or ten feet. There was not one of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[335]</a></span>
+these left standing unpierced by bullets. The
+smaller ones were all cut down."</p>
+
+<p>During the first day the brave Albert Sidney
+Johnston was wounded. He would not leave the
+battle-field, but continued in the saddle, giving
+commands, till, exhausted by loss of blood, he was
+taken from his horse, and died soon after. The
+Union loss was reported to be over thirteen thousand.
+Some estimate the losses as not less than
+fifteen thousand on each side. Up to this time,
+Grant had hoped that a few such victories as Fort
+Donelson would dishearten the South; now he saw
+that conquest alone could compel peace, with a
+brave and heroic people, of our own blood and
+race. From this time the work of laying waste
+the enemy's country began, with the hope that the
+sooner supplies were exhausted the sooner peace
+would be possible.</p>
+
+<p>On October 25, the battle of Corinth having been
+fought October 3, General Grant was placed in
+command of the Department of the Tennessee,
+and began the Vicksburg campaign. The capture
+of this place would afford free navigation of the
+Mississippi. For three months plan after plan was
+tried for the reduction of this almost impregnable
+position. Sherman made a direct attack at the
+only point where a landing was practicable, and
+failed. Grant's army was stationed on the west
+bank of the river, on marshy ground, full of malaria,
+from recent rains. The troops were ill of
+fever, measles, and small-pox, and many died.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[336]</a></span>
+There could be found scarcely enough dry land on
+which to pitch their tents.</p>
+
+<p>It was finally decided to cut a canal across the
+peninsula in front of Vicksburg, that the gun-boats
+might safely pass through to a point below the
+city. Four thousand men began work on the canal,
+but a sudden rise in the river broke the dam and
+stopped the work. A second method was tried, by
+breaking levees and widening and connecting
+streams between Lake Providence, seventy miles
+above Vicksburg, through the Red River, into the
+Mississippi again four hundred miles below, but
+this project was soon abandoned. Meantime, the
+North had become restless, and many clamored for
+Grant's removal, declaring him incompetent, but,
+amid all the reproaches, he kept silent. When
+Lincoln was urged to make a change, he said simply,
+"I rather like the man; I think we'll try him
+a little longer!"</p>
+
+<p>At length it was decided to attempt to run the
+gun-boats past the batteries, march the troops down
+the west bank of the river, cross over to the east
+side, and attack the rear of Vicksburg. The
+steamers were protected as far as possible with
+bales of hay, cotton, and grain, for the boilers
+could not bear the enemy's fire. On the 16th of
+April, 1863, on a dark night, the fleet was ready for
+the dangerous passage. As soon as the boats were
+discovered, the batteries opened fire, piles of combustibles
+being lighted along the shore that proper
+aim might be taken against the fleet. Every transport<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[337]</a></span>
+was struck. As fast as the shots made holes,
+the men put cotton bags in the openings. For
+nearly three hours the eight gun-boats and three
+steamers were under a merciless fire. The Henry
+Clay was disabled, and soon set on fire by the
+bursting of a shell in the cotton packed about her
+boilers. Grant watched the passage of the fleet
+from a steamer in the river, and felt relieved as
+though the victory were close at hand.</p>
+
+<p>Soon after, the whole force of thirty-three thousand
+men were crossed below Vicksburg. Fifty
+miles to the east, the Confederate General Joseph
+E. Johnston had a large army, which must be crippled
+before Vicksburg could be besieged. Port
+Gibson, near the river, was first taken by our
+troops; then Raymond, May 12; Jackson, May 18;
+Champion Hill, May 16; and then Black River
+Bridge. Grant had beaten Johnston in the rear;
+now he must beat Pemberton with his nearly fifty
+thousand men shut up in Vicksburg.</p>
+
+<p>On May 19, the city of Vicksburg was completely
+invested by our troops. Says General Grant,
+"Five distinct battles had been fought and won by
+the Union forces; the capital of the State had
+fallen, and its arsenals, military manufactories, and
+everything useful for military purposes had been
+destroyed; an average of about one hundred and
+eighty miles had been marched by the troops engaged;
+but five days' rations had been issued, and
+no forage; over six thousand prisoners had been
+captured, and as many more of the enemy had been<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[338]</a></span>
+killed or wounded; twenty-seven heavy cannon,
+and sixty-one field-pieces had fallen into our hands;
+and four hundred miles of the river, from Vicksburg
+to Port Hudson, had become ours."</p>
+
+<p>And now the siege began. By June 30, there
+were two hundred and twenty guns in position, besides
+a battery of heavy guns, manned and commanded
+by the navy. The besiegers had no mortars,
+save those of the navy in front of the city,
+but they took tough logs, bored them out for six or
+twelve-pound shells, bound them with strong iron
+bands, and used them effectively in the trenches of
+the enemy.</p>
+
+<p>The eyes of the whole country were centred on
+Vicksburg. Mines were dug by both armies, and
+exploded. Among the few men who reached the
+ground alive after having been thrown up by the
+explosions was a colored man, badly frightened.
+Some one asked how high he had gone up. "Dunno,
+massa; but tink 'bout t'ree mile," was the
+reply.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime, the people in Vicksburg were living
+in caves and cellars to escape the shot and shell.
+Starvation began to stare them in the face. Flour
+was sold at five dollars a pound; molasses at ten
+and twelve dollars a gallon. Yet the brave people
+held out against surrender. A Confederate woman,
+says General Badeau, in his graphic "Military History
+of U. S. Grant," asked Grant, tauntingly, as
+he stopped at her house for water, if he ever expected
+to get into Vicksburg.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[339]</a></span>"Certainly," he replied.</p>
+
+<p>"But when?"</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot tell exactly when I shall take the
+town; but <i>I mean to stay here till I do, if it takes
+me thirty years</i>."</p>
+
+<p>All through the siege, the men of both armies
+talked to each other; the Confederates and Unionists
+calling each other respectively "Yanks" and
+"Johnnies." "Well, Yank, when are you coming
+into town?"</p>
+
+<p>"We propose to celebrate the Fourth of July
+there, Johnnie."</p>
+
+<p>The Vicksburg paper said, prior to the Fourth, in
+speaking of the Yankee boast that they would take
+dinner in Vicksburg that day, "The best receipt
+for cooking a rabbit is, 'First ketch your rabbit!'"
+The last number of the paper was issued on July
+4, and said, "The Yankees have caught the rabbit."</p>
+
+<p>On July 3, at ten o'clock, white flags began to
+appear on the enemy's works, and two men were
+seen coming towards the Union lines, bearing a
+white flag. They bore a message from General
+Pemberton, asking that an armistice be granted,
+and three commissioners appointed to confer with
+a like number named by Grant. "I make this
+proposition to save the further effusion of blood,"
+said General Pemberton, "which must otherwise
+be shed to a frightful extent, feeling myself fully
+able to maintain my position for a yet indefinite
+period."</p>
+
+<p>To this Grant replied: "The useless effusion of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[340]</a></span>
+blood you propose stopping by this course can be
+ended at any time you choose, by the unconditional
+surrender of the city and garrison. Men who have
+shown so much endurance and courage as those
+now in Vicksburg will always challenge the respect
+of an adversary, and, I can assure you, will be
+treated with all the respect due to prisoners of war."</p>
+
+<p>In the afternoon of July 3, Grant and Pemberton
+met under a stunted oak-tree, a few hundred yards
+from the Confederate lines. They had known each
+other in the Mexican War. A kindly conference
+was held, and honorable terms of surrender agreed
+upon, the officers taking their side-arms and clothing,
+and staff and cavalry officers one horse each.
+When the men passed out of the works they had
+so gallantly defended, not a cheer went up from
+our men nor was a remark made that could cause
+pain. The garrison surrendered at Vicksburg numbered
+over thirty-one thousand men, with sixty
+thousand muskets, and over one hundred and seventy
+cannon. Five days later, Port Hudson, lower
+on the river, surrendered, with six thousand prisoners
+and fifty-one guns.</p>
+
+<p>There was great rejoicing at the North. Lincoln
+wrote to Grant: "My dear general, I do not remember
+that you and I have ever met personally. I
+write this now as a grateful acknowledgment for
+the almost inestimable service you have done the
+country. I write to say a word further. When
+you first reached the vicinity of Vicksburg, I
+thought you should do what you finally did, march<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[341]</a></span>
+the troops across the neck, run the batteries with
+the transports, and then go below; and I never
+had any faith, except a general hope that you knew
+better than I, that the Yazoo Pass expedition and
+the like could succeed. When you got below and
+took Port Gibson, Grand Gulf, and vicinity, I
+thought you should go down the river and join
+General Banks, and when you turned northward,
+east of the Big Black, I feared it was a mistake.
+I wish now to make the personal acknowledgment
+that you were right and I was wrong."</p>
+
+<p>Rare is that soul which is able to see itself in the
+wrong, and rarer still one which has the generosity
+to acknowledge it.</p>
+
+<p>In October, Grant, who had now been made a
+major-general in the regular army, as he had before
+been appointed to the same rank in the volunteers,
+was placed in command of the military division of
+the Mississippi. Later he defeated Bragg at Chattanooga,
+November 24 and 25, 1863, in the memorable
+battles of Missionary Ridge and Lookout
+Mountain. General Halleck said in his annual
+report, "Considering the strength of the rebel
+position and the difficulty of storming his intrenchments,
+the battle of Chattanooga must be considered
+the most remarkable in history. Not only did the
+officers and men exhibit great skill and daring in
+their operations on the field, but the highest praise
+is due to the commanding general for his admirable
+dispositions for dislodging the enemy from a position
+apparently impregnable."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[342]</a></span>How our brave men fought at Missionary Ridge
+and Lookout Mountain has never been more graphically
+and touchingly told than by the late lamented
+Benjamin F. Taylor: "They dash out a little way
+and then slacken; they creep up hand over hand,
+loading and firing, and wavering and halting, from
+the first line of works to the second; they burst
+into a charge, with a cheer, and go over it. Sheets
+of flame baptize them; plunging shots tear away
+comrades on left and right; it is no longer shoulder
+to shoulder; it is God for us all! Under tree-trunks,
+among rocks, stumbling over the dead,
+struggling with the living, facing the steady fire of
+eight thousand infantry poured down upon their
+heads as if it were the old historic curse from
+heaven, they wrestle with the Ridge. Ten, fifteen,
+twenty minutes go by, like a reluctant century.
+The batteries roll like a drum. Between
+the second and last lines of rebel works is the torrid
+zone of the battle. The hill sways up like a
+wall before them at an angle of forty-five degrees,
+but our brave mountaineers are clambering steadily
+on&mdash;up&mdash;upward still!... They seem to be spurning
+the dull earth under their feet, and going up to
+do Homeric battle with the greater gods."</p>
+
+<p>When this costly victory had been gained, President
+Lincoln appointed a day of national thanksgiving.
+Congress passed a unanimous vote of
+thanks to Grant and his officers and men, and ordered
+a medal to be struck in his honor: his face
+on one side, surrounded by a laurel wreath; on the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[343]</a></span>
+other side, Fame seated on the American eagle,
+holding in her right hand a scroll with the words,
+Corinth, Vicksburg, Mississippi River, and Chattanooga.</p>
+
+<p>Early in 1864, a distinguished honor was paid
+him. Since the death of Washington, only one
+man had been appointed a lieutenant-general in
+the army of the United States,&mdash;Winfield Scott.
+Congress now revived this grade, and on March 1,
+1864, Lincoln appointed Grant to this position.
+On March 9, before the President and his cabinet,
+his commission was formally presented to him,
+Lincoln saying, "As the country herein trusts you,
+so, under God, it will sustain you." Grant now had
+all the Union armies under his control&mdash;over seven
+hundred thousand men. When he was in the
+Galena leather store, men said his life was a failure!
+Was it a failure now? And yet he was the
+same modest, unostentatious man as when he
+tried farming to support his beloved family.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately Grant planned two great campaigns:
+one against Richmond, which was defended by
+Lee; the other against Atlanta, under Sherman,
+defended by Joseph E. Johnston. Sherman's march
+to the sea immortalized him; Grant's march to
+Richmond was the crowning success in the greatest
+of modern wars. President Lincoln reposed the
+utmost confidence in Grant. He wrote him:
+"The particulars of your plans I neither know nor
+seek to know. You are vigilant and self-reliant,
+and, pleased with this, I wish not to obtrude any<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[344]</a></span>
+constraints or restraints upon you. While I am
+very anxious that any great disaster or the capture
+of our men in great numbers shall be avoided, I
+know these points are less likely to escape your
+attention than they would be mine. If there is
+anything wanting which is within my power to
+give, do not fail to let me know it. And now, with
+a brave army and a just cause, may God sustain
+you."</p>
+
+<p>The end was coming. On May 4, 1864, Grant
+crossed the Rapidan with the Army of the Potomac,
+about one hundred and twenty thousand men,
+intending to put his forces between Lee and Richmond.
+Lee, perceiving this design, met the army
+at the Wilderness, a portion of country covered by
+a dense forest. The undergrowth was so heavy
+that it was scarcely possible to see more than one
+hundred paces in any direction. All day long,
+May 5, a bloody battle was waged in the woods.</p>
+
+<p>Says Private Frank Wilkeson, "I heard the
+hum of bullets as they passed over the low trees.
+Then I noticed that small limbs of trees were
+falling in a feeble shower in advance of me. It was
+as though an army of squirrels were at work cutting
+off nut and pine-cone laden branches preparatory
+to laying in their winter's store of food.
+Then, partially obscured by a cloud of powder
+smoke, I saw a straggling line of men clad in blue.
+They were not standing as if on parade, but they
+were taking advantage of the cover afforded by
+trees, and they were firing rapidly. Their line<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[345]</a></span>
+officers were standing behind them or in line with
+them. The smoke drifted to and fro, and there
+were many rifts in it.... We had charged, and
+charged, and charged again, and had gone wild
+with battle fever. We had gained about two
+miles of ground. We were doing splendidly. I
+cast my eyes upward to see the sun, so as to judge
+of the time, as I was hungry, and wanted to eat,
+and I saw that it was still low above the trees.
+The Confederates seemed to be fighting more
+stubbornly, fighting as though their battle-line was
+being fed with more troops. They hung on to the
+ground they occupied tenaciously, and resolutely
+refused to fall back further. Then came a swish
+of bullets and a fierce exultant yell, as of thousands
+of infuriated tigers. Our men fell by scores.
+Great gaps were struck in our lines. There was
+a lull for an instant, and then Longstreet's men
+sprang to the charge. It was swiftly and bravely
+made, and was within an ace of being successful.
+There was great confusion in our line. The men
+wavered badly. They fired wildly. They hesitated....
+The regimental officers held their men
+as well as they could. We could hear them close
+behind us, or in line with us, saying, 'Steady,
+men, steady, steady, steady!' as one speaks to
+frightened and excited horses."</p>
+
+<p>Grant says, "More desperate fighting has not
+been witnessed on this continent than that of May
+5 and 6.... The ground fought over had varied
+in width, but averaged three-quarters of a mile.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[346]</a></span>
+The killed and many of the severely wounded of
+both armies lay within this belt where it was impossible
+to reach them. The woods were set on
+fire by the bursting shells, and the conflagration
+raged. The wounded who had not strength to
+move themselves were either suffocated or burned
+to death. Finally the fire communicated with our
+breastworks in places. Being constructed of wood,
+they burned with great fury. But the battle still
+raged, our men firing through the flames until it
+became too hot to remain longer."</p>
+
+<p>After a loss of from fourteen to fifteen thousand
+men on each side, Lee remained in his intrenchments
+and Grant still moved on toward
+Richmond. The armies met at Spottsylvania Court-House,
+and here was fought one of the bloodiest
+battles of the war, with about the same loss as in
+the Wilderness. Sometimes the conflict was hand
+to hand, men using their guns as clubs, being too
+close to fire. In one place a tree, eighteen inches
+in diameter, was cut entirely down by musket
+balls. Grant wrote to Washington, May 11:
+"We have now ended the sixth day of very hard
+fighting. The result up to this time is much in
+our favor. But our losses have been heavy, as
+well as those of the enemy. We have lost to
+this time eleven general officers killed, wounded,
+and missing, and probably twenty thousand men.
+I think the loss of the enemy must be greater.
+We have taken over four thousand prisoners in
+battle, whilst he has taken from us but few except<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[347]</a></span>
+a few stragglers. I am now sending back to
+Belle Plain all my wagons for a fresh supply of
+provisions and ammunition, and purpose <i>to fight it
+out on this line if it takes all summer</i>."</p>
+
+<p>After this came the battles of Drury's Bluff,
+North Anna, Totopotomoy, and Cold Harbor, with
+its brilliant assault and deadly repulse, with a loss
+of from ten to fourteen thousand men on the latter
+field.</p>
+
+<p>Lee had now been driven so near to Richmond,
+and the swamps of the Chickahominy were so
+impassable, that Grant determined to move his
+army, one hundred and fifteen thousand men, south
+of the James River and attack Richmond in the
+rear. The move was hazardous, but he reached
+City Point safely. General Butler here joined
+him, and the siege of Petersburg, twenty miles
+below Richmond, began, and was continued through
+the winter and spring.</p>
+
+<p>On July 30, 1864, a mine was exploded under
+one of the enemy's forts. The gallery to the mine
+was over five hundred feet long from where it
+entered the ground to the point where it was under
+the enemy's works. Eight chambers had been left,
+requiring a ton of powder each to charge them.
+It exploded at five o'clock in the morning, making
+a crater twenty feet deep and about one hundred
+feet in length. Instantly one hundred and ten
+cannon and fifty mortars commenced work to cover
+our troops as they entered the enemy's lines. "The
+effort," says Grant, "was a stupendous failure. It<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[348]</a></span>
+cost us about four thousand men, mostly, however,
+captured, and all due to inefficiency on the part of
+the corps commander and the incompetency of the
+division commander who was sent to lead the assault."</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile Sheridan had destroyed the power of
+the South in the Shenandoah valley. Again the
+army began its march toward Richmond. On April
+1, 1865, the battle of Five Forks was fought, nearly
+six thousand Confederates being taken prisoners;
+then Petersburg was captured, and on April 3
+General Weitzel took possession of Richmond, the
+enemy having evacuated it, the city having been
+set on fire before their departure.</p>
+
+<p>For five days Lee's army was pursued with more
+or less fighting. On April 7, Grant wrote a letter
+to Lee, saying: "The results of the last week must
+convince you of the hopelessness of further resistance
+on the part of the Army of Northern Virginia
+in this struggle. I feel that it is so, and regard it
+as my duty to shift from myself the responsibility
+of any further effusion of blood, by asking of you
+the surrender of that portion of the Confederate
+States Army known as the Army of Northern Virginia."</p>
+
+<p>Lee replied, "I reciprocate your desire to avoid
+useless effusion of blood, and therefore, before considering
+your proposition, ask the terms you will
+offer on condition of its surrender."</p>
+
+<p>The answer came: "Peace being my great desire,
+there is but one condition I would insist upon,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[349]</a></span>
+namely: that the men and officers surrendered
+shall be disqualified for taking up arms again
+against the government of the United States, until
+properly exchanged."</p>
+
+<p>A place of meeting was designated, and on April
+9 Grant and Lee met at the house of a Mr. McLean,
+at Appomattox Court-House. Grant says,
+"When I had left camp that morning, I had not
+expected so soon the result that was then taking
+place, and consequently was in rough garb, and I was
+without a sword, as I usually was when on horseback
+on the field, and wore a soldier's blouse for a
+coat, with the shoulder-straps of my rank to indicate
+to the army who I was. When I went into
+the house I found General Lee. We greeted each
+other, and, after shaking hands, took our seats. I
+had my staff with me, a good portion of whom
+were in the room during the whole of the interview.</p>
+
+<p>"What General Lee's feelings were I do not know.
+As he was a man of much dignity, with an impassible
+face, it was impossible to say whether he felt
+inwardly glad that the end had finally come, or felt
+sad over the result, and was too manly to show it.
+Whatever his feelings, they were entirely concealed
+from my observation; but my own feelings, which
+had been quite jubilant on the receipt of his letter,
+were sad and depressed. I felt like anything rather
+than rejoicing at the downfall of a foe who had
+fought so long and valiantly, and had suffered so
+much for a cause, though that cause was, I believe,
+one of the worst for which a people ever fought,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_350" id="Page_350">[350]</a></span>
+and one for which there was the least excuse. I
+do not question, however, the sincerity of the great
+mass of those who were opposed to us.</p>
+
+<p>"General Lee was dressed in a full uniform
+which was entirely new, and was wearing a sword
+of considerable value, very likely the sword which
+had been presented by the State of Virginia; at all
+events, it was an entirely different sword from the
+one that would ordinarily be worn in the field. In
+my rough travelling suit, the uniform of a private,
+with the straps of a lieutenant-general, I must have
+contrasted very strangely with a man so handsomely
+dressed, six feet high, and of faultless form.
+But this was not a matter that I thought of until
+afterwards."</p>
+
+<p>When the terms of surrender were completed,
+Lee remarked that his men had been living for
+some days on parched corn exclusively, and asked
+for rations and forage, which were cordially granted.
+"When news of the surrender first reached our
+lines," says Grant, "our men commenced firing a
+salute of a hundred guns in honor of the victory.
+I at once sent word, however, to have it stopped.
+The Confederates were now our prisoners, and we
+did not want to exult over their downfall." True
+and noble spirit! Twenty-seven thousand five hundred
+and sixteen officers and men were paroled at
+Appomattox. At the North, crowds came together
+to pray and give thanks, in the churches, that the
+war was over. Mourning garb seemed to be in
+every house, and the joy was sanctified by tears.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_351" id="Page_351">[351]</a></span>
+The Army of the Potomac marched to Washington,
+and was disbanded June 30.</p>
+
+<p>The great war was ended. In July, 1866, Congress
+created the rank of general for the heroic,
+true-hearted, grand man, of quiet manner but indomitable
+will, who had saved the Union. He
+was now but forty-four years of age, and what
+a record!</p>
+
+<p>Two years later, in 1868, at the Chicago Republican
+national convention. Grant was unanimously
+nominated to the presidency. After the assassination
+of Lincoln, and the disagreement between
+Congress and Andrew Johnson in the matter of
+reconstruction, it was believed that Grant would
+"settle things." To the committee from the convention
+who announced his nomination to him, he
+said, "I shall have no policy of my own to enforce
+against the will of the people."</p>
+
+<p>During the eight years of Grant's presidency,
+from 1869 to 1877, the country was prosperous,
+save the financial depression of 1873. The Alabama
+claims were settled, whereby our country
+received from Great Britain fifteen million five
+hundred thousand dollars damages. Grant favored
+the annexation of the island of Santo Domingo,
+but the measure was defeated by Congress. The
+International Exposition was held in Philadelphia
+in 1876, with an average daily attendance, for
+five months, of over sixty-one thousand persons.
+While a large number of the people advocated a
+third term for General Grant, a nation loving freedom<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_352" id="Page_352">[352]</a></span>
+hesitated to establish such a precedent, and
+Rutherford B. Hayes was chosen President. It
+was well, in the exciting times preceding this election,
+when the number of votes for Hayes and
+Tilden was decided by an electoral commission,
+that a strong hand was on the helm of State, to
+keep the peace.</p>
+
+<p>After all these years of labor, General Grant
+determined to make the tour of the world, and,
+with his family and a few others, sailed for
+Europe, May 17, 1877. From the moment they
+arrived on the other side of the ocean to their
+return, no American ever received such an ovation
+as Grant. Thousands crowded the docks at Liverpool,
+and the mayor gave an address of welcome.
+At Manchester, ten thousand people listened to
+his brief address. "As I have been aware," he
+said, "for years of the great amount of your manufactures,
+many of which find their ultimate destination
+in my own country, so I am aware that the
+sentiments of the great mass of the people of
+Manchester went out in sympathy to that country
+during the mighty struggle in which it fell to
+my lot to take some humble part."</p>
+
+<p>In London, the present Duke of Wellington
+gave him a grand banquet at Apsley House. At
+Marlborough House, the Prince of Wales gave
+him private audience. The freedom of the city
+of London was presented to him in a gold casket,
+supported by golden American eagles, standing on
+a velvet plinth decorated with stars and stripes.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_353" id="Page_353">[353]</a></span>
+He and his family dined with the Queen, at Windsor
+Castle.</p>
+
+<p>In Scotland, the freedom of the city of Edinburgh
+was conferred upon him. At a grand ovation
+at Newcastle, between forty and fifty thousand
+people were gathered on the moor to see the
+illustrious general. To the International Arbitration
+Union in Birmingham he said, "Nothing
+would afford me greater happiness than to know,
+as I believe will be the case, that at some future
+day the nations of the earth will agree upon some
+sort of congress which shall take cognizance of
+international questions of difficulty, and whose
+decisions will be as binding as the decision of our
+Supreme Court is binding upon us." In Belgium,
+the king called upon him, and gave a royal banquet
+in his honor. In Berlin, Bismarck called
+twice to see him, shaking hands cordially, and
+saying, "Glad to welcome General Grant to Germany."
+In Turkey, he was presented with some
+beautiful Arabian horses by the Sultan. King
+Humbert of Italy and the Czar of Russia showed
+him marked attentions. In Norway and Sweden,
+Spain, China, Egypt, and India, he was everywhere
+received as the most distinguished general of the age.</p>
+
+<p>On his return to America, at San Francisco and
+Sacramento, thousands gathered to see him. At
+Chicago, he said, in addressing the Army of the
+Tennessee, "Let us be true to ourselves, avoid all
+bitterness and ill-feeling, either on the part of
+sections or parties toward each other, and we need<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_354" id="Page_354">[354]</a></span>
+have no fear in future of maintaining the stand
+we have taken among nations, so far as opposition
+from foreign nations goes." In Philadelphia,
+where he was royally entertained by his friend
+Mr. George W. Childs, he said to the Grand Army
+of the Republic, "What I want to impress upon
+you is that you have a country to be proud of, and
+a country to fight for, and a country to die for if
+need be.... In no other country is the young
+and energetic man given such a chance by industry
+and frugality to acquire a competence for himself
+and family as in America. Abroad it is difficult
+for the poor man to make his way at all. All
+that is necessary is to know this in order that we
+may become better citizens." On his return to
+New York, he was presented by his friends with a
+home in that city, and also with the gift of two
+hundred and fifty thousand dollars.</p>
+
+<p>He was soon prevailed upon to enter a banking
+firm with Ferdinand Ward and James D. Fish.
+The bank failed, Grant found himself financially
+ruined, and the two partners were sent to prison.
+He was now to struggle again for a living, as in the
+early days in the Galena leather store. A timely
+offer came from the <i>Century</i> magazine, to write
+his experiences in the Civil War. Very simply, so
+that an uneducated person could understand, Grant
+modestly and fairly described the great battles in
+which he was of necessity the central figure. Unused
+to literary labor, he bent himself to the task,
+working seven and eight hours a day.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_355" id="Page_355">[355]</a></span>On October 22, 1884, cancer developed in the
+throat, and for nine months Grant fought with
+death, till the two great volumes of his memoirs
+could be completed and given to the world, that
+his family might not be left dependent. Early in
+June, 1885, as he was failing rapidly, he was taken
+to Mt. McGregor, near Saratoga, where a cottage
+had been offered him by Mr. Joseph W. Drexel.
+He worked now more heroically than ever, till the
+last page was written, with the words: "The war
+has made us a nation of great power and intelligence.
+We have but little to do to preserve peace,
+happiness, and prosperity at home, and the respect
+of other nations. Our experience ought to teach
+us the necessity of the first; our power secures the
+latter.</p>
+
+<p>"I feel that we are on the eve of a new era,
+when there is to be great harmony between the
+Federal and Confederate. I cannot stay to be a
+living witness to the correctness of this prophecy;
+but I feel it within me that it is to be so. The
+universally kind feeling expressed for me at a time
+when it was supposed that each day would prove
+my last seemed to me the beginning of the answer
+to 'Let us have peace.'"</p>
+
+<p>Night and day the nation watched for tidings
+from the bedside of the dying hero. At last, in
+July, when he knew that the end was near, he
+wrote an affectionate letter to the Julia Dent whom
+he had loved in his early manhood, and put it in
+his pocket, that she might read it after all was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_356" id="Page_356">[356]</a></span>
+over. "Look after our dear children, and direct
+them in the paths of rectitude. It would distress
+me far more to think that one of them could depart
+from an honorable, upright, and virtuous life,
+than it would to know that they were prostrated on
+a bed of sickness from which they were never to
+arise alive. They have never given us any cause
+for alarm on their account, and I earnestly pray
+they never will.</p>
+
+<p>"With these few injunctions and the knowledge
+I have of your love and affection, and of the dutiful
+affection of all our children, I bid you a final
+farewell, until we meet in another, and, I trust, a
+better world. You will find this on my person
+after my demise." Blessed home affection, that
+brightens all the journey, and makes human nature
+well-nigh divine!</p>
+
+<p>On July 23, 1885, a few minutes before eight
+o'clock in the morning, the end came. In the
+midst of his children, Colonel Frederick, Ulysses,
+Jesse, and Nellie Grant-Sartoris, and his grandchildren,
+his wife bending over him, he sank to
+rest. In every city and town in the land there
+was genuine sorrow. Letters of sympathy came
+from all parts of the world. Before the body was
+put in its purple casket, the eldest son placed a
+plain gold ring upon the little finger of the right
+hand, the gift years before of his wife, but which
+had grown too large for the emaciated finger in
+life. In his pocket was placed a tiny package containing
+a lock of Mrs. Grant's hair, in a good-bye<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_357" id="Page_357">[357]</a></span>
+letter. Sweet and beautiful thought, to bury with
+our dead something which belongs to a loved one,
+that they may not sleep entirely alone!</p>
+
+<p>"We shall wake, and remember, and understand."
+Let the world laugh at sentiment outwardly&mdash;the
+hearts of those who laugh are often
+hungering for affection!</p>
+
+<p>The body, dressed in citizen's clothes, without
+military, was laid in the casket. Then, in the little
+cottage on the mountain-top, Dr. Newman, his pastor,
+gave a beautiful address, from the words,
+"Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter
+thou into the joy of thy Lord." "His was the
+genius of common-sense, enabling him to contemplate
+all things in their true relations, judging
+what is true, useful, proper, expedient, and to
+adopt the best means to accomplish the largest
+ends. From this came his seriousness, thoughtfulness,
+penetration, discernment, firmness, enthusiasm,
+triumph.... Temperate without austerity;
+cautious without fear; brave without rashness;
+serious without melancholy, he was cheerful without
+frivolity. His constancy was not obstinacy;
+his adaptation was not fickleness. His hopefulness
+was not utopian. His love of justice was equalled
+only by his delight in compassion, and neither was
+sacrificed to the other.... The keenest, closest,
+broadest of all observers, he was the most silent of
+men. He lived within himself. His thought-life
+was most intense. His memory and his imagination
+were picture galleries of the world and libraries<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_358" id="Page_358">[358]</a></span>
+of treasured thought. He was a world to
+himself. His most intimate friends knew him
+only in part. He was fully and best known
+only to the wife of his bosom and the children
+of his loins. To them the man of iron will and
+nerve of steel was gentle, tender, and confiding,
+and to them he unfolded his beautiful religious
+life."</p>
+
+<p>After the services, the body of the great soldier
+was placed upon the funeral car, and conveyed to
+Albany, where it lay in state at the Capitol. At
+midnight dirges were sung, while eager multitudes
+passed by looking upon the face of the dead. Arriving
+in New York, the casket was laid in the
+midst of exquisite flowers in the City Hall. On
+this very day memorial services were held in Westminster
+Abbey, Canon Farrar delivering an eloquent
+address.</p>
+
+<p>During the first night at the City Hall, about
+fifteen thousand persons passed the coffin, and the
+next day ninety thousand; rich and poor, black
+and white; men, women, and little children. A
+man on crutches hobbled past the casket, bowed
+with grief. "Move on," said one of the guards of
+honor. "Yes," replied the old man, "as well as I
+can I will. I left this leg in the Wilderness." An
+aged woman wept as she said, "Oh! general, I gave
+you my husband, my sons, and my son's beautiful
+boys."</p>
+
+<p>On August 8, General Grant was laid in his tomb
+at Riverside Park, on the Hudson River, a million<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_359" id="Page_359">[359]</a></span>
+people joining in the sad funeral ceremonies. The
+catafalque, with its black horses led by colored
+grooms, moved up the street, followed by a procession
+four miles long. When the tomb was reached,
+the casket, placed in a cedar covering, leaden lined,
+was again enclosed in a great steel casket, round
+like an immense boiler, weighing thirty-eight hundred
+pounds. The only touching memento left
+upon the coffin was a wreath of oak-leaves wrought
+together by his grandchild Julia, on his dying day,
+with the words, "To Grandpa." Guns were fired,
+and cannon reverberated through the valley, as
+the pall-bearers, Confederate and Union generals,
+turned their footsteps away from the resting-place
+of their great leader. It was fitting that North
+and South should unite in his burial. Here, too,
+will sometime be laid his wife, for before his
+death he exacted a promise from his oldest son:
+"Wherever I am buried, promise me that your
+mother shall be buried by my side." Already she
+has received over three hundred thousand dollars
+in royalty on the memoirs which he wrote in
+those last months of agony. Beautifully wrote
+Richard Watson Gilder:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">&nbsp;"All's over now; here let our captain rest,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span class="i1">The conflict ended, past men's praise and blame;</span><br />
+<span class="i1">Here let him rest, alone with his great fame,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span class="i0">Here in the city's heart he loved the best,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">And where our sons his tomb may see</span><br />
+<span class="i1">To make them brave as he:&mdash;</span>
+</div></div>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_360" id="Page_360">[360]</a></span></p>
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">&nbsp;"As brave as he,&mdash;he on whose iron arm</span><br />
+<span class="i1">Our Greatest leaned, our gentlest and most wise,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span class="i1">Leaned when all other help seemed mocking lies,</span><br />
+<span class="i0">While this one soldier checked the tide of harm,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">And they together saved the State,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">And made it free and great."</span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_361" id="Page_361">[361]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter bord" style="width: 381px;">
+<img src="images/illus-361.jpg" width="381" height="600" alt="J. A. Garfield" title="J. A. Garfield" />
+
+</div>
+
+<h2>JAMES A. GARFIELD.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Not far from where I write is a tall gray
+stone monument, in the form of a circular
+tower, lined with various polished marbles, and exquisite
+stained-glass windows. It stands on a hill-top
+in the centre of three acres of green lawn, looking
+out upon blue Lake Erie and the busy city of
+Cleveland, Ohio.</p>
+
+<p>Within this tower rests the body of one whom
+the nation honors, and will honor in all time to
+come; one who was nurtured in the wilderness
+that he might have a sweet, natural boyhood; who
+studied in the school of poverty that he might sympathize
+with the sons of toil; who grew to an
+ideal manhood, that other American boys might
+learn the lessons of a grand life, and profit by
+them.</p>
+
+<p>In the little town of Orange, Ohio, James Abram
+Garfield was born, November 19, 1831. The home
+into which he came was a log cabin, twenty by
+thirty feet, made of unhewn logs, laid one upon
+another, to the height of twelve feet or more, the
+space between the logs being filled with clay or<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_362" id="Page_362">[362]</a></span>
+mud. Three other children were in this home in
+the forest already; Mehetabel, Thomas, and Mary.</p>
+
+<p>Abram, the father, descended from Revolutionary
+ancestors, was a strong-bodied, strong-brained man,
+who moved from Worcester, Otsego County, New
+York, to test his fortune in the wilderness. In his
+boyhood, he had played with Eliza Ballou, descended
+from Maturin Ballou, a Huguenot, from
+France. She also at fourteen moved with her
+family from New Hampshire, into the Ohio wilderness.
+Abram was more attracted to Ohio for that
+reason. They renewed the affection of their childhood,
+and were married February 3, 1821, settling
+first in Newburg, near Cleveland, and later buying
+eighty acres in Orange, at two dollars an acre. Here
+their four children were born, seven miles from
+any other cabin.</p>
+
+<p>When the boy James was eighteen months old,
+a shadow settled over the home in the woods. A
+fire broke out in the forest, threatening to sweep
+away the Garfield cabin. For two hours one hot
+July day the father fought the flames, took a
+severe cold, and died suddenly, saying to his wife,
+"I have planted four saplings in these woods; I
+must now leave them to your care." He had kept
+his precious ones from being homeless, only to
+leave them fatherless. Who would have thought
+then that one of these saplings would grow into a
+mighty tree, admired by all the world?</p>
+
+<p>In a corner of the wheat-field, in a plain box, the
+young husband was buried. What should the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_363" id="Page_363">[363]</a></span>
+mother do with her helpless flock? "Give them
+away," said some of the relatives, or "bind them
+out in far-away homes."</p>
+
+<p>"No," said the brave mother, and put her
+woman's hands to heavy work. She helped her
+boy Thomas, then nine years old, to split rails and
+fence in the wheat-field. She corded the wool of
+her sheep, wove the cloth, and made garments for
+her children. She sold enough land to pay off the
+mortgage, because she could not bear to be in
+debt, and then she and Mehetabel and Thomas
+ploughed and planted, and waited in faith and
+hope till the harvest came. When the food grew
+meagre she sang to her helpful children, and
+looked ever toward brighter days. And such
+days usually come to those who look for them.</p>
+
+<p>It was not enough to widow Garfield that her
+children were decently clothed and fed in this
+isolated home. They must be educated; but how?
+A log school-house was finally erected, she wisely
+giving a corner of her farm for the site. The
+scholars sat on split logs for benches, and learned
+to read and write and spell as best they could from
+their ordinary teaching. James was now nearly
+three, and went and sat all day on the hard
+benches with the rest.</p>
+
+<p>But a school-house was not sufficient for these
+New England pioneers; they must have a church
+building where they could worship. Mrs. Garfield
+loved her Bible, and had taught her children
+daily, so that James even knew its stories by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_364" id="Page_364">[364]</a></span>
+heart, and many of its chapters. A church was
+therefore organized in the log school-house, and
+now they could work happily, year after year,
+wondering perchance what the future would bring.</p>
+
+<p>James began to show great fondness for reading.
+As he lay on the cabin floor, by the big fireplace,
+he read by its light his "English Reader,"
+"Robinson Crusoe" again and again, and, later,
+when he was twelve, "Josephus," and "Goodrich's
+History of the United States." He had worked on
+the farm for years; now he must earn some money
+for his mother by work for the neighbors. He
+had helped his brother Thomas in enlarging the
+house, and was sure that he could be a carpenter.</p>
+
+<p>Going to a Mr. Trent, he asked for work.</p>
+
+<p>"There is a pile of boards that I want planed,"
+said the man, "and I will pay you one cent a
+board for planing."</p>
+
+<p>James began at once, and at the end of a long
+day, to the amazement of Mr. Trent, he had planed
+one hundred boards, each over twelve feet long,
+and proudly carried home one dollar to his mother.
+After this he helped to build a barn and a shed
+for a potashery establishment for leeching ashes.
+The manufacturer of the "black-salts" seemed to
+take a fancy to the lad, and offered him work at
+nine dollars a month and his board, which James
+accepted. In the evenings he studied arithmetic
+and read books about the sea. This arrangement
+might have continued for some time had not the
+daughter of the salt-maker remarked one evening<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_365" id="Page_365">[365]</a></span>
+to her beau, as they sat in the room where James
+was reading, "I should think it was time for <i>hired
+servants</i> to be abed."</p>
+
+<p>James had not realized how the presence of a
+third party is apt to restrain the confidential conversation
+of lovers. He was hurt and angered by the
+words, and the next day gave up his work, and
+went home to his mother, to receive her sympathy
+and find employment elsewhere. Doubtless he was
+more careful, all his life, from this circumstance,
+lest he wound the feelings of others.</p>
+
+<p>Soon after this he heard that his uncle in Newburg
+was hiring wood-choppers. He immediately
+went to see him, and agreed to cut one hundred
+cords of wood, at twenty-five cents a cord. It was
+a man's work, but the boy of sixteen determined to
+do as much as a man. Each day he cut two cords,
+and at last carried twenty-five dollars to his mother;
+a small fortune, it seemed to the earnest boy.</p>
+
+<p>While he chopped wood he looked out wistfully
+upon Lake Erie, recalled the sea stories which he
+had read, and longed more than ever to become a
+sailor. The Orange woods were growing too
+cramped for him. He was restless and eager for
+a broader life. It was the unrest of ambition,
+which voiced itself twenty years later in an address
+at Washington, D. C., to young men. "Occasion
+cannot make spurs, young men. If you expect to
+wear spurs, you must win them. If you wish to
+use them, you must buckle them to your own heels
+before you go into the fight. Any success you may<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_366" id="Page_366">[366]</a></span>
+achieve is not worth the having unless you fight
+for it. Whatever you win in life you must conquer
+by your own efforts; and then it is yours&mdash;a part
+of yourself.... Let not poverty stand as an obstacle
+in your way. Poverty is uncomfortable, as I
+can testify; but nine times out of ten the best
+thing that can happen to a young man is to be tossed
+overboard, and compelled to sink or swim for himself.
+In all my acquaintance I have never known
+one to be drowned who was worth saving.... To
+a young man who has in himself the magnificent
+possibilities of life, it is not fitting that he should
+be permanently commanded; he should be a commander.
+You must not continue to be employed;
+you must be an <i>employer</i>. You must be promoted
+from the ranks to a command. There is something,
+young men, that you can command; go and find it,
+and command it. You can at least command a
+horse and dray, can be generalissimo of them and
+may carve out a fortune with them."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Garfield, with her mother's heart, deprecated
+a life at sea for her boy, and tried to dissuade him.
+Through the summer he worked in the hay-field,
+and then, the sea-fever returning, his mother wisely
+suggested that he seek employment on Lake Erie
+and see if he liked the life.</p>
+
+<p>With his clothing wrapped in a bundle, he walked
+seventeen miles to Cleveland, with glowing visions
+of being a sailor. Reaching the wharf, he went on
+board a schooner, and asked for work. A drunken
+captain met him with oaths, and ordered him off<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_367" id="Page_367">[367]</a></span>
+the boat. The first phase of sea life had been different
+from what he had read in the books, and he
+turned away somewhat disheartened.</p>
+
+<p>However, he soon met a cousin, who gave him
+the opportunity of driving mules for a canal boat.
+To walk beside slow mules was somewhat prosaic,
+as compared with climbing masts in a storm, but
+he accepted the position, receiving ten dollars a
+month and his board. Says William M. Thayer,
+in his "From Log-Cabin to the White House":
+"James appeared to possess a singular affinity for
+the water. He fell into the water fourteen times
+during the two or three months he served on the
+canal boat. It was not because he was so clumsy
+that he could not keep right side up, nor because
+he did not understand the business; rather, we
+think, it arose from his thorough devotion to his
+work. He gave more attention to the labor in hand
+than he did to his own safety. He was one who
+never thought of himself when he was serving
+another. He thought only of what he had in hand
+to do. His application was intense, and his perseverance
+royal."</p>
+
+<p>After a few weeks he contracted fever and ague,
+and went home to be cared for by his mother,
+through nearly five months of illness. The sea-fever
+had somewhat abated. Could he not go to
+school again? urged the mother. Thomas and she
+could give him seventeen dollars; not much, to be
+sure, for some people, but much for the widow and
+her son.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_368" id="Page_368">[368]</a></span>At last he decided to go to Geauga Seminary, at
+Chester; a decision which took him to the presidential
+chair. March 5, 1849, when he was eighteen,
+James and his cousins started on foot for
+Chester, carrying their housekeeping utensils, plates,
+knives and forks, kettle, and the like; for they
+must board themselves. A small room was hired
+for a pittance, four boys rooming together.</p>
+
+<p>The seventeen dollars soon melted away, and
+James found work in a carpenter's shop, where he
+labored nights and mornings, and every Saturday.
+Though especially fond of athletic games, he had
+no time for these. The school library contained
+one hundred and fifty volumes; a perfect mine of
+knowledge it seemed to the youth from Orange.
+He read eagerly biography and history; joined the
+debating society, where, despite his awkward manners
+and poor clothes, his eloquence soon attracted
+attention; went home to see his mother at the end
+of the first term, happy and courageous, and returned
+with ninepence in his pocket, to renew the
+struggle for an education. The first Sunday, at
+church, he put this ninepence into the contribution
+box, probably feeling no poorer than before.</p>
+
+<p>While at Chester, the early teaching of his
+mother bore fruit, in his becoming a Christian,
+and joining the sect called "Disciples." "Of
+course," said Garfield, years later, "that settled
+canal, and lake, and sea, and everything." A new
+life had begun&mdash;a life devoted to the highest
+endeavor.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_369" id="Page_369">[369]</a></span>Each winter, while at Chester, he taught a district
+school, winning the love of the pupils by his
+enthusiasm and warm heart, and inciting them to
+study from his love of books. He played with
+them as though a boy like themselves, as he was,
+in reality, and yet demanded and received perfect
+obedience. He "boarded around," as was the
+custom, and thus learned more concerning both
+parents and pupils than was always desirable,
+probably; but in every house he tried to stimulate
+all to increased intelligence.</p>
+
+<p>During his last term at the seminary, he met a
+graduate of a New England college, who urged that
+he also attend college; told how often men had
+worked their way through successfully, and had
+come to prominence. Young Garfield at once began
+to study Latin and Greek, and at twenty years
+of age presented himself at Hiram College, Ohio,
+a small institution at that time, which had been
+started by the "Disciples." He sought the principal,
+and asked to ring the bell and sweep the floors
+to help pay his expenses. He took a room with
+four other students, not a wise plan, except for one
+who has will enough to study whether his companions
+work or play, and rose at five in the morning,
+to ring his bell.</p>
+
+<p>A lady who attended the college thus writes of
+him: "I can see him even now, standing in the
+morning with his hand on the bell-rope, ready to
+give the signal calling teachers and scholars to engage
+in the duties of the day. As we passed by,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_370" id="Page_370">[370]</a></span>
+entering the school-room, he had a cheerful word
+for every one. He was probably the most popular
+person in the institution. He was always good-natured,
+fond of conversation, and very entertaining.
+He was witty and quick at repartee, but his jokes,
+though brilliant and sparkling, were always harmless,
+and he never would willingly hurt another's
+feelings.</p>
+
+<p>"Afterward, he became an assistant teacher, and
+while pursuing his classical studies, preparatory to
+his college course, he taught the English branches.
+He was a most entertaining teacher,&mdash;ready with
+illustrations, and possessing in a marked degree
+the power of exciting the interest of the scholars,
+and afterward making clear to them the lessons.
+In the arithmetic class there were ninety pupils,
+and I cannot remember a time when there was any
+flagging in the interest. There were never any
+cases of unruly conduct, or a disposition to shirk.
+With scholars who were slow of comprehension, or
+to whom recitations were a burden on account of
+their modest or retiring dispositions, he was specially
+attentive, and by encouraging words and
+gentle assistance would manage to put all at their
+ease, and awaken in them a confidence in themselves....
+He was a constant attendant at the regular
+meetings for prayer, and his vigorous exhortations
+and apt remarks upon the Bible-lessons were
+impressive and interesting. There was a cordiality
+in his disposition which won quickly the favor and
+esteem of others. He had a happy habit of shaking<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_371" id="Page_371">[371]</a></span>
+hands, and would give a hearty grip which betokened
+a kind-hearted feeling for all....</p>
+
+<p>"One of his gifts was that of mezzotint drawing,
+and he gave instruction in this branch. I was one
+of his pupils in this, and have now the picture of
+a cross upon which he did some shading and put
+on the finishing touches. Upon the margin is
+written, in the hand of the noted teacher, his own
+name and his pupil's. There are also two other
+drawings, one of a large European bird on the
+bough of a tree, and the other a church-yard scene
+in winter, done by him at that time. In those days
+the faculty and pupils were wont to call him 'the
+second Webster,' and the remark was common,
+'He will fill the White House yet.' In the Lyceum,
+he early took rank far above the others as a
+speaker and debater.</p>
+
+<p>"During the month of June the entire school
+went in carriages to their annual grove meeting at
+Randolph, some twenty-five miles away. On this
+trip he was the life of the party, occasionally
+bursting out in an eloquent strain at the sight of a
+bird or a trailing vine, or a venerable giant of the
+forest. He would repeat poetry by the hour, having
+a very retentive memory."</p>
+
+<p>The college library contained about two thousand
+volumes, and here Garfield read systematically
+and topically, a habit which continued through
+life, and made him master of every subject which
+he touched. Tennyson's poetry became, like the
+Bible, his daily study.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_372" id="Page_372">[372]</a></span>Mr. J. M. Bundy, in his Life of Garfield, said,
+years later, "His house at Washington is a workshop,
+in which the tools are always kept within
+immediate reach. Although books overrun his
+house from top to bottom, his library contains the
+working material on which he mainly depends.
+And the amount of material is enormous. Large
+numbers of scrap-books that have been accumulating
+for over twenty years in number and value&mdash;made
+up with an eye to what either is or may
+become useful, which would render the collection
+of priceless value to the library of any first-class
+newspaper establishment&mdash;are so perfectly arranged
+and indexed that their owner, with his all-retentive
+memory, can turn in a moment to the
+facts that may be needed for almost any conceivable
+emergency in debate. These are supplemented
+by diaries that preserve Garfield's multifarious,
+political, scientific, literary, and religious inquiries,
+studies, and readings. And, to make the machinery
+of rapid work complete, he has a large box,
+containing sixty-three different drawers, each properly
+labelled, in which he places newspaper cuttings,
+documents, and slips of paper, and from
+which he can pull out what he wants as easily as
+an organist can play on the stops of his instrument."</p>
+
+<p>In Hiram College he formed an intellectual
+friendship with a fellow-student to whose inspiring
+help he testified gratefully to the end of his
+life; Miss Almeda A. Booth, eight years his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_373" id="Page_373">[373]</a></span>
+senior, a brilliant and noble woman, pledged to
+"virgin widowhood" by the death of the young
+man to whom she was promised in marriage.
+Twenty years later, Garfield said, in a memorial
+address at Hiram College, "On my own behalf I
+take this occasion to say that for her generous and
+powerful aid, so often and so efficiently rendered,
+for her quick and never failing sympathy, and for
+her intelligent, unselfish, and unswerving friendship,
+I owe her a debt of gratitude and affection
+for the payment of which the longest term of life
+would have been too short.... I remember that
+she and I were members of the class that began
+Xenophon's 'Anabasis' in the fall of 1852. Near
+the close of that term I also began to teach in the
+Eclectic [College], and, thereafter, like her, could
+keep up my studies only outside of my own class
+hours. In mathematics and the physical sciences
+I was far behind her; but we were nearly at the
+same place in Greek and Latin, each having studied
+them about three terms. She had made her home
+at President Hayden's almost from the first; and I
+became a member of his family at the beginning of
+the winter term of 1852-53. Thereafter, for nearly
+two years, she and I studied together, and recited
+in the same classes (frequently without other
+associates) till we had nearly completed the classical
+course....</p>
+
+<p>"During the fall of 1853 she read one hundred
+pages of Herodotus, and about the same of
+Livy. During that term, also, Professors Dunshee<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_374" id="Page_374">[374]</a></span>
+and Hull, Miss Booth, and I met at her room
+two evenings of each week to make a joint translation
+of the Book of Romans. Professor Dunshee
+contributed his studies of the German commentators
+De Wette and Tholuck; and each of the
+translators made some special study for each
+meeting. How nearly we completed the translation
+I do not remember; but I do remember that
+the contributions and criticisms of Miss Booth
+were remarkable for suggestiveness and sound
+judgment. Our work was more thorough than
+rapid, for I find this entry in my diary for December
+15, 1853: 'Translation Society sat three hours
+at Miss Booth's room, and agreed upon the translation
+of nine verses.'</p>
+
+<p>"During the winter term of 1853-54 she continued
+to read Livy, and also the whole of
+Demosthenes 'On the Crown.' During the spring
+term of 1854 she read the 'Germania' and 'Agricola'
+of Tacitus and a portion of Hesiod."</p>
+
+<p>To Garfield she was another Margaret Fuller.
+"I venture to assert that in native powers of mind,
+in thoroughness and breadth of scholarship, in
+womanly sweetness of spirit, and in the quantity
+and quality of effective, unselfish work done, she
+has not been excelled by any American woman....
+I can name twenty or thirty books which will
+forever be doubly precious to me because they
+were read and discussed in company with her....
+She was always ready to aid any friend with her
+best efforts. When I was in the hurry of preparing<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_375" id="Page_375">[375]</a></span>
+for a debate with Mr. Denton, in 1858, she
+read not less than eight or ten volumes, and made
+admirable notes for me on those points which
+related to the topics of discussion. In the autumn
+of 1859 she read a large portion of Blackstone's
+'Commentaries,' and enjoyed with keenest relish
+the strength of the author's thought and the beauty
+of his style. From the rich stores of her knowledge
+she gave with unselfish generosity. The foremost
+students had no mannish pride that made
+them hesitate to ask her assistance and counsel.
+In preparing their orations and debates they
+eagerly sought her suggestions and criticisms....</p>
+
+<p>"It is quite probable that John Stuart Mill has
+exaggerated the extent to which his own mind and
+works were influenced by Harriet Mill. I should
+reject his opinion on that subject, as a delusion,
+did I not know from my own experience, as well as
+that of hundreds of Hiram students, how great a
+power Miss Booth exercised over the culture and
+opinions of her friends."</p>
+
+<p>The influence of such a woman upon an intellectual
+young man can scarcely be estimated, or over-estimated.
+The world is richer and nobler for
+such women. Garfield never forgot her influence.
+The year he died, he said at a Williams College
+banquet held in Cleveland, January 10, 1881: "I
+am glad to say, reverently, in the presence of the
+many ladies here to-night, that I owe to a woman,
+who has long since been asleep, perhaps a higher
+debt intellectually than I owe to any one<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_376" id="Page_376">[376]</a></span>
+else. After that comes my debt to Williams College."</p>
+
+<p>He used to say, "Give me a log hut with only a
+simple bench, Mark Hopkins on one end and I on
+the other, and you may have all the buildings, apparatus,
+and libraries without him."</p>
+
+<p>After two years at Hiram College, Garfield decided
+to enter some eastern college, and wrote
+to Yale, Brown, and Williams. Their replies are
+shown in his letter to a friend at this time. "Their
+answers are now before me. All tell me I can
+graduate in two years. They are all brief business
+notes; but President Hopkins concludes with this
+sentence: 'If you come here, we shall be glad to
+do what we can for you.' Other things being so
+nearly equal, this sentence, which seems to be a
+kind of friendly grasp of the hand, has settled the
+question for me. I shall start for Williams next
+week." A kind sentence gave to Williams a distinguished
+honor for all coming years.</p>
+
+<p>Garfield had not only paid his way while at
+Hiram, but he had saved three hundred and fifty
+dollars for his course at Williams. Here he earned
+money, as he had at Hiram, by teaching, and borrowed
+a few hundreds from Dr. J. P. Robinson of
+Cleveland, Ohio, offering a life insurance policy as
+security.</p>
+
+<p>In college, says Dr. Hopkins, "as General Garfield
+was broad in his scholarship, so was he in his
+sympathies. No one thought of him as a recluse
+or as bookish. Not <i>given</i> to athletic sports, he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_377" id="Page_377">[377]</a></span>
+was fond of them. His mind was open to the impression
+of natural scenery, and, as his constitution
+was vigorous, he knew well the fine points on the
+mountains around us. He was also social in his
+disposition, both giving and inspiring confidence.
+So true is this of his intercourse with the officers of
+the college, as well as with others, that he was never
+even suspected of anything low or trickish....
+General Garfield gave himself to study with a zest
+and delight wholly unknown to those who find in
+it a routine. A religious man and a man of principle,
+he pursued of his own accord the ends proposed
+by the institution. He was prompt, frank,
+manly, social, in his tendencies; combining active
+exercise with habits of study, and thus did for
+himself what it is the object of a college to enable
+every young man to do,&mdash;he made himself
+a <span class="smcap"><small>MAN</small></span>."</p>
+
+<p>When Garfield was at Williams, the slavery
+question had become the exciting topic of the day.
+Preston Brooks' attack on Charles Sumner had
+aroused the indignation of the students, who called
+a meeting, at which Garfield made an eloquent and
+powerful speech. At his graduation in 1856, when
+he was twenty-five, he delivered the metaphysical
+oration, the highest honor awarded. He now returned
+to Hiram College, having been appointed
+professor of Greek and Latin. At once he began
+his work with zest. He said later: "I have taken
+more solid comfort in the thing itself, and received
+more moral recompense and stimulus in after life<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_378" id="Page_378">[378]</a></span>
+from capturing young men for an education than
+from anything else in the world.</p>
+
+<p>"As I look back over my life thus far, I think
+of nothing that so fills me with pleasure as the
+planning of these sieges, the revolving in my mind
+of plans for scaling the walls of the fortress; of
+gaining access to the inner soul-life, and at last
+seeing the besieged party won to a fuller appreciation
+of himself, to a higher conception of life and
+of the part he is to bear in it. The principal guards
+which I have found it necessary to overcome in
+gaining these victories are the parents or guardians
+of the young men themselves. I particularly
+remember two such instances of capturing young
+men from their parents. Both of those boys are
+to-day educators, of wide reputation,&mdash;one president
+of a college, the other high in the ranks of
+graded-school managers. Neither, in my opinion,
+would to-day have been above the commonest walks
+of life unless I, or some one else, had captured
+him. There is a period in every young man's life
+when a very small thing will turn him one way or
+the other. He is distrustful of himself, and uncertain
+as to what he should do. His parents are poor,
+perhaps, and argue that he has more education
+than they ever obtained, and that it is enough.
+These parents are sometimes a little too anxious in
+regard to what their boys are going to do when
+they get through with their college course. They
+talk to the young man too much, and I have noticed
+that the boy who will make the best man is sometimes<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_379" id="Page_379">[379]</a></span>
+most ready to doubt himself. I always remember
+the turning period in my own life, and
+pity a young man at this stage from the bottom of
+my heart. One of the young men I refer to came
+to me on the closing day of the spring term, and
+bade me good-by at my study. I noticed that he
+awkwardly lingered after I expected him to go, and
+had turned to my writing again.</p>
+
+<p>"'I suppose you will be back again in the fall,
+Henry,' I said, to fill in the vacuum. He did not
+answer, and, turning toward him, I noticed that his
+eyes were filled with tears, and that his countenance
+was undergoing contortions of pain. He at
+length managed to stammer out, 'No, I am not
+coming back to Hiram any more. Father says I
+have got education enough, and that he needs me
+to work on the farm; that education don't help
+along a farmer any.'</p>
+
+<p>"'Is your father here?' I asked, almost as much
+affected by the statement as the boy himself. He
+was a peculiarly bright boy,&mdash;one of those strong,
+awkward, bashful, blond, large-headed fellows,
+such as make men. He was not a prodigy by any
+means; but he knew what work meant, and, when
+he had won a thing by true endeavor, he knew its
+value.</p>
+
+<p>"'Yes; father is here, and is taking my things
+home for good,' said the boy, more affected than
+ever.</p>
+
+<p>"'Well, don't feel badly,' I said. 'Please tell
+him Mr. Garfield would like to see him at his study,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_380" id="Page_380">[380]</a></span>
+before he leaves the village. Don't tell him that it
+is about you, but simply that I want to see him.'
+In the course of half an hour the old gentleman, a
+robust specimen of a Western Reserve Yankee,
+came into the room and awkwardly sat down. I
+knew something of the man before, and I thought
+I knew how to begin. I shot right at the bull's-eye
+immediately.</p>
+
+<p>"'So you have come up to take Henry home
+with you, have you?' The old gentleman answered,
+'Yes.' 'I sent for you because I wanted to have a
+little talk with you about Henry's future. He is
+coming back again in the fall, I hope?'</p>
+
+<p>"'Wal, I think not. I don't reckon I can afford
+to send him any more. He's got eddication enough
+for a farmer already, and I notice that when they
+git too much they sorter git lazy. Yer eddicated
+farmers are humbugs. Henry's got so far 'long
+now that he'd rather hev his head in a book than
+be workin'. He don't take no interest in the stock
+nor in the farm improvements. Everybody else is
+dependent in this world on the farmer, and I think
+that we've got too many eddicated fellows setting
+around now for the farmers to support.'</p>
+
+<p>"'I am sorry to hear you talk so,' I said; 'for
+really I consider Henry one of the brightest and
+most faithful students I have ever had. I have
+taken a very deep interest in him. What I wanted
+to say to you was, that the matter of educating
+him has largely been a constant outgo thus far, but,
+if he is permitted to come next fall term, he will<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_381" id="Page_381">[381]</a></span>
+be far enough advanced so that he can teach school
+in the winter, and begin to help himself and you
+along. He can earn very little on the farm in the
+winter, and he can get very good wages teaching.
+How does that strike you?'</p>
+
+<p>"The idea was a new and good one to him. He
+simply remarked, 'Do you really think he can
+teach next winter?'</p>
+
+<p>"'I should think so, certainly,' I replied. 'But,
+if he cannot do so then, he can in a short time,
+anyhow.'</p>
+
+<p>"'Wal, I will think on it. He wants to come
+back bad enough, and I guess I'll have to let him.
+I never thought of it that way afore.'</p>
+
+<p>"I knew I was safe. It was the financial question
+that troubled the old gentleman, and I knew
+that would be overcome when Henry got to teaching,
+and could earn his money himself. He would
+then be so far along, too, that he could fight his
+own battles. He came all right the next fall, and,
+after finishing at Hiram, graduated at an eastern
+college."</p>
+
+<p>One secret of Garfield's success in teaching was
+his deep interest in the young. He said, "I feel a
+profounder reverence for a boy than for a man. I
+never meet a ragged boy of the street without feeling
+that I may owe him a salute, for I know not
+what possibilities may be buttoned up under his
+shabby coat. When I meet you in the full flush of
+mature life, I see nearly all there is of you; but
+among these boys are the great men of the future,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_382" id="Page_382">[382]</a></span>
+the heroes of the next generation, the philosophers,
+the statesmen, the philanthropists, the great reformers
+and moulders of the next age. Therefore,
+I say, there is a peculiar charm to me in the exhibitions
+of young people engaged in the business of
+an education."</p>
+
+<p>He made himself a student with his students.
+He said: "I shall give you a series of lectures
+upon history, beginning next week. I do this not
+alone to assist you; the preparation for the lectures
+will <i>compel</i> me to study history."</p>
+
+<p>He was always a worker. "When I get into a
+place that I can easily fill, I always feel like shoving
+out of it into one that requires of me more
+exertion."</p>
+
+<p>His active mind was not content with teaching.
+He delivered lectures in the neighboring towns on
+geology, illustrated by charts of his own making;
+upon "Walter Scott;" Carlyle's "Frederick the
+Great;" the "Character of the German People;"
+government, and the topics of the times. He
+preached almost every Sabbath in some Disciple
+church. A year after his return from Williams
+he was promoted to the presidency of Hiram
+College.</p>
+
+<p>In 1858, when he was twenty-seven, he married
+Lucretia Rudolph, whom he had known at Geauga
+Seminary, and who was his pupil in Latin and
+Greek at Hiram. He had been engaged to her
+four years previously, when he entered Williams,
+she being a year his junior. She was his companion<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_383" id="Page_383">[383]</a></span>
+in study, as well as domestic life, and helped
+him onward in his great career.</p>
+
+<p>This same year, 1858, he entered his name as a
+student at law, with a Cleveland firm, carrying on
+his studies at home, and fitted himself for the bar
+in the usual time devoted by those who have no
+other work in hand.</p>
+
+<p>The following year, having taken an active part
+in the Republican campaign for John C. Fremont
+for the presidency, Garfield was chosen State senator.
+The same year Williams College invited him
+to deliver the master's oration on Commencement
+day. On the journey thither, he visited Quebec,
+taking with his wife their first pleasure trip.
+Only eight years before this he was ringing the
+bell at Hiram. Promotion had come rapidly, but
+deservedly.</p>
+
+<p>In the Legislature he naturally took a prominent
+part. Lincoln had been elected and had issued his
+call for seventy-five thousand men. Garfield, in an
+eloquent speech, moved, "That Ohio contribute
+twenty thousand men, and three million dollars, as
+the quota of the State." The motion was enthusiastically
+carried.</p>
+
+<p>Governor Dennison appointed Garfield colonel of
+the Forty-second Ohio Regiment, and he left the
+Senate for the battlefield, nearly one hundred
+Hiram students enlisting under him. At once he
+began to study military tactics in earnest. He
+organized a school among the officers, and kept the
+men at drill till they were efficient in the art of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_384" id="Page_384">[384]</a></span>
+war. January 10, 1862, he fought the battle of
+Middle Creek, with eleven hundred men, driving
+General Marshall out of Eastern Kentucky, with
+five thousand men. The battle raged for five hours,
+sometimes a desperate hand-to-hand fight. General
+Buell said in his official report of Garfield and his
+regiment: "They have overcome formidable difficulties
+in the character of the country, the condition
+of the roads, and the inclemency of the season,
+and, without artillery, have in several engagements,
+terminating in the battle of Middle Creek,
+driven the enemy from his intrenched positions
+and forced him back into the mountains, with the
+loss of a large amount of baggage and stores, and
+many of his men killed and captured. These services
+have called into action the highest qualities
+of a soldier&mdash;fortitude, perseverance, and courage."
+After this battle, President Lincoln made Garfield
+a brigadier-general.</p>
+
+<p>Says Mr. Bundy: "Having cleared out Humphrey
+Marshall's forces, Garfield moved his command
+to Piketon, one hundred and twenty miles
+above the mouth of the Big Sandy, from which
+place he covered the whole region about with expeditions,
+breaking up rebel camps and perfecting his
+work. Finally, in that poor and wretched country,
+his supplies gave out, and, as usual, taking care of
+the most important matter himself, he went to the
+Ohio River for supplies, got them, seized a steamer,
+and loaded it. But there was an unprecedented
+freshet, navigation was very perilous, and no captain<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_385" id="Page_385">[385]</a></span>
+or pilot could be induced to take charge of the
+boat. Garfield at once availed himself of his
+canal-boat experience, took charge of the boat,
+stood at the helm for forty out of forty-eight hours,
+piloted the steamer through an untried channel
+full of dangerous eddies and wild currents, and
+saved his command from starvation."</p>
+
+<p>Later, Garfield became chief of General Rosecrans'
+staff, was in the dreadful battle of Chickamauga,
+and was made major-general "for gallant
+and meritorious services" in that battle. Rosecrans
+said: "All my staff merited my warm approbation
+for ability, zeal, and devotion to duty; but I am
+sure they will not consider it invidious if I especially
+mention Brigadier-General Garfield, ever
+active, prudent, and sagacious. I feel much indebted
+to him for both counsel and assistance in
+the administration of this army. He possesses the
+energy and the instinct of a great commander."</p>
+
+<p>In the summer of 1862 the Nineteenth Congressional
+District of Ohio elected Garfield to Congress.
+He hesitated about leaving the army, but, being
+urged by his friends that it was his duty to serve
+his country in the House of Representatives, he
+took his seat December, 1863. Among such men
+as Colfax, Washburn, Conkling, Allison, and
+others, he at once took an honorable position. He
+was made chairman of military affairs, then of
+banking and currency, of appropriations, and other
+committees.</p>
+
+<p>On the slavery question he had always been<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_386" id="Page_386">[386]</a></span>
+outspoken. He said, on the constitutional amendment
+abolishing slavery: "All along the coast of
+our political sea these victims of slavery lie like
+stranded wrecks broken on the headlands of freedom.
+How lately did its advocates, with impious
+boldness, maintain it as God's own; to be venerated
+and cherished as divine! It was another and
+higher form of civilization. It was the holy
+evangel of America dispensing its mercies to a
+benighted race, and destined to bear countless
+blessings to the wilderness of the West. In its
+mad arrogance it lifted its hand to strike down
+the fabric of the Union, and since that fatal day it
+has been 'a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth.'
+Like the spirit that Jesus cast out, it has, since
+then, been 'seeking rest and finding none.' It has
+sought in all the corners of the republic to find
+some hiding-place in which to shelter itself from
+the death it so richly deserves. It sought an
+asylum in the untrodden territories of the West,
+but with a whip of scorpions indignant freemen
+drove it thence. I do not believe that a loyal man
+can now be found who would consent that it should
+again enter them. It has no hope of harbor there.
+It found no protection or favor in the hearts or
+consciences of the freemen of the republic, and has
+fled for its last hope of safety behind the shield of
+the Constitution. We propose to follow it there,
+and drive it thence, as Satan was exiled from
+heaven.... To me it is a matter of great surprise
+that gentlemen on the other side should wish<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_387" id="Page_387">[387]</a></span>
+to delay the death of slavery. I can only account
+for it on the ground of long continued familiarity
+and friendship.... Has she not betrayed and
+slain men enough? Are they not strewn over a
+thousand battle-fields? Is not this Moloch already
+gorged with the bloody feast? Its best friends
+know that its final hour is fast approaching. The
+avenging gods are on its track. Their feet are not
+now, as of old, shod with wool, nor slow and
+stately stepping, but winged like Mercury's to bear
+the swift message of vengeance. No human power
+can avert the final catastrophe."</p>
+
+<p>On the currency he spoke repeatedly and earnestly.
+He carefully studied English financial
+history, and mastered the French and German languages
+that he might study their works on political
+economy and finance. Says Captain F. H. Mason,
+late of the Forty-second Ohio Regiment, in his
+sketch of Garfield, "In May, 1868, when the
+country was rapidly drifting into a hopeless confusion
+of ideas on financial subjects, and when
+several prominent statesmen had come forward
+with specious plans for creating 'absolute money'
+by putting the government stamp upon bank notes,
+and for paying off with this false currency the
+bonds which the nation had solemnly agreed to
+pay in gold, General Garfield stood up almost
+single-handed and faced the current with a speech
+which any statesman of this century might be
+proud to have written on his monument. It embraced
+twenty-three distinct but concurrent topics,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_388" id="Page_388">[388]</a></span>
+and occupied in delivering an entire day's session
+of the House."</p>
+
+<p>"For my own part," he said, "my course is
+taken. In view of all the facts of our situation, of
+all the terrible experiences of the past, both at
+home and abroad, and of the united testimony of
+the wisest and bravest statesmen who have lived
+and labored during the past century, it is my firm
+conviction that any considerable increase of the
+volume of our inconvertible paper money will
+shatter public credit, will paralyze public industry,
+and oppress the poor; and that the gradual restoration
+of our ancient standard of value will lead
+us by the safest and surest paths to national prosperity
+and the steady pursuits of peace."</p>
+
+<p>Again he said: "I for one am not willing that
+my name shall be linked to the fate of a paper
+currency. I believe that any party which commits
+itself to paper money will go down amid the general
+disaster, covered with the curses of a ruined
+people.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Speaker, I remember that on the monument
+of Queen Elizabeth, where her glories were
+recited and her honors summed up, among the last
+and the highest recorded as the climax of her
+honors was this: that she had restored the money
+of her kingdom to its just value. And when this
+House shall have done its work, when it shall have
+brought back values to their proper standard, it will
+deserve a monument."</p>
+
+<p>On the tariff question, General Garfield took the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_389" id="Page_389">[389]</a></span>
+side of protection, yet was no extremist. His oft
+reiterated belief was, "As an abstract theory, the
+doctrine of free trade seems to be universally true,
+but as a question of practicability, under a government
+like ours, the protective system seems to be
+indispensable."</p>
+
+<p>He said in Congress: "We have seen that one
+extreme school of economists would place the price
+of all manufactured articles in the hands of foreign
+producers by rendering it impossible for our manufacturers
+to compete with them; while the other
+extreme school, by making it impossible for the
+foreigner to sell his competing wares in our market,
+would give the people no immediate check
+upon the prices which our manufacturers might
+fix for their products. I disagree with both these
+extremes. I hold that a properly adjusted competition
+between home and foreign products is the
+best gauge by which to regulate international trade.
+Duties should be so high that our manufacturers
+can fairly compete with the foreign product, but
+not so high as to enable them to drive out the foreign
+article, enjoy a monopoly of the trade, and
+regulate the price as they please. This is my doctrine
+of protection. If Congress pursues this line
+of policy steadily, we shall, year by year, approach
+more nearly to the basis of free trade, because we
+shall be more nearly able to compete with other
+nations on equal terms. I am for a protection
+which leads to ultimate free trade. I am for that
+free trade which can only be achieved through a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_390" id="Page_390">[390]</a></span>
+reasonable protection.... If all the kingdoms of
+the world should become the kingdom of the Prince
+of Peace, then I admit that universal free trade
+ought to prevail. But that blessed era is yet too
+remote to be made the basis of the practical legislation
+of to-day. We are not yet members of 'the
+parliament of man, the federation of the world.'
+For the present, the world is divided into separate
+nationalities; and that other divine command still
+applies to our situation, 'He that provideth not for
+his own household has denied the faith, and is
+worse than an infidel,' and until that latter era
+arrives patriotism must supply the place of universal
+brotherhood."</p>
+
+<p>Again he said: "Those arts that enable our
+nation to rise in the scale of civilization bring
+their blessings to all, and patriotic citizens will
+cheerfully bear a fair share of the burden necessary
+to make their country great and self-sustaining.
+I will defend a tariff that is national in its
+aims, that protects and sustains those interests
+without which the nation cannot become great
+and self-sustaining.... So important, in my
+view, is the ability of the nation to manufacture
+all these articles necessary to arm, equip, and
+clothe our people, that if it could not be secured
+in any other way I would vote to pay money out
+of the federal treasury to maintain government
+iron and steel, woollen and cotton mills, at whatever
+cost. Were we to neglect these great interests
+and depend upon other nations, in what a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_391" id="Page_391">[391]</a></span>
+condition of helplessness would we find ourselves
+when we should be again involved in war with the
+very nations on whom we were depending to furnish
+us these supplies? The system adopted by
+our fathers is wiser, for it so encourages the great
+national industries as to make it possible at all
+times for our people to equip themselves for war,
+and at the same time increase their intelligence
+and skill so as to make them better fitted for all
+the duties of citizenship in war and in peace. <i>We
+provide for the common defence by a system which
+promotes the general welfare....</i> I believe that
+we ought to seek that point of stable equilibrium
+somewhere between a prohibitory tariff on the one
+hand and a tariff that gives no protection on the
+other. What is that point of stable equilibrium?
+In my judgment, it is this; a rate so high that foreign
+producers cannot flood our markets and break
+down our home manufacturers, but not so high as
+to keep them altogether out, enabling our manufacturers
+to combine and raise the prices, nor so
+high as to stimulate an unnatural and unhealthy
+growth of manufactures.</p>
+
+<p>"In other words, I would have the duty so
+adjusted that every great American industry can
+fairly live and make fair profits, and yet so low
+that, if our manufacturers attempted to put up
+prices unreasonably, the competition from abroad
+would come in and bring down prices to a fair
+rate."</p>
+
+<p>On special occasions, such as his eulogies on<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_392" id="Page_392">[392]</a></span>
+Lincoln and General Thomas, and on Decoration
+Day at Arlington Heights, Garfield was very eloquent.
+At the latter place, he said: "If silence is
+ever golden, it must be here, beside the graves of
+fifteen thousand men, whose lives were more significant
+than speech, and whose death was a poem
+the music of which can never be sung. With
+words, we make promises, plight faith, praise virtue.
+Promises may not be kept; plighted faith
+may be broken; and vaunted virtue may be only
+the cunning mask of vice. We do not know one
+promise these men made, one pledge they gave,
+one word they spoke; but we do know they
+summed up and perfected, by one supreme act,
+the highest virtues of men and citizens. For love
+of country they accepted death, and thus resolved
+all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and
+their virtue.</p>
+
+<p>"For the noblest man that lives there still remains
+a conflict. He must still withstand the
+assaults of time and fortune; must still be assailed
+with temptations before which lofty natures
+have fallen. But with <i>these</i>, the conflict ended,
+the victory was won, when death stamped on them
+the great seal of heroic character, and closed a
+record which years can never blot."</p>
+
+<p>Professor B. A. Hinsdale, the intimate friend of
+Garfield, says, in his "Hiram College Memorial,"
+"General Garfield's readiness on all occasions has
+often been remarked. Probably some have attributed
+this readiness to the inspiration of genius.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_393" id="Page_393">[393]</a></span>
+The explanation lies partly in his genius, but much
+more in his indefatigable work. He treasured up
+knowledge of all kinds. 'You never know,' he
+would say, 'how soon you will need it.' Then
+he forecasted occasions, and got ready to meet
+them. One hot day in July, 1876, he brought to
+his Washington house an old copy of <i>The Congressional
+Globe</i>. Questioned, he said, 'I have been
+told, confidentially, that Mr. Lamar is going to
+make a speech in the House on general politics, to
+influence the presidential canvass. If he does, I
+shall reply to him. Mr. Lamar was a member of
+the House before the war; and I am going to read
+some of his old speeches, and get into his mind.'
+Mr. Lamar made his speech August 2, and Mr.
+Garfield replied August 4. Men expressed surprise
+at the fulness and completeness of the reply,
+delivered on such short notice. But to one knowing
+his habits of mind, especially to one who had
+the aforesaid conversation with him, the whole
+matter was as light as day. His genius was emphatically
+the genius of preparation."</p>
+
+<p>Both in Congress and in the army Garfield gave
+a portion of each day to the classics, especially to
+his favorite, Horace. He was always an omnivorous
+reader.</p>
+
+<p>In 1880, he was elected United States senator.
+After the election he said, "During the twenty
+years that I have been in public life, almost eighteen
+of it in the Congress of the United States, I
+have tried to do one thing. Whether I was mistaken<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_394" id="Page_394">[394]</a></span>
+or otherwise, it has been the plan of my life
+to follow my convictions, at whatever personal cost
+to myself. I have represented for many years a
+district in Congress whose approbation I greatly
+desired; but, though it may seem, perhaps, a little
+egotistical to say it, I yet desired still more the
+approbation of one person, and his name was Garfield.
+He is the only man that I am compelled to
+sleep with, and eat with, and live with, and die
+with; and if I could not have his approbation I
+should have had bad companionship."</p>
+
+<p>All these years the home life had been helpful
+and beautiful. Of his seven children, two were
+sleeping in the Hiram church-yard. Five, Harry,
+James, Mollie, Irvin, and Abram, made the Washington
+home a place of cheer in winter, and
+the summer home, at Mentor, Ohio, a few miles
+from Hiram, a place of rest and pleasure. Here
+Garfield, beloved by his neighbors, ploughed and
+sewed and reaped, as when a boy. His mother
+lived in his family, happy in his success.</p>
+
+<p>When the national Republican convention met
+in June, 1880, at Chicago, the names of several
+presidential candidates came before the people,&mdash;Grant,
+Blaine, and others. Garfield nominated
+John Sherman, of Ohio, in a chaste and eloquent
+speech. He said: "I have witnessed the extraordinary
+scenes of this convention with deep solicitude.
+No emotion touches my heart more quickly
+than a sentiment in honor of a great and noble
+character; but, as I sat on these seats and witnessed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_395" id="Page_395">[395]</a></span>
+these demonstrations, it seemed to me you
+were a human ocean in a tempest.</p>
+
+<p>"I have seen the sea lashed into fury and tossed
+into spray, and its grandeur moves the soul of the
+dullest man; but I remember that it is not the billows
+but the calm level of the sea from which all
+heights and depths are measured. When the storm
+has passed and the hour of calm settles on the
+ocean, when the sunlight bathes its smooth surface,
+then the astronomer and surveyor takes the level
+from which he measures all terrestrial heights and
+depths.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen of the convention, your present
+temper may not mark the healthful pulse of our
+people. When our enthusiasm has passed, when
+the emotions of this hour have subsided, we shall
+find that calm level of public opinion, below the
+storm, from which the thoughts of a mighty people
+are to be measured, and by which their final action
+will be determined. Not here in this brilliant circle,
+where fifteen thousand men and women are
+assembled, is the destiny of the Republican party
+to be decreed. Not here, where I see the enthusiastic
+faces of seven hundred and fifty-six delegates,
+waiting to cast their votes into the urn and determine
+the choice of the republic, but by four million
+Republican firesides, where the thoughtful voters,
+with wives and children about them, with the calm
+thoughts inspired by love of home and country,
+with the history of the past, the hopes of the
+future, and reverence for the great men who have<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_396" id="Page_396">[396]</a></span>
+adorned and blessed our nation in days gone by
+burning in their hearts,&mdash;<i>there</i> God prepares the
+verdict which will determine the wisdom of our
+work to-night. Not in Chicago, in the heat of
+June, but at the ballot-boxes of the republic, in
+the quiet of November, after the silence of deliberate
+judgment, will this question be settled."</p>
+
+<p>The thousands were at fever-heat hour after hour,
+in their intense excitement. After thirty-four ineffectual
+ballots, on the thirty-fifth, fifty votes were
+given for Garfield. The tide had turned at last.
+The delegates of State after State gathered around
+the man from Ohio, holding their flags over him,
+while the bands played, "Rally round the flag,
+boys," and fifteen thousand people shouted their
+thanksgiving for the happy choice. Outside the
+great hall, cannons were fired, and the crowded
+streets sent up their cheers. From that moment
+Garfield belonged to the nation, and was its idol.</p>
+
+<p>On March 4, 1881, in the presence of a hundred
+thousand people, the boy born in the Orange wilderness
+was inaugurated President of the United
+States. None of us who were present will ever
+forget the beauty of his address from the steps of
+the national Capitol, or the kiss given to white-haired
+mother and devoted wife at the close.
+Afterward, the great procession, three hours in
+passing a given point, was reviewed by President
+Garfield from a stand erected in front of the White
+House.</p>
+
+<p>Four months after this scene, on July 2, 1881,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_397" id="Page_397">[397]</a></span>
+the nation was thrilled with sorrow. As General
+Garfield and his Secretary of State, James G.
+Blaine, arm in arm, were entering the Baltimore
+&amp; Potomac Railroad depot, two pistol shots were
+fired; one passing through Garfield's coat-sleeve,
+the other into his body. He fell heavily to the
+floor, and was borne to the White House. The
+assassin was Charles Guiteau, a half-crazed aspirant
+for office, entirely unknown to the President. The
+man was hanged.</p>
+
+<p>Through four long months the nation prayed,
+and hoped, and agonized for the life of its beloved
+President. Gifts poured in from every part of the
+Union, but gifts were of no avail. On September
+5, Garfield was carried to Elberon, Long Branch,
+New Jersey, where, in the Francklyn Cottage, he
+seemed to revive as he looked out upon the sea,
+the sea he had longed for in his boyhood. The
+nation took heart. But two weeks later, at thirty-five
+minutes past ten, on the evening of September
+19, the anniversary of the battle of Chickamauga,
+the President passed from an unconscious state to
+the consciousness of immortality. At ten minutes
+past ten he had said to General Swaim, who was
+standing beside him, as he put his hand upon his
+heart, "I have great pain here."</p>
+
+<p>The whole world sympathized with America in
+her great sorrow. Queen Victoria telegraphed to
+Mrs. Garfield: "Words cannot express the deep
+sympathy I feel with you at this terrible moment.
+May God support and comfort you, as he alone can."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_398" id="Page_398">[398]</a></span>On September 21, the body of the President was
+taken to Washington. At the Princeton Station,
+three hundred students from the college, with uncovered
+heads, strewed the track and covered the
+funeral car with flowers. At the Capitol, where he
+had so recently listened to the cheers of the people
+at his inauguration, one hundred thousand passed in
+silence before his open coffin. The casket was covered
+with flowers; one wreath bearing a card from
+England's queen, with the words: "Queen Victoria,
+to the memory of the late President Garfield, an
+expression of her sorrow and sympathy with Mrs.
+Garfield and the American nation."</p>
+
+<p>The body was borne to Cleveland, the whole
+train of cars being draped in black. Fifty thousand
+persons assembled at the station, and followed
+the casket to a catafalque on the public square.
+During the Sabbath, an almost countless throng
+passed beside the beloved dead. On Monday, September
+26, through beautiful Euclid Avenue, the
+body was borne six miles, to its final resting-place.
+Every house was draped in mourning. Streets
+were arched with exquisite flowers on a background
+of black. One city alone, Cincinnati, sent two carloads
+of flowers. Among the many floral designs
+was a ladder of white immortelles, with eleven
+rounds, bearing the words: "Chester," "Hiram,"
+"Williams," "Ohio Senate," "Colonel," "General,"
+"Congress," "United States Senate," "President,"
+"Martyr."</p>
+
+<p>After appropriate exercises, the sermon being<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_399" id="Page_399">[399]</a></span>
+preached by Rev. Isaac Errett, D.D., of Cincinnati,
+according to a promise made years before,
+the casket, followed by a procession five miles long,
+was carried to the cemetery. It was estimated
+that a quarter of a million people were gathered
+along the streets; not idle sight-seers, but men
+and women who loved the boy, and revered the
+man who had come to distinguished honor in their
+midst.</p>
+
+<p>Not only in Cleveland were memorial services
+held. The Archbishop of Canterbury spoke touching
+words in London. In Liverpool, in Manchester,
+in Glasgow, and hundreds of other cities, public
+services were held. Messages of condolence were
+sent from many of the crowned heads of Europe.</p>
+
+<p>Under the white stone monument in Lake View
+Cemetery, the statesman has been laid to rest.
+For centuries the tomb will tell to the thousands
+upon thousands who visit it the story of struggle
+and success; of work, of hope, of courage, of devotion
+to duty. Like Abraham Lincoln, Garfield
+was born in a log cabin, battled with poverty, was
+honest, great-hearted, a lover of America, and, like
+him, a martyr to the republic. To the world both
+deaths seemed unbearable calamities, but nations,
+like individuals, are chastened by sorrow, and learn
+great lessons through great trials. "Now we know
+in part; but then shall we know even as also we
+are known."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<p>"<i>The Best Book for Boys that has yet been written.</i>
+We say this with Tom Brown's delightful School Days fresh
+in our recollection."&mdash;<i>Portland Press.</i></p>
+
+<h2>CUORÉ.</h2>
+
+<p class="center"><i>AN ITALIAN SCHOOL-BOY'S JOURNAL.</i></p>
+
+<p>By EDMONDO DE AMICIS. Translated from the 39th
+Italian Edition by Isabel F. Hapgood.</p>
+
+<p class="center">12mo. $1.25.</p>
+
+
+<p>In this delightful volume, so unconventional in form, so fresh and
+energetic in style, Signor de Amicis has given not only the heart history
+of an Italian lad but also a very vivid and attractive picture of
+modern life in Italy. He is a genuine boy who is supposed to write
+the story, and all the events, incidents, and observations are seen
+through a boy's bright young eyes. The descriptions of school experiences,
+of festivals and public ceremonies, of scenes in city and
+country, are all full of color and charm, and are inspired by a genuine
+love for humanity.</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"A charming and wholesome volume."&mdash;<i>Albany Journal.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Just the thing for school-boys."&mdash;<i>Beacon.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Its topics are such as boys take delight in. *** The moment a boy begins to
+read it he decides to go through with it."&mdash;<i>Cleveland Leader.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Can not be spoken of in too high terms of praise."&mdash;<i>Boston Transcript.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Filled with incidents delightfully described."&mdash;<i>Albany Press.</i></p>
+
+<p>"No wonder the work has reached its thirty-ninth edition."&mdash;<i>Norwick Journal.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Deserves a place beside Tom Bailey and Tom Brown."&mdash;<i>Commercial Bulletin</i>,
+Boston.</p>
+
+<p>"Written in just the style to please healthy boys."&mdash;<i>Ohio State Journal.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Lovers of literature will be delighted with it."&mdash;<i>Mail and Express</i>, New York.</p>
+
+<p>"A voyage into those wondrous regions, the heart, soul and pocket of a school-boy
+*** Full of striking and beautiful passages."&mdash;<i>Critic</i>, New York.</p></blockquote>
+<hr style="width: 25%;" />
+
+<h3>THOMAS Y. CROWELL &amp; CO.</h3>
+
+<p class="center">13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>SIX BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE</h2>
+
+<p class="center">By J A K</p>
+
+<p class="center">12mo. Illustrated. $1.25 per Vol.</p>
+
+
+<h4>BIRCHWOOD.</h4>
+
+<p>"A hearty, honest boys' book, which young people are sure to enjoy."&mdash;<i>N. Y.
+Mail and Express.</i></p>
+
+<p>"An eminently wholesome and good book."&mdash;<i>Zion's Herald.</i></p>
+
+<p>"An excellent story for boys, inculcating the valuable truth that whether a boy be
+rich or poor he should learn to work. There is also a good temperance lesson taught;
+and it is all told in a simple way, that ought to interest young readers."&mdash;<i>Literary World.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>RIVERSIDE MUSEUM.</h4>
+
+<p>"Thoroughly healthy in tone."&mdash;<i>Nation.</i></p>
+
+<p>"A very charming story for young folks."&mdash;<i>Inter-Ocean.</i></p>
+
+<p>"In a pleasant, easy style, the writer shows how children aiming at improvement
+can find around a village the objects in Nature which develop thought and knowledge."&mdash;<i>Christian
+Intelligencer.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>THE FITCH CLUB.</h4>
+
+<p>"A very interesting and very profitable story."&mdash;<i>Hartford Post.</i></p>
+
+<p>"The author has a happy way of telling a story in just the style calculated to interest
+boys."&mdash;<i>Christian Union.</i></p>
+
+<p>"A pure and interesting story for the boys and girls. Ways and means of doing
+many useful things are so naturally and pleasantly told that the information does not
+appear like teaching, but like story-telling."&mdash;<i>Kansas City Times.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>PROFESSOR JOHNNY.</h4>
+
+<p>"An admirable book for teaching boys the science of common things."&mdash;<i>Home
+Journal.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Combines scientific information, wise moral instruction, and capital entertainment
+in good proportions."&mdash;<i>The Congregationalist.</i></p>
+
+<p>"It is characterized by that uncommon thing&mdash;common sense."&mdash;<i>Christian Index.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>WHO SAVED THE SHIP.</h4>
+
+<p>"Good wholesome reading."&mdash;<i>Milwaukee Sentinel.</i></p>
+
+<p>"One of the brightest books of the season."&mdash;<i>Ohio State Journal.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Admirable in tone and full of interest."&mdash;<i>Boston Traveller.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>THE GIANT DWARF.</h4>
+
+<p>"Young and old will read the story with pleasure."&mdash;<i>Philadelphia Inquirer.</i></p>
+
+<p>"The author of 'Birchwood,' 'Prof. Johnny,' and other tales, will always be sure
+of a welcome among young people, and 'The Giant Dwarf' will be found to rank
+among his most fascinating work."&mdash;<i>Boston Traveller.</i></p>
+
+
+<h3>THOMAS Y. CROWELL &amp; CO.</h3>
+
+<p class="center">13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.</p>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<p class="center">$1500 PRIZE STORY.</p>
+
+<h2>THE BLIND BROTHER.</h2>
+
+<p class="center"><i>A STORY OF THE MINES.</i><br /><br />
+
+By HOMER GREENE.<br /><br />
+
+12mo, cloth. 230 pp. 14 illustrations. 90 cents.</p>
+
+<p>"The recent prize competition for stories, held by the publishers of
+the <i>Youth's Companion</i>, called forth about 5000 aspirants for literary
+honors, among that multitude, Mr. Homer Greene, of Honesdale, Pa.,
+whose story, the Blind Brother, took the first prize of $1500, probably
+the largest sum ever paid for a story to a hitherto comparatively unknown
+writer. The Blind Brother deals with life in the coal-mining
+region of the Wyoming Valley, and is remarkable for its dramatic
+intensity, power of characterization, humor and pathos."</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"There are 4,000,000 boys in the United States from 10 to 16 years of age. This
+story was written for them. We wish every one of the number to read it. A style of
+writing more simple, clear, direct, forcible, and attractive could not be desired."&mdash;<i>National
+Republican</i>, Washington, D. C.</p>
+
+<p>"This wonderfully pathetic and beautiful creation."&mdash;<i>Wilkesbarre Union-Leader.</i></p>
+
+<p>"It is a pleasure to think of anything at once so entertaining, so healthful, and so
+artistic, falling into the hands of youthful readers."&mdash;<i>The Critic</i>, New York.</p>
+
+<p>"Well conceived, prettily told, and enlivened with effective touches of light and
+shade."&mdash;<i>The Epoch</i>, New York.</p>
+
+<p>"A story of remarkable power and pathos."&mdash;<i>Chicago Advance.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Replete with thrilling incidents."&mdash;<i>N. Y. Journal.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Full of interest, full of information not usually stumbled upon, and full of lessons
+of morality and true manliness."&mdash;<i>Christian Standard.</i></p>
+
+<p>"The plot natural and arousing deep interest, whilst the story has its humorous and
+its touching passages."&mdash;<i>Presbyterian Banner</i>, Pittsburgh.</p>
+
+<p>"So sweet and touching that the moral is profound."&mdash;<i>New Haven Palladium.</i></p>
+
+<p>"A good strong story, told with simplicity and directness."&mdash;<i>Christian Intelligence</i>,
+New York.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<h3>THOMAS Y. CROWELL &amp; CO.</h3>
+
+<p class="center">13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>FAMOUS BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.</h2>
+
+
+<h4>POOR BOYS WHO BECAME FAMOUS.</h4>
+
+<p>By <span class="smcap">Sarah K. Bolton</span>. Short biographical sketches of George Peabody,
+Michael Faraday, Samuel Johnson, Admiral Farragut, Horace Greeley, William
+Lloyd Garrison, Garibaldi, President Lincoln, and other noted persons who,
+from humble circumstances, have risen to fame and distinction, and left behind
+an imperishable record. Illustrated with 24 portraits. 12mo. $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>"It is seldom that a book passes under our notice which we feel impelled to
+commend so highly to young readers, and especially to boys."&mdash;<i>N. Y. Observer.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>GIRLS WHO BECAME FAMOUS.</h4>
+
+<p>By <span class="smcap">Sarah K. Bolton</span>. A companion book to "Poor Boys Who Became
+Famous." Biographical sketches of Harriet Beecher Stowe, George Eliot,
+Helen Hunt Jackson, Harriet Hosmer, Rosa Bonheur, Florence Nightingale,
+Maria Mitchell, and other eminent women. Illustrated with portraits. 12mo.
+$1.50.</p>
+
+<p>"Give this book to your daughter; she may, perhaps, never become famous,
+but it will help her to do well her life's work."&mdash;<i>American Baptist.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>FAMOUS AMERICAN AUTHORS.</h4>
+
+<p>By <span class="smcap">Sarah K. Bolton</span>. Short biographical sketches of Holmes, Longfellow,
+Emerson, Lowell, Aldrich, Mark Twain, and other noted writers. Illustrated
+with portraits. 12mo. $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>"Bright and chatty, giving glimpses into the heart and home life of some
+whom the world delights to honor.... At once accurate, inviting, instructive."&mdash;<i>Chautauquan.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN.</h4>
+
+<p>By <span class="smcap">Sarah K. Bolton</span>. A companion book to "Famous American Authors."
+Biographical sketches of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Hamilton, Webster,
+Sumner, Garfield, and others. Illustrated with portraits. 12mo. $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>Such lives as are sketched in this book are a constant inspiration, both to young
+and old. They teach Garfield's oft-repeated maxim, that "the genius of success
+is still the genius of labor." They teach patriotism, a deeper love for and
+devotion to America. They teach that life, with some definite and noble purpose,
+is worth living.</p>
+
+
+<h4>BOYS' BOOK OF FAMOUS RULERS.</h4>
+
+<p>By <span class="smcap">Lydia Hoyt Farmer</span>. Lives of Agamemnon, Julius Cćsar, Charlemagne,
+Frederick the Great, Richard C&oelig;ur de Lion, Robert Bruce, Napoleon,
+and other heroes of historic fame. Fully illustrated with portraits and numerous
+engravings. 12mo. $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>"A capital book for youth. Each subject has a portrait and illustrations of
+eventful scenes."&mdash;<i>Boston Globe.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>GIRLS' BOOK OF FAMOUS QUEENS.</h4>
+
+<p>By <span class="smcap">Lydia Hoyt Farmer</span>. A companion book to "Boys' Book of Famous
+Rulers." Lives of Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth, Catharine de Medici, Josephine,
+Victoria, Eugénie, etc. 12mo, cloth. 85 illustrations. $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>"Such a book for young people is worth a score of 'blood and thunder'
+fictions; it is worthy a place in the library of every boy and girl."&mdash;<i>Washington
+Post.</i></p>
+
+
+<h4>LIFE OF LAFAYETTE, the Knight of Liberty.</h4>
+
+<p>By <span class="smcap">Lydia Hoyt Farmer.</span> A glowing narrative of the life of this renowned
+general, with 58 illustrations. 12mo. $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>As a large portion of the material presented in this volume has been gathered
+from French works never before translated and which are now out of print, and
+also from original files of newspapers, and various manuscripts written by members
+of the La Fayette family, a more complete life of General La Fayette is here
+offered than has before appeared, either in this country or in Europe.</p>
+
+
+<h3>THOMAS Y. CROWELL &amp; CO., 13 Astor Place, NEW YORK.</h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<div class="tn"><h3>Transcriber's Note:</h3> <p> Minor typographical errors
+and inconsistencies have been corrected without comment.</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="full" />
+<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN***</p>
+<p>******* This file should be named 39012-h.txt or 39012-h.zip *******</p>
+<p>This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:<br />
+<a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/3/9/0/1/39012">http://www.gutenberg.org/3/9/0/1/39012</a></p>
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+</body>
+</html>
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@@ -0,0 +1,10446 @@
+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Famous American Statesmen, by Sarah Knowles
+Bolton
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: Famous American Statesmen
+
+
+Author: Sarah Knowles Bolton
+
+
+
+Release Date: February 29, 2012  [eBook #39012]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII)
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN***
+
+
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+Transcriber's note:
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+      Text enclosed by underscores is in italics (_italics_).
+
+      Small capital text has been replaced with all capitals.
+
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN
+
+by
+
+SARAH K. BOLTON
+
+Author of "Poor Boys Who Became Famous," "Girls Who
+Became Famous," "Famous American Authors,"
+"Stories from Life," "From Heart and Nature," etc.
+
+
+"A nation has no possessions so valuable as its great men,
+living or dead."--HON. JOHN BIGELOW.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+New York
+Thomas Y. Crowell & Co.
+No. 13 Astor Place
+
+Copyright, 1888, By
+Thomas Y. Crowell & Co.
+
+Electrotyped
+By C. J. Peters and Son, Boston.
+
+Presswork by Berwick & Smith, Boston.
+
+
+
+
+  To
+
+  THOMAS Y. CROWELL.
+
+  RESPECTED AS A PUBLISHER
+  AND
+  ESTEEMED AS A FRIEND.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+"With the great, one's thoughts and manners easily become great; ...
+what this country longs for is personalities, grand persons, to
+counteract its materialities," says Emerson. Such lives as are sketched
+in this book are a constant inspiration, both to young and old. They
+teach Garfield's oft-repeated maxim, that "the genius of success is
+still the genius of labor." They teach patriotism--a deeper love for and
+devotion to America. They teach that life, with some definite and noble
+purpose, is worth living.
+
+I have written of Abraham Lincoln, one of our greatest and best
+statesmen, in "Poor Boys Who Became Famous," which will explain its
+omission from this volume.
+
+                                                    S. K. B.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+                          PAGE
+
+  GEORGE WASHINGTON         1
+
+  BENJAMIN FRANKLIN        38
+
+  THOMAS JEFFERSON         67
+
+  ALEXANDER HAMILTON       99
+
+  ANDREW JACKSON          133
+
+  DANIEL WEBSTER          177
+
+  HENRY CLAY              230
+
+  CHARLES SUMNER          268
+
+  ULYSSES S. GRANT        307
+
+  JAMES A. GARFIELD       361
+
+[Illustration: G. Washington signature]
+
+
+
+
+GEORGE WASHINGTON.
+
+
+The "purest figure in history," wrote William E. Gladstone of George
+Washington.
+
+When Frederick the Great sent his portrait to Washington, he sent with
+it these remarkable words: "From the oldest general in Europe to the
+greatest general in the world."
+
+Lord Brougham said: "It will be the duty of the historian, and the sage
+of all nations, to let no occasion pass of commemorating this
+illustrious man; and until time shall be no more will a test of the
+progress which our race has made in wisdom and virtue be derived from
+the veneration paid to the immortal name of Washington."
+
+At Bridge's Creek, Maryland, in a substantial home, overlooking the
+Potomac, George Washington was born, February 22, 1732. His father,
+Augustine, was descended from a distinguished family in England--William
+de Hertburn, a knight who owned the village of Wessyngton (Washington).
+He married, at the age of twenty-one, Jane Butler, who died thirteen
+years afterward. Two years after her death he married Mary Ball, a
+beautiful girl, of decided character and sterling common-sense. She
+became a good mother to his two motherless children; two having died in
+early childhood.
+
+Six children were born to them, George being the eldest. The
+opportunities for education in the new world, especially on a
+plantation, were limited. From one of his father's tenants, the sexton
+of the parish, George learned to read, write, and cipher. He was fond of
+military things, and organized among the scholars sham-fights and
+parades; taking the position usually of commander-in-chief, by common
+consent. This love of war might have come through the influence of his
+half-brother Lawrence, who had been in battles in the West Indies.
+
+When George was twelve, his father died suddenly, leaving Mary Ball, at
+thirty-seven, to care for her own five children, one having died in
+infancy, and two boys by the first marriage. Fortunately, a large estate
+was left them, which she was to control till they became of age.
+
+While she loved her children tenderly, she exacted the most complete
+obedience. She was dignified and firm, yet cheerful, and possessed an
+unusually sweet voice. To his mother's intelligence and moral training
+George attributed his success in life. She would gather her children
+about her daily, and read to them from Matthew Hale's "Contemplations,
+Divine and Moral." The book had been loved by the first wife, who wrote
+in it, "Jane Washington." Under this George's mother wrote, "and Mary
+Washington." This book was always preserved with tender care at Mount
+Vernon, in later years. Such teaching the boy never forgot. When he was
+thirteen, he wrote "Rules of courtesy and decent behavior in company and
+conversation," one hundred and ten maxims, which seemed to have great
+influence over him.
+
+At fourteen, he desired to enter the navy, and a midshipman's warrant
+was procured by his brother Lawrence. Now he could see the world, and
+was happy at the prospect. All winter long, the mother's heart ached as
+she thought of the separation, and finally, when his clothing had been
+taken on board of a British man-of-war, her affection triumphed, and the
+lad was kept in his Virginia home; kept for a great work. However
+disappointed he may have been, his mother's word was law. Those who
+learn to obey in youth learn also how to govern in later life. George
+went back to school to study arithmetic and land-surveying. He was
+thorough in his work, and his record books, still preserved, are neat
+and exact.
+
+It is never strange that a boy who idolizes his mother should think
+other women lovable. At fifteen, the bashful, manly boy had given his
+heart to a girl about his own age, and it was long before he could
+conquer the affection. A year later he wrote to a friend, "I might, was
+my heart disengaged, pass my time very pleasantly, as there's a very
+agreeable young lady lives in the same house; but as that's only adding
+fuel to fire, it makes me the more uneasy, for by often and unavoidably
+being in company with her revives my former passion for your Lowland
+Beauty; whereas, was I to live more retired from young women, I might in
+some measure alleviate my sorrows, by burying that chaste and
+troublesome passion in the grave of oblivion."
+
+Years afterwards, the son of this "Lowland Beauty," General Henry Lee,
+became a favorite with Washington in the Revolutionary War; possibly all
+the more loved from tender recollections of the mother. General Lee was
+the father of General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army, in the
+Civil War.
+
+At sixteen, the real work of Washington's life began. Lord Fairfax of
+Virginia desired his large estates beyond the Blue Ridge to be surveyed,
+and he knew that the youth had the courage to meet the Indians in the
+wilderness, and would do his work well.
+
+Washington and a friend set out on horseback for the valley called by
+the Indians Shenandoah, "the daughter of the stars." He made a record
+daily of the beauty of the trees--every refined soul loves trees almost
+as though they were human--and the richness of the soil, and selected
+the best sites for townships. In his diary he says, "A blowing, rainy
+night, our straw upon which we were lying took fire, but I was luckily
+preserved by one of our men awaking when it was in a flame." For three
+years he lived this exposed life, sleeping out-of-doors, gaining
+self-reliance, and a knowledge of the Indians, which knowledge he was
+soon to need.
+
+Trouble had begun already in the Ohio valley, between the French and
+English, in their claims to the territory. No wonder a sachem asked,
+"The French claim all the land on one side of the Ohio, the English
+claim all the land on the other side--now, where does the Indians' land
+lie?"
+
+Virginia began to make herself ready for a war which seemed inevitable.
+She divided her province into military districts, and placed one in
+charge of the young surveyor, only nineteen, who was made adjutant
+general with the rank of major. Thus early did the sincere, self-poised
+young man take upon himself great responsibilities. Washington at once
+began to make himself ready for his duties, by studying military
+tactics; taking lessons in field-work from his brother Lawrence, and
+sword exercise from a soldier. This drill was broken in upon for a time
+by the illness and death of Lawrence, of whom he was very fond, and whom
+he accompanied to the Barbadoes. Here George took small-pox, from which
+he was slightly marked through life. The only child of Lawrence soon
+died, and Mount Vernon came to George by will. He was now a person of
+wealth, but riches did not spoil him. He did not seek ease; he sought
+work and honor.
+
+Matters were growing worse in the Ohio valley. The Virginians had
+erected forts at what is now Pittsburg; and the French, about fifteen
+miles south of Lake Erie. Governor Dinwiddie determined to make a last
+remonstrance with the French who should thus presume to come upon
+English territory. The way to their forts lay through an unsettled
+wilderness, a distance of from five hundred to six hundred miles. Some
+Indian tribes favored one nation; some the other. The governor offered
+this dangerous commission--a visit to the French--to several persons,
+who hastened to decline with thanks the proffered honor.
+
+Young Washington, with his brave heart, was willing to undertake the
+journey, and started September 30, 1753, with horses, tents, and other
+necessary equipments. They found the rivers swollen, so that the horses
+had to swim. The swamps, in the snow and rain, were almost impassable.
+At last they arrived at the forts, early in December. Washington
+delivered his letter to the French, and an answer was written to the
+governor.
+
+On December 25, Washington and his little party started homeward. The
+horses were well-nigh exhausted, and the men dismounted, put on Indian
+hunting-dress, and toiled on through the deepening snow. Washington, in
+haste to reach the governor, strapped his pack on his shoulders, and,
+gun in hand, with one companion, Mr. Gist, struck through the woods,
+hoping thus to reach the Alleghany River sooner, and cross on the ice.
+At night they lit their camp-fire, but at two in the morning they
+pursued their journey, guided by the north star.
+
+Some Indians now approached, and offered their services as guides. One
+was chosen, but Washington soon suspected that they were being guided in
+the wrong direction. They halted, and said they would camp for the
+night, but the Indian demurred, and offered to carry Washington's gun,
+as he was fatigued. This was declined, when the Indian grew sullen,
+hurried forward, and, when fifteen paces ahead, levelled his gun and
+fired at Washington. Gist at once seized the savage, took his gun from
+him, and would have killed him on the spot had not the humane Washington
+prevented. He was sent home to his cabin with a loaf of bread, and told
+to come to them in the morning with meat. Probably he expected to return
+before morning, and, with some other braves, scalp the two Americans;
+but Washington and Gist travelled all night, and reached the Alleghany
+River opposite the site of Pittsburg.
+
+Unfortunately, the river was not frozen as they had hoped, but was full
+of broken ice. All day long they worked to construct a raft, with but
+one hatchet between them. After reaching the middle of the river the men
+on the raft were hurled into ten feet of water by the floating ice, and
+Washington was saved from drowning only by clinging to a log. They lay
+till morning on an island in the river, their clothes stiff with frost,
+and the hands and feet of poor Gist frozen by the intense cold. The
+agony of that night Washington never forgot, even in the horrors of
+Valley Forge.
+
+Happily, the river had grown passable in the night, and they were able
+to cross to a place of safety. He came home as speedily as possible and
+delivered the letter to Governor Dinwiddie. His journal was sent to
+London and published, because of the knowledge it gave of the position
+of the French. The young soldier of twenty-one had escaped death from
+the burning straw in surveying, from the Indian's gun, and from
+drowning. He had shown prudence, self-devotion, and heroism. "From that
+moment," says Irving, in his delightful life of Washington, "he was the
+rising hope of Virginia." And he was the rising hope of the new world as
+well.
+
+The polite letter brought by Washington to the governor had declared
+that no Englishmen should remain in the Ohio valley! Dinwiddie at once
+determined to send three hundred troops against the French, and offered
+the command to Washington. He shrunk from the charge, and it was given
+to Colonel Fry, while he was made second in command. Fry soon died, and
+Washington was obliged to assume control. He was equal to the occasion.
+He said, "I have a constitution hardy enough to encounter and undergo
+the most severe trials, and, I flatter myself, resolution enough to face
+what any man dares, as shall be proved when it comes to the test."
+
+The test soon came. In the conflict which followed he was in the
+thickest of the fight, one man being killed at his side. He wrote to his
+brother, "I heard the bullets whistle, and, believe me, there is
+something charming in the sound." Years afterward, he said, when he had
+long known the sorrows of war, "If I said that, it was when I was
+young."
+
+At Great Meadows, below Pittsburg, he was defeated by superior numbers,
+and obliged to evacuate the fort, but the Virginia House of Burgesses
+thanked him for his bravery.
+
+The next year, England sent out General Braddock, who had been over
+forty years in the service, a fearless but self-willed officer, to take
+command of the American forces. Washington gladly joined him as an
+aide-de-camp. They set out with two thousand soldiers, toward Fort du
+Quesne (Pittsburg). The amount of baggage astonished Washington, who
+well knew the swamps and mountains that must be crossed, but Braddock
+could not be influenced. He remarked to Benjamin Franklin, "These
+savages may indeed be a formidable enemy to raw militia, but upon the
+king's regular and disciplined troops, sir, it is impossible they should
+make an impression." How great an "impression" savages could make upon
+the "king's regular and disciplined troops" was soon to be shown.
+
+The march was exceedingly difficult. Sometimes a whole day was spent in
+cutting a passage of two miles over the mountains. Washington urged
+that the Virginia Rangers be put to the front, as they understood
+Indian warfare. The general haughtily opposed it, and the regulars in
+brilliant uniforms, bayonets fixed, colors flying, and drums beating,
+swept over the open plain to battle, July 9, 1755.
+
+Suddenly there was a cry, "The French and Indians!" The Indian yell
+struck terror to the hearts of the regulars. They fired in all
+directions, killing their own men. A panic ensued. Braddock tried to
+rally his men; even striking them with the flat of his sword. Five
+horses were killed under him. At last a bullet entered his lungs, and he
+fell, mortally wounded. Then the men fled precipitately, falling over
+their dead comrades. Out of eighty-six officers, twenty-six were killed
+and thirty-six wounded. Nearly half of the whole army were dead or
+disabled. The Virginia Rangers covered the retreat of the flying
+regulars, and thus saved a remnant. Braddock, bequeathing his horse and
+servant, Bishop, to Washington, died broken-hearted, moaning, "Who would
+have thought it!... We shall better know how to deal with them another
+time." Washington tenderly read the funeral service, and Braddock was
+buried in the new and wild country he had come to save.
+
+Washington escaped as by a miracle. He wrote his brother, "By the
+all-powerful dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond
+all human probability or expectation; for I had four bullets through my
+coat, and two horses shot under me, yet escaped unhurt, though death
+was levelling my companions on every side of me." Through life, this
+man, great in all that mankind prize, loved and believed in the
+Christian religion. Agnosticism had no charms for him.
+
+Washington returned to Mount Vernon temporarily broken in health, and
+his fond mother, who was living at the old homestead, wrote begging that
+he would not again enter the service. In reply he said, "Honored Madam,"
+for thus he always addressed her, "if it is in my power to avoid going
+to the Ohio again, I shall; but if the command is pressed upon me by the
+general voice of the country, and offered upon such terms as cannot be
+objected against, it would reflect dishonor on me to refuse it; and
+that, I am sure, must and ought to give you greater uneasiness than my
+going in an honorable command."
+
+Braddock's defeat electrified the colonies. Governor Dinwiddie at once
+called for troops, and Washington was made "commander-in-chief of all
+the forces raised or to be raised in Virginia." For two years he
+protected the people in the attacks of the Indians; his heart so full of
+pity that he wrote the governor, "I solemnly declare, if I know my own
+mind, I could offer myself a willing sacrifice to the butchering enemy,
+provided that would contribute to the people's ease." No wonder that
+such self-sacrifice and unselfishness won the homage of the State, and
+later of the nation.
+
+In May, 1758, the condition of the army was such, the men so poorly
+clad and paid, that the young commander decided to go to Williamsburg to
+lay the matter before the council. In crossing the Pamunkey, a branch of
+the York River, he met a Mr. Chamberlayne, who pressed him to dine, more
+especially as a charming lady was visiting at his house. He accepted the
+invitation, and there met Martha Custis, a widow of twenty-six, two
+months younger than himself; a bright, frank, agreeable woman, with dark
+eyes and hair, below the middle size, a contrast indeed to his striking
+physique, six feet two inches tall, blue eyes, and grave demeanor.
+
+Martha Dandridge, with amiable disposition and winning manners, had been
+married at seventeen to Daniel Parke Custis, thirty-eight, a
+kind-hearted and wealthy land-owner. For seven years they lived at "The
+White House," on the Pamunkey River, where he died, leaving two
+children, John Parke and Martha Parke Custis. Mrs. Custis had come to
+visit the Chamberlaynes, and now was to meet the most popular officer in
+Virginia.
+
+The dinner passed pleasantly, and then Bishop, the servant, brought
+Colonel Washington's horse and his own to the gate at the appointed
+hour. But Colonel Washington did not appear. The afternoon seemed like a
+dream, for love takes no account of time. The sun was setting when he
+rose to go, but Major Chamberlayne urged his guest to pass the night.
+Probably he did not need to be urged, for the most sublime and
+beautiful force in all the world now controlled the fearless
+Washington. The next morning he hastened to Williamsburg, transacted his
+business, returned to the home of Martha Custis, where he spent a day
+and a night, and left her his betrothed.
+
+The commander went back to camp with a new joy in living. The army was
+now ordered against Fort du Quesne, under Brigadier-General Forbes of
+Great Britain; Washington leading the Virginia troops. He seized a
+moment before leaving to write to Mrs. Custis, which letter Lossing
+gives in his interesting lives of Mary and Martha Washington:--
+
+     "A courier is starting for Williamsburg, and I embrace the
+     opportunity to send a few words to one whose life is now
+     inseparable from mine. Since that happy hour when we made our
+     pledges to each other, my thoughts have been continually going to
+     you as to another self. That an all-powerful Providence may keep us
+     both in safety is the prayer of your ever faithful and
+
+                                "Ever affectionate friend,
+                                                 "G. WASHINGTON."
+
+The army marched again over the field where the bones of Braddock's men
+were bleaching in the sun, and approached the fort, only to find that
+the French had deserted it after setting it on fire, and retreated down
+the river. Washington, who led the advance, planted the British flag
+over the smoking ruin of what is now Pittsburg, so called from the
+illustrious William Pitt. With the French driven out of the Ohio valley,
+Washington, having served five years in the army, resigned, and married
+Martha Custis, January 6, 1759. Every inch a soldier he must have looked
+in his suit of blue cloth lined with red silk, and ornamented with
+silver trimmings; while his bride wore white satin, with pearl necklace
+and ear-rings, and pearls in her hair. She rode home in a coach drawn by
+six horses, while Colonel Washington, on a fine chestnut horse, attended
+by a brilliant cortege, rode beside her carriage.
+
+The year previous, 1758, Washington had been elected a member of the
+Virginia Assembly. When he took his seat, the House gave him an address
+of welcome. He rose to reply, trembled, and could not say a word. "Sit
+down, Mr. Washington," said the speaker; "your modesty equals your
+valor, and that surpasses the power of any language I possess."
+Beautiful attributes of character, not always found in conjunction;
+valor and modesty!
+
+For three months Washington remained at the home of his wife, to attend
+to the business of the colony; becoming also guardian of her two pretty
+children, four and six years of age, whom he seemed to love as his own.
+When he took his bride to Mount Vernon to live, he wrote to a relative,
+"I am now, I believe, fixed in this spot with an agreeable partner for
+life; and I hope to find more happiness in retirement than I ever
+experienced in the wide and bustling world."
+
+For seventeen years he lived on his estate of eight thousand acres,
+delighting in agriculture, and enjoying the development of the two
+children. The years passed quickly, for affection, the holiest thing on
+earth, brought rest and contentment. He or she is rich who possesses it.
+To have millions, and yet live in a home where there is no affection, is
+to be poor indeed.
+
+He was an early riser; in winter often lighting his own fire, and
+reading by candle-light; retiring always at nine o'clock. He was
+vestryman in the Episcopal Church, and judge of the county court, as
+well as a member of the House of Burgesses. So honest was he that a
+barrel of flour marked with his name was exempted from the usual
+inspection in West India ports.
+
+Into this busy and happy life came sorrow, as it comes into other lives.
+Martha Parke Custis, a gentle and lovely girl, died of consumption at
+seventeen, Washington kneeling by her bedside in prayer as her life went
+out. The love of both parents now centred in the boy of nineteen, John
+Parke Custis, who, the following year, left Columbia College to marry a
+girl of sixteen, Eleanor Calvert. While Washington attended the wedding,
+Mrs. Washington could not go, in her mourning robes, but sent an
+affectionate letter to her new daughter.
+
+The quiet life at Mount Vernon was now to be wholly changed. The Stamp
+Act and the oppressive taxes had stirred America. When the taxes were
+repealed, save that on tea, and Lord North was urged to include tea
+also, he said: "To temporize is to yield; and the authority of the
+mother country, if it is not now supported, will be relinquished
+forever; _a total repeal cannot be thought of till America is prostrate
+at our feet_." Mrs. Washington, like other lovers of liberty, at once
+ceased to use tea at her table.
+
+When the First Continental Congress met at Philadelphia, September 5,
+1774, Washington was among the delegates chosen by Virginia. He rode
+thither on horseback, with his brilliant friends Patrick Henry and
+Edmund Pendleton. When they departed from Mount Vernon, the patriotic
+Martha Washington said: "I hope you will all stand firm. I know George
+will.... God be with you, gentlemen."
+
+To a relative, who wrote deprecating Colonel Washington's "folly," his
+wife answered: "Yes; I foresee consequences--dark days, and darker
+nights; domestic happiness suspended; social enjoyments abandoned;
+property of every kind put in jeopardy by war, perhaps; neighbors and
+friends at variance, and eternal separations on earth possible. But what
+are all these evils when compared with the fate of which the Port Bill
+may be only a threat? My mind is made up, my heart is in the cause.
+George is right; he is always right. God has promised to protect the
+righteous, and I will trust him." Blessings on the woman who, in the
+darkest hour, knows how to be as the sunlight in her hope and trust, and
+to be well-nigh a divine embodiment of courage and fortitude! Truly
+said Schiller: "Honor to women! they twine and weave the roses of heaven
+into the life of man."
+
+Congress remained in session fifty-one days. When the results of its
+labors were put before the House of Lords, the great Chatham said: "When
+your lordships look at the papers transmitted to us from America; when
+you consider their decency, firmness, and wisdom, you cannot but respect
+their cause, and wish to make it your own. For myself, I must declare
+and avow that, in the master states of the world, I know not the people,
+or senate, who, in such a complication of difficult circumstances, can
+stand in preference to the delegates of America assembled in General
+Congress at Philadelphia."
+
+When Patrick Henry was asked, on his return home, who was the greatest
+man in Congress, he replied: "If you speak of eloquence, Mr. Rutledge of
+South Carolina is by far the greatest orator; but if you speak of solid
+information and sound judgment, Colonel Washington is unquestionably the
+greatest man on that floor." Wise reading in all these years had given
+Washington "solid information," and "sound judgment" was partly an
+inheritance from noble Mary Washington.
+
+People all through New England were arming themselves. General Gage, who
+had been sent to Boston with British troops, said: "It is surprising
+that so many of the other provinces interest themselves so much in this.
+They have some warm friends in New York, and I learn that the people of
+Charleston, South Carolina, are as mad as they are here." He was soon to
+possess a more thorough knowledge of the American character.
+
+The Boston troops, under Gage, numbered about four thousand. He
+determined to destroy the military stores at Concord, on the night of
+April 18, 1775. It was to be done secretly, but as soon as the British
+regiment started, under Colonel Smith and Major Pitcairn, for Concord,
+the bells of Boston rang out, cannon were fired, and Paul Revere, with
+Prescott and Davis, rode at full speed in the bright moonlight to
+Lexington, to alarm the neighboring country. When cautioned against
+making so much noise, Revere replied: "You'll have noise enough here
+before long--the regulars are coming out."
+
+Long before morning, nearly two-score of the villagers, under Captain
+Parker, gathered on the green, near the church, waiting for the
+red-coats, who came at double-quick, Major Pitcairn exclaiming,
+"Disperse, ye villains! Lay down your arms, ye rebels, and disperse!"
+Unmoved, Captain Parker said to his men, "Don't fire unless you are
+fired on; but if they want a war, let it begin here." The Revolutionary
+War began there, to end only when America should be free. Seven
+Americans were killed, nine wounded, and the rest were put to flight;
+but the blood shed on Lexington Green made liberty dear to every heart.
+
+The British now marched to Concord, where, in the early morning, they
+found four hundred and fifty men gathered to receive them. Captain
+Isaac Davis, who said, when his company led the force, "I haven't a man
+that is afraid to go," was killed at the first shot, at the North
+Bridge.
+
+The British troops destroyed all the stores they could find, though most
+had been removed, and then started toward Boston. All along the road the
+indignant Americans fired upon them from behind stone fences and clumps
+of bushes. Tired by their night march, having lost three hundred in
+killed and wounded, over three times as many as the Americans, they were
+glad to meet Lord Percy coming to their rescue with one thousand men. He
+formed a hollow square, and, faint and exhausted, the soldiers threw
+themselves on the ground within it, and rested.
+
+The whole country seemed to rise to arms. Men came pouring into Boston
+with such weapons as they could find. Noble Israel Putnam of Connecticut
+left his plough in the field and hastened to the war.
+
+May 10, Congress again met at Philadelphia. They sent a second petition
+to King George, which John Adams called an "imbecile measure." They made
+plans for the support of the army already gathered at Cambridge from the
+different States. Who should be the commander of this growing army? Then
+John Adams spoke of the gentleman from Virginia, "whose skill and
+experience as an officer, whose independent fortune, great talents, and
+excellent universal character, would command the approbation of all
+America, and unite the cordial exertions of all the colonies better than
+any other person in the Union." June 5, Washington was unanimously
+elected commander-in-chief.
+
+Rising in his seat, and thanking Congress, he modestly said: "I beg it
+may be remembered by every gentleman in the room that I this day
+declare, with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the
+command I am honored with. As to pay, I beg leave to assure the Congress
+that, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to accept this
+arduous employment, at the expense of my domestic ease and happiness, I
+do not wish to make any profit of it. I will keep an exact account of my
+expenses. Those, I doubt not, they will discharge, and that is all I
+desire." He wrote to his wife: "I should enjoy more real happiness in
+one month with you at home than I have the most distant prospect of
+finding abroad if my stay were to be seven times seven years. But as it
+has been a kind of destiny that has thrown me upon this service, I shall
+hope that my undertaking it is designed to answer some good purpose....
+I shall feel no pain from the toil or danger of the campaign; my
+unhappiness will flow from the uneasiness I know you will feel from
+being left alone." No wonder Martha Washington loved him; so brave that
+he could meet any danger without fear, yet so tender that the thought of
+leaving her brought intense pain.
+
+He was now forty-three; the ideal of manly dignity. He at once started
+for Boston. Soon a courier met him, telling him of the battle of Bunker
+Hill--how for two hours raw militia had withstood British regulars,
+killing and wounding twice as many as they lost, and retreating only
+when their ammunition was exhausted. When Washington heard how bravely
+they had fought, he exclaimed: "The liberties of the country are safe."
+Under the great elm (still standing) at Cambridge, Washington took
+command of the army, July 3, 1775, amid the shouts of the multitude and
+the roar of artillery. His headquarters were established at Craigie
+House, afterward the home of the poet Longfellow. Here Mrs. Washington
+came later, and helped to lessen his cares by her cheerful presence.
+
+The soldiers were brave but undisciplined; the terms of enlistment were
+short, thus preventing the best work. To provide powder was well-nigh an
+impossibility. For months Washington drilled his army, and waited for
+the right moment to rescue Boston from the hands of the British.
+Generals Howe, Clinton, and Burgoyne had been sent over from England.
+Howe had strengthened Bunker Hill, and, with little respect for the
+feelings of the Americans, had removed the pulpit and pews from the Old
+South Church, covered the floor with earth, and converted it into a
+riding-school for Burgoyne's light dragoons. They did not consider the
+place sacred, because it was a "meeting-house where sedition had often
+been preached."
+
+The "right moment" came at last. In a single night the soldiers
+fortified Dorchester Heights, cannonading the enemy's batteries in the
+opposite direction, so that their attention was diverted from the real
+work. When the morning dawned of March 5, 1776, General Howe saw,
+through the lifting fog, the new fortress, with the guns turned upon
+Boston. "I know not what to do," he said. "The rebels have done more
+work in one night than my whole army would have done in one month."
+
+He resolved to attack the "rebels" by night, and for this attack
+twenty-five hundred men were embarked in boats. But a violent storm set
+in, and they could not land. The next day the rain poured in torrents,
+and when the second night came Dorchester Heights were too strong to be
+attacked. The proud General Howe was compelled to evacuate Boston with
+all possible dispatch, March 17, the navy going to Halifax and the army
+to New York. The Americans at once occupied the city, and planted the
+flag above the forts. Congress moved a vote of thanks to Washington, and
+ordered a gold medal, bearing his face, as the deliverer of Boston from
+British rule.
+
+The English considered this a humiliating defeat. The Duke of
+Manchester, in the House of Lords, said: "British generals, whose name
+never met with a blot of dishonor, are forced to quit that town, which
+was the first object of the war, the immediate cause of hostilities, the
+place of arms, which has cost this nation more than a million to
+defend."
+
+The Continental Army soon repaired to New York. Washington spared no
+pains to keep a high moral standard among his men. He said, in one of
+his orders: "The general is sorry to be informed that the foolish and
+wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing--a vice heretofore
+little known in an American army--is growing into fashion. He hopes the
+officers will, by example as well as influence, endeavor to check it,
+and that both they and the men will reflect that we can have little hope
+of the blessing of Heaven on our arms if we insult it by our impiety and
+folly. Added to this, it is a vice so mean and low, without any
+temptation, that every man of sense and character detests and despises
+it." Noble words!
+
+Great Britain now realized that the fight must be in earnest, and hired
+twenty thousand Hessians to help subjugate the colonies. When Admiral
+Howe came over from England, he tried to talk about peace with "Mr."
+Washington, or "George Washington, Esq.," as it was deemed beneath his
+dignity to acknowledge that the "rebels" had a general. The Americans
+could not talk about peace, with such treatment.
+
+Soon the first desperate battle was fought, on Long Island, August 27,
+1776, partly on the ground now occupied by Greenwood Cemetery, between
+eight thousand Americans and more than twice their number of trained
+Hessians. Washington, from an eminence, watched the terrible conflict,
+wringing his hands, and exclaiming, "What brave fellows I must this day
+lose!"
+
+The Americans were defeated, with great loss. Washington could no longer
+hold New York with his inadequate forces. With great energy and
+promptness he gathered all the boats possible, and then, so secretly
+that even his aides did not know his intention, nine thousand men,
+horses, and provisions, were ferried over the East River. A heavy fog
+hung over the Brooklyn side, as though provided by Providence, while it
+was clear on the New York side, so that the men could form in line.
+Washington crossed in the last boat, having been for forty-eight hours
+without sleep.
+
+In the morning, the astonished Englishmen learned that the prize had
+escaped. A Tory woman, the night before, seeing that the Americans were
+crossing the river, sent her colored servant to notify the British. A
+Hessian sentinel, not understanding the servant, locked him up till
+morning, when, upon the arrival of an officer, his errand was known; but
+the knowledge came too late!
+
+On October 28, the Americans were again defeated, at White Plains, Howe
+beginning the engagement. The condition of the Continental Army was
+disheartening. They were half-fed and half-clothed; the "ragged rebels,"
+the British called them. There was sickness in the camp, and many were
+deserting. Washington said, "Men just dragged from the tender scenes of
+domestic life, unaccustomed to the din of arms, totally unacquainted
+with every kind of military skill, are timid, and ready to fly from
+their own shadows. Besides, the sudden change in their manner of living
+brings on an unconquerable desire to return to their homes." So
+great-hearted was the commander-in-chief, though on the field of battle
+he had no leniency toward cowards.
+
+Washington retreated across New Jersey to Trenton. When he reached the
+Delaware River, filled with floating ice, he collected all the boats
+within seventy miles, and transported the troops, crossing last himself.
+Lord Cornwallis, of Howe's army, came in full pursuit, reached the river
+just as the last boat crossed, and looked in vain for means of
+transportation. There was nothing to be done but to wait till the river
+was frozen, so that the troops could cross on the ice.
+
+Washington, December 20, 1776, told John Hancock, President of Congress,
+"Ten days more will put an end to the existence of our army." Yet, on
+the night of December 25, Christmas, with almost superhuman courage, he
+determined to recross the Delaware, and attack the Hessians at Trenton.
+The weather was intensely cold. The boats, in crossing, were forced out
+of their course by the drifting ice. Two men were frozen to death. At
+four in the morning, the heroic troops took up the line of march, the
+snow and sleet beating in their faces. Many of the muskets were wet and
+useless. "What is to be done?" asked the men. "Push on, and use the
+bayonet," was the answer.
+
+At eight in the morning, the Americans rushed into the town. "The enemy!
+the enemy!" cried the Hessians. Their leader, Colonel Rahl, fell,
+mortally wounded. A thousand men laid down their arms and begged for
+quarter. Washington recrossed the Delaware with his whole body of
+captives, and the American nation took heart once more. That fearful
+crossing of the Delaware, in the blinding storm, and the sudden yet
+marvellous victory which followed, will always live among the most
+pathetic and stirring scenes of the Revolution. A few days later,
+January 3, 1777, with five thousand men, Washington defeated Cornwallis
+at Princeton, exposing himself so constantly to danger that his officers
+begged him to seek a place of safety.
+
+The third year of the Revolutionary War had opened. France, hating
+England, sympathizing with America in her struggle for liberty, and
+being encouraged in this sympathy by the honored Benjamin Franklin,
+loaned us money, supplied muskets and powder, and many troops under such
+brave leaders as Lafayette and De Kalb. The year 1777, although our
+forces were defeated at Brandywine and Germantown, witnessed the defeat
+of a part of Burgoyne's army at Bennington, Vermont, and, on the 17th of
+October, the remaining part at Saratoga; over five thousand men, seven
+thousand muskets, and a great quantity of military stores. Two months
+later, France made a treaty of alliance with the United States, to the
+joy of the whole country.
+
+On December 11, Washington went into winter-quarters at Valley Forge, on
+the west side of the Schuylkill, about twenty miles from Philadelphia.
+Trees were felled to build huts, the men toiling with scanty food, often
+barefoot, the snow showing the marks of their bleeding feet. Continental
+money had so depreciated that forty dollars were scarcely equal in value
+to one silver dollar. Sickness was decreasing the forces. Washington
+wrote to Congress: "No less than two thousand eight hundred and
+ninety-eight men are now in camp unfit for duty, because they are
+barefoot and otherwise naked." From lack of blankets, he said, "numbers
+have been obliged, and still are, to sit up all night by fires, instead
+of taking comfortable rest in a natural and common way." A man less
+great would have been discouraged, but he trusted in a power higher than
+himself, and waited in sublime dignity and patience for the progress of
+events. Martha Washington had come to Valley Forge to share in its
+privations, and to minister to the sick and the dying.
+
+The years 1778 and 1779 dragged on with their victories and defeats. The
+next year, 1780, the country was shocked by the treason of Benedict
+Arnold, who, having obtained command at West Point, had agreed to
+surrender it to the British for fifty thousand dollars in money and the
+position of brigadier-general in their army. On September 21, Sir Henry
+Clinton sent Major John Andre, an adjutant-general, to meet Arnold. He
+went ashore from the ship Vulture, met Arnold in a wood, and completed
+the plan. When he went back to the boat, he found that a battery had
+driven her down the river, and he must return by land. At Tarrytown, on
+the Hudson, he was met by three militiamen, John Paulding, David
+Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, who at once arrested him, and found the
+treasonable papers in his boots. He offered to buy his release, but
+Paulding assured him that fifty thousand dollars would be no temptation.
+
+Andre was at once taken to prison. While there he won all hearts by his
+intelligence and his cheerful, manly nature. He had entered the British
+army by reason of a disappointment in love. The father of the young lady
+had interfered, and she had become the second wife of the father of
+Maria Edgeworth. Andre always wore above his heart a miniature of Honora
+Sneyd, painted by herself. Just before his execution as a spy, he wrote
+to Washington, asking to be shot. When he was led to the gallows,
+October 2, 1780, and saw that he was to be hanged, for a moment he
+seemed startled, and exclaimed, "How hard is my fate!" but added, "It
+will soon be over." He put the noose about his own neck, tied the
+handkerchief over his eyes, and, when asked if he wished to speak, said
+only: "I pray you to bear witness that I meet my fate like a brave
+man." His death was universally lamented. In 1821, his body was removed
+to London by the British consul, and buried in Westminster Abbey.
+
+Every effort was made to capture Arnold, but without success. He once
+asked an American, who had been taken prisoner by the British, what his
+countrymen would have done with him had he been captured. The immediate
+reply was: "They would cut off the leg wounded in the service of your
+country, and bury it with the honors of war. The rest of you they would
+hang."
+
+In 1781, the condition of affairs was still gloomy. Some troops mutinied
+for lack of pay, but when approached by Sir Henry Clinton, through two
+agents, offering them food and money if they would desert the American
+cause, the agents were promptly hanged as spies. Such was the patriotism
+of the half-starved and half-clothed soldiers.
+
+In May of this year, Cornwallis took command of the English forces in
+Virginia, destroying about fifteen million dollars worth of property.
+Early in October, Washington with his troops, and Lafayette and De
+Rochambeau with their French troops, gathered at Yorktown, on the south
+bank of the York River. For ten days the siege was carried on. The
+French troops rendered heroic service. Washington was so in earnest that
+one of his aids, seeing that he was in danger, ventured to suggest that
+their situation was much exposed. "If you think so, you are at liberty
+to step back," was the grave response of the general. Shortly
+afterwards a musket-ball fell at Washington's feet. One of his generals
+grasped his arm, exclaiming, "We can't spare you yet." When the victory
+was finally won, Washington drew a long breath and said, "The work is
+done and well done." Cornwallis surrendered his whole army, over seven
+thousand soldiers, October 19, 1781.
+
+The American nation was thrilled with joy and gratitude. Washington
+ordered divine service to be performed in the several divisions, saying,
+"The commander-in-chief earnestly recommends that the troops not on duty
+should universally attend, with that seriousness of deportment and
+gratitude of heart which the recognition of such reiterated and
+astonishing interpositions of Providence demands of us." Congress
+appointed a day of thanksgiving and prayer, and voted two stands of
+colors to Washington and two pieces of field-ordnance to the brave
+French commanders. When Lord North, Prime Minister of England, heard of
+the defeat of the British, he exclaimed, "Oh, God! it is all over!"
+
+The nearly seven long years of war were ended, and America had become a
+free nation.
+
+The articles of peace between Great Britain and the United States were
+not signed till September 3, 1783. On November 4 the army was disbanded,
+with a touching address from their idolized commander. On December 4, in
+the city of New York, in a building on the corner of Pearl and Broad
+Streets, Washington said good-bye to his officers, losing for a time his
+wonderful self-command. "I cannot come to each of you to take my leave,"
+he said, "but shall be obliged if each of you will come and take me by
+the hand." Tears filled the eyes of all, as, silently, one by one, they
+clasped his hand in farewell, and passed out of his sight.
+
+Then Washington repaired to Annapolis, where Congress was assembled, and
+at twelve o'clock on the 23d of December, before a crowded house,
+offered his resignation. "Having now finished the work assigned me, I
+retire from the great theatre of action; and bidding an affectionate
+farewell to this august body, under whose orders I have long acted, I
+here offer my commission, and take my leave of all the employments of
+public life." "Few tragedies ever drew so many tears from so many
+beautiful eyes," said one who was present.
+
+The beloved general returned to Mount Vernon, to enjoy the peace and
+rest which he needed, and the honor of his country which he so well
+deserved. John Parke Custis, Mrs. Washington's only remaining child, had
+died, leaving four children, two of whom--Eleanor, two years old, and
+George Washington, six months old--the general adopted as his own. These
+brought additional "sweetness and light" into the beautiful home.
+
+The following year the Marquis de Lafayette was a guest at Mount Vernon,
+and went to Fredericksburg to bid adieu to Washington's mother. When he
+spoke in high praise of the man whom he so loved and honored, Mary
+Washington replied quietly, "I am not surprised at what George has done,
+for he was always a good boy." Blessed mother-heart, that, in training
+her child, could look into the future, and know, for a certainty, the
+result of her love and progress! She died August 25, 1789.
+
+Three years later--May 25, 1787--a convention met at Philadelphia to
+form a more perfect union of the States, and frame a Constitution.
+Washington was made President of this convention. He had long been
+reading carefully the history and principles of ancient and modern
+confederacies, and he was intelligently prepared for the honor accorded
+him. When the Constitution was finished, and ready for his signature, he
+said: "Should the United States reject this excellent Constitution, the
+probability is that an opportunity will never again be offered to cancel
+another in peace; the next will be drawn in blood."
+
+When the various States, after long debate, had accepted the
+Constitution, a President must be chosen, and that man very naturally
+was the man who had saved the country in the perils of war. On the way
+to New York, then the seat of government, Washington received a perfect
+ovation. The bells were rung, cannon fired, and men, women, and children
+thronged the way. Over the bridge crossing the Delaware the women of
+Trenton had erected an arch of evergreen and laurel, with the words,
+"The defender of the mothers will be the protector of the daughters."
+As he passed, young girls scattered flowers before him, singing grateful
+songs. How different from that crossing years before, with his worn and
+foot-sore army, amid the floating ice!
+
+The streets of New York were thronged with eager, thankful people, who
+wept as they cheered the hero, now fifty-seven, who had given nearly his
+whole life to his country's service. On April 30, 1789, the inauguration
+took place. At nine o'clock in the morning, religious services were held
+in all the churches. At twelve, in the old City Hall, in Wall Street,
+Chancellor Livingston administered the oath of office, Washington
+stooping down and kissing the open Bible, on which he laid his hand;
+"the man," says T. W. Higginson, "whose generalship, whose patience,
+whose self-denial, had achieved and then preserved the liberties of the
+nation; the man who, greater than Caesar, had held a kingly crown within
+reach, and had refused it." Washington had previously been addressed by
+some who believed that the Colonies needed a monarchy for strong
+government. Astonished and indignant, he replied: "I am much at a loss
+to conceive what part of my conduct could have given encouragement to an
+address which to me seems big with the greatest mischiefs that can
+befall my country." After taking the oath, all proceeded on foot to St.
+Paul's Church, where prayers were read.
+
+The next four years were years of perplexity and care in the building of
+the nation. The great war debt, of nearly one hundred millions, must be
+provided for by an impoverished nation; commerce and manufactures must
+be developed; literature and education encouraged, and Indian outbreaks
+quelled. With a love of country that was above party-spirit, with a
+magnanimity that knew no self-aggrandizement, he led the States out of
+their difficulties. When his term of office expired, he would have
+retired gladly to Mount Vernon for life, but he could not be spared.
+Thomas Jefferson wrote him: "The confidence of the whole Union is
+centred in you.... North and South will hang together, if they have you
+to hang on."
+
+Again he accepted the office of President. Affairs called more than ever
+for wisdom. He continually counselled "mutual forbearances and
+temporizing yieldings on all sides." France, who had helped us so nobly,
+was passing through the horrors of the Revolution. The blood of kings
+and people was flowing. The French Republic having sent M. Genet as her
+minister to the United States, he attempted to fit out privateers
+against Great Britain. Washington knew that America could not be again
+plunged into a war with England without probable self-destruction;
+therefore he held to neutrality, and demanded the recall of Genet. The
+people earnestly sympathized with France, and, but for the strong man at
+the head of the nation, would have been led into untold calamities. The
+country finally came to the verge of war with France, but when Napoleon
+overthrew the Directory, and made himself First Consul, he wisely made
+peace with the United States.
+
+Washington declined a third term of office, and sent his beautiful
+farewell address to Congress, containing the never-to-be-forgotten
+words: "Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political
+prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.... Observe
+good faith and justice towards all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony
+with all."
+
+He now returned to Mount Vernon to enjoy the rest he had so long
+desired. Three years later the great man lay dying, after a day's
+illness, from affection of the throat. From difficulty of breathing, his
+position was often changed. With his usual consideration for others, he
+said to his secretary, "I am afraid I fatigue you too much." "I feel I
+am going," he said to his physicians. "I thank you for your attentions,
+but I pray you to take no more trouble about me." The man who could face
+death on the battle-field had no fears in the quiet home by the Potomac.
+In the midst of his agony, he could remember to thank those who aided
+him, and regret that he was a source of care or anxiety. Great indeed is
+that soul which has learned that nothing in God's universe is a little
+thing.
+
+At ten in the evening he gave a few directions about burial. "Do you
+understand me?" he asked. Upon being answered in the affirmative, he
+replied, "'Tis well!" when he expired without a struggle, December 14,
+1799. Mrs. Washington, who was seated at the foot of the bed, said:
+"'Tis well. All is now over. I shall soon follow him. I have no more
+trials to pass through."
+
+On December 18, 1799, the funeral procession took its way to the vault
+on the Mount Vernon estate. The general's horse, with his saddle and
+pistols, led by his groom in black, preceded the body of his dead
+master. A deep sorrow settled upon the nation. The British ships lowered
+their flags to half-mast. The French draped their standards with crape.
+
+Martha Washington died three years later, May 22, 1802, and was buried
+beside her husband. In 1837, the caskets were enclosed in white marble
+coffins, now seen by visitors to Mount Vernon. In 1885 a grand marble
+monument, five hundred and fifty-five feet high, was completed on the
+banks of the Potomac, at the capital, to the immortal Washington.
+
+Truly wrote Jefferson: "His integrity was most pure; his justice the
+most inflexible I have ever known; no motives of interest or
+consanguinity, of friendship or hatred, being able to bias his decision.
+He was, indeed, in every sense of the word, a wise, a good, and a great
+man."
+
+The life of George Washington will ever be an example to young men. He had
+the earnest heart and manner--never trivial--which women love, and men
+respect. He had the courage which the world honors, and the gentleness
+which made little children cling to him. He controlled an army and a
+nation, because he understood the secret of power--self-control. Well does
+Mr. Gladstone call him the "purest figure in history;" unselfish, fair,
+patient, heroic, true.
+
+[Illustration: Benj. Franklin with Signature]
+
+
+
+
+BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
+
+
+"To say that his life is the most interesting, the most uniformly
+successful, yet lived by any American, is bold. But it is, nevertheless,
+strictly true." Thus writes John Bach McMaster, in his life of the great
+statesman.
+
+In the year 1706, January 6 (old style), in the small house of a
+tallow-chandler and soap-boiler, on Milk Street, opposite the Old South
+Church, Boston, was born Benjamin Franklin. Already fourteen children
+had come into the home of Josiah Franklin, the father, by his two wives,
+and now this youngest son was added to the struggling family circle. Two
+daughters were born later.
+
+The home was a busy one, and a merry one withal; for the father, after
+the day's work, would sing to his large flock the songs he had learned
+in his boyhood in England, accompanying the words on his violin.
+
+From the mother, the daughter of Peter Folger of Nantucket, "a learned
+and godly Englishman," Benjamin inherited an attractive face, and much
+of his hunger for books, which never lessened through his long and
+eventful life. At eight years of age, he was placed in the Boston
+Latin School, and in less than a year rose to the head of his class. The
+father had hoped to educate the boy for the ministry, but probably money
+was lacking, for at ten his school-life was ended, and he was in his
+father's shop filling candle-moulds and running on errands.
+
+For two years he worked there, but how he hated it! not all labor, for
+he was always industrious, but soap and candle-making were utterly
+distasteful to him. So strongly was he inclined to run away to sea, as
+an older brother had done, that his father obtained a situation for him
+with a maker of knives, and later he was apprenticed to his brother
+James as a printer.
+
+Now every spare moment was used in reading. The first book which he
+owned was Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress," and after reading this over and
+over, he sold it, and bought Burton's "Historical Collections," forty
+tiny books of travel, history, biography, and adventure. In his father's
+small library, there was nothing very soul-stirring to be found. Defoe's
+"Essays upon Projects," containing hints on banking, friendly societies
+for the relief of members, colleges for girls, and asylums for idiots,
+would not be very interesting to most boys of twelve, but Benjamin read
+every essay, and, strange to say, carried out nearly every "project" in
+later life. Cotton Mather's "Essays to do Good," with several leaves
+torn out, was so eagerly read, and so productive of good, that Franklin
+wrote, when he was eighty, that this volume "gave me such a turn of
+thinking as to have an influence on my conduct through life; for I have
+always set a greater value on the character of a doer of good than on
+any other kind of reputation; and, if I have been a useful citizen, the
+public owe the advantage of it to that book."
+
+As the boy rarely had any money to buy books, he would often borrow from
+the booksellers' clerks, and read in his little bedroom nearly all
+night, being obliged to return the books before the shop was opened in
+the morning. Finally, a Boston merchant, who came to the
+printing-office, noticed the lad's thirst for knowledge, took him home
+to see his library, and loaned him some volumes. Blessings on those
+people who are willing to lend knowledge to help the world upward,
+despite the fact that book-borrowers proverbially have short memories,
+and do not always take the most tender care of what they borrow.
+
+When Benjamin was fifteen, he wrote a few ballads, and his brother James
+sent him about the streets to sell them. This the father wisely checked
+by telling his son that poets usually are beggars, a statement not
+literally true, but sufficiently near the truth to produce a wholesome
+effect upon the young verse-maker.
+
+The boy now devised a novel way to earn money to buy books. He had read
+somewhere that vegetable food was sufficient for health, and persuaded
+James, who paid the board of his apprentice, that for half the amount
+paid he could board himself.
+
+Benjamin therefore attempted living on potatoes, hasty pudding, and
+rice; doing his own cooking,--not the life most boys of sixteen would
+choose. His dinner at the printing-office usually consisted of a
+biscuit, a handful of raisins, and a glass of water; a meal quickly
+eaten, and then, O precious thought! there was nearly a whole hour for
+books.
+
+He now read Locke on "Human Understanding," and Xenophon's "Memorable
+Things of Socrates." In this, as he said in later years, he learned one
+of the great secrets of success; "never using, when I advanced anything
+that may possibly be disputed, the words _certainly_, _undoubtedly_, or
+any others that give the air of positiveness to an opinion; but rather
+say, I conceive or apprehend a thing to be so and so; it appears to me,
+or _I should think it so or so_, for such and such reasons; or, _it is
+so_, if _I am not mistaken_.... I wish well-meaning, sensible men would
+not lessen their power of doing good by a positive, assuming manner,
+that seldom fails to disgust, tends to create opposition, and to defeat
+every one of those purposes for which speech was given to us, to wit,
+giving or receiving information or pleasure.... To this habit I think it
+principally owing that I had early so much weight with my
+fellow-citizens, when I proposed new institutions or alterations in the
+old, and so much influence in public councils when I became a member;
+for I was but a bad speaker, never eloquent, subject to much hesitation
+in my choice of words, and yet I generally carried my points." A most
+valuable lesson to be learned early in life.
+
+Coming across an odd volume of the "Spectator," Benjamin was captivated
+by the style, and resolved to become master of the production, by
+rewriting the essays from memory, and increasing his fulness of
+expression by turning them into verse, and then back again into prose.
+
+James Franklin was now printing the fifth newspaper in America. It was
+intended to issue the first--_Publick Occurrences_--monthly, or oftener,
+"if any glut of occurrences happens." When the first number appeared,
+September 25, 1690, a very important "occurrence happened," which was
+the immediate suspension of the paper for expressions concerning those
+in official position. The next newspaper,--the _Boston News-Letter_,--a
+weekly, was published April 24, 1704; the third was the _Boston
+Gazette_, which James was engaged to print, but, being disappointed,
+started one of his own, August 17, 1721, called the _New England
+Courant_. The _American Weekly Mercury_ was printed in Philadelphia six
+months before the _Courant_.
+
+Benjamin's work was hard and constant. He not only set type, but
+distributed the paper to customers. "Why," thought he, "can I not write
+something for the new sheet?" Accordingly, he prepared a manuscript,
+slipped it under the door of the office, and the next week saw it in
+print before his eyes. This was joy indeed, and he wrote again and
+again.
+
+The _Courant_ at last gave offence by its plain speaking, and it
+ostensibly passed into Benjamin's hands, to save his brother from
+punishment. The position, however, soon became irksome, for the
+passionate brother often beat Benjamin, till at last he determined to
+run away. As soon as this became known, James went to every office, told
+his side of the story, and thus prevented Benjamin from obtaining work.
+Not discouraged, the boy sold a portion of his precious books, said
+good-bye to his beloved Boston, and went out into the world to more
+poverty and struggle.
+
+Three days after this, he stood in New York, asking for work at the only
+printing-office in the city, owned by William Bradford. Alas! there was
+no work to be had, and he was advised to go to Philadelphia, nearly one
+hundred miles away, where Andrew Bradford, a son of the former, had
+established a paper. The boy could not have been very light-hearted as
+he started on the journey. After thirty hours by boat, he reached Amboy,
+and then travelled fifty miles on foot across New Jersey. It rained hard
+all day, but he plodded on, tired and hungry, buying some gingerbread of
+a poor woman, and wishing that he had never left Boston. His money was
+fast disappearing.
+
+Finally he reached Philadelphia.
+
+"I was," he says in his autobiography, "in my working dress, my best
+clothes being to come round by sea. I was dirty from my journey; my
+pockets were stuffed out with shirts and stockings, and I knew no soul
+nor where to look for lodging. I was fatigued with travelling, rowing,
+and want of rest. I was very hungry, and my whole stock of cash
+consisted of a Dutch dollar and about a shilling in copper. The latter I
+gave the people of the boat for my passage, who at first refused it, on
+account of my rowing, but I insisted on their taking it; a man being
+sometimes more generous when he has but a little money than when he has
+plenty, perhaps through fear of being thought to have but little.
+
+"Then I walked up the street, gazing about, till near the Market-house I
+met a boy with bread. I had made many a meal on bread, and, inquiring
+where he got it, I went immediately to the baker's he directed me to, in
+Second Street, and asked for biscuit, intending such as we had in
+Boston; but they, it seems, were not made in Philadelphia. Then I asked
+for a threepenny loaf, and was told they had none such. So, not
+considering or knowing the difference of money, and the greater
+cheapness, nor the names of bread, I bade him give me threepenny-worth
+of any sort. He gave me, accordingly, three great puffy rolls. I was
+surprised at the quantity, but took it, and, having no room in my
+pockets, walked off with a roll under each arm, and eating the other.
+
+"Thus I went up Market Street as far as Fourth Street, passing by the
+door of Mr. Read, my future wife's father; when she, standing at the
+door, saw me, and thought I made, as I certainly did, a most awkward,
+ridiculous figure. Then I turned and went down Chestnut Street and part
+of Walnut Street, eating my roll all the way, and, coming round, found
+myself again at Market Street wharf, near the boat I came in, to which I
+went for a draught of the river water; and, being filled with one of my
+rolls, gave the other two to a woman and her child that came down the
+river in the boat with us, and were waiting to go farther."
+
+After this, he joined some Quakers who were on their way to the
+meeting-house, which he too entered, and, tired and homeless, soon fell
+asleep. And this was the penniless, runaway lad who was eventually to
+stand before five kings, to become one of the greatest philosophers,
+scientists, and statesmen of his time, the admiration of Europe and the
+idol of America. Surely, truth is stranger than fiction.
+
+The youth hastened to the office of Andrew Bradford, but there was no
+opening for him. However, Bradford kindly offered him a home till he
+could find work. This was obtained with Keimer, a printer, who happened
+to find lodging for the young man in the house of Mr. Read. As the
+months went by, and the hopeful and earnest lad of eighteen had visions
+of becoming a master printer, he confided to Mrs. Read that he was in
+love with, and wished to marry, the pretty daughter, who had first seen
+him as he walked up Market Street, eating his roll. Mr. Read had died,
+and the prudent mother advised that these children, both under
+nineteen, should wait till the printer proved his ability to support a
+wife.
+
+And now a strange thing happened. Sir William Keith, governor of the
+province, who knew young Franklin's brother-in-law, offered to establish
+him in the printing business in Philadelphia, and, better still, to send
+him to England with a letter of credit with which to buy the necessary
+outfit.
+
+A mine of gold seemed to open before him. He made ready for the journey,
+and set sail, disappointed, however, that the letter of credit did not
+come before he left. When he reached England, he ascertained that Sir
+William Keith was without credit, a vain man and devoid of principle.
+Franklin found himself alone in a strange country, doubly unhappy
+because he had used for himself and some impecunious friends one hundred
+and seventy-five dollars, collected from a business man. This he paid
+years afterward, ever considering the use of it one of the serious
+mistakes of his life.
+
+He and a boy companion found lodgings at eighty-seven cents per week;
+very inferior lodgings they must have been. There was of course no money
+to buy type, no money to take passage back to America. He wrote a letter
+to Miss Read, telling her that he was not likely to return, dropped the
+correspondence, and found work in a printing-office.
+
+After a year or two, a merchant offered him a position as clerk in
+America, at five dollars a week. He accepted, and, after a three-months
+voyage, reached Philadelphia, "the cords of love," he said, drawing him
+back. Alas! Deborah Read, persuaded by her mother and other relatives;
+had married, but was far from happy. The merchant for whom Franklin had
+engaged to work soon died, and the printer was again looking for a
+situation, which he found with Keimer. He was now twenty-one, and life
+had been anything but cheerful or encouraging.
+
+Still, he determined to keep his mind cheerful and active, and so
+organized a club of eleven young men, the "Junto," composed mostly of
+mechanics. They came together once a month to discuss questions of
+morals, politics, and science. As most of these were unable to buy
+books--a book in those days often costing several dollars--Franklin
+conceived the idea of a subscription library, raised the funds, and
+became the librarian. Every day he set apart an hour or two for study,
+and for twenty years, in the midst of poverty and hard work, the habit
+was maintained. If Franklin himself did not know that such a young man
+would succeed, the world around him must have guessed it. Out of this
+collection of books--the mother of all the subscription libraries of
+this country--has grown a great library in the city of Philadelphia.
+
+Keimer proved a business failure; but kindness to a fellow-workman,
+Meredith, a youth of intemperate habits, led Franklin to another open
+door. The father of Meredith, hoping to save his son, started the young
+men in business by loaning them five hundred dollars. It was a modest
+beginning, in a building whose rent was but one hundred and twenty
+dollars a year. Their first job of printing brought them one dollar and
+twenty-five cents. As Meredith was seldom in a condition for labor,
+Franklin did most of the work, he having started a paper--the
+_Pennsylvania Gazette_. Some prophesied failure for the new firm, but
+one prominent man remarked: "The industry of that Franklin is superior
+to anything I ever saw of the kind. I see him still at work when I go
+home from the club, and he is at work again before his neighbors are out
+of bed."
+
+But starting in business had cost five hundred more than the five
+hundred loaned them. The young men were sued for debt, and ruin stared
+them in the face. Was Franklin discouraged? If so at heart, he wisely
+kept a cheerful face and manner, knowing what poor policy it is to tell
+our troubles, and made all the friends he could. Several members of the
+Assembly, who came to have printing done, became fast friends of the
+intelligent and courteous printer.
+
+In this pecuniary distress, two men offered to loan the necessary funds,
+and two hundred and fifty dollars were gratefully accepted from each.
+These two persons Franklin remembered to his dying day. Meredith was
+finally bought out by his own wish, and Franklin combined with his
+printing a small stationer's shop, with ink, paper, and a few books.
+Often he wheeled his paper on a barrow along the streets. Who supposed
+then that he would some day be President of the Commonwealth of
+Pennsylvania?
+
+Franklin was twenty-four. Deborah Read's husband had proved worthless,
+had run away from his creditors, and was said to have died in the West
+Indies. She was lonely and desolate, and Franklin rightly felt that he
+could brighten her heart. They were married September 1, 1730, and for
+forty years they lived a happy life. He wrote, long afterward, "We are
+grown old together, and if she has any faults, I am so used to them that
+I don't perceive them." Beautiful testimony! He used to say to young
+married people, in later years, "Treat your wife always with respect; it
+will procure respect to you, not only from her, but from all that
+observe it."
+
+The young wife attended the little shop, folded newspapers, and made
+Franklin's home a resting-place from toil. He says: "Our table was plain
+and simple, our furniture of the cheapest. My breakfast was, for a long
+time, bread and milk (no tea), and I ate it out of a twopenny earthen
+porringer, with a pewter spoon: but mark how luxury will enter families,
+and make a progress in spite of principle. Being called one morning to
+breakfast, I found it in a china bowl, with a spoon of silver. They had
+been bought for me without my knowledge by my wife, and had cost her the
+enormous sum of three and twenty shillings! for which she had no other
+excuse or apology to make, but that she thought _her_ husband deserved
+a silver spoon and china bowl as well as any of his neighbors."
+
+The years went by swiftly, with their hard work and slow but sure
+accumulation of property. At twenty-seven, having read much and written
+considerable, he determined to bring out an almanac, after the fashion
+of the day, "for conveying instruction among the common people, who
+bought scarcely any other book." "Poor Richard" appeared in December,
+1732; price, ten cents. It was full of wit and wisdom, gathered from
+every source. Three editions were sold in a month. The average annual
+sale for twenty-five years was ten thousand copies. Who can ever forget
+the maxims which have become a part of our every-day speech?--"Early to
+bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise."--"He
+that hath a trade, hath an estate."--"One to-day is worth two
+to-morrows."--"Never leave that till to-morrow which you can do
+to-day."--"Employ thy time well if thou meanest to gain leisure; and
+since thou art not sure of a minute, throw not away an hour."--"Three
+removes are as bad as a fire."--"What maintains one vice would bring up
+two children."--"Many a little makes a mickle."--"Beware of little
+expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship."--"If you would know the
+value of money, go and try to borrow some; for he that goes a-borrowing
+goes a-sorrowing."--"Rather go to bed supperless than rise in
+debt."--"Experience keeps a dear school, but fools will learn in no
+other."
+
+An interesting story is told concerning the proverb, "If you would have
+your business done, go; if not, send." John Paul Jones, one of the
+bravest men in the Revolutionary War, had become the terror of Britain,
+by the great number of vessels he had captured. In one cruise he is said
+to have taken sixteen prizes; burned eight and sent home eight. With the
+Ranger, on the coast of Scotland, he captured the Drake, a large
+sloop-of-war, and two hundred prisoners. At one time, Captain Jones
+waited for many months for a vessel which had been promised him. Eager
+for action, he chanced to see "Poor Richard's Almanac," and read, "If
+you would have your business done, go; if not, send." He went at once to
+Paris, sought the ministers, and was given command of a vessel, which,
+in honor of Franklin, he called Bon Homme Richard.
+
+The battle between this ship and the Serapis, when, for three hours and
+a half, they were lashed together by Jones' own hand, and fought one of
+the most terrific naval battles ever seen, is well known to all who read
+history. The Bon Homme Richard sunk after her victory, while her captain
+received a gold medal from Congress and an appreciative letter from
+General Washington.
+
+So bravely did Captain Pearson, the opponent, fight, that the King of
+England made him a knight. "He deserved it," said Jones, "and, should I
+have the good-fortune to fall in with him again, I will make a lord of
+him."
+
+No wonder that Franklin's proverbs were copied all over the continent,
+and translated into French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Bohemian,
+Greek, and Portuguese. In all these very busy years, Franklin did not
+forget to study. When he was twenty-seven, he began French, then
+Italian, then Spanish, and then to review the Latin of his boyhood. He
+learned also to play on the harp, guitar, violin, and violoncello.
+
+Into the home of the printer had come two sons, William and Francis. The
+second was an uncommonly beautiful child, the idol of his father.
+Small-pox was raging in the city, but Franklin could not bear to put his
+precious one in the slightest peril by inoculation. The dread disease
+came into the home, and Francis Folger, named for his grandmother--at
+the age of four years--went suddenly out of it. "I long regretted him
+bitterly," Franklin wrote years afterwards to his sister Jane. "My
+grandson often brings afresh to my mind the idea of my son Franky,
+though now dead thirty-six years; whom I have seldom since seen equalled
+in every respect, and whom to this day I cannot think of without a
+sigh." On a little stone in Christ Church burying-ground, Philadelphia,
+are the boy's name and age, with the words, "The delight of all that
+knew him."
+
+This same year, when Franklin was thirty, he was chosen clerk of the
+General Assembly, his first promotion. If, as Disraeli said, "the secret
+of success in life is for a man to be ready for his opportunity when it
+comes," Franklin had prepared himself, by study, for his opportunity.
+
+The year later, he was made deputy postmaster, and soon became
+especially helpful in city affairs. He obtained better watch or police
+regulations, organized the first fire-company, and invented the Franklin
+stove, which was used far and wide.
+
+At thirty-seven, so interested was he in education that he set on foot a
+subscription for an academy, which resulted in the noble University of
+Pennsylvania, of which Franklin was a trustee for over forty years. The
+following year his only daughter, Sarah, was born, who helped to fill
+the vacant chair of the lovely boy. The father, Josiah, now died at
+eighty-seven, already proud of his son Benjamin, for whom in his poverty
+he had done the best he could.
+
+About this time, the Leyden jar was discovered in Europe by
+Musschenbroeck, and became the talk of the scientific world. Franklin,
+always eager for knowledge, began to study electricity, with all the
+books at his command. Dr. Spence, a gentleman from Great Britain, having
+come to America to lecture on the subject, Franklin bought all his
+instruments. So much did he desire to give his entire time to this
+fascinating subject that he sold his printing-house, paper, and almanac,
+for ninety thousand dollars, and retired from business. This at
+forty-two; and at fifteen selling ballads about the streets! Industry,
+temperance, and economy had paid good wages. He used to say that these
+virtues, with "sincerity and justice," had won for him "the confidence
+of his country." And yet Franklin, with all his saving, was generous.
+The great preacher Whitefield came to Philadelphia to obtain money for
+an orphan-house in Georgia. Franklin thought the scheme unwise, and
+silently resolved not to give when the collection should be taken. Then,
+as his heart warmed under the preaching, he concluded to give the copper
+coins in his pocket; then all the silver, several dollars; and finally
+all his five gold pistoles, so that he emptied his pocket into the
+collector's plate.
+
+Franklin now constructed electrical batteries, introduced the terms
+"positive" and "negative" electricity, and published articles on the
+subject, which his friend in London, Peter Collinson, laid before the
+Royal Society. When he declared his belief that lightning and
+electricity were identical, and gave his reasons, and that points would
+draw off electricity, and therefore lightning-rods be of benefit,
+learned people ridiculed the ideas. Still, his pamphlets were eagerly
+read, and Count de Buffon had them translated into French. They soon
+appeared in German, Latin, and Italian. Louis XV. was so deeply
+interested that he ordered all Franklin's experiments to be performed in
+his presence, and caused a letter to be written to the Royal Society of
+London, expressing his admiration of Franklin's learning and skill.
+Strange indeed that such a scientist should arise in the new world, be
+a man self-taught, and one so busy in public life.
+
+In 1752, when he was forty-six, he determined to test for himself
+whether lightning and electricity were one. He made a kite from a large
+silk handkerchief, attached a hempen cord to it, with a silk string in
+his hand, and, with his son, hastened to an old shed in the fields, as
+the thunder-storm approached.
+
+As the kite flew upward, and a cloud passed over, there was no
+manifestation of electricity. When he was almost despairing, lo! the
+fibres of the cord began to loosen; then he applied his knuckle to a key
+on the cord, and a strong spark passed. How his heart must have throbbed
+as he realized his immortal discovery!
+
+A Leyden jar was charged, and Franklin went home from the old shed to be
+made a member of the Royal Society of London, to receive the Copley gold
+medal, degrees from Harvard and Yale Colleges, and honors from all parts
+of the world. Ah! if Josiah Franklin could have lived to see his son
+come to such renown! And Abiah, his mother, had been dead just a month!
+But she knew he was coming into greatness, for she wrote him near the
+last: "I am glad to hear you are so well respected in your town for them
+to choose you an alderman, although I don't know what it means, or what
+the better you will be of it besides the honor of it. I hope you will
+look up to God, and thank him for all his good providences towards you."
+Sweetest of all things is the motherhood that never lets go the hand of
+the child, and always points Godward!
+
+Lightning-rods became the fashion, though there was great opposition,
+because many believed that lightning was one of the means of punishing
+the sins of mankind, and it was wrong to attempt to prevent the Almighty
+from doing his will. Some learned men urged that a ball instead of a
+point be used at the end of the rod, and George III. insisted that the
+president of the Royal Society should favor balls. "But, sire," said Sir
+John Pringle, "I cannot reverse the laws and operations of nature."
+
+"Then, Sir John, you had perhaps better resign," was the reply, and the
+obstinate monarch put knobs on his conductors.
+
+Through all the scientific discord, Franklin had the rare good-sense to
+remain quiet, instead of rushing into print. He said, "I have never
+entered into any controversy in defence of my philosophical opinions; I
+leave them to take their chance in the world. If they are _right_, truth
+and experience will support them; if _wrong_, they ought to be refuted
+and rejected. Disputes are apt to sour one's temper and disturb one's
+quiet."
+
+Franklin was not long permitted to enjoy his life of study. This same
+year, 1752, he was elected a member of the Pennsylvania Assembly, and
+reelected every year for ten years, "without," as he says, "ever asking
+any elector for his vote, or signifying, either directly or indirectly,
+any desire of being chosen." He was also, with Mr. William Hunter of
+Virginia, appointed postmaster-general for the colonies, having been the
+postmaster in Philadelphia for nearly sixteen years. So excellent was
+his judgment, and so conciliatory his manner, that he rarely made
+enemies, and accomplished much for his constituents. He cut down the
+rates of postage, advertised unclaimed letters, and showed his rare
+executive ability and tireless energy.
+
+For many years the French and English had been quarrelling over their
+claims in the New World, till finally the "French and Indian War," or
+"Seven Years' War," as it was named in Europe, began. Delegates from the
+various colonies were sent to Albany to confer with the chiefs of the
+Six Nations about the defence of the country. Naturally, Franklin was
+one of the delegates. Before starting, he drew up a plan of union for
+the struggling Americans, and printed it in the _Gazette_, with the now
+well known wood-cut at the bottom; a snake cut into as many pieces as
+there were colonies, each piece having upon it the first letter of the
+name of a colony, and underneath the words, "JOIN or DIE." He presented
+his plan of union to the delegates, who, after a long debate,
+unanimously adopted it, but it was rejected by some of the colonies
+because they thought it gave too much power to England, and the king
+rejected it because he said, "The Americans are trying to make a
+government of their own."
+
+Franklin joined earnestly in the war, and commanded the forces in his
+own State, but was soon sent abroad by Pennsylvania, as her agent to
+bring some troublesome matters before royalty. He reached London, July
+27, 1757, with his son William, no longer the friendless lad looking for
+a position in a printing-house, but the noted scientist, and
+representative of a rising nation. Members of the Royal Society hastened
+to congratulate him; the universities at Oxford and Edinburgh conferred
+degrees upon him. While he attended to matters of business in connection
+with his mission, he entertained his friends with his brilliant
+electrical experiments, and wrote for several magazines on politics and
+science.
+
+After five years of successful labor, Doctor Franklin went back to
+Philadelphia to receive the public thanks of the Assembly, and a gift of
+fifteen thousand dollars for his services. His son was also appointed
+governor of New Jersey, by the Crown. Franklin was now fifty-seven, and
+had earned rest and the enjoyment of his honors. But he was to find
+little rest in the next twenty-five years.
+
+The "Seven Years' War" had been terminated by the Treaty of Paris,
+February 10, 1763. Of course, great expenses had been incurred. The
+following year, Mr. Grenville, Prime Minister of England, proposed that
+a portion of the enormous debt be paid by America through the Stamp Act.
+The colonies had submitted already to much taxation without any
+representation in Parliament, and had many grievances. The manufacture
+of iron and steel had been forbidden. Heavy duties had been laid upon
+rum, sugar, and molasses, and constables had been authorized to search
+any place suspected of avoiding the duties.
+
+When the Stamp Act was suggested, the colonies, already heavily in debt
+by the war, remonstrated in public meetings, and sent their protests to
+the king. Franklin, having been reappointed agent for Pennsylvania, used
+all possible effort to prevent its passage, but to no avail. The bill
+passed in March, 1765. By this act, deeds and conveyances were taxed
+from thirty-seven cents to one dollar and twenty-five cents apiece;
+college degrees, ten dollars; advertisements, fifty cents each, and
+other printed matter in proportion.
+
+At once, the American heart rebelled. Bells were tolled, and flags hung
+at half-mast. In New York, the Stamp Act was carried about the streets,
+with a placard, "The folly of England and the ruin of America." The
+people resolved to wear no cloth of English manufacture. Agents
+appointed to collect the hated tax were in peril of their lives. Patrick
+Henry electrified his country by the well known words, "Caesar had his
+Brutus, Charles I. had his Cromwell, and George III."--and when the
+loyalists shouted, "Treason!" he continued, "may profit by their
+example. If that be treason, make the most of it."
+
+Grenville saw, too late, the storm he had aroused. Franklin was now, as
+he wrote to a friend, "extremely busy, attending members of both houses,
+informing, explaining, consulting, disputing, in a continual hurry from
+morning till night." His examination before the House of Commons filled
+England with amazement and America with joy. When asked, "If the Stamp
+Act should be repealed, would it induce the Assemblies of America to
+acknowledge the rights of Parliament to tax them, and would they erase
+their resolutions?" he replied, "No, never!"
+
+"What used to be the pride of the Americans?"
+
+"To indulge in the fashions and manufactures of Great Britain."
+
+"What is now their pride?"
+
+"To wear their old clothes over again, till they can make new ones,"
+said the fearless Franklin.
+
+The great commoners William Pitt and Edmund Burke were our stanch
+friends. A cry of distress went up from the manufacturers of England,
+who needed American markets for their goods, and in 1766 the Stamp Act
+was repealed.
+
+America was overjoyed, but her joy was of short duration; for in the
+very next year a duty was placed on glass, tea, and other articles. Then
+riots ensued. The duty was repealed on all save tea. When the tea
+arrived in Boston Harbor, the indignant citizens threw three hundred and
+forty chests overboard; in Charlestown, the people stored it in cellars
+till it mildewed; and from New York and Philadelphia they sent it home
+again to Old England.
+
+In 1774, the Boston Port Bill, which declared that no merchandise should
+be landed or shipped at the wharves of Boston, was received by the
+colonists with public mourning. September 5 of this year, the First
+Continental Congress met at Philadelphia, and again a manly protest was
+sent to George III. Again the great Pitt, Earl of Chatham, poured out
+his eloquence against what he saw was close at hand--"a most accursed,
+wicked, barbarous, cruel, unjust, and diabolical war." But George III.
+was immovable.
+
+The days for Franklin were now bitter in the extreme. Ten thousand more
+troops had been sent to General Gage in Boston, to compel obedience.
+Franklin's wife was dying in Philadelphia, longing to see her husband,
+who had now been absent ten years, each year expecting to return, and
+each year detained by the necessities of the colonies. At last he
+started homeward, landing May 5, 1775. His daughter had been happily
+married to Mr. Richard Bache, a merchant, but his wife was dead, and
+buried beside Franky. The battles of Lexington and Concord had been
+fought; the War for Freedom was indeed begun.
+
+Franklin was now almost seventy, but ready for the great work before
+him. He loved peace. He said: "All wars are follies, very expensive and
+very mischievous ones. When will mankind be convinced of this, and agree
+to settle their differences by arbitration? Were they to do it, even by
+the cast of a die, it would be better than by fighting and destroying
+each other." But now war was inevitable. With the eagerness of a boy he
+wrote to Edmund Burke: "General Gage's troops made a most vigorous
+retreat,--twenty miles in three hours,--scarce to be paralleled in
+history; the feeble Americans, who pelted them all the way, could scarce
+keep up with them."
+
+He was at once made a member of the Continental Congress, called to meet
+May 10, at Philadelphia. George Washington and Patrick Henry, John and
+Samuel Adams, were in the noted assemblage. They came with brave hearts
+and an earnest purpose. Franklin served upon ten committees: to engrave
+and print Continental money, to negotiate with the Indians, to send
+another but useless petition to George III., to find out the source of
+saltpetre, and other matters. He was made postmaster-general of the
+United States, and was also full of work for Pennsylvania.
+
+England had voted a million dollars to conquer the colonies, and had
+hired nearly twenty thousand Hessians to fight against them, besides her
+own skilled troops. The army under Washington had no proper shelter,
+little food, little money, and no winter clothing. Franklin was
+Washington's friend and helper in these early days of discouragement. At
+first the people had hoped to keep united to the mother country; now the
+time had arrived for the Declaration of Independence, by which America
+was to become a great nation. Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin
+Franklin, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, and Robert R. Livingston of New
+York were appointed to draw up the document. Jefferson wrote the
+Declaration, and Franklin and Adams made a few verbal changes. And then,
+with the feeling so well expressed by Franklin, "We must hang together,
+or else, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately," the delegates
+fearlessly signed their names to what Daniel Webster well called the
+"title-deed of our liberties."
+
+And now another important work devolved upon Franklin. The colonies
+believed that the French were friendly and would assist. He was
+unanimously chosen commissioner to France, to represent and plead the
+cause of his country. Again the white-haired statesman said good-bye to
+America, and sailed to Europe. As soon as he arrived, he was welcomed
+with all possible honor. The learned called upon him; his pictures were
+hung in the shop-windows, and his bust placed in the Royal Library. When
+he appeared on the street a crowd gathered about the great American. He
+was applauded in every public resort.
+
+"Franklin's reputation," said John Adams, "was more universal than that
+of Leibnitz or Newton, Frederick or Voltaire; and his character more
+beloved and esteemed than any or all of them. His name was familiar to
+government and people, to kings, courtiers, nobility, clergy, and
+philosophers, as well as plebeians, to such a decree that there was
+scarcely a peasant or a citizen, a valet de chambre, coachman or
+footman, a lady's chamber-maid or a scullion in a kitchen, who was not
+familiar with it, and who did not consider him a friend to humankind.
+When they spoke of him they seemed to think he was to restore the golden
+age." Royalty made him welcome at court, and Marie Antoinette treated
+him with the graciousness which had at first won the hearts of the
+French to the beautiful Austrian. France made a treaty of alliance with
+America, and recognized her independence, February 6, 1778, which gave
+joy and hope to the struggling colonies. Franklin was now made minister
+plenipotentiary. What a change from the hated work of moulding tallow
+candles!
+
+The great need of the colonies was money to carry on the war, and,
+pressed as was France in the days preceding her own revolution, when M.
+Necker was continually opposing the grants, she loaned our country--part
+of it a gift--over five million dollars, says James Parton, in his
+admirable life of Franklin. For this reason, as well as for the noble
+men like Lafayette who came to our aid, the interests of France should
+always be dear to America. When the Revolutionary War was over, Franklin
+helped negotiate the peace, and returned to America at his own request
+in the fall of 1785, receiving among his farewell presents a portrait of
+Louis XVI., set with four hundred and eight diamonds. Thomas Jefferson
+became minister in his stead. When asked if he had replaced Dr.
+Franklin, he replied, "I _succeed_; no one can ever _replace_ him."
+
+He was now seventy-nine years old. He had been absent for nine years.
+When he landed, cannon were fired, church-bells rung, and crowds greeted
+him with shouts of welcome. He was at once made President of the
+Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and at eighty-one a delegate to the
+convention that framed our Constitution, where he sat regularly five
+hours a day for four months. To him is due the happy suggestion, after a
+heated discussion, of equal representation for every State in the
+Senate, and representation in proportion to population in the House.
+
+At eighty-four, in reply to a letter to Washington, he received these
+tender words:--
+
+     "If to be venerated for benevolence, if to be admired for talents,
+     if to be esteemed for patriotism, if to be beloved for
+     philanthropy, can gratify the human mind, you must have the
+     pleasing consolation to know that you have not lived in vain. And I
+     flatter myself that it will not be ranked among the least grateful
+     occurrences of your life to be assured that, so long as I retain my
+     memory, you will be recollected with respect, veneration, and
+     affection, by your sincere friend,
+
+                                             "GEORGE WASHINGTON."
+
+The time for the final farewell came, April 17, 1790, near midnight,
+when the gentle and great statesman, doubly great because so gentle,
+slept quietly in death. Twenty thousand persons gathered to do honor to
+the celebrated dead. Not only in this country was there universal
+mourning, but across the ocean as well. The National Assembly of France
+paid its highest eulogies.
+
+By his own request, Franklin was buried beside his wife and Franky,
+under a plain marble slab, in Christ Church Cemetery, Philadelphia, with
+the words,--
+
+  Benjamin  }  Franklin.
+  and       }  1790.
+  Deborah   }
+
+He was opposed to ostentation. He used to quote the words of Cotton
+Mather to him when he was a boy. On leaving the minister's house, he hit
+his head against a beam. "'Stoop,' said Mather; 'you are young, and have
+the world before you; stoop as you go through it, and you will miss many
+hard thumps!' This advice, thus beat into my head, has frequently been
+of use to me, and I often think of it when I see pride mortified, and
+misfortunes brought upon people by their carrying their heads too high."
+
+Tolerant with all religions, sweet-tempered, with remarkable tact and
+genuine kindness, honest, and above jealousy, he adopted this as his
+rule, which we may well follow: "To go straight forward in doing what
+appears to me to be right, leaving the consequences to Providence."
+
+[Illustration: Thomas Jefferson signature]
+
+
+
+
+THOMAS JEFFERSON.
+
+
+Five miles east of Charlottesville, Virginia, near where the River
+Rivanna enters the James, Thomas Jefferson was born, April 13, 1743, the
+third in a family of eight children.
+
+Peter Jefferson, his father, descended from a Welsh ancestry, was a
+self-made man. The son of a farmer, with little chance for schooling, he
+improved every opportunity to read, became, like George Washington, a
+surveyor, and endured cheerfully all the perils of that pioneer life.
+Often, in making his survey across the Blue Ridge Mountains, he was
+obliged to defend himself against the attacks of wild beasts, and to
+sleep in hollow trees. When the provisions gave out, and his companions
+fell fainting beside him, he subsisted on raw flesh, and stayed on until
+his work was completed.
+
+So strong was he physically that when two hogsheads of tobacco, each
+weighing a thousand pounds, were lying on their sides, he could raise
+them both upright at once. Besides this great strength of body, he
+developed great strength of mind. Shakespeare and Addison were his
+favorites. It was not strange that by and by he became a member of the
+Virginia House of Burgesses.
+
+When Peter Jefferson was thirty-one, he married into a family much above
+his own socially--Jane, the daughter of Isham Randolph, a rich and
+cultured gentleman. She was but nineteen, of a most cheerful and hopeful
+temperament, with a passionate love of nature in every flower and tree.
+
+From these two the boy Thomas inherited the two elements that make a
+man's character beautiful, not less than a woman's--strength and
+sweetness. With his mother's nature, he found delight in every varying
+cloud, every rich sunset or sunrise, and in that ever new and ever
+wonderful change from new moon to full and from full to new again. How
+tender and responsive such a soul becomes! How it warms toward human
+nature from its love for the material world!
+
+When Thomas was five years old, he was sent to a school where English
+only was taught. The hours of confinement doubtless seemed long to a
+child used to wander at will over the fields, for one day, becoming
+impatient for school to be dismissed, he went out-of-doors, knelt behind
+the house, and repeated the Lord's Prayer, thus hoping to expedite
+matters!
+
+At nine he entered the family of Rev. William Douglas, a Scotch
+clergyman, where he learned Greek, Latin, and French. So fond did he
+become of the classics that he said, years later, if he were obliged to
+decide between the pleasure derived from them and the estate left him
+by his father, he would have greatly preferred poverty and education.
+
+All these early years at "Shadwell," the Jefferson home,--so named after
+his mother's home in England, where she was born,--Thomas had an
+especially dear companion in his oldest sister, Jane. Her mind was like
+his own, quick and comprehensive, and her especial delight, like his,
+was in music. Three things, he said, became a passion with him,
+"Mathematics, music, and architecture." Jane had a charming voice, and
+her brother became a skilled performer on the violin, often practising
+three hours a day in his busy student life.
+
+Peter Jefferson, the strong, athletic Assemblyman, died suddenly when
+Thomas was but fourteen, urging, as his dying request, that this boy be
+well educated. There was but one other son, and he an infant. The
+sweet-tempered Mrs. Jefferson, under forty, was left with eight children
+to care for; but she kept her sunny, hopeful heart.
+
+When Thomas was a little more than sixteen, he entered the college of
+William and Mary, at Williamsburg. He was a somewhat shy, tall, slight
+boy, eager for information, and warm-hearted. It was not surprising that
+he made friends with those superior to himself in mental acquirements.
+He says, in his Memoirs: "It was my great good-fortune, and what,
+perhaps, fixed the destinies of my life, that Dr. William Small of
+Scotland was the professor of mathematics, a man profound in most of the
+useful branches of science, with a happy talent of communication,
+correct and gentlemanly manners, and an enlarged and liberal mind. He,
+most happily for me, became soon attached to me, and made me his daily
+companion when not engaged in the school; and from his conversation I
+got my first views of the expansion of science and of the system of
+things in which we are placed. Fortunately, the philosophical chair
+became vacant soon after my arrival at college, and he was appointed to
+fill it _per interim;_ and he was the first who ever gave in that
+college regular lectures in ethics, rhetoric, and belles-lettres. He
+returned to Europe in 1762, having previously filled up the measure of
+his goodness to me by procuring for me, from his most intimate friend,
+George Wythe, a reception as a student of law under his direction, and
+introduced me to the acquaintance and familiar table of Governor
+Fauquier, the ablest man who had ever filled that office."
+
+The governor, though an accomplished scholar and great patron of
+learning, was very fond of card-playing, and of betting in the play. In
+this direction his influence became most pernicious to Virginia.
+Strangely enough, young Jefferson never knew one card from another, and
+never allowed them to be played in his house.
+
+He devoted himself untiringly to his books. He worked fifteen hours a
+day, allowing himself only time to run out of town for a mile in the
+twilight, before lighting the candles, as necessary exercise. Though,
+from the high social position of his mother, he had many acquaintances
+at Williamsburg, Thomas went little in society, save to dine with the
+prominent men above mentioned. These were a constant stimulant to him. A
+great man, or the written life of a great man, becomes the maker of
+other great men. The boy had learned early in life one secret of
+success; to ally one's self to superior men and women.
+
+Years afterward, he wrote to his eldest grandson, "I had the
+good-fortune to become acquainted very early with some characters of
+very high standing, and to feel the incessant wish that I could ever
+become what they were. Under temptations and difficulties, I would ask
+myself, what would Dr. Small, Mr. Wythe, Peyton Randolph do in this
+situation? What course in it will insure me their approbation? I am
+certain that this mode of deciding on my conduct tended more to
+correctness than any reasoning powers I possessed. Knowing the even and
+dignified lives they pursued, I could never doubt for a moment which of
+two courses would be in character for them. From the circumstances of my
+position, I was often thrown into the society of horse-racers,
+card-players, fox-hunters, scientific and professional men, and of
+dignified men; and many a time have I asked myself in the enthusiastic
+moment of the death of a fox, the victory of a favorite horse, the issue
+of a question eloquently argued at the bar or in the great council of
+the nation, well, which of these kinds of reputation should I
+prefer--that of a horse-jockey, a fox-hunter, an orator, or the honest
+advocate of my country's rights?"
+
+The very fact that Jefferson thus early in life valued character and
+patriotism above everything else was a sure indication of a grand and
+successful manhood. We usually build for ourselves the kind of house we
+start to build in early years. If it is an abode of pleasure, we live in
+the satiety and littleness of soul which such a life brings. If it is an
+abode of worship of all that is pure and exalted, we walk among high
+ideals, with the angels for ministering spirits, and become a blessing
+to ourselves and to mankind.
+
+In these college-days, Jefferson became acquainted with the fun-loving,
+brilliant Patrick Henry, forming a friendship that became of great value
+to both. After two years in college, where he had obtained a fair
+knowledge of French, Spanish, and Italian, besides his Latin and Greek,
+he went home to spend the winter in reading law. But other thoughts
+continually mingled with Coke. On every page he read the name of a
+beautiful girl of whom he had become very fond. She had given him a
+watch-paper, which having become spoiled accidentally, the law-student
+wrote to his friend John Page, afterward governor of Virginia, "I would
+fain ask the favor of Miss Becca Burwell to give me another watch-paper
+of her own cutting, which I should esteem much more, though it were a
+plain round one, than the nicest in the world, cut by other hands." He
+asked advice of Page as to whether he had better go to her home and
+tell her what was in his heart. "Inclination tells me to go, receive my
+sentence, and be no longer in suspense; but reason says, 'If you go, and
+your attempt proves unsuccessful, you will be ten times more wretched
+than ever.'"
+
+He battled with Coke all winter and all the next summer,--a young man in
+love who can thus bend himself to his work shows a strong will,--going
+to Williamsburg in October to attend the General Court, and to meet and
+ask Miss Burwell for her heart and hand. Alas! he found her engaged to
+another. Possibly, he was "ten times more wretched than ever," but it
+was wise to know the worst.
+
+A young man of twenty-one usually makes the best of an unfortunate
+matter, remembering that life is all before him, and he must expect
+difficulties. The following year, a sister married one of his dearest
+friends, Dabney Carr; and the same year, 1765, his pet sister, Jane,
+died. To the end of his life, he never forgot this sorrow; and, even in
+his extreme old age, said "that often in church some sacred air, which
+her sweet voice had made familiar to him in youth, recalled to him sweet
+visions of this sister, whom he had loved so well and buried so young."
+
+After five years spent in law studies, rising at five, even in winter,
+for his work, he began to practise, with remarkable success. He was not
+a gifted speaker, but, having been a close student, his knowledge was
+highly valued. Years afterward, an old gentleman who knew Jefferson,
+when asked, "What was his power in the court-room?" answered, "He always
+took the right side."
+
+Parton says, in his valuable life of Jefferson, "He had most of the
+requisites of a great lawyer; industry, so quiet, methodical, and
+sustained that it amounted to a gift; learning, multifarious and exact;
+skill and rapidity in handling books; the instinct of research, that
+leads him who has it to the fact he wants, as surely as the hound scents
+the game; a serenity of temper, which neither the inaptitude of
+witnesses nor the badgering of counsel could ever disturb; a habit of
+getting everything upon paper in such a way that all his stores of
+knowledge could be marshalled and brought into action; a ready sympathy
+with a client's mind; an intuitive sense of what is due to the opinions,
+prejudices, and errors of others; a knowledge of the few avenues by
+which alone unwelcome truth can find access to a human mind; and the
+power to state a case with the clearness and brevity that often make
+argument superfluous."
+
+In 1768, when he was only twenty-five years old, he offered himself as a
+candidate for the Virginia Legislature, and was elected. He entered upon
+his public life, which lasted for forty years, with the resolution
+"never to engage, while in public office, in any kind of enterprise for
+the improvement of my fortune;" and he kept his resolution.
+
+Two years after he began to practise law, the house at "Shadwell" was
+burned. He was absent from home, and greatly concerned about his
+library. When a colored man came to tell him of his loss, Jefferson
+inquired eagerly for his books. "Oh," replied the servant, carelessly,
+"they were all burnt, but ah! we saved your fiddle!"
+
+A new house was now begun, two miles from the Shadwell home, on a hill
+five hundred and eighty feet high, which he called afterwards
+"Monticello," the Italian for "Little Mountain." This had long been a
+favorite retreat for Jefferson. He and Dabney Carr had come here day
+after day, in the summer-time, and made for themselves a rustic seat
+under a great oak, where they read law together, and planned the
+rose-colored plans of youth. Sweet, indeed, is it that we have such
+plans in early years. Those get most out of life who live much in the
+ideal; who see roses along every pathway, and hear Nature's music in
+every terrific storm.
+
+Jefferson was building the Monticello home with bright visions for its
+future. Another face had come into his heart, this time to remain
+forever. It was a beautiful face; a woman, with a slight, delicate form,
+a mind remarkably trained for the times, and a soul devoted to music.
+She had been married, and was a widow at nineteen. Her father was a
+wealthy lawyer; her own portion was about forty thousand acres of land
+and one hundred and thirty-five slaves. Although Jefferson had less
+land, his annual income was about five thousand dollars, from this and
+his profession.
+
+Martha Skelton was now twenty-three, and Jefferson nearly twenty-nine.
+So attractive a woman had many suitors. The story is told that two
+interested gentlemen came one evening to her father's house, with the
+purpose of having their future definitely settled. When they arrived,
+they heard singing in the drawing-room. They listened, and the voices
+were unmistakably those of Jefferson and Martha Skelton. Making up their
+minds that "their future was definitely settled," as far as she was
+concerned, they took their hats and withdrew.
+
+Jefferson was married to the lady January 1, 1772, and after the wedding
+started for Monticello. The snow had fallen lightly, but soon became so
+deep that they were obliged to quit the carriage and proceed on
+horseback. Arriving late at night, the fires were out and the servants
+in bed; but love keeps hearts warm, and darkness and cold were forgotten
+in the satisfaction of having won each other. This satisfaction was
+never clouded. For years, the home life deepened with its joys and
+sorrows. A little girl, Martha, was first born into the home; then Jane,
+who died when eighteen months old, and then an only son, who died in
+seventeen days. Monticello took on new beauty. Trees were set out and
+flower-beds planted. The man who so loved nature made this a restful and
+beautiful place for his little group.
+
+The year after Jefferson's marriage, Dabney Carr, the brilliant young
+member of the Virginia Assembly, a favorite in every household, eloquent
+and lovable, died in his thirtieth year. His wife, for a time, lost her
+reason in consequence. Carr was buried at "Shadwell," as Jefferson was
+away from home; but, upon his return, the boyish promise was kept, and
+the friend was interred under the old oak at Monticello, with these
+words on the stone, written by Jefferson:--
+
+  "To his Virtue, Good-Sense, Learning, and Friendship,
+    this stone is dedicated by Thomas Jefferson, who,
+          of all men living, loved him most."
+
+At once, Mrs. Carr, with her six little children, came to Jefferson's
+home, and lived there ever after, he educating the three sons and three
+daughters of his widowed sister as though they were his own. Thus true
+and tender was he to those whom he loved.
+
+For some years past, Jefferson had been developing under that British
+teaching which led America to freedom. When a student of law, he had
+listened to Patrick Henry's immortal speech in the debate on the Stamp
+Act. "I attended the debate," said Jefferson in his Memoir, "and heard
+the splendid display of Mr. Henry's talents as a popular orator. They
+were indeed great; such as I have never heard from any other man. He
+appeared to me to speak as Homer wrote.... I never heard anything that
+deserved to be called by the same name with what flowed from him; and
+where he got that torrent of language from is inconceivable. I have
+frequently shut my eyes while he spoke, and, when he was done, asked
+myself what he had said, without being able to recollect a word of it.
+He was no logician. He was truly a great man, however,--one of enlarged
+views."
+
+The whole country had become aflame over the burning of the Gaspee, in
+March, 1772,--a royal schooner anchored at Providence, R. I. The
+schooner came there to watch the commerce of the colonies, and to search
+vessels. She made herself generally obnoxious. Having run aground in her
+chase of an American packet, a few Rhode Islanders determined to visit
+her and burn her. The little company set out in eight boats, muffling
+their oars, reaching her after midnight. The Gaspee was taken unawares,
+the hands of the crew tied behind them, and the vessel burned.
+
+At once a reward of five thousand dollars was offered for the detection
+of any person concerned; but, though everybody knew, nobody would tell.
+Word came from England "that the persons concerned in the burning of the
+Gaspee schooner, and in the other violences which attended that daring
+insult, should be brought to England to be tried." This fired the hearts
+of the colonists. The Virginia House of Burgesses appointed a committee
+to correspond with other Legislatures on topics which concerned the
+common welfare. The royal governor of Virginia had no liking for such
+free thought and free speech as this, and dissolved the House, which at
+once repaired to a tavern and continued its deliberations.
+
+Soon a convention was called, before which Jefferson's "Summary View of
+the Rights of British America" was laid. It was worded as a skilful
+lawyer and polished writer knew how to word it; and it stated the case
+so plainly that, when it was published, and sent to Great Britain,
+Jefferson, to use his own words, "had the honor of having his name
+inserted in a long list of proscriptions enrolled in a bill of attainder
+commenced in one of the Houses of Parliament, but suppressed by the
+hasty step of events." Remoteness from England doubtless saved his life.
+
+Jefferson went up to the Continental Congress at Philadelphia, which
+opened May 10, 1775, taking his "Summary View" with him. The delegates
+were waiting to see what Virginia had to say in these important days.
+She had instructed her men to offer a resolution that "the United
+Colonies be free and independent States," which was done by Richard
+Henry Lee, on June 7. Four days later, Congress appointed a committee of
+five to prepare a Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson, only
+thirty-two, one of the youngest members of Congress, was made chairman.
+How well he had become fitted to write this immortal document! It was
+but a condensation of the "Summary View." He was also, says John T.
+Morse, in his life of Jefferson, "a man without an enemy. His abstinence
+from any active share in debate had saved him from giving irritation."
+
+The Declaration still exists in Jefferson's clear handwriting. For three
+days the paper was hotly debated, "John Adams being the colossus of the
+debate." Jefferson did not speak a word, though Franklin cheered him as
+he saw him "writhing under the acrimonious criticism of some of its
+parts."
+
+When it was adopted, the country was wild with joy. It was publicly read
+from a platform in Independence Square. Military companies gathered to
+listen to its words, fired salutes, and lighted bonfires in the
+evenings. The step, dreaded, yet for years longed for, had been
+taken--separation and freedom, or union and slavery. Jefferson came to
+that Congress an educated, true-hearted lover of his country; he went
+back to Martha Jefferson famous as long as America shall endure. He was
+reelected to Congress, but declined to serve, as he wished to do
+important work in his own State, in the changing of her laws.
+
+But now, October 8, 1776, came a most tempting offer; that of joint
+commissioner with Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane to represent America
+at the court of France. He had always longed for European travel; he was
+a fine French scholar, and could make himself most useful to his new
+country, but his wife was too frail to undertake the long journey. She
+was more to him than the French mission, and he stayed at home.
+
+Born with a belief in human brotherhood and a love for human freedom, he
+turned his attention in the Virginia Legislature to the repeal of the
+laws of entail and primogeniture, derived from England. He believed the
+repeal of these, and the adoption of his bill "for establishing
+religious freedom," would, as he said, form a system by which every
+fibre would be eradicated of ancient or future aristocracy. "The repeal
+of the laws of entail would prevent the accumulation and perpetuation of
+wealth in select families.... The abolition of primogeniture, and equal
+partition of inheritances, removed the feudal and unnatural distinctions
+which made one member of every family rich and all the rest poor.... The
+restoration of the rights of conscience relieved the people from
+taxation for the support of a religion not theirs."
+
+There was much persecution of Dissenters by the Established Church.
+Baptists were often thrown into prison for preaching, as Patrick Henry
+declared, "the Gospel of the Saviour to Adam's fallen race." For nine
+years the matter of freedom of conscience was wrestled with, before
+Virginia could concede to her people the right to worship God as they
+pleased.
+
+Jefferson was averse to slavery, worked for the colonization of the
+slaves, and in 1778 carried through a bill against their further
+importation. He wrote later, in his "Notes on Virginia": "The whole
+commerce between master and slave is a perpetual exercise of the most
+boisterous passions, the most unremitting despotism, on the one part,
+and degrading submissions on the other.... I tremble for my country when
+I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever; that,
+considering numbers, nature, and natural means only, a revolution of the
+wheel of fortune, an exchange of situations, is among possible events;
+that it may become probable by supernatural interference! The Almighty
+has no attribute which can take side with us in such a contest." When
+his State could not bring itself to adopt his plan of freeing the
+slaves, he wrote in his autobiography, in 1821, "The day is not distant
+when it must bear and adopt it, or worse will follow. Nothing is more
+certainly written in the book of fate than that these people are to be
+free." How great indeed was the man who could look beyond his own
+personal interests for the well-being of the race!
+
+He worked earnestly for common schools and the establishment of a
+university in his native State, believing that it is the right and duty
+of a nation to make its people intelligent and capable of
+self-government.
+
+In June, 1779, Jefferson was made governor of Virginia, to succeed
+Patrick Henry, her first governor. The Revolutionary War had been going
+forward, with some victories and some defeats. Virginia had given
+generously of men, money, and provisions. The war was being transferred
+to the South, as its battle-ground. British fleets had laid waste the
+Atlantic coast. Benedict Arnold and Cornwallis had ravaged Virginia.
+When General Tarlton was ordered to Charlottesville, in 1781, and it
+seemed probable that Monticello would fall into his hands, Jefferson
+moved his family to a place of safety.
+
+When the British arrived, and found that the governor was not to be
+captured, they retired without committing the slightest injury to the
+place. This was in return for kindness shown by Jefferson to four
+thousand English prisoners, who had been sent from near New York, to be
+in camp at Charlottesville, where it seemed cheaper to provide for them.
+Jefferson rightly said: "It is for the benefit of mankind to mitigate
+the horrors of war as much as possible. The practice, therefore, of
+modern nations, of treating captive enemies with politeness and
+generosity, is not only delightful in contemplation, but really
+interesting to all the world--friends, foes, and neutrals."
+
+Two faithful servants at Monticello, fearful that the silver might be
+stolen by the red-coats, concealed it under a floor a few feet from the
+ground; Caesar, removing a plank, and slipping through the cavity,
+received it from the hands of Martin. The soldiers came just as the last
+piece was handed to Caesar; the plank was immediately restored to its
+place, and for nearly three days and nights the poor colored man
+remained in the dark, without food, guarding his master's treasures.
+When a soldier put his gun to the breast of Martin and threatened to
+fire unless Jefferson's whereabouts was disclosed, the brave fellow
+answered, "Fire away, then!" A man or woman who wins and holds such
+loyalty from dependents is no ordinary character.
+
+After holding the office of governor for two years, Jefferson resigned,
+feeling that a military man would give greater satisfaction. Such a one
+followed him, but with no better success among the half-despairing
+patriots, destitute of money and supplies. Jefferson, with his sensitive
+spirit, felt keenly the criticisms of some of the people, saying, "They
+have inflicted a wound on my spirit which will only be cured by the
+all-healing grave." He refused to return to public life, and looked
+forward to happy years of quiet study at Monticello.
+
+How little we know the way which lies before us. We long for sunlight,
+and perchance have only storms. We love to be as children who must be
+carried over the swamps and rough places, not knowing that strength of
+manhood and womanhood comes generally through struggling. The "happy
+years" at Monticello were already numbered. Another little girl had come
+to gladden the heart of the man who so loved children, and had quickly
+taken her departure. And now Martha Jefferson, at thirty-four, the
+sweet, gentle woman who had lived with him only ten short years, was
+also going away. She talked with him calmly about the journey; she said
+she could not die content if she thought their children would have a
+stepmother. The young governor, without a moment's thought as to his
+future happiness, taking her hand, solemnly promised that he would never
+marry again, and he kept his word. It is not known that any person ever
+entered the place left vacant in his heart by Martha Jefferson's death.
+
+For four months he had watched by her bedside, or had his books so near
+her that he could work without being separated from her. When she died
+he fainted, and remained so long insensible that the attendants thought
+he could never be restored to consciousness. For three weeks he kept his
+room, ministered to by his little daughter Martha, who wound her arms
+about his neck, with that inexpressible consolation that only a pure,
+sweet child-nature can give. She said years later, "I was never a moment
+from his side. He walked almost incessantly, night and day, only lying
+down occasionally, when nature was completely exhausted.... When, at
+last, he left his room, he rode out, and from that time he was on
+horseback rambling about the mountain, in the least frequented roads,
+and just as often through the woods. In those melancholy rambles I was
+his constant companion, a solitary witness to many a burst of grief."
+
+He longed now for a change of scene; Monticello was no more a place of
+peace and rest. Being elected to Congress, he took his seat in
+November, 1783. To him we owe, after much heated discussion, the
+adoption of the present system of dollars and cents, instead of pounds
+and shillings. In May, 1784, he was appointed minister to France, to
+join Dr. Franklin and John Adams in negotiating commercial treaties. He
+sailed in July, taking with him his eldest child, Martha, leaving Mary
+and an infant daughter with an aunt.
+
+The educated governor and congressman of course found a cordial welcome
+in Parisian society, for was he not the author of the Declaration of
+Independence, endeared to all lovers of liberty, in whatever country. He
+was charmed with French courtesy, thrift, and neatness, but he was
+always an American in sentiment and affection. He wrote to his young
+friend, James Monroe, afterwards President: "The pleasure of the trip to
+Europe will be less than you expect, but the utility greater. It will
+make you adore your own country,--its soil, its climate, its equality,
+liberty, laws, people, and manners. How little do my countrymen know
+what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other
+people on earth enjoy!" More and more he loved, and believed in, a
+republic. He wrote to a friend: "If all the evils which can arise among
+us from the republican form of government, from this day to the day of
+judgment, could be put into scale against what this country suffers from
+its monarchical form in a week, or England in a month, the latter would
+preponderate. No race of kings has ever presented above one man of
+common-sense in twenty generations. The best they can do is to leave
+things to their ministers; and what are their ministers but a committee
+badly chosen?"
+
+Jefferson spent much time in looking up the manufacturing and
+agricultural interests of the country, and kept four colleges--Harvard,
+Yale, William and Mary, and the College of Philadelphia--advised of new
+inventions, new books, and new phases of the approaching Revolution.
+
+He had placed his daughter Martha in a leading school. His letters to
+her in the midst of his busy life show the beautiful spirit of the man,
+who was too great ever to rise above his affectional nature. "The more
+you learn the more I love you," he wrote her; "and I rest the happiness
+of my life on seeing you beloved by all the world, which you will be
+sure to be if to a good heart you join those accomplishments so
+peculiarly pleasing in your sex. Adieu, my dear child; lose no moment in
+improving your head, nor any opportunity of exercising your heart in
+benevolence."
+
+His baby-girl, Lucy, died two years after her mother, and now only
+little Mary was left in America. He could not rest until this child was
+with him in France. She came, with a breaking heart on leaving the old
+Virginia home and her aunt. On board the vessel she became so attached
+to the captain that it was almost impossible to take her from him. She
+spent some weeks with Mrs. John Adams in London, who wrote: "A finer
+child I never saw. I grew so fond of her, and she was so much attached
+to me, that, when Mr. Jefferson sent for her, they were obliged to force
+the little creature away."
+
+Once in Paris, the affectionate child was placed at school with her
+sister Martha, to whom Jefferson wrote: "She will become a precious
+charge upon your hands.... Teach her, above all things, to be good,
+because without that we can neither be valued by others nor set any
+value on ourselves. Teach her to be always true; no vice is so mean as
+the want of truth, and at the same time so useless. Teach her never to
+be angry; anger only serves to torment ourselves, to divert others, and
+alienate their esteem."
+
+The love of truth was a strong characteristic of Jefferson's nature, one
+of the most beautiful characteristics of any life. There is no other
+foundation-stone so strong and enduring on which to build a granite
+character as the granite rock of truth. Jefferson wrote to his children
+and nephews: "If you ever find yourself in any difficulty, and doubt how
+to extricate yourself, _do what is right_, and you will find it the
+easiest way of getting out of the difficulty.... Give up money, give up
+fame, give up science, give the earth itself, and all it contains,
+rather than do an immoral act. And never suppose that, in any possible
+situation or any circumstances, it is best for you to do a dishonorable
+thing." Again he wrote: "Determine never to be idle. No person will
+have occasion to complain of the want of time, who never loses any. It
+is wonderful how much may be done if we are always doing."
+
+After five years spent in France, most of which time he was minister
+plenipotentiary, Dr. Franklin having returned home, and John Adams
+having gone to England, Jefferson set sail for America, with his two
+beloved children, Martha, seventeen, and Mary, eleven. He had done his
+work well, and been honored for his wisdom and his peace-loving nature.
+Daniel Webster said of him: "No court in Europe had at that time a
+representative in Paris commanding or enjoying higher regard, for
+political knowledge or for general attainments, than the minister of
+this then infant republic."
+
+Even before Jefferson reached home he had been appointed Secretary of
+State by President Washington. He accepted with a sense of dread, and
+his subsequent difficulties with Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the
+Treasury, realized his worst fears. The one believed in centralization
+of power--a stronger national government; the other believed in a pure
+democracy--the will of the people, with the least possible governing
+power. The two men were opposite in character, opposite in financial
+plans, opposite in views of national polity. Jefferson took sides with
+the French, and Hamilton with the English in the French Revolution. The
+press grew bitter over these differences, and the noble heart of George
+Washington was troubled. Finally Jefferson resigned, and retired to
+Monticello. "I return to farming," he said, "with an ardor which I
+scarcely knew in my youth."
+
+Three years later, he was again called into public life. As Washington
+declined a reelection, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson became the two
+Presidential candidates. The one receiving the most votes of the
+electors became President, and the second on the list, Vice-President.
+John Adams received three more votes than Jefferson, and was made
+President.
+
+On March 4, 1797, Jefferson, as Vice-President, became the leader of the
+Senate, delivering a short but able address. Much of the next four years
+he spent at Monticello, watching closely the progress of events. Matters
+with the French republic grew more complicated. She demanded an alliance
+with the United States against England, which was refused, and war
+became imminent. At the last moment, John Adams rose above the tempest
+of the hour, went quite half-way in bringing about a reconciliation, and
+the country was saved from a useless and disastrous war.
+
+The Federalists had passed some unwise measures, such as the "Alien
+Law," whereby the President was authorized to send foreigners out of the
+country; and the "Sedition Law," which punished with fine and
+imprisonment freedom of speech and of the press. Therefore, at the next
+presidential election, when Adams and Jefferson were again candidates,
+the latter was made President of the United States, the Federalists
+having lost their power, and the Republicans--afterwards called
+Democrats--having gained the ascendancy.
+
+The contest had been bitter. Jefferson's religious belief had been
+strongly assailed. Through it all he had the common-sense to know that
+the cool-headed, good-natured man, who has only words of kindness, and
+who rarely or never makes an enemy, is the man who wins in the end. He
+controlled himself, and therefore his party, in a manner almost
+unexampled.
+
+March 4, 1801, at the age of fifty-eight, in a plain suit of clothes,
+the great leader of Democracy rode to the Capitol, hitched his horse to
+the fence, entered the Senate Chamber, and delivered his inaugural
+address. Thus simple was the man, who wished ever to be known as "the
+friend of the people." Alas! that sweet Martha Jefferson could not have
+lived to see this glad day! To what a proud height had come the
+hard-working college boy and the tender-hearted, tolerant man!
+
+As President, he was the idol of his party, and, in the main, a wise
+leader. He made few removals from office, chiefly those appointed by
+John Adams just as he was leaving the Presidency. Jefferson said
+removals "must be as few as possible, done gradually, and bottomed on
+some malversation or inherent disqualification." One of the chief acts
+was the purchase from France of a great tract of land, called the
+Territory of Louisiana, for fifteen million dollars.
+
+During his second four years in office, there were more perplexities.
+Aaron Burr, Vice-President during Jefferson's first term, was tried on
+the charge of raising an army to place himself on the throne of Mexico,
+or at the head of a South-western confederacy. England, usually at war
+with France, had issued orders prohibiting all trade with that country
+and her allies; Napoleon had retorted by a like measure. Both nations
+claimed the right to take seamen out of United States vessels. The
+British frigate Leopard took four seamen by force from the American
+frigate Chesapeake. The nation seemed on the verge of war, but it was
+postponed, only to come later, in 1812, under James Madison.
+
+Congress passed the Embargo Act, by which all American vessels were
+detained in our own ports. It had strong advocates and strong opponents,
+but was repealed as soon as Jefferson retired from office. Owing to
+these measures our commerce was well-nigh destroyed.
+
+At the age of sixty-five years, Jefferson retired to Monticello, "with a
+reputation and popularity," says Mr. Morse, "hardly inferior to that of
+Washington." He had had the wisdom never to assume the bearing of a
+leader. He had been careful to avoid disputes. Once, when riding, he met
+a stranger, with whom engaging in conversation, he found him bitterly
+opposed to the President. Upon being asked if he knew Mr. Jefferson
+personally, he replied, "No, nor do I wish to."
+
+"But do you think it fair to repeat such stories about a man, and
+condemn one whom you do not dare to face?"
+
+"I shall never shrink from meeting him if he ever comes in my way."
+
+"Will you, then, go to his house to-morrow, and be introduced to him, if
+I promise to meet you there?"
+
+"Yes, I will."
+
+The stranger came, to his astonishment found that the man he had talked
+with was the President himself, dined with him, and became his firm
+friend and supporter ever afterward.
+
+For the next seventeen years, Jefferson lived at Monticello, honored and
+visited by celebrities from all the world. Sometimes as many as fifty
+persons stayed at his home over night. One family of six came from
+abroad, and remained with him for ten months. His daughter Martha,
+married to Thomas Mann Randolph, presided over his hospitable home, and
+with her eleven children made the place a delight, for she had "the
+Jefferson temperament--all music and sunshine." The beautiful Mary, who
+married her cousin, John W. Eppes, had died at twenty-six, leaving two
+small children, who, like all the rest, found a home with Jefferson.
+
+In the midst of this loving company, the great man led a busy life,
+carrying on an immense correspondence, by means of which he exerted a
+commanding influence on the questions of the day as well as on all
+social matters. To a child named for him, he wrote a letter which the
+boy might read after the statesman's death. In it are these helpful
+words: "Adore God. Reverence and cherish your parents. Love your
+neighbor as yourself. Be just. Be true. Murmur not at the ways of
+Providence."
+
+To his daughter Mary he wrote these lines, which well might be hung up
+in every household:--
+
+"Harmony in the married state is the very first object to be aimed at.
+Nothing can preserve affections uninterrupted but a firm resolution
+never to differ in will, and a determination in each to consider the
+love of the other as of more value than any object whatever on which a
+wish had been fixed. How light, in fact, is the sacrifice of any other
+wish when weighed against the affections of one with whom we are to pass
+our whole life. And though opposition in a single instance will hardly
+of itself produce alienation, yet every one has his pouch into which all
+these little oppositions are put. While that is filling, the alienation
+is insensibly going on, and when filled it is complete. It would puzzle
+either to say why, because no one difference of opinion has been marked
+enough to produce a serious effect by itself. But he finds his
+affections wearied out by a constant stream of little checks and
+obstacles.
+
+"Other sources of discontent, very common indeed, are the little
+cross-purposes of husband and wife, in common conversation; a
+disposition in either to criticise and question whatever the other says;
+a desire always to demonstrate and make him feel himself in the wrong,
+and especially in company. Nothing is so goading. Much better,
+therefore, if our companion views a thing in a light different from what
+we do, to leave him in quiet possession of his view. What is the use of
+rectifying him, if the thing be unimportant, and, if important, let it
+pass for the present, and wait a softer moment and more conciliatory
+occasion of revising the subject together. It is wonderful how many
+persons are rendered unhappy by inattention to these little rules of
+prudence."
+
+Jefferson rose early; the sun, he said, had not for fifty years caught
+him in bed. But he bore great heart-sorrow in these declining years, and
+bore it bravely. His estate had diminished in value, and he had lost
+heavily by indorsements for others. His household expenses were
+necessarily great. Finally, debts pressed so heavily that he sold to
+Congress the dearly prized library, which he had been gathering for
+fifty years. He received nearly twenty-four thousand dollars for it,
+about half its original value. But this amount brought only temporary
+relief.
+
+Then he attempted to dispose of some of his land by lottery, as was
+somewhat the fashion of the times. The Legislature reluctantly gave
+permission, but as soon as his friends in New York, Philadelphia, and
+Baltimore heard of his pecuniary condition, they raised about eighteen
+thousand dollars for him, and the lottery plan was abandoned. He was
+touched by this proof of esteem, and said: "No cent of this is wrung
+from the tax-payer; it is the pure and unsolicited offering of love."
+
+Jefferson was now, as he said, "like an old watch, with a pinion worn
+out here and a wheel there, until it can go no longer." On July 3, 1826,
+after a brief illness, he seemed near the end. He desired to live till
+the next day, and frequently asked if it were the Fourth. He lingered
+till forty minutes past the noon of July 4, and then slept in death.
+That same day, John Adams, at ninety-one, was dying at Quincy, Mass. His
+last words were, as he went out at sunset, the booming of cannon
+sounding pleasant to his patriotic heart, "Thomas Jefferson still
+lives." He did not know that his great co-laborer had gone home at
+midday. "The two aged men," says T. W. Higginson, "floated on, like two
+ships becalmed at nightfall, that drift together into port, and cast
+anchor side by side." Beautiful words!
+
+The death of two Presidents at this memorable time has given an
+additional sacredness to our national Independence Day.
+
+Among Jefferson's papers were found, carefully laid away, "some of my
+dear, dear wife's handwriting," and locks of hair of herself and
+children. Also a sketch of the granite stone he desired for his
+monument, with these words to be inscribed upon it.
+
+                   Here was buried
+                  THOMAS JEFFERSON,
+     Author of the Declaration of Independence,
+  Of the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom,
+     And Father of the University of Virginia.
+
+He was buried by his family and servants, on the spot selected by
+himself and Dabney Carr in boyhood, his wife on one side and his loving
+Mary on the other.
+
+The beloved Monticello passed into other hands. Martha Jefferson and her
+children would have been left penniless had not the Legislatures of
+South Carolina and Louisiana each voted her ten thousand dollars. Thomas
+Jefferson Randolph, the grandson, with the assistance of his daughters,
+who established a noted school, paid all the remaining debts, many
+thousand dollars, to save the honor of their famous ancestor.
+
+To the last, Jefferson kept his sublime faith in human nature and in the
+eternal justice of republican principles, saying it is "my conviction
+that should things go wrong at any time, the people will set them to
+rights by the peaceable exercise of their elective rights." Whatever his
+religious belief in its details of creed, he said, "I am a Christian in
+the only sense in which Jesus wished any one to be--sincerely attached
+to his doctrines in preference to all others." He compiled a little
+book of the words of Christ, saying, "A more precious morsel of ethics
+was never seen."
+
+In his public life he was honest, in his domestic life lovable, and he
+died, as he had lived, tolerant of the opinions of others,
+even-tempered, believing in the grandeur and beauty of human nature.
+What though we occasionally trust too much! Far better that than to go
+through life doubting and murmuring! That he believed too broadly in
+States' Rights for the perpetuity of the Union, our late Civil War
+plainly showed, and his views on Free Trade are, of course, shared by a
+portion only of our citizens. However, he gave grandly of the affection
+of his heart and the power of his intellect, and he received, as he
+deserved, the love and honor of thousands, the world over.
+
+[Illustration: Signature A. Hamilton]
+
+
+
+
+ALEXANDER HAMILTON.
+
+
+To the quiet and picturesque island of Nevis, one of the West Indies,
+many years ago, a Scotch merchant came to build for himself a home. He
+was of a proud and wealthy family, allied centuries before to William
+the Conqueror.
+
+On this island lived also a Huguenot family, who had settled there after
+the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, which drove so many Protestants
+out of the country. In this family was a beautiful and very intellectual
+girl, with refined tastes and gentle, cultured manners. Through the
+ambition of her mother she had contracted a marriage with a Dane of
+large wealth, followed by the usual unhappiness of marrying simply for
+money. A divorce resulted, and the attractive young woman married the
+Scotch merchant, James Hamilton. A son, Alexander, was born to them,
+January 11, 1757.
+
+But he was born into privation rather than joy and plenty. The generous
+and kindly father failed in business; the beautiful mother died in his
+childhood, and he was thrown upon the bounty of her relations.
+
+The opportunities for education on the island were limited. The child
+read all the books he could lay his hands upon, becoming especially fond
+of Plutarch's Lives and Pope's works. He was fortunate also in having
+the friendship of a superior man, Dr. Knox, a Presbyterian clergyman,
+who delighted in the boy's quick and comprehensive mind.
+
+At twelve years of age he was obliged to earn money, and was placed in
+the counting-house of Nicholas Cruger. Probably, like other boys, he
+wished he were rich, but found later in life that success is usually
+born of effort and economy. He early chose "Perseverando" for his motto,
+and it helped to carry him to the summit of power.
+
+That the counting-house was not congenial to him, a letter to a
+school-fellow in New York plainly shows. "To confess my weakness, Ned,
+my ambition is prevalent, so that I contemn the grovelling condition of
+a clerk, or the like, to which my fortune condemns me, and would
+willingly risk my life, though not my character, to exalt my station. I
+am confident, Ned, that my youth excludes me from any hopes of immediate
+preferment, nor do I desire it, but I mean to prepare the way for
+futurity. I'm no philosopher, you see, and may be justly said to build
+castles in the air; my folly makes me ashamed, and beg you'll conceal
+it; yet, Neddy, we have seen such schemes successful, when the projector
+is constant. I shall conclude by saying, I wish there was a war."
+
+The "projector was constant," and the "schemes became successful." He
+was indeed "preparing the way for futurity," this lad not yet fourteen.
+At this time, Mr. Cruger made a visit to New York, and left the
+precocious boy in charge of his business. Such reliance upon him
+increased his self-reliance, and helped to fit him to advise and uphold
+a nation in later years.
+
+In these early days he began to write both prose and poetry. When he was
+fifteen, the Leeward Islands were visited by a terrific hurricane. In
+one town five hundred houses were blown down. So interested was
+Alexander in this novel occurrence that he wrote a description of it for
+a newspaper. When the authorship was discovered, it was decided by the
+relatives that such a boy ought to be educated. The money was raised for
+this purpose, and he sailed for New York, taking with him some valuable
+letters of introduction from Dr. Knox.
+
+He was soon attending a grammar-school at Elizabeth, New Jersey. The
+principal, Francis Barber, was a fine classical scholar, patriotic,
+entering the Revolutionary War later; the right man to impress his
+pupils for good. Alexander, with his accustomed energy and ambition, set
+himself to work. In winter, wrapt in a blanket, he studied till
+midnight, and in summer, at dawn, resorted to a cemetery near by, where
+he found the quiet he desired. In a year he was ready to enter college.
+
+Attracted to Princeton, he asked Dr. Witherspoon, the president of the
+college, the privilege of taking the course in about half the usual
+time. The good days of election in study had not yet dawned. The dull
+and the bright must have the same routine; the one urged to his duties,
+the other tired by the delay. The doctor could not establish so peculiar
+a precedent, and Princeton missed the honor of educating the great
+statesman.
+
+He entered Columbia College, and made an excellent record for himself.
+In the debating club, say his classmates, "he gave extraordinary
+displays of richness of genius and energy of mind." He won strong
+friendships to himself by his generous and unselfish nature, and his
+ardent love for others. It is only another proof of the old rule, that
+"Like begets like." Those who give love in this world usually receive
+it. Selfishness wins nothing--self-sacrifice, all things.
+
+The college-boy was often seen walking under the large trees on what is
+now Dey Street, New York, talking to himself in an undertone, and
+apparently in deep thought. The neighbors knew the slight, dark-eyed
+lad, as the "young West Indian," and wondered concerning his future.
+When he was seventeen, a "great meeting in the fields" was held in New
+York, July 6, 1774. While Hamilton was studying, the colonies of America
+had been looking over into the promised land of freedom, driven thither
+by some unwise task-masters. Boston had seasoned the waters of the
+Atlantic with British tea. New York, well filled with Tories, yet had
+some Patriots, who felt that the hour was approaching when all must
+stand together in the demand for liberty. Accordingly, the "great
+meeting" was called, to teach the people the lessons of the past and the
+duties of the future.
+
+Hamilton had recently returned from a visit to Boston, and was urged to
+be present and speak at the meeting. He at first refused, being a
+stranger in the country and unknown. He attended, however; and when
+several speakers had addressed the eager crowds, thoughts flowed into
+the youth's mind and pleaded for utterance. He mounted the platform. The
+audience stared at the stripling. Then, as he depicted the long endured
+oppression from England, urged the wisdom of resistance, and painted in
+glowing colors the sure success of the colonies, the hearts of the
+multitude took fire with courage and hope. When he closed, they shouted,
+"It is a collegian! it is a collegian!"
+
+Hamilton was no longer a West Indian; he was, heart and soul, an
+American. Liberty now grew more exciting than college books. Dr.
+Seabury, afterwards Bishop of Connecticut, wrote two tracts entitled
+"Free Thoughts on the Proceedings of the Continental Congress," and
+"Congress Canvassed by a Westchester Farmer." These pamphlets attempted
+to show the foolishness of opposing a monarchy like England. They were
+scattered broadcast.
+
+Then tracts appeared in answer; clear, terse, sound, and able. These
+said, "No reason can be assigned why one man should exercise any power
+or preeminence over his fellow-creatures more than another, unless they
+have voluntarily vested him with it. Since, then, Americans have not, by
+any act of theirs, empowered the British Parliament to make laws for
+them, it follows they can have no just authority to do it.... If, by the
+necessity of the thing, manufactures should once be established, and
+take root among us, they will pave the way still more to the future
+grandeur and glory of America; and, by lessening its need of external
+commerce, will render it still securer against the encroachments of
+tyranny."
+
+This was rank heterodoxy toward a power which had crippled the
+manufactures of America in all possible ways, and wished to keep her a
+great agricultural country. "The sacred rights of mankind," said the
+writer, "are not to be rummaged for among old parchments or musty
+records; they are written, as with a sunbeam, in the whole volume of
+human nature, by the hand of the Divinity itself, and can never be
+erased or obscured by mortal power." The wonder grew as to the
+authorship of these pamphlets. Some said John Jay wrote them; some said
+Governor Livingstone. When it was learned that Hamilton, only eighteen,
+had composed them, the Tories stood aghast, and the Patriots saw that a
+new star had risen in the heavens.
+
+Hamilton knew that the war was inevitable; that the time must soon come
+for which he longed when he wrote to his friend Ned, "I wish there was a
+war." He immediately began to study military affairs. There are always
+places to be filled by those who make themselves ready. He was learning
+none too early. His corps, called the "Hearts of Oak" in green uniforms
+and leathern caps, drilled each morning. While engaged in removing
+cannon from the battery, a boat from the Asia, a British ship-of-war,
+fired into the men, killing the person who stood next to Hamilton. At
+once the drums were beaten, and the people rushed to arms. The king's
+store-houses were pillaged, and the "Liberty Boys" marched through the
+streets, threatening revenge on every Tory.
+
+Young Hamilton, fearless before the Asia, could also be fearless in
+defence of his friends. Dr. Cooper, the President of Columbia College,
+was a pronounced Tory. When the mob approached the steps of the
+institution, Hamilton, nothing daunted, appeared before them, and urged
+coolness, lest they bring "disgrace on the cause of liberty." Dr. Cooper
+imagined that his liberal pupil was assisting the mob, and cried out
+from an upper window, "Don't listen to him, gentlemen! he is crazy, he
+is crazy!" But the mob did listen, and the president was saved from
+harm.
+
+The Revolutionary War had begun. Lexington and Bunker Hill were as
+beacon-fires to the new nation. In 1776, the New York Convention ordered
+a company of artillery to be raised, and Hamilton applied for the
+command of it. Only nineteen, and very boyish in looks, his fitness for
+the position was doubted, till his excellent examination proved his
+knowledge, and he was appointed captain. He used the last money sent
+him by his relatives in the West Indies, to equip his company.
+
+College days were now over, and the busy life of the soldier had
+commenced. For most young men, the stirring events of the times would
+have filled every moment and every thought. Not so the man born to have
+a controlling and permanent influence in the republic. He found time to
+study about money circulation, rates of exchange, commerce, taxes,
+increase of population, and the like, because he knew that a great work
+must be done by somebody after the war. How true it is that if we fit
+ourselves for a great work, the work will find us.
+
+Meantime, Captain Hamilton drilled his troops so well that General
+Greene observed it, made the acquaintance of the captain, invited him to
+his headquarters, and spoke of him to Washington. Had not the work been
+well done, it would not have commanded attention, but this attention was
+an important stepping-stone to fame and honor. Hamilton was ever after a
+most loyal friend to General Greene.
+
+The company was soon called into active service. At the disastrous
+battle of Long Island, Hamilton was in the thickest of the fight, and
+brought up the rear, losing his baggage and a field-piece. After the
+retreat up the Hudson, at Harlem Heights, Washington observed the skill
+used in the construction of some earthworks, and, finding that the
+engineer was the young man introduced to him by General Greene, invited
+him to his tent. This was the beginning of a life-long and most devoted
+friendship between the great commander and the boyish captain.
+
+Later, at the battles of Trenton and Princeton, Hamilton was fearless
+and heroic. "Well do I recollect the day," said a friend, "when
+Hamilton's company marched into Princeton. It was a model of discipline;
+at their head was a boy, and I wondered at his youth; but what was my
+surprise when, struck with his slight figure, he was pointed out to me
+as that Hamilton of whom we had already heard so much.... A mere
+stripling, small, slender, almost delicate in frame, marching beside a
+piece of artillery, with a cocked hat pulled down over his eyes,
+apparently lost in thought, with his hand resting on a cannon, and every
+now and then patting it, as if it were a favorite horse or a pet
+plaything."
+
+He had so won the esteem and approbation of Washington that he was
+offered a position upon his staff, which he accepted March 1, 1777, with
+the rank of lieutenant-colonel. His work now was constant and absorbing.
+The correspondence was immense, but all was done with that clearness and
+elegance of diction which had marked the young collegian. He was popular
+with old and young, being called the "Little Lion," as a term of
+endearment, in appreciation of bravery and nobility of character.
+
+When the skies looked darkest, as at Valley Forge, Hamilton was
+habitually cheerful, seeing always a rainbow among the clouds. His
+enthusiasm was contagious. He carried men with him by a belief in his
+own powers, and by deep sympathy with others. Lafayette loved him as a
+brother. He wrote Hamilton, "Before this campaign I was your friend and
+very intimate friend, agreeably to the ideas of the world. Since my
+second voyage, my sentiment has increased to such a point the world
+knows nothing about. To show _both_, from want and from scorn of
+expression, I shall only tell you--Adieu!"
+
+Baron Steuben used to say, in later days, "The Secretary of the Treasury
+is my banker; my Hamilton takes care of me when he cannot take care of
+himself."
+
+Hamilton wrote to his dear friend Laurens, "Cold in my professions--warm
+in my friendships--I wish it were in my power, by actions rather than
+words, to convince you that I love you.... You know the opinion I
+entertain of mankind, and how much it is my desire to preserve myself
+free from particular attachments, and to keep my happiness independent
+of the caprices of others. You should not have taken advantage of my
+sensibility to steal into my affections without my consent."
+
+Best of all, Washington confided in him, and loved him, and we usually
+love those in whom we have confided. When he wanted a calcitrant
+general, like Gates, brought to terms, he sent the tactful, clear-headed
+Hamilton on the mission. When he wanted decisive action, he sent the
+same fearless young officer, who knew no such word as failure.
+Sometimes he broke down physically, but the power of youth triumphed,
+and he was soon at work again.
+
+On his expedition to General Gates, in November, 1777, with all his
+desire to keep himself "free from particular attachments," he laid the
+foundation for the one lasting attachment of his life. At the house of
+the wealthy and distinguished General Philip Schuyler, he met and liked
+the second daughter, Elizabeth. Three years later, in the spring of
+1780, when the officers brought their families to Morristown, the
+acquaintance ripened into love, and December 14, 1780, when Hamilton was
+twenty-three, he was married to Miss Schuyler. The father of the young
+lady was proud and happy in her choice. He wrote Hamilton, "You cannot,
+my dear sir, be more happy at the connection you have made with my
+family than I am. Until the child of a parent has made a judicious
+choice, his heart is in continual anxiety; but this anxiety was removed
+the moment I discovered it was you on whom she placed her affections."
+
+In this year, 1780, the country was shocked by the treason of Benedict
+Arnold. Hamilton was sent in pursuit, only to find that he had escaped
+to the British. He ministered to the heart-broken wife of Arnold, as
+best he could. He wrote to a friend, "Her sufferings were so eloquent
+that I wished myself her brother, to have a right to become her
+defender."
+
+For Major Andre he had the deepest sympathy, and admiration of his manly
+qualities. He wrote to Miss Schuyler, afterward his wife, "Poor Andre
+suffers to-day. Everything that is amiable in virtue, in fortitude, in
+delicate sentiment and accomplished manners, pleads for him; but
+hard-hearted policy calls for a sacrifice. I urged a compliance with
+Andre's request to be shot, and I do not think it would have had an ill
+effect."
+
+A month after his marriage, his only difficulty with General Washington
+occurred. The commander-in-chief had sent for Hamilton to confer with
+him, who, meeting Lafayette, was stopped by him for a few moments'
+conversation on business. When he reached Washington, the general said,
+"Colonel Hamilton, you have kept me waiting at the head of the stairs
+these ten minutes. I must tell you, sir, you treat me with disrespect."
+The proud young aid answered, "I am not conscious of it, sir; but since
+you have thought it necessary to tell me so, we part." He therefore
+resigned his position, glad to be free to take a more active part in the
+war. Washington, with his usual magnanimity, made overtures of
+reconciliation, and they became ever after trusted co-workers.
+
+All these years, Hamilton had shown himself brave and untiring in the
+interests of his adopted country. At the battle of Monmouth, his horse
+was shot under him. At Yorktown, at his own earnest request, he led the
+perilous assault upon the enemy's works, and carried them. When
+Hamilton saw that the enemy was driven back, he humanely ordered that
+not a British soldier should be killed after the attack. He says in his
+report, "Incapable of imitating examples of barbarity, and forgetting
+recent provocations, the soldiers spared every man who ceased to
+resist."
+
+Washington appreciated his heroism, and said, "Few cases have exhibited
+greater proof of intrepidity, coolness, and firmness than were shown on
+this occasion."
+
+Letters home to his wife show the warm heart of Hamilton. "I am
+unhappy--I am unhappy beyond expression. I am unhappy because I am to be
+so remote from you; because I am to hear from you less frequently than I
+am accustomed to do. I am miserable, because I know you will be so....
+Constantly uppermost in my thoughts and affections, I am happy only when
+my moments are devoted to some office that respects you. I would give
+the world to be able to tell you all I feel and all I wish; but consult
+your own heart, and you will know mine.... Every day confirms me in the
+intention of renouncing public life, and devoting myself wholly to you.
+Let others waste their time and their tranquillity in a vain pursuit of
+power and glory; be it my object to be happy in a quiet retreat, with my
+better angel."
+
+At the close of the Revolutionary War, he repaired to Albany, spending
+the winter at the home of General Schuyler, his wife's father. He had
+but little money, and his dues in the service of an impoverished
+country were unpaid; but he had what was far better, ability. He
+determined to study law. For four months, he bent himself unreservedly
+to his work, and was admitted to the bar. He steadily refused offers of
+pecuniary aid from General Schuyler, preferring to support his wife and
+infant son by his own exertions. Such a man, of proud spirit and
+unwavering purpose, would, of course, succeed.
+
+Friends who appreciated the service he had rendered to his country now
+interceded in his behalf, and he was appointed Continental receiver of
+taxes for New York. To accept a position meant, to him, persistent
+labor, and success in it if possible. He at once repaired to
+Poughkeepsie, where the Legislature was in session; presented his plans
+of taxation, and prevailed upon that body to pass a resolution asking
+for a convention of the States that a Union might be effected, stronger
+than the existing Confederation.
+
+The position as receiver of taxes was sometimes a disagreeable one, but
+it was another round in the ladder which carried him to fame. He had
+increased the number of his acquaintances. His energy and his knowledge
+of public questions had been revealed to the people; and the result was
+his election to Congress, at the age of twenty-five. Thus rapidly the
+ambitious, energetic, and intelligent young man had risen in influence.
+
+That his voice would be heard in Congress was a foregone conclusion.
+General Schuyler wrote his daughter soon after Congress met:
+"Participate afresh in the satisfaction I experience from the connection
+you have made with my beloved Hamilton. He affords me happiness too
+exquisite for expression. I daily experience the pleasure of hearing
+encomiums on his virtue and abilities, from those who are capable of
+distinguishing between real and pretended merit. He is considered, as he
+certainly is, the ornament of his country, and capable of rendering it
+the most essential services, if his advice and suggestions are attended
+to."
+
+The country was deeply in debt from the Revolutionary War. It had no
+money with which to pay its soldiers; its paper currency was nearly
+worthless; dissatisfaction was apparent on every hand. There was little
+unity of interest among the States. Hamilton's plans for raising money,
+and for a more centralized government, were unheeded; and, after a year
+in Congress, he returned to the practice of law, saying, "The more I
+see, the more I find reason for those who love this country to weep over
+its blindness."
+
+As soon as the war was over, the people began to grow more bitter than
+ever toward the Tories, or loyalists. Harsh legislative measures were
+passed. The "Trespass Act" declared that any person who had left his
+abode in consequence of invasion could collect damages of those who had
+occupied the premises during his absence. A widow, reduced to poverty by
+the war, brought suit against a rich Tory merchant, who had lived in her
+house while the Tories held the city. Hamilton, feeling that a
+principle of justice was involved, took the part of the merchant, and by
+a brilliant speech, in which he contended that "the fruits of immovables
+belong to the captor so long as he remains in actual possession of
+them," he gained the case. Of course, he brought upon himself much
+obloquy; was declared to be a "Britisher," and lover of monarchy, a
+charge to which he must have grown accustomed in later years.
+
+Hamilton's pen was not idle in this controversy. He wrote a pamphlet,
+advocating respect for law and justice, which was called "Phocion," from
+its signature. It was read widely, both in England and America. Among
+the many replies was one signed "Mentor," which drew from Hamilton a
+"Second letter of Phocion." So inflamed did public opinion become that
+in one of the clubs it was decided that one person after another should
+challenge Hamilton, till he should fall in a duel. This came to the
+knowledge of "Mentor" and the abhorrent plan was stopped by his timely
+interference. There are too few men and women great enough to be
+tolerant of ideas in opposition to their own, or to persons holding
+those ideas. Tolerance belongs to great souls only.
+
+Matters in the States had so grown from bad to worse, and Congress, with
+its limited powers, was so helpless, that a convention was finally
+called at Philadelphia, May 25, 1787, to provide for a more complete and
+efficient Union. Nine States sent delegates: Massachusetts, New York,
+New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South
+Carolina, and Georgia. General Washington was made president of the
+convention. A plan of government was submitted, called the "Virginia
+plan," which provided for a Congress of two branches, one to be elected
+by the people, the other from names suggested by the State Legislatures.
+There was to be a President, not eligible for a second term. Then the
+"New Jersey plan" was submitted; which was simply a revision of the
+Articles of Confederation.
+
+The debates were earnest, but most intelligent; for men in those times
+had studied the existing governments of the world, and the fate of
+previous republics. Hamilton was present as a delegate, and, early in
+the convention, gave his plan for a new government, in a powerful
+speech, six hours long. He reviewed the whole domain of history, the
+present condition of the States, and the reasons for it, and then
+developed his plan. Those only could vote for President and Senators who
+owned a certain amount of real estate. These officials were to hold
+office for life or during good behavior. The President should appoint
+the Governors of the various States.
+
+Of course, the believers in "States' Rights" could not for a moment
+concede such power to one man, at the head of a nation. When Hamilton
+affirmed that the "British government was the best model in existence,"
+he awoke the antagonism of the American heart. He probably knew that
+his plan could not be adopted, but it strengthened the advocates of a
+central government. Many delegates went home under protest; but the
+Constitution, brought into its present form largely by James Madison,
+was finally adopted, and sent to the different States for ratification.
+
+The opposition to its adoption was very great. Hamilton, with
+praiseworthy spirit, accepted it as the best thing attainable under the
+circumstances, and worked for it night and day with all the vigor and
+power of his masterly intellect. To the _Federalist_ he contributed
+fifty-one papers in defence of the Constitution, and did more than any
+other man to secure its ultimate adoption.
+
+Henry Cabot Lodge, in his clear and admirable "Life of Hamilton," says:
+"As an exposition of the meaning and purposes of the Constitution, the
+_Federalist_ is now, and always will be cited, on the bench and at the
+bar, by American commentators, and by all writers on constitutional law.
+As a treatise on the principles of federal government it still stands at
+the head, and has been turned to as an authority by the leading minds of
+Germany, intent on the formation of the German Empire."
+
+Party feeling ran high. When a State enrolled herself in favor of the
+Constitution, bonfires, feasts, and public processions testified to the
+joy of a portion of the people; while the burning in effigy of prominent
+Federalists, mobs and riots, testified to the anger of the opponents.
+In the State of New York the contest was extremely bitter. Hamilton used
+all his logic, his eloquence, his fire, and his boundless activity to
+carry the State in favor of the Constitution. Said Chancellor Kent: "He
+urged every motive and consideration that ought to sway the human mind
+in such a crisis. He touched, with exquisite skill, every chord of
+sympathy that could be made to vibrate in the human breast. Our country,
+our honor, our liberties, our firesides, our posterity were placed in
+vivid colors before us."
+
+When told by a friend, who was just starting on a journey, that he would
+be questioned in relation to the adoption of the Constitution, Hamilton
+replied: "God only knows! Several votes have been taken, by which it
+appears that there are two to one against us." But suddenly his face
+brightened, as he said, "Tell them that the convention shall never rise
+until the Constitution is adopted."
+
+The excitement in New York city became intense. Crowds collected on the
+street-corners, and whispered, "Hamilton is speaking yet!" Late in the
+evening of July 28, 1788, it was announced that the Constitution had
+been adopted by New York, the vote standing thirty to twenty-seven. At
+once the bells were rung and guns were fired. A great procession was
+formed of professional men and artisans, bearing pictures of Washington
+and Hamilton, and banners, with the words "Federalist," "Liberty of the
+Press," and "The Epoch of Liberty." The federal frigate Hamilton was
+fully manned, and received the plaudits of the crowds.
+
+When the Constitution was adopted, at last, Washington was made
+President, April 30, 1789. It was not strange that he chose for his
+Secretary of the Treasury the man who had studied finance by the
+camp-fires of the Revolution. At thirty-two Hamilton was in the Cabinet
+of his country. At once Congress asked him to prepare a report on the
+public credit, stating his plan of providing for the public debt. In
+about three months the report was ready. It advocated the funding of all
+the debts of the United States incurred through the war. As to the
+foreign and domestic debts, all persons seemed agreed that these should
+be paid; but the assumption of the debts of the different States met
+with the most violent opposition. Those who owed a few million dollars
+were unwilling to help those who owed many millions.
+
+Hamilton advocated a foreign loan, not to exceed twelve millions, and a
+revenue derived from taxes on imports; such a revenue as would not only
+provide funds for the new nation, but protect manufactures from the
+competition of the old world. The believers in protection have had no
+more earnest or able advocate than Hamilton.
+
+His next report was an elaborate one upon national banks, and the
+establishment of a United States bank, which should give a uniform
+system of bank-notes, instead of the unreliable and uneven values of the
+notes of the State banks. His financial policy, while it aroused the
+bitterest enmity in some quarters, raised the United States from
+bankruptcy to the respect of her creditors, abroad and at home. When the
+old cry of "unconstitutional!" was heard, as it has been heard ever
+since when any great matter is suggested, Hamilton taught the people to
+feel that the _implied_ powers of the Constitution were great enough for
+all needs, and that the document must be interpreted by the spirit as
+well as the letter of the law. Capitalists were his strong advocates, as
+they well knew that a firm and safe financial policy was at the root of
+success and progress.
+
+Very soon after his report on banks, he transmitted to Congress a report
+on the establishment of a mint, showing wide research on the subject of
+coinage. Besides these papers, he reported on the purchase of West
+Point, on public lands, navigation laws, on the post-office, and other
+matters, always showing careful study, good judgment, and patriotism.
+
+That he was accused of being a monarchist signified little, as there
+were hundreds of people at that time who feared that the republic would
+go down, as had others in past centuries. He so deprecated the lack of
+central power in the government that he exaggerated the dangers of the
+people's rule. This lack of trust in the masses and in the power of the
+Constitution, and Thomas Jefferson's trust in self-government and belief
+in States' rights, led, at last, to the bitter and public disagreement
+of these two great men, the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary
+of State. Each was honest in his belief; each was tolerant of most men,
+but intolerant of the other to the end of life.
+
+Hamilton naturally became the leader of the Federalists, as Jefferson
+the leader of the Republicans, or Democrats, as they are now called. One
+party saw in Hamilton the great thinker, the safe guardian of the
+destinies of the people; the other party thought it saw a bold and
+unscrupulous man, who would sit on a throne if that were possible.
+Hamilton's character was assailed, sometimes with truth, but oftener
+without truth. He was not perfect, but he was great, and in most
+respects noble.
+
+The French Revolution was now interesting all minds. Genet had been sent
+to America by the French Republic, as her minister. Hamilton urged
+neutrality, and looked with horror upon the growing excesses in France.
+Jefferson, with his hatred of monarchy, was lenient, and, in the early
+part of the Revolution, sympathetic. The United States became divided
+into two great factions, for and against France. Genet fanned the flames
+till the patient Washington could endure it no longer; the unwise
+minister was recalled, and neutrality was proclaimed April 22, 1793.
+
+Through all this matter, Hamilton had the complete love and confidence
+of Washington. When it was deemed wise to send a special commissioner
+to effect a treaty with England, that proper commercial relations be
+maintained, Hamilton was at once suggested. Party feeling opposed, and
+John Jay was appointed. When he returned from his mission, Great Britain
+having consented to pay us ten million dollars for illegal seizure of
+vessels, we agreeing to pay all debts owed to her before the
+Revolutionary War, the people rose in wrath against the treaty, and
+burned Jay in effigy. When Hamilton was speaking for its adoption at a
+public meeting in New York, he was assaulted by stones. "Gentlemen," he
+said, coolly, "if you use such strong arguments, I must retire." After
+this he wrote essays, signed "Camillus," in defence of the treaty, and
+helped largely to secure its acceptance.
+
+Meantime, the Excise Law, whereby distilled spirits were taxed, caused
+the "Whiskey Insurrection" in Pennsylvania. Hamilton, who believed in
+the prompt execution of law, urged Washington to take decisive measures.
+The President called out thirteen thousand troops, and the refusal to
+pay the taxes was no more heard of.
+
+Hamilton, like Jefferson, had become weary of his six years of public
+life; his increasing family needed more than his limited salary, and he
+resigned, returning to his law practice in the city of New York.
+
+When a new President was chosen to succeed Washington, it was not the
+real leader of the party, Hamilton, but one who had elicited less
+opposition by strong measures--John Adams, a man of long and
+distinguished service, both in England and America. Hamilton seems to
+have preferred Thomas Pinckney of South Carolina, and thus to have
+gained the ill-will of Adams, which helped at last to split the Federal
+party.
+
+When Adams and Jefferson became the Presidential nominees in 1800,
+Hamilton threw himself heartily into the contest in the State of New
+York. Here he found himself pitted against a rare antagonist, the most
+famous lawyer in the State except himself, Aaron Burr. He was well born,
+being the son of the president of the college at Princeton, and the
+grandson of Jonathan Edwards. Like Hamilton, he was precocious; being
+ready to enter Princeton when he was eleven years old. He was short in
+stature, five feet and six inches in height; with fine black eyes, and
+gentle and winsome manners. Both these men won the most enduring
+friendships from men and women--homage indeed. Both were intense in
+nature, though Burr had far greater self-control. Both were brave to
+rashness; both were untiring students; both loved and always gained
+authority. Burr had won honors in the Revolutionary War. He had married
+at twenty-six, a woman ten years older than himself, a widow with two
+children, with neither wealth nor beauty, whom he idolized for the
+twelve years she was spared to him, for her rare mind and devoted
+affection. From her he learned to value intellect in woman. He used to
+write her before marriage, "Deal less in sentiments, and more in
+ideas." When she died, he said, "The mother of my Theo was the best
+woman and finest lady I have ever known." For his only child, his
+beloved Theodosia, he seemed to have but one wish, that she be a
+scholar. He said to his wife, "If I could foresee that Theo would become
+a mere fashionable woman, with all the attendant frivolity and vacuity
+of mind, adorned with whatever grace and allurement, I would earnestly
+pray God to take her forthwith hence. But I yet hope by her to convince
+the world what neither sex appear to believe--that women have souls!"
+
+At ten years of age, she was studying Horace and Terence, learning the
+Greek grammar, speaking French, and reading Gibbon.
+
+This Theo, the idol of his life, afterward married to Governor Alston of
+South Carolina, loved him with a devotion that will forever make one
+gleam of sunshine in a life full of shadows. When the dark days came,
+she wrote him, "I witness your extraordinary fortitude with new wonder
+at every new misfortune. Often, after reflecting on this subject, you
+appear to me so superior, so elevated above all other men; I contemplate
+you with, such a strange mixture of humility, admiration, reverence,
+love, and pride, very little superstition would be necessary to make me
+worship you as a superior being; such enthusiasm does your character
+excite in me.... I had rather not live than not be the daughter of such
+a man."
+
+Burr's success in the law had been phenomenal. When he was studying for
+admission to the bar, he often passed twenty hours out of the
+twenty-four over his books.
+
+And now, Colonel Burr, at thirty-six, after being in the United States
+Senate for six years, was the candidate for Vice-President on the
+Jefferson ticket. Hamilton's eloquence stirred the State of New York in
+the contest; but Burr's generalship in politics won the votes, and he
+was elected.
+
+Hamilton went back again to his large law practice. Men sought him with
+the belief that if he would take their cases, there was no doubt of the
+result. An aged farmer came to him to recover a farm for which a deed
+had been obtained from him in exchange for Virginia land. Hamilton heard
+the case; then wrote to the wealthy speculator to call upon him. When he
+came, Hamilton said, "You must give me back that deed. I do not say that
+you knew that the title to these lands is bad; but it is bad. You are a
+rich--he is a poor man. How can you sleep on your pillow? Would you
+break up the only support of an aged man and seven children?" He walked
+the floor rapidly, as he exclaimed, "I will add to my professional
+services all the weight of my character and powers of my nature; and
+_you_ ought to know, when I espouse the cause of innocence and of the
+oppressed, that character and those powers will have their weight."
+
+The property was reconveyed to the farmer, who gratefully asked Hamilton
+to name the compensation. "Nothing! nothing!" said he. "Hasten home and
+make your family happy."
+
+Hamilton was clear in his reasoning; a master in constitutional law;
+persuasive in his manner; sometimes highly impassioned, sometimes solemn
+and earnest. Says Henry Cabot Lodge: "Force of intellect and force of
+will were the sources of his success.... Directness was his most
+distinguishing characteristic, and, whether he appealed to the head or
+the heart, he went straight to the mark.... He never indulged in
+rhetorical flourishes, and his style was simple and severe.... That
+which led him to victory was the passionate energy of his nature, his
+absorption in his work, his contagious and persuasive enthusiasm."
+
+"There was a fascination in his manner, by which one was led captive
+unawares," says another writer. "On most occasions, when animated with
+the subject on which he was engaged, you could see the very workings of
+his soul, in the expression of his countenance; and so frank was he in
+manner that he would make you feel that there was not a thought of his
+heart that he would wish to hide from your view."
+
+"Alexander Hamilton was the greatest man this country ever produced,"
+said Judge Ambrose Spencer.... "He argued cases before me while I sat as
+judge on the bench. Webster has done the same. In power of reasoning
+Hamilton was the equal of Webster; and more than this can be said of no
+man. In creative power Hamilton was infinitely Webster's superior....
+He, more than any man, did the thinking of the time."
+
+His chief relaxation from work was at "The Grange," his summer home at
+Harlem Heights, not far from the spot, it is said, where he first
+attracted the eye of Washington. Beeches, maples, and many evergreens
+abounded. The Hudson River added its beauty to the picturesque place.
+Here he read the classics for pleasure, and the Bible. To a friend he
+said: "I have examined carefully the evidence of the Christian religion;
+and, if I was sitting as a juror upon its authenticity, I should
+unhesitatingly give my verdict in its favor.... I can prove its truth as
+clearly as any proposition ever submitted to the mind of man."
+
+At "The Grange" he was especially happy with his family. He said, "My
+health and comfort both require that I should be at home--at that home
+where I am always sure to find a sweet asylum from care and pain.... It
+will be more and more my endeavor to abstract myself from all pursuits
+which interfere with those of affection. 'Tis here only I can find true
+pleasure."
+
+When Hamilton was forty-four, he endured the great affliction of his
+life. His eldest son, Philip, nineteen, just graduated from Columbia
+College, deeply wounded by the political attacks upon his father,
+challenged to a duel one of the men who had made objectionable remarks.
+The lad fell at the first fire, a wicked sacrifice to a barbarous "code
+of honor." After twenty hours of agony, he died, surrounded by the
+stricken family. Hamilton was especially proud of this son, of whom he
+said, when he gave his oration at Columbia College, "I could not have
+been contented to have been surpassed by any other than my son."
+
+For three years Hamilton worked on with a hope which was never broken,
+constantly adding to his fame. And then came the fatal error of his
+life. All along he had opposed Aaron Burr. When named for a foreign
+mission, Hamilton helped to defeat him. When the tie vote came between
+Jefferson and Burr in the Presidential returns, Hamilton said, "The
+appointment of Burr as President will disgrace our country abroad." When
+Burr was nominated for Governor of New York, Hamilton used every effort
+to defeat him, and succeeded. Burr, exasperated and disappointed at his
+failures, sent Hamilton a challenge. He wrote to Hamilton, "_Political_
+opposition can never absolve gentlemen from the necessity of a rigid
+adherence to the laws of honor and the rules of decorum. I neither claim
+such privilege nor indulge it in others." Alas! that some men in public
+life, even now, forget the "laws of honor and the rules of decorum" in
+their treatment of opponents.
+
+Everything in Hamilton's career protested against this suicidal combat.
+He was only forty-seven, distinguished and beloved, with a wife and
+seven children dependent upon him.
+
+Before going to the fatal meeting, he wrote his feelings about duelling.
+"My religious and moral principles are strongly opposed to the practice
+of duelling, and it would even give me pain to be obliged to shed the
+blood of a fellow-creature in a private combat forbidden by the laws....
+To those who, with me, abhorring the practice of duelling, may think
+that I ought on no account to have added to the number of bad examples,
+I answer that my _relative_ situation, as well in public as private,
+enforcing all the considerations which constitute what men of the world
+denominate honor, imposed on me (as I thought) a peculiar necessity not
+to decline the call. The ability to be in future useful, whether in
+resisting mischief or effecting good, in those crises of our public
+affairs which seem likely to happen, would probably be inseparable from
+a conformity with public prejudice in this particular."
+
+He made his will, leaving all, after the payment of his debts, to his
+"dear and excellent wife." "Should it happen that there is not enough
+for the payment of my debts, I entreat my dear children, if they, or any
+of them, should ever be able, to make up the deficiency. I, without
+hesitation, commit to their delicacy a wish which is dictated by my own.
+Though conscious that I have too far sacrificed the interests of my
+family to public avocations, and on this account have the less claim to
+burden my children, yet I trust in their magnanimity to appreciate as
+they ought this my request. In so unfavorable an event of things, the
+support of their dear mother, with the most respectful and tender
+attention, is a duty, all the sacredness of which they will feel.
+Probably her own patrimonial resources will preserve her from indigence.
+But in all situations they are charged to bear in mind that she has been
+to them the most devoted and best of mothers." And then, the great
+statesman, after writing two farewell letters to "my darling, darling
+wife," conformed to "public prejudice" by hastening with his second, at
+daybreak, to meet Aaron Burr, at Weehawken, two miles and a half above
+Hoboken. It was a quiet and beautiful spot, one hundred and fifty feet
+above the level of the Hudson River, shut in by trees and vines, but
+golden with sunlight on that fatal morning.
+
+At seven o'clock the two distinguished men were ready, ten paces apart,
+to take into their own hands that most sacred of all things, human life.
+There was no outward sign of emotion, though the one must have thought
+of his idol, Theodosia, and the other of his pretty children, still
+asleep. Hamilton had determined not to fire, and so permitted himself to
+be sacrificed. The word of readiness was given. Burr raised his pistol
+and fired, and Hamilton fell headlong on his face, his own weapon
+discharging in the air. He sank into the arms of his physician, saying
+faintly, "This is a mortal wound," and was borne home to a family
+overwhelmed with sorrow. The oldest daughter lost her reason.
+
+For thirty-one hours he lay in agony, talking, when able, with his
+minister about the coming future, asking that the sacrament be
+administered, and saying, "I am a sinner. I look to Him for mercy; pray
+for me."
+
+Once when all his children were gathered around the bed, he gave them
+one tender look, and closed his eyes till they had left the room. He
+retained his usual composure to the last, saying to his wife, frenzied
+with grief, "Remember, my Eliza, you are a Christian." He died at two
+o'clock on the afternoon of July 12, 1804. The whole nation seemed
+speechless with sorrow. In New York all business was suspended. At the
+funeral, a great concourse of people, college societies, political
+associations, and military companies, joined in the common sorrow. Guns
+were fired from the British and French ships in the harbor; on a
+platform in front of Trinity Church, Governor Morris pronounced a
+eulogy, General Hamilton's four sons, the eldest sixteen and the
+youngest four, standing beside the speaker. Thus the great life faded
+from sight in its vigorous manhood, leaving a wonderful record for the
+aspiring and the patriotic, and a prophecy of what might have been
+accomplished but for that one fatal mistake.
+
+Aaron Burr hastened to the South, to avoid arrest; but public execration
+followed him. He became implicated in a scheme for putting himself at
+the head of Mexico, was arrested and tried for treason, and, though
+legally acquitted, was obliged to flee to England, and from there to
+Sweden and Germany. Finally he came home, only to hear that Theodosia's
+beautiful boy of eleven was dead. Poor and friendless, he longed now for
+the one person who had never forsaken him, his daughter. She started
+from Charleston in a pilot-boat, for New York, and was never heard from
+afterwards. Probably all went down in a storm off Cape Hatteras. When it
+was reported in the papers that the boat had been captured by pirates,
+Burr said, "No, no, she is indeed dead. Were she alive, all the prisons
+in the world could not keep her from her father. When I realized the
+truth of her death, the world became a blank to me, and life had then
+lost all its value."
+
+When he was nearly eighty, he married a lady of wealth; but they were
+unhappy, and soon separated. He died on Staten Island, cared for at the
+last by the children of an old friend. His courage and fortitude the
+world will always admire; but it can never forget the fatal duel by
+which Alexander Hamilton was taken from his country, in the prime of his
+life and in the midst of his great work.
+
+The name of Hamilton will not be forgotten. The Hon. Chauncey M. Depew
+of New York, on February 22, 1888, gave the great statesman this well
+deserved tribute of praise:--
+
+     "The political mission of the United States has so far been wrought
+     out by individuals and territorial conditions. Four men of unequal
+     genius have dominated our century, and the growth of the West has
+     revolutionized the republic. The principles which have heretofore
+     controlled the policy of the country have mainly owed their force
+     and acceptance to Hamilton, Jefferson, Webster, and Lincoln.
+
+     "The first question which met the young confederacy was the
+     necessity of a central power strong enough to deal with foreign
+     nations and to protect commerce between the States. At this period
+     Alexander Hamilton became the savior of the republic. If
+     Shakespeare is the commanding originating genius of England, and
+     Goethe of Germany, Hamilton must occupy that place among Americans.
+     This superb intelligence, which was at once philosophic and
+     practical, and with unrivalled lucidity could instruct the dullest
+     mind on the bearing of the action of the present on the destiny of
+     the future, so impressed upon his contemporaries the necessity of a
+     central government with large powers that the Constitution, now one
+     hundred and one years old, was adopted, and the United States began
+     their life as a nation."
+
+[Illustration: Signature Andrew Jackson]
+
+
+
+
+ANDREW JACKSON.
+
+
+George Bancroft said, "No man in private life so possessed the hearts of
+all around him; no public man of the country ever returned to private
+life with such an abiding mastery over the affections of the people....
+He was as sincere a man as ever lived. He was wholly, always, and
+altogether sincere and true. Up to the last he dared do anything that it
+was right to do. He united personal courage and moral courage beyond any
+man of whom history keeps the record.... Jackson never was vanquished.
+He was always fortunate. He conquered the wilderness; he conquered the
+savage; he conquered the veterans of the battle-field of Europe; he
+conquered everywhere in statesmanship; and when death came to get the
+mastery over him, he turned that last enemy aside as tranquilly as he
+had done the feeblest of his adversaries, and passed from earth in the
+triumphant consciousness of immortality."
+
+Thus wrote Bancroft of the man who rose from poverty and sorrow to
+receive the highest gift which the American nation can bestow. The gift
+did not come through chance; it came because the man was worthy of it,
+and had earned the love and honor of the people.
+
+In 1765, among many other emigrants, a man, with his wife and two sons,
+came to the new world from the north of Ireland. They were
+linen-weavers, poor, but industrious, and members of the Presbyterian
+Church. They settled at Waxhaw, North Carolina, not far from the South
+Carolina boundary, and the husband began to build a log house for his
+dear ones. This man was the father of Andrew Jackson.
+
+Scarcely had the log house been built, and a single crop raised, before
+the wife was left a widow and the children fatherless. There was a quiet
+funeral, a half-dozen friends standing around an open grave, and then
+the little house passed into other hands, and Mrs. Jackson went to live
+at the home of her brother-in-law.
+
+Not long after the funeral, a third son was born, March 15, 1767, whom
+the stricken mother named Andrew Jackson, after his father. He was
+welcomed in tears, and naturally became the idol of her young heart.
+Three weeks later, she moved to the house of another brother-in-law to
+assist in his family. She was not afraid to work, and she bent herself
+to the hard labor of pioneer life. There was no sorrow in the labor, for
+was she not doing it for her sons, and a noble woman knows no hardship
+in her self-sacrifice for love.
+
+Her ambition seems to have centred in the slight, light-haired,
+blue-eyed Andrew, who, she hoped, one day might become a Presbyterian
+minister. How he was to obtain a college education, perhaps, she did not
+discern, but she trusted, and trust is a divine thing.
+
+The barefooted boy attended a school kept by Dr. Waddell. He made
+commendable progress in his studies, from his quick and ardent
+temperament, but he loved fun even better than books. He was impulsive,
+ambitious, and persevering. He could run foot-races as rapidly as the
+bigger boys, and loved to wrestle or engage in anything which seemed
+like a battle. Says an old schoolmate, "I could throw him three times
+out of four, but he would never _stay throwed_. He was dead game, even
+then, and never _would_ give up."
+
+To the younger boys he was a protector, but from the older he would
+brook no insult, and was sometimes hasty and overbearing. One of the
+best traits in the boy's character was his love for his mother. His
+intense nature knew no change, and he was loyal and single of purpose
+forever. He used to say in later life, "One of the last injunctions
+given me by my mother was never to institute a suit for assault and
+battery or for defamation; never to wound the feelings of others nor
+suffer my own to be outraged: these were her words of admonition to me;
+I remember them well, and have never failed to respect them; my settled
+course through life has been to bear them in mind, and never to insult
+or wantonly to assail the feelings of any one; and yet many conceive me
+to be a most ferocious animal, insensible to moral duty and regardless
+of the laws both of God and man."
+
+He did nothing slowly nor indifferently. He bent his will to his work,
+even at that early age, and knew no such word as failure. When the boy
+was thirteen, an incident occurred which made a lasting impression. The
+British General Tarlton, in the Revolutionary War, with three hundred
+cavalry, came against Waxhaw, surprised the militia, killing one hundred
+and thirteen and wounding one hundred and fifty. The little settlement
+was terrorized. The meeting-house became a hospital, and Mrs. Jackson,
+with her sons, helped to minister to the wants of the suffering
+soldiers. Andrew learned not only lessons in war, but to dream of future
+rewards to the British.
+
+When Cornwallis, after the surrender of General Gates, moved his whole
+army toward Waxhaw, Mrs. Jackson and her sons were obliged to seek a
+safe retreat with a distant relative. Here Andrew did "chores" for his
+board. "Never," said one who knew him well at this time, "did Andrew
+come home from the shops without bringing with him some new weapon with
+which to kill the enemy. Sometimes it was a rude spear, which he would
+forge while waiting for the blacksmith to finish his job. Sometimes it
+was a club or a tomahawk. Once he fastened the blade of a scythe to a
+pole, and, on reaching home, began to cut down the weeds with it that
+grew about the house, assailing them with extreme fury, and occasionally
+uttering words like these, 'Oh, if I were a man, how I would sweep down
+the British with my grass blade!'"
+
+A year later, when Mrs. Jackson had returned to Waxhaw, the brothers
+were both taken prisoners in a skirmish. Being commanded to clean the
+boots of a British officer, Andrew refused, saying, "Sir, I am a
+prisoner of war, and claim to be treated as such."
+
+The angry Englishman drew his sword, and rushed at the boy, who,
+attempting to defend himself from the blow, received a deep gash in his
+left hand, and also on his head, the scars of which he bore through
+life. Robert, the brother, also refused to clean the boots, and was
+prostrated by the sword of the brutal officer. Soon after, the boys were
+taken with other prisoners to Camden, eighty miles distant, a long and
+agonizing journey for wounded men.
+
+They found the prison a wretched place, with no medical supplies; the
+food scanty, and small-pox raging among the inmates. The poor mother,
+hearing of their forlorn condition, hastened to the place. Both her boys
+were ill of the dreaded small-pox, and both suffering from their
+sword-wounds. She arranged for the exchange of prisoners, and took her
+sons home; Robert to die in her arms two days later, and Andrew to be
+saved at last after a perilous illness of several months. Her oldest
+son, Hugh, had already given his life to his country in the war.
+
+Almost broken-hearted with the loss of her two sons, yet intensely
+patriotic, she hastened to the Charleston prison-ships, to care for the
+wounded, taking with her provisions and medicine sent by loving wives
+and daughters. The blessed ministrations proved of short duration. Mrs.
+Jackson was taken ill of ship-fever, died after a brief illness, and was
+buried in the open plain near by. The grave is unmarked and unknown.
+When, years later, her illustrious son had become President, he tried to
+find the burial-place of the woman he idolized, but it was impossible.
+
+Andrew was now an orphan, and poor; but he had what makes any boy or man
+rich, the memory of a devoted, heroic mother. Such a person has an
+inspiration that is like martial music on the field of battle; he is
+urged onward to duty forevermore. The world is richer for all such
+instances of ideal womanhood; the womanhood that gives rather than
+receives; that seeks neither admiration nor self-aggrandizement; that,
+like the flowers, sends out the same fragrance whether in royal gardens
+or beside the peasant's door; that lives to lighten others' sorrows, to
+rest tired humanity, to sweeten the bitterness of life by her loveliness
+of soul; that is to the world around her
+
+  "A new and certain sunrise every day."
+
+Fatherless, motherless, brotherless, the boy of fifteen looked about him
+to see what his life-work should be. In the family of a distant relative
+he found a home. The son was a saddler. For six months Andrew worked at
+this trade. But other plans were in his mind. He knew how his mother had
+desired that he might be educated. But how could a boy win his way
+without money? For two years or more, little is known of him. It is
+believed that he taught a small school. When nearly eighteen, he had
+made up his mind to study law, a somewhat remarkable decision for a boy
+in his circumstances.
+
+If he studied at all, it should be under the best of teachers; so he
+rode to Salisbury, seventy-five miles from Waxhaw, and entered the
+office of Mr. Spruce McCay, an eminent lawyer, and later a judge of
+distinction.
+
+For nearly two years he studied, enjoying also the sports of the time,
+and making, as he did all through life, close friends who were devoted
+to his interests. When in the White House, forty-five years afterward,
+he said, "I was but a raw lad then, but I did my best." And he did his
+best through life!
+
+He loved a fine horse almost as though it were human; he enjoyed the
+society of ladies, and possessed a grace and dignity of manner that
+surprised those who knew the hardships of his life. His eager
+intelligence, his quick, direct glance, that bespoke alertness of mind,
+won him attention, even more than would beauty of person. Over six feet
+in height, slender to delicacy, he gave the impression of leadership,
+from his bravery and self-reliance. Emerson well says, "The basis of
+good manners is self-reliance.... Self-trust is the first secret of
+success; the belief that, if you are here, the authorities of the
+universe put you here, and for cause or with some task strictly
+appointed you in your constitution."
+
+When his two years of law-study were ended, the work was but just begun.
+There was reputation to be made, and perhaps a fortune, but where and
+how? For a year he seems not to have found a law opening; the streams of
+fortune do not always flow toward us--we have to make the journey by
+persistent and hard rowing against the tide. He probably worked in a
+store owned by some acquaintances, earning for daily needs.
+
+At twenty-one came his first opportunity; came, as it often comes,
+through a friend. Mr. John McNairy was appointed a judge of the Superior
+Court of the Western District of North Carolina (Tennessee), and young
+Jackson, his friend, public prosecutor of the same district. He moved to
+Nashville in 1788, to begin his difficult work. He was obliged to ride
+on horseback over the mountains and through the wilderness, often among
+hostile Indians, his life almost constantly in danger. Once, while
+travelling with a party of emigrants, when all slept save the sentinels,
+he sat against a tree, smoking his corn-cob pipe and keeping an eager
+watch. Soon he heard the notes of what seemed to be various owls! He
+quietly roused the whole party and moved them on. An hour later, a
+company of hunters lay down by the fires which Jackson had left, and
+before daylight all save one man were killed by the Indians.
+
+Sometimes the young lawyer slept for twenty successive nights in the
+wilderness. This was no life of ease and luxury. At Nashville he found
+lodgings in the house of the widow of Colonel John Donelson, a brave
+pioneer from Virginia, who had been killed by the Indians. And here
+Jackson met the woman who was to prove his good angel as long as she
+lived. With Mrs. Donelson lived her dark-haired and dark-eyed daughter
+Rachel, married to Lewis Robards from Kentucky. Vivacious, kindly, and
+sympathetic, Rachel had been the idol of her father, and probably would
+have been of her husband had it not been for his jealous disposition. He
+became angry at Jackson, as he had been at others, and made her life so
+unhappy that she separated from him and went to friends in Natchez, with
+the approval of her mother, and the entire confidence and respect of her
+husband's relatives.
+
+After a divorce in 1791, Jackson married her, when they were each
+twenty-four years old. History does not record a happier marriage. To
+the last, she lived for him alone, but not more fully than he lived for
+her. With the world he was thought to be domineering and harsh, and was
+often profane; but with her he was patient, gentle, and deferential.
+When he won renown, she was happy for his sake, but she did not care for
+it for herself. Her kindness of heart took her among the sick and the
+unfortunate, and everywhere she was a welcome comforter. She lived
+outside of self, and found her reward in the homage of her husband and
+her friends.
+
+Jackson soon began to prosper financially. Often he would receive his
+fee in lands, a square mile of six hundred and forty acres or more, so
+that after a time he was the possessor of several thousand acres.
+Success came also from other sources. When a convention was called to
+form a constitution for the new State of Tennessee, Jackson was chosen a
+delegate. He took an active part in the organization of the State--he
+was active in whatever he engaged--and bravely espoused her claims
+against the general government for expenses incurred in Indian
+conflicts. Tennessee felt that she had a true friend in Jackson, and,
+when she wanted a man to represent her in Congress, she sent him to the
+House of Representatives. This honor came at twenty-nine years of age--a
+strange contrast to the years when he made saddles or did "chores" for
+his board, and longed to "sweep down the British with his grass blade."
+
+Jackson served his State well by securing compensation for every man who
+had done service or lost his property in the Indian wars. It was not
+strange, therefore, that, when a vacancy occurred in the United States
+Senate, Jackson was chosen to fill the place, in the autumn of 1797.
+Only thirty years old! Rachel Jackson might well be proud of him.
+
+But the following year he resigned his position, glad to be, as he
+supposed, out of official life. He was, however, too prominent to be
+allowed to remain in private life, and was elected to a judgeship of the
+Supreme Court of Tennessee. As he had made it a rule "never to seek and
+never to decline public duty," he accepted, on the small salary of six
+hundred dollars a year. While many other men in the State were more
+learned in the law than Jackson, yet the people believed in his honesty
+and integrity, and therefore he was chosen. Quick to decide and slow to
+change his mind, in fifteen days he had disposed of fifty cases, says
+James Parton, in his entertaining life of Andrew Jackson.
+
+After six years, longing for a more active life, Jackson resigned, and
+was made major-general of the militia of the State. This position was
+given, not without opposition, he receiving only one more vote than his
+chief competitor. That one vote, perhaps, led to New Orleans and the
+Presidency. This office was in accordance with his natural tastes. Since
+boyhood, he had loved the stir and command of battle, and believed he
+should like to conquer an enemy as he had met and conquered every
+obstacle that lay athwart his path.
+
+As there was no war in progress, he continued his law practice. But, not
+satisfied with this alone, he became a merchant, trading with the
+Indians, selling blankets, hardware, and the like, and receiving in
+return cotton and other produce of the country. In the panic of 1798, he
+became financially embarrassed, but, true to his manly nature, he worked
+steadily on till every dollar was paid. He sold twenty-five thousand
+acres of his wild land, sold his home, and moved into a log house at the
+Hermitage, seven miles out from Nashville, and preserved for himself the
+best thing on earth, a good name. So honest was he believed to be, when
+a Tennessean went to Boston bankers for a loan, with several leading
+names on his paper, they said, "Do you know General Jackson? Could you
+get his endorsement?"
+
+"Yes, but he is not worth a tenth as much as either of these men whose
+names I offer you," was the response.
+
+"No matter; General Jackson has always protected himself and his paper,
+and we'll let you have the money on the strength of his name." And the
+loan was granted.
+
+Honest and just though he was, he permitted his own fiery nature, or a
+perverted public opinion, to lead him into acts which tarnished his
+whole subsequent career. Quick to resent a wrong, he was morbidly
+sensitive about the circumstances of his marriage with Rachel Robards.
+When they were married, in 1791, they supposed that the divorce, applied
+for, had been granted, but they learned in 1793, two years afterward,
+that it was not legally obtained till the latter date. They were at
+once remarried, but the matter caused much idle talk, and, as General
+Jackson came into prominence, his enemies were not slow to rehearse the
+story. The slightest aspersion of his wife's character aroused all the
+anger of his nature, and, says Parton, "For the man who dared breathe
+her name except in honor, he kept pistols in perfect condition for
+thirty-seven years." And, as duelling was the disgraceful fashion of the
+times, Jackson did not hesitate to use his pistols.
+
+In 1806, when he was thirty-nine, one of those miscalled "affairs of
+honor" took place. Charles Dickinson, a prominent man of the State, in
+the course of a long quarrel, had spoken disparagingly of Mrs. Jackson,
+and he was therefore challenged to mortal combat. Thursday morning, May
+29, he kissed his young wife tenderly, telling her he was going to
+Kentucky, and "would be home, sure, to-morrow night." He met Jackson on
+the banks of the Red River. The one was tall, erect, and intense; the
+other young, handsome, an expert marksman, and determined to make no
+mistake in his fatal work.
+
+Dickinson fired with his supposed unerring aim, and missed! The bullet
+grazed Jackson's breast, and years later was the true cause of his
+death. Jackson took deliberate aim, intending to kill his opponent, and
+succeeded. The ball passed quite through Dickinson's body. His wife was
+sent for, being told that he was dangerously wounded. On her way thither
+she met, in a rough emigrant wagon, the body of her husband. He had
+"come home, sure, to-morrow night"--but dead! He was deeply mourned by
+the State, which sympathized with his wife and infant child. General
+Jackson made bitter enemies by this act. Rachel had been avenged, but at
+what a fearful cost!
+
+Eighteen years had gone by since Jackson's marriage. He had received
+distinguished honors; he had been a Representative, a Senator, a Judge
+of the Supreme Court of the State, a Major-General of the militia, but
+one joy was wanting. No children had been born in the home. Mrs.
+Jackson's nephews and nieces were often at the Hermitage, and he made
+her kindred his own; but both loved children, and this one blessing was
+denied them. In 1809, twins were born to Mrs. Jackson's brother. One of
+these, when but a few days old, was taken to the Hermitage, and the
+general adopted him, giving him his own name, Andrew Jackson.
+
+Ever after, this child was a comfort and a delight. Visitors would often
+find the general reading, with the boy in the rocking-chair beside him
+or in his lap. Hon. Thomas H. Benton, in his "Thirty Years' View," tells
+this story: "I arrived at his house one wet, chilly evening in February,
+and came upon him in the twilight, sitting alone before the fire, a lamb
+and a child between his knees. He started a little, called a servant to
+remove the two innocents to another room, and explained to me how it
+was. The child had cried because the lamb was out in the cold, and
+begged him to bring it in, which he had done to please the child, his
+adopted son, then not two years old. The ferocious man does not do that!
+and though Jackson had his passions and his violence, they were for men
+and enemies--those who stood up against him--and not for women and
+children, or the weak and helpless; for all whom his feelings were those
+of protection and support."
+
+Jackson was always the friend of _young_ men--a constant inspiration to
+them to do their best. He knew the possibilities of a barefooted boy
+like himself. The world owes thanks to those who are its inspiration;
+whose minds develop ours; whose sweetness of nature makes us grow
+lovable, as plants grow in the sunshine; whose ideals become our ideals;
+who lead us up the mountains of faith and trust and hope, but the cord
+is silken and we never know that we are led; who go through life loving
+and serving--for love is service; who are our comfort and strength--we
+lean on those whom we love.
+
+While Jackson was the friend of young men, especially he was loyal to
+any who were near his heart. He was like another great man, in a great
+war, the hero of 1812 and the hero of 1861. Jackson and Grant were true
+to those who had been true to them. Only a man of small soul forgets the
+ladder by which he climbs.
+
+The second war with Great Britain had come upon the American people,
+June 19, 1812. Our country had suffered in its commerce through the
+continued wars of England with France. Vessels had been searched by the
+English, to find persons suspected of being British subjects; often
+American seamen were impressed into their service. On the ocean, the
+contest between English and American ships became almost constant. While
+a portion of the States were not in favor of the war, one person was
+surely in favor, and ready for it; one who had not forgotten the deaths
+of his mother and brothers in the Revolutionary War; who had not
+forgotten the wounds on his head and hand. That person was General
+Jackson.
+
+He at once offered to the Governor of Louisiana, for the defence of New
+Orleans, three thousand soldiers. The offer was accepted, and he started
+for Natchez, there to await orders. The men were in the best of spirits,
+kept hopeful and enthusiastic by the ardor of their commander, who said
+to them: "Perish our friends--perish our wives--perish our children (the
+dearest pledges of Heaven)--nay, perish all earthly considerations--but
+let the honor and fame of a volunteer soldier be untarnished and
+immaculate. We now enjoy liberties, political, civil, and religious,
+that no other nation on earth possesses. May we never survive them! No,
+rather let us perish in maintaining them. And if we must yield, where is
+the man that would not prefer being buried in the ruins of his country
+than live the ignominious slave of haughty lords and unfeeling tyrants?"
+
+After a time the "orders" came, but what was the astonishment and
+indignation of both officers and men to hear that their services were
+not needed, as the British evidently did not intend to attack New
+Orleans; that they were to disband and return to Tennessee. Without pay
+or rations, five hundred miles from home!--Jackson felt that it was an
+insult. He took an oath that they should never disband till they were at
+their own doors; that he would conduct his brave three thousand through
+the wilderness and the Indian tribes, and be responsible for expenses.
+One hundred and fifty of his men were ill. He put those who could ride
+on horses, and then, walking at their head, led the gallant company
+toward home.
+
+The soldiers used to say that he was "tough as hickory;" then "Old
+Hickory" grew to be a term of endearment, which he bore ever afterward.
+A month later, and the disappointed soldiers were at Nashville. Before
+they disbanded, they were marched out upon the public square, and
+received a superb stand of colors. The needle-work was on white satin;
+eighteen orange stars in a crescent, with two sprigs of laurel, and the
+words, "Tennessee Volunteers--Independence, in a state of war, is to be
+maintained on the battle-ground of the Republic. The tented field is the
+post of honor. Presented by the ladies of East Tennessee." Under these
+words were all the implements of war; cannons, muskets, drums, swords,
+and the like. Jackson and his men never forgot this offering of love,
+and showed themselves worthy of it in after years.
+
+If Jackson was not needed at New Orleans, he was soon needed elsewhere.
+Tecumseh, the great Indian chief, saw the lands of his fathers passing
+into the hands of the white men. He had long been uniting the western
+tribes from Florida to the northern lakes, and, now that we were at war
+with England, he believed the hour of their delivery was come. He at
+once incited the Creeks of Alabama to arms.
+
+In the southern portion of that State, forty miles north of Mobile,
+stood Fort Mims. The whites had become alarmed at the hostile attitude
+of the Indians, and over five hundred men, women, and children had
+crowded into the fort for safety. On the 30th of August, 1813, a
+thousand Creek warriors in their war paint and feathers, uttering their
+terrible war-whoops, rushed into the fort, tomahawked the men and women,
+and trampled the children into the dust. The buildings were burned, and
+the plain was covered with dead bodies. The massacre at Fort Mims
+blanched every face and embittered every heart. The Tennesseans offered
+at once to march against the Creeks. The hot-headed General Jackson had
+been wounded in a quarrel with Thomas H. Benton, and was suffering from
+the ball in his shoulder, which he carried there for twenty years. But
+he put his left arm into a sling, and, though emaciated through long
+weeks of illness, he led his twenty-five hundred men into the Indians'
+country.
+
+The provisions did not follow them as had been arranged. Jackson wrote
+home earnestly for money and food. He said, "There is an enemy whom I
+dread much more than I do the hostile Creeks, and whose power, I am
+fearful, I shall first be made to feel--I mean the meagre monster,
+FAMINE." And yet he encouraged his men with these brave words: "Shall an
+enemy wholly unacquainted with military evolution, and who rely more for
+victory on their grim visages and hideous yells than upon their bravery
+or their weapons--shall such an enemy ever drive before them the well
+trained youths of our country, whose bosoms pant for glory and a desire
+to avenge the wrongs they have received? Your general will not live to
+behold such a spectacle; rather would he rush into the thickest of the
+enemy, and submit himself to their scalping-knives.... With his soldiers
+he will face all dangers, and with them participate in the glory of
+conquest."
+
+The first battle with the Creeks was fought under General John Coffee at
+Talluschatches, thirteen miles from Jackson's camp, the friendly Creeks
+leading the way, wearing white feathers and white deer's-tails to
+distinguish them from the hostile tribes. The whites, maddened by the
+memory of Fort Mims, fought like tigers; the Indians, sullen and
+revengeful at the prospect of losing their homes and their
+hunting-grounds, neither asked nor gave quarter, and fought heroically.
+Nearly the whole town perished.
+
+On the battle-field was found a dead mother with her arms clasped about
+a living child. The babe was brought into camp, and Jackson asked some
+of the Indian women to care for it. "No!" said they, "all his relations
+are dead; kill him too." The baby was cared for at General Jackson's
+expense till the campaign was over, and then carried to the Hermitage,
+where he grew to young manhood as a petted son. The general and his wife
+gave him the name of Lincoyer. In his seventeenth year he died of
+consumption, sincerely mourned by his devoted friends.
+
+Following the battle of Talluschatches, General Jackson moved against
+Talladega, and, after a bloody conflict, rescued one hundred and fifty
+friendly Creeks. Returning to camp, he found starvation staring him in
+the face. The men were becoming desperate; yet he kept his cheerfulness,
+dividing with them the last crust. One morning a gaunt, hungry-looking
+soldier approached General Jackson as he was sitting under a tree,
+eating, and asked for some food, saying that he was nearly starving.
+
+"It has been a rule with me," said the general, "never to turn away a
+hungry man, when it is in my power to relieve him, and I will most
+cheerfully divide with you what I have." Putting his hand in his pocket,
+he drew forth a few acorns. "This is the best and only fare I have," he
+said, and the soldier was comforted.
+
+Many of the men had enlisted for three months only, and were impatient
+to return home. Finally, the militia determined to return with or
+without the general's consent. Jackson heard of their intention, and at
+once ordered the volunteers to detain them, peaceably if they could,
+forcibly if they must. Then the volunteers, in turn, attempted to go
+back, but were met by Jackson's firm resolve to shoot the first man who
+took a step toward home.
+
+"I cannot," he said, "must not believe that the 'Volunteers of
+Tennessee,' a name ever dear to fame, will disgrace themselves, and a
+country which they have honored, by abandoning her standard, as
+mutineers and deserters; but should I be disappointed, and compelled to
+resign this pleasing hope, one thing I will not resign--my duty. Mutiny
+and sedition, so long as I possess the power of quelling them, shall be
+put down; and even when left destitute of this, I will still be found in
+the last extremity endeavoring to discharge the duty I owe my country
+and myself." That one word, "duty," was the key-note of Jackson's life.
+It was his religion--it was his philosophy.
+
+With all Jackson's kindness to his men, they knew that he could be
+severe. John Woods, a boy not eighteen, the support of aged parents, was
+shot for refusing to obey a superior officer. That he could have been
+spared seems probable, but Jackson taught hard lessons to his
+undisciplined troops, and sometimes in a harsh manner.
+
+In seven months the Creeks had been utterly routed; half their warriors
+were dead, and the rest were broken in spirit. Weathersford, their most
+heroic chief, the leader at the Fort Mims massacre, sought General
+Jackson at his camp.
+
+"How dare you," said Jackson, "ride up to my tent, after having murdered
+the women and children at Fort Mims?"
+
+"General Jackson, I am not afraid of you," was the reply. "I fear no
+man, for I am a Creek warrior. I have nothing to request in behalf of
+myself. You can kill me, if you desire. But I come to beg you to send
+for the women and children of the war party, who are now starving in the
+woods. Their fields and cribs have been destroyed by your people, who
+have driven them to the woods without an ear of corn. I hope that you
+will send out parties, who will conduct them safely here, in order that
+they may be fed. I exerted myself in vain to prevent the massacre of the
+women and children at Fort Mims. I am now done fighting. The Red Sticks
+are nearly all killed. If I could fight you any longer, I would most
+heartily do so. Send for the women and children. They never did you any
+harm. But kill me, if the white people want it done."
+
+"Kill him! kill him!" shouted several voices.
+
+"Silence!" exclaimed Jackson. "Any man who would kill as brave a man as
+this would rob the dead!"
+
+Weathersford's request was granted, and the women and children of the
+war party were provided for. The chief died many years afterward, a
+planter in Alabama, respected by the Americans for his bravery and his
+honor.
+
+The Creek war over, Jackson went back to Tennessee, a noted, successful
+soldier. He had not only conquered the Creeks, but he had won for
+himself the position of major-general in the United States army, having
+in charge the department of the South. He was now forty-seven, and had
+indeed reached a high position. Mississippi voted him a sword, and other
+States sent testimonials of appreciation. All this time he was a
+constant sufferer in body, and only kept himself from his bed by his
+indomitable will. The Hermitage could not long keep the ardent, tireless
+general from the front. He soon established his headquarters at Mobile,
+and prepared to defend a thousand miles of coast from the British. He
+had but a small army at his command, and was far from Washington, with
+scarcely any means of communication. Indeed, the English had captured
+that city already, and burned most of its public buildings.
+
+The English had attacked Mobile Point, been defeated, and retired to
+Pensacola, Florida. Spain owned Florida, and was supposed to be neutral,
+but she was in reality friendly and helpful to England, and allowed her
+to use the State as a base of operations. Jackson wrote to Washington
+asking leave to attack Pensacola. The answer did not come back till the
+war of 1812 was over and Jackson had won renown for himself and his
+country. He did not wait for an answer, however, but stormed Pensacola,
+captured it, and then hastened to New Orleans, where he expected the
+next attack would be made. He used to say to young men, "Always take all
+the time to reflect that circumstances will permit; but when the time
+for action has come, stop thinking." And at Pensacola he stopped
+thinking, and acted. Nothing was ready for his coming, but all eyes
+turned to the conquerer of the Creeks as the savior of New Orleans.
+Women gathered around him and looked trustingly toward the erect,
+self-centred, bronzed soldier. Men flocked willingly to his service,
+glad to do his bidding. He summoned the engineers of the city and
+ordered every bayou to be obstructed by earth and sunken logs. The city
+was put under martial law. No person was permitted to leave the place
+without a written permit signed by the general or one of his staff. The
+street lamps were extinguished at nine o'clock, after which hour any
+person without the necessary permit or not having the countersign was
+apprehended as a spy and held for examination. All able-bodied men,
+black and white, were compelled to serve as soldiers or sailors.
+
+He had with him about two thousand troops, and four thousand more within
+ten or fifteen days' march. Against these, for the most part
+undisciplined troops, a British force of twenty thousand men was coming,
+with a fleet of fifty ships, carrying a thousand guns. Much of this
+army had served under the great Wellington in France; its present
+leader, General Packenham, was Wellington's brother-in-law. He was only
+thirty-eight, brave, and the idol of his men. Some of the ships had been
+with Nelson in the battle of the Nile. The flower of England's army and
+navy had been sent to conquer the independent and self-reliant
+Americans.
+
+So certain were the British of conquest that several families were with
+the fleet, husbands and brothers having been appointed already to civil
+offices. Another person was also confident of victory--the man who had
+seen but fourteen months of service, but who from boyhood had never
+known what it was to be defeated. He inspired others with the same
+confidence. Says Latour, in his history of the war in West Florida and
+Louisiana, "The energy manifested by General Jackson spread, as it were,
+by contagion, and communicated itself to the whole army. There was
+nothing which those who composed it did not feel themselves capable of
+performing, if he ordered it to be done. It was enough that he expressed
+a wish or threw out the slightest intimation, and immediately a crowd of
+volunteers offered themselves to carry his views into execution."
+
+The English fleet entered Lake Borgne, sixty miles north-east from New
+Orleans, on December 10, 1814. Twelve days later they had reached the
+Mississippi River, nine miles below the city. The next day, when
+Jackson was informed of their approach, he said, bringing his clenched
+fist down upon the table, "By the Eternal, they shall not sleep on our
+soil!"
+
+At once, with, as Parton says, that "calm impetuosity and that composed
+intensity which belonged to him," he sent word to the various regiments
+to meet him at three o'clock at a specified place. And then he lay down
+and slept for a short time, his only rest during the next three days and
+three nights. Few men except General Jackson, with his iron will, could
+have slept at such a time. A messenger came, sent by some ladies, asking
+what they should do if the city were attacked.
+
+"Say to them not to be uneasy. No British soldier shall enter the city
+as an enemy, unless over my dead body," and he kept his word.
+
+At three o'clock the men were hastening on to meet the "red-coats."
+Twilight came early, and the moon rose dimly over the battle-field. The
+signal of attack was to be a shot fired from the ship Carolina. At
+half-past seven, the first gun was heard, then seven others, and the
+word was given--FORWARD.
+
+And forward they went, with quick steps and eager hearts. A tremendous
+fire opened upon our artillery-men. The horses attached to the cannon
+became unmanageable, and one of the pieces was turned over into the
+ditch. Jackson dashed into the midst of the fray, exclaiming, "Save the
+guns, my boys, at every sacrifice," and the guns were saved. Men fought
+hand to hand in the smoke and the darkness; the British using their
+bayonets, and the Americans their long hunting-knives. Prisoners were
+taken and retaken. Till ten o'clock the battle raged; when our men fell
+back upon the Roderiguez canal, to wait till the morning sun should show
+where to begin the deadly work. When the morning came, the battle-field
+presented a ghastly appearance. Says a British officer concerning the
+American dead, "Their hair, eyebrows, and lashes were thickly covered
+with hoar-frost, or rime, their bloodless cheeks vying with its
+whiteness. Few were dressed in military uniforms, and most of them bore
+the appearance of farmers or husbandmen. Peace to their ashes! they had
+nobly died in defending their country."
+
+The Roderiguez canal was now strongly fortified. Spades, crowbars, and
+wheelbarrows had been sent from the city. The canal was deepened and the
+earth thrown up on the side. Fences were torn away, and rails driven
+down to keep the sand from falling back into the canal. The line of
+defence, a mile long, was four or five feet high in some places. Cotton
+bales from a neighboring ship were used.
+
+"Here," said Jackson, "we will plant our stakes, and not abandon them
+until we drive these 'red-coat' rascals into the river or the swamp."
+
+While these busy preparations were going on, food was brought to General
+Jackson, which he ate in the saddle. Christmas day came. The English
+Admiral Cochrane had said, "I shall eat my Christmas dinner in New
+Orleans." General Jackson heard of it, and remarked, "Perhaps so; but I
+shall have the honor of presiding at that dinner."
+
+The Americans were ready, but the British did not make the expected
+attack. Every man was at his post. When an officer, the son of one of
+Jackson's best friends, said to him, "May I go to town to-day?" the
+reply was, "Of course, Captain Livingston, you _may_ go; but _ought_ you
+to go?" The young man blushed, bowed, and returned to duty.
+
+Meantime, the British were not idle. They had determined to silence the
+guns of the American ships, and, with great toil, had brought up into
+the swampy ground nine field-pieces, two howitzers, one mortar, a
+furnace for heating balls, and the necessary ammunition. At dawn on the
+morning of December 27 the firing began. The Carolina, after a terrific
+bombardment, blew up. The Louisiana fought her way out into a place of
+safety.
+
+The days went by slowly under the dreadful suspense. On New Year's day,
+General Packenham cannonaded the Americans and was driven back. On
+January 8, the final battle began. Early in the morning, the British
+moved against the Americans. Jackson walked along the lines, cheering
+the men, "Stand to your guns. Don't waste your ammunition. See that
+every shot tells. Give it to them, boys! Let us finish the business
+to-day."
+
+And every shot did tell. The sharpshooters aimed at the officers, and
+the batteries mowed down the British regulars. Seeing them falter,
+Packenham rushed among the men, shouting, "For shame! recollect that
+you are British soldiers!" Taking off his hat, he spurred his horse to
+the head of the wavering column. A ball splintered his right arm. Then
+the Highlanders came to the support of their comrades.
+
+"Hurrah! brave Highlanders!" he said, as a mass of grape-shot tore open
+his thigh and killed his horse. Another shot struck him, and he was
+borne under a live-oak to die. The great tree is still standing.
+
+At nine o'clock in the morning the battle was virtually over. The
+English lost seven hundred killed, fourteen hundred wounded, and five
+hundred taken prisoners; while the Americans lost but eight killed and
+thirteen wounded. "The field was so thickly strewn with the dead that,
+from the American ditch, you could have walked a quarter of a mile to
+the front on the bodies of the killed and disabled.... The course of the
+column could be distinctly traced in the broad red line of the victims
+of the terrible batteries and unerring guns of the Americans. They fell
+in their tracks; in some places, whole platoons lay together, as if
+killed by the same discharge."
+
+The news of this great victory at New Orleans astonished the North, and
+made Jackson the hero of his time. The whole country was proud of a man
+who could win such a battle, losing the lives of so few of his men.
+Nearly every State passed resolutions in his praise. The Senate and
+House of Representatives ordered a gold medal to be struck in his
+honor. Philadelphia enjoyed a general illumination; one of the
+transparencies representing the general on horseback in pursuit of the
+enemy, with the words, "This day shall ne'er go by, from this day to the
+ending of the world, but He in it shall be remembered." Henry Clay said,
+"Now I can go to England without mortification."
+
+When Jackson and his army returned to New Orleans, men, women, and
+children came out to meet them. Young ladies strewed flowers along the
+way; children crowned the general with laurel, and an impressive service
+was held in his honor in the Cathedral. He replied, "For myself, to have
+been instrumental in the deliverance of such a country is the greatest
+blessing that Heaven could confer. That it has been effected with so
+little loss--that so few tears should cloud the smiles of our triumph,
+and not a cypress leaf be interwoven in the wreath which you present, is
+a source of the most exquisite enjoyment."
+
+Mrs. Jackson and little Andrew, now seven years old, came down from the
+Hermitage, and his cup of joy was indeed full. To have Rachel's
+commendation was more than to have that of all of the world besides. The
+ladies of New Orleans gave to her a valuable set of topaz jewelry, and
+to the general a diamond pin. A month later, they were at home once
+more. He had shown the good judgment, the calm bravery, the
+comprehensive outlook, the quick decision, the tender compassion of the
+great soldier. Perhaps the busy public life was over--who could tell?
+
+Four months later, General Jackson went to Washington, at the request of
+the Secretary of War, to arrange about the stations of the army in the
+South. The journey thither was one constant ovation. At a great banquet
+tendered him at Lynchburg, Virginia, Thomas Jefferson, then seventy-two,
+gave this toast: "Honor and gratitude to those who have filled the
+measure of their country's honor." At Washington also he received
+distinguished attention.
+
+In 1817, the Seminole Indians of Georgia and Alabama had become hostile.
+General Jackson was the man to conquer them. He immediately marched into
+their country with eighteen hundred whites and fifteen hundred friendly
+Indians, and in five months subjugated them.
+
+Florida was purchased in 1819, and two years later Jackson was appointed
+its governor, with a salary of five thousand dollars. Mrs. Jackson
+joined him there, but neither was happy, and he soon resigned, and
+returned with her to the Hermitage. He had built for her a new house, a
+two-story brick, surrounded by a double piazza. He was at this time
+frail in health, and did not expect ever to live in the home, but wished
+it to be made beautiful for her. He hoped now to live a quiet life,
+enjoying his garden and his farm; but the nation had other plans for
+him.
+
+In 1823, Jackson was elected to the United States Senate, twenty-six
+years after his first appearance in that body. He was now prominently
+mentioned as a candidate for the Presidency. Strange contrast indeed to
+the days when, bare-footed and orphaned, he struggled for the rudiments
+of an education.
+
+While he had many ardent friends, he had strong opponents. Daniel
+Webster said, "If General Jackson is elected, the government of our
+country will be overthrown; the judiciary will be destroyed;" yet he
+added, "His manners are more presidential than those of any of the
+candidates. He is grave, mild, and reserved. My wife is for him
+decidedly." Jefferson said, "I feel very much alarmed at the prospect of
+seeing General Jackson President. He is one of the most unfit men I know
+of for the place. He has had very little respect for laws or
+constitution, and is, in fact, an able military chief. His passions are
+terrible.... He has been much tried since I knew him, but he is a
+dangerous man." But the people knew he had conquered the Indians and the
+British, and they believed in him.
+
+The candidates for the Presidency in 1824 were Jackson, John Quincy
+Adams, William H. Crawford, and Henry Clay. While Jackson received the
+largest popular vote, the House of Representatives, balloting by States,
+elected John Quincy Adams. It was believed that Clay used his influence
+for Adams against Jackson, and this caused the election of Adams, a
+scholarly man, the son of John Adams, and long our representative
+abroad.
+
+Four years later, in 1828, the people made their voices heard at the
+ballot-box, and Jackson was elected by a large majority. The contest had
+been exceedingly personal and annoying. The old stories about his
+marriage were again dragged through the press. Mrs. Jackson, a victim of
+heart-disease, was unduly troubled, and became broken in health. When he
+was elected, she said, "Well, for Mr. Jackson's sake, I am glad; for my
+own part, I never wished it."
+
+Jackson had built for her a small brick church in the Hermitage grounds,
+and here, where the neighbors and servants gathered, she found her
+deepest happiness, and sighed for no greater sphere of usefulness. When
+she urged the general to join her church, he said, "My dear, if I were
+to do that now, it would be said, all over the country, that I had done
+it for the sake of political effect. My enemies would all say so. I
+cannot do it _now_, but I promise you that, when once more I am clear of
+politics, I will join the church."
+
+The people of Nashville were of course proud that one from their city
+had been chosen to so high a position, and tendered him a banquet on
+December 23, the anniversary of the first battle at New Orleans. A few
+days before this, Mrs. Jackson was taken ill, but she urged her husband
+to make himself ready for the banquet. While he had watched by her
+bedside constantly, on the evening of December 22, she was so much
+better that he consented to lie down on a sofa in an adjoining room. He
+had not been there five minutes before a cry was heard from Mrs.
+Jackson. He hastened to her, but she never breathed again.
+
+He could not believe that she was dead. When they brought a table to lay
+her body upon it, he said tenderly, in a choking voice, "Spread four
+blankets upon it. If she does come to, she will lie so hard upon the
+table."
+
+All night long he sat beside the form of his beloved Rachel, often
+feeling of her heart and pulse. In the morning he was wholly
+inconsolable, and, when he found that she was really dead, the body
+could scarcely be forced from his arms.
+
+At the funeral, the road to the Hermitage was almost impassable. The
+press said of her, "Her pure and gentle heart, in which a selfish,
+guileful, or malicious thought, never found entrance, was the throne of
+benevolence.... To feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to supply the
+indigent, to raise the humble, to notice the friendless, and to comfort
+the unfortunate, were her favorite occupations.... Thus she lived, and
+when death approached, her patience and resignation were equal to her
+goodness; not an impatient gesture, not a vexatious look, not a fretful
+accent escaped her: but her last breath was charged with an expression
+of tenderness for the man whom she loved more than her life, and honored
+next to her God." Only such a nature could have held the undivided love
+of an impetuous, imperious man. Jackson, like so many other unchristian
+men, had the wisdom to desire and to choose for himself a Christian
+wife.
+
+He prepared a tomb for her like an open summer-house, and buried her
+under the white dome supported by marble pillars. On the tablet above
+her are the words, "Here lie the remains of Mrs. Rachel Jackson, wife of
+President Jackson.... Her face was fair, her person pleasing, her temper
+amiable, her heart kind; she delighted in relieving the wants of her
+fellow-creatures, and cultivated that divine pleasure by the most
+liberal and unpretending methods; to the poor she was a benefactor; to
+the rich an example; to the wretched a comforter; to the prosperous an
+ornament; her piety went hand in hand with her benevolence, and she
+thanked her Creator for being permitted to do good. A being so gentle
+and so virtuous, slander might wound, but could not dishonor. Even
+Death, when he tore her from the arms of her husband, could but
+transport her to the bosom of her God."
+
+Such a woman need have no fear that she will fade out of a human heart.
+While Jackson lived, he wore her miniature about his neck, and every
+night laid it open beside her prayer-book at his bedside. Her face was
+the last thing upon which his eyes rested before he slept, through those
+eight years at the White House, and the first thing upon which his eyes
+opened in the morning. Possibly it is not given to all women to win and
+hold so complete and beautiful an affection; perchance the fault is
+sometimes theirs.
+
+Andrew Jackson went to Washington, having grown "twenty years older in a
+night," his friends said. His nephew, Andrew Jackson Donelson, and his
+lovely wife accompanied him. Earl, the artist, who had painted _her_
+picture ("her" always meant Rachel with General Jackson), for this
+reason found a home also at the White House.
+
+The inauguration seemed to have drawn the whole country together.
+Webster said, "I never saw such a crowd here before. Persons have come
+five hundred miles to see General Jackson, and they really seem to think
+that the country is rescued from some dreadful danger." After the
+ceremony, crowds completely filled the White House.
+
+During the first year of the Presidency, the unfortunate maxim which had
+found favor in New York politics, "To the victors belong the spoils,"
+began to be carried out in the removal, it is believed, of nearly two
+thousand persons from office, and substituting those of different
+political opinions. The removals raised a storm of indignation from the
+opposite party, which did not in the least disturb General Jackson.
+
+In his first message to Congress, after maintaining that a long tenure
+of office is corrupting, urging that the surplus revenue be apportioned
+among the several States for works of public utility, he took strong
+ground against rechartering the United States Bank. This caused much
+alarm, for the influence of the bank was very great. Its capital was
+thirty-five million dollars. The parent bank was at Philadelphia, with
+twenty-five branches in the large cities and towns. Since Alexander
+Hamilton's time, a government bank had been a matter of contention. When
+the second was started in 1816, after the war of 1812, business seemed
+to revive, but many persons believed, with Henry Clay, that such a bank
+was unconstitutional, and a vast political power that might be, and was,
+corruptly used. Complaints were constantly heard that officials were
+favored.
+
+When the bill to recharter the bank passed Congress, Jackson promptly
+vetoed the bill. He said, "We can, at least, take a stand against all
+new grants of monopolies and exclusive privileges, against any
+prostitution of our government to the advancement of the few at the
+expense of the many." A few years later he determined to put an end to
+the bank by removing all the surplus funds, amounting to ten millions,
+and placing them in certain State banks. When Mr. Duane, the Secretary
+of the Treasury, would not remove the deposits, General Jackson
+immediately removed him, putting Roger B. Taney in his place. Congress
+passed a vote of censure on the President, but it was afterward expunged
+from the records. Speculation resulted from the distribution of the
+money; the panic of 1836-37 followed, which the Whigs said was caused by
+the destruction of the bank, and the Democrats by the bank itself.
+
+The United States Bank was not the only disturbing question in these
+times. The tariff, which was advantageous to the manufacturers of the
+North, was considered disadvantageous to the agricultural interests of
+the South. Bitter feeling was engendered by the discussion, till South
+Carolina, under the leadership of John C. Calhoun, declared that the
+acts of Congress on the tariff were null and void; therefore,
+nullification or disunion became the absorbing topic. Then came the
+great dispute between Robert Y. Hayne and Daniel Webster.
+
+If the nullifiers or believers in extreme States' rights supposed Jackson
+to be on their side, they were quickly undeceived. When Jefferson's
+birthday, April 13, was observed in Washington, as it had been for
+twenty years, Jackson sent the following toast: "OUR FEDERAL UNION: IT
+MUST BE PRESERVED." He wrote to the citizens of Charleston, "Every
+enlightened citizen must know that a separation, could it be effected,
+would begin with civil discord, and end in colonial dependence on a
+foreign power, and obliteration from the list of nations." He said, "If
+this thing goes on, our country will be like a bag of meal with both
+ends open. Pick it up in the middle or endwise, it will run out."
+
+Still, South Carolina was not to be deterred, with the eloquent Calhoun
+as her leader, and the Nullification Ordinance was passed November 24,
+1832. At once the governor was authorized to accept the service of
+volunteers. Medals were struck bearing the words, "John C. Calhoun,
+First President of the Southern Confederacy."
+
+By the time South Carolina was ready to break the laws, another person
+was ready to enforce them. Jackson at once sent General Scott to take
+command at Charleston, with gun-boats close by, and sent also an earnest
+and eloquent protest to the seceding State. Public meetings were held in
+the large cities of the North. The tariff was modified at the next
+session of Congress, but the disunion doctrines were allowed to grow
+till thirty years later, when they bore the bitter fruit of civil war.
+
+When Jackson was asked, years afterward, what he would have done with
+Calhoun and the nullifiers if they had continued, he replied, "Hung them
+as high as Haman. They should have been a terror to traitors to all
+time, and posterity would have pronounced it the best act of my life."
+When difficulties arose about the Cherokees of Georgia, he removed them
+to the Indian Territory; a harsh measure it seemed, but perhaps not
+harder for the tribes than to have attempted to live among hostile
+whites. When the French king neglected to pay the five million dollars
+agreed upon for injuries done to our shipping, Jackson recommended to
+make reprisals on French merchantmen, and the money was paid. The
+national debt was paid under Jackson, who believed rightly that this, as
+well as every other kind of debt, is a curse. The Eaton affair showed
+his loyalty to friends. John H. Eaton, Secretary of War, had married
+the widow of a purser in the Navy, formerly the daughter of a
+tavern-keeper in Washington. Her conduct had caused criticism, and the
+ladies of the Cabinet would not associate with her--even though
+President Jackson tried every means in his power to compel it, as Eaton
+was his warm friend.
+
+When the eight years of presidential life were over, Jackson sent his
+farewell address to the people of the country, who had idolized him, and
+whom he had loved, he said, "with the affection of a son," and retired
+to the Hermitage. The people of Nashville met him with outstretched arms
+and tearful faces. He was seventy years old, _their_ President, and he
+had come home to live and die with them.
+
+He was now through with politics, and wanted to carry out _her_ wishes,
+to join the little Hermitage church. The night of decision was full of
+meditation and prayer. One morning in 1843, the church was crowded to
+see the ex-President make a public confession of the Christian religion.
+He went home to read his Bible more carefully than ever--he had never
+read less than three chapters daily for thirty-five years, such is the
+influence of early education received at a mother's knee.
+
+The following year, 1844, Commodore Elliot offered the sarcophagus which
+he brought from Palestine, believed to have contained the remains of the
+Roman Emperor, Alexander Severus, to President Jackson for his final
+resting-place.
+
+A letter of cordial thanks was returned, with the words, "I cannot
+consent that my mortal body shall be laid in a repository prepared for
+an emperor or a king. My republican feelings and principles forbid it;
+the simplicity of our system of government forbids it.... I have
+prepared an humble depository for my mortal body beside that wherein
+lies my beloved wife, where, without any pomp or parade, I have
+requested, when my God calls me to sleep with my fathers, to be laid."
+
+The May of 1845 found General Jackson feeble and emaciated, but still
+deeply interested in his country, writing letters to President Polk and
+other statesmen about Texas, hoping ever to avert war if possible. "If
+not," he said, "let war come. There will be patriots enough in the land
+to repel foreign aggression, come whence it may, and to maintain
+sacredly our just rights and to perpetuate our glorious constitution and
+liberty, and to preserve our happy Union." He made his will, bequeathing
+all his property to his adopted son, because, said he, "If _she_ were
+alive, she would wish him to have it all, and to me her wish is law."
+
+On Sunday, June 8, 1845, the family and servants gathered about the
+great man, who was dying at the age of seventy-eight, having fought
+against wounds and disease all his life. "My dear children," he said,
+"do not grieve for me; it is true I am going to leave you; I am well
+aware of my situation. I have suffered much bodily pain, but my
+sufferings are but as nothing compared with that which our blessed
+Saviour endured upon that accursed cross, that all might be saved who
+put their trust in him.... I hope and trust to meet you all in Heaven,
+both white and black--both white and black." Then he kissed each one,
+his eyes resting last, affectionately, upon his granddaughter Rachel,
+named for his wife, and closely resembling her in loveliness of
+character; then death came.
+
+Two days before he died, he said, "Heaven will be no Heaven to me if I
+do not meet my wife there." Who can picture that meeting? He used to
+say, "All I have achieved--fame, power, everything--would I exchange, if
+she could be restored to me for a moment." How blessed must have been
+the restoration, not "for a moment," but for eternity!
+
+The lawn at the Hermitage was crowded with the thousands who came to
+attend the funeral. From the portico, the minister spoke from the words,
+"These are they which came out of great tribulation, and washed their
+robes white in the blood of the Lamb."
+
+All over the country, public meetings were held in honor of the
+illustrious dead; the man who had said repeatedly, "I care nothing about
+clamors; I do precisely what I think just and right."
+
+"He had had honors beyond anything which his own heart had ever
+coveted," says Prof. William G. Sumner, in his life of Jackson. "His
+successes had outrun his ambition. He had held more power than any
+other American had ever possessed. He had been idolized by the great
+majority of his countrymen, and had been surfeited with adulation."
+
+Politicians sometimes sneered about his "kitchen cabinet" at Washington,
+the devoted friends who influenced him but did not hold official
+position, for, self-reliant though he was to a marvellous degree, he was
+neither afraid nor ashamed to be influenced by those who loved him. He
+was absolutely sincere and unselfish. He hated intensely, and loved
+intensely; with an affection as unchanging as his adamantine will.
+Patriotic, determined, energetic, and heroic, he attained success where
+others would have failed. He illustrated Emerson's words, "The man who
+stands by himself, the universe will stand by him also." Francis P.
+Blair, his devoted friend, used to say, "Of all the men I have known,
+Andrew Jackson was the one most entirely sufficient for himself." During
+his presidency, the steamboat which once conveyed him and his party down
+the Chesapeake was unseaworthy, and one of the men exhibited much alarm.
+"You are uneasy," said the general; "you never sailed with _me_ before,
+I see."
+
+As a soldier, he was a brave, wise, skilful leader; as a statesman,
+honest, earnest, fearless, true--"I do precisely what I think just and
+right."
+
+Said a friend who knew him well, "There was more of the woman in his
+nature than in that of any man I ever knew--more of woman's tenderness
+toward children, and sympathy with them. Often has he been known, though
+he never had a child of his own, to walk up and down by the hour with an
+infant in his arms, because by so doing he relieved it from the cause of
+its crying; more also of woman's patience and uncomplaining, unnoticing
+submissiveness to trivial causes of irritation. There was in him a
+womanly modesty and delicacy.... By no man was the homage due to woman,
+the only true homage she can receive--faith in her--more devoutly
+rendered.... This peculiar tenderness of nature entered largely, no
+doubt, into the composition of that _manner_ of his, with which so many
+have been struck, and which was of the highest available stamp as
+regards both dignity and grace."
+
+Much of what he was in character he owed to Rachel Jackson. He once said
+to a prominent man, "My wife was a pious Christian woman. She gave me
+the best advice, and I have not been unmindful of it. When the people,
+in their sovereign pleasure, elected me President of the United States,
+_she_ said to me, 'Don't let your popularity turn your mind away from
+the duty you owe to God. Before him we are all alike sinners, and to him
+we must all alike give account. All these things will pass away, and you
+and I and all of us must stand before God.' I have never forgotten it,
+and I never shall."
+
+[Illustration: DANIEL WEBSTER.]
+
+
+
+
+DANIEL WEBSTER.
+
+
+In the little town of Salisbury, New Hampshire, now called Franklin,
+Daniel Webster was born, January 18, 1782, the ninth in a family of ten
+children. Ebenezer, the father, descended from a sturdy Puritan
+ancestry, had fought in the French and Indian Wars; a brave, hardy
+pioneer. He had cleared the wilderness for his log house, married a wife
+who bore him five children, after which she died, and then married a
+second time, Abigail Eastman, a woman of vigorous understanding, yet
+tender and self-sacrificing. Of the five children of the latter wife,
+three daughters and two sons, Daniel was the fourth, a slight, delicate
+child, whose frail body made him especially dear to the mother, who felt
+that at any time he might be taken out of her arms forever.
+
+"In this hut," said Webster, years later, speaking of his father and
+mother, "they endured together all sorts of privations and hardships; my
+mother was constantly visited by Indians, who had never gone to a white
+man's house but to kill its inhabitants, while my father, perhaps, was
+gone, as he frequently was, miles away, carrying on his back the corn
+to be ground, which was to support his family."
+
+The father was absent from home, also, on more important errands. When
+the news of the battle of Bunker Hill thrilled the colonies, Captain
+Webster, who had won his title in the earlier wars, raised a company,
+and at once started for the scene of action. He fought at Bennington
+under Stark, being the first to scale the Tory breastworks, at White
+Plains, and was at West Point when Arnold attempted to surrender it to
+the British. He stood guard before General Washington's headquarters,
+the night of Arnold's treason. No wonder, when Washington looked upon
+the robust form nearly six feet high, with black hair and eyes, and firm
+decisive manner, he said, "Captain Webster, I believe I can trust
+_you_."
+
+And so thought the people of New Hampshire, for they made him a member
+of both Houses of the State Legislature at various times, and a Judge of
+the Court of Common Pleas in his own county.
+
+The delicate boy Daniel was unable to work on the farm like his brother
+Ezekiel, two years older, but found his pleasure and pastime in reading,
+and in studying nature. The home, "Elms Farm," as it was called later,
+from the elms about it, was in a valley at a bend of the Merrimac. From
+here the boy gazed upon Mount Kearsarge, and Mount Washington, the king
+of the White Mountain peaks, and if he did not dream of what the future
+had in store for him, he grew broad in soul from such surroundings.
+Great mountains, great reaches of sea or plain, usually bring great
+thoughts and plans to those who view them with a loving heart.
+
+Daniel had little opportunity for schooling in those early years. He
+says, in his autobiography, "I do not remember when or by whom I was
+taught to read, because I cannot, and never could, recollect a time when
+I could not read the Bible. I suppose I was taught by my mother, or by
+my elder sisters. My father seemed to have no higher object in the world
+than to educate his children to the full extent of his very limited
+ability. No means were within his reach, generally speaking, but the
+small town-schools. These were kept by teachers, sufficiently
+indifferent, in the several neighborhoods of the township, each a small
+part of the year. To these I was sent with the other children.... In
+these schools nothing was taught but reading and writing; and as to
+these, the first I generally could perform better than the teacher, and
+the last a good master could hardly instruct me in; writing was so
+laborious, irksome, and repulsive an occupation to me always."
+
+Much of the boy's time was spent in rambles along the Merrimac river,
+formed by the Winnipiseogee and the Pemigewasset, "the beau ideal of a
+mountain stream; cold, noisy, winding, and with banks of much
+picturesque beauty." He loved to fish along the streams, having for
+company an old British soldier and sailor, Robert Wise. "He was," says
+Webster, "my Isaac Walton. He had a wife but no child. He loved me,
+because I would read the newspapers to him, containing the accounts of
+battles in the European wars. When I have read to him the details of the
+victories of Howe and Jervis, etc., I remember he was excited almost to
+convulsions, and would relieve his excitement by a gush of exulting
+tears. He finally picked up a fatherless child, took him home, sent him
+to school, and took care of him, only, as he said, that he might have
+some one to read the newspaper to him. He could never read himself.
+Alas, poor Robert! I have never so attained the narrative art as to hold
+the attention of others as thou, with thy Yorkshire tongue, hast held
+mine. Thou hast carried me many a mile on thy back, paddled me over and
+over and up and down the stream, and given whole days in aid of my
+boyish sports, and asked no meed but that, at night, I would sit down at
+thy cottage door, and read to thee some passage of thy country's glory!"
+
+Daniel heard of battles from another source beside Robert Wise. In the
+long winter evenings, when the family were snow-bound, Captain Webster
+would tell stories of the Revolutionary War, and the boy grew patriotic,
+as he heard of the brave soldiers who died to bring freedom to unborn
+generations. When he was eight years old, with all the money at his
+command, twenty-five cents, he went into a little shop "and bought," as
+he says, "a small cotton pocket-handkerchief, with the Constitution of
+the United States printed on its two sides. From this I learned either
+that there was a Constitution, or that there were thirteen States. I
+remember to have read it, and have known more or less of it ever since."
+Years afterward he said, "that there was not an article, a section, a
+clause, a phrase, a word, a syllable, or even a comma, of that
+Constitution, which he had not studied and pondered in every relation
+and in every construction of which it was susceptible."
+
+How important a part this twenty-five cent handkerchief played in the
+lives of the two Webster boys! There is no soil so mellow as that of a
+child's mind; it needs no enriching save love that warms it like
+sunshine. What is planted there early, grows rank and tall, and mothers
+do most of the planting.
+
+The lad's reading in these boyish days was confined mostly to the
+"Spectator," and Pope's "Essay on Man." The whole of the latter he
+learned to repeat. "We had so few books," he says, "that to read them
+once or twice was nothing. We thought they were all to be got by heart."
+The yearly almanac was regarded as "an acquisition." Once when Ezekiel
+and he had a dispute, after retiring, as to a couplet at the head of the
+April page, Daniel got up, groped his way to the kitchen, lighted a
+candle, looked at the quotation, found himself in the wrong, and went
+back to bed. But he had inadvertently, at two o'clock at night in
+midwinter, set the house on fire, which was saved by his father's
+presence of mind. Daniel said, "They were in pursuit of light, but got
+more than they wanted."
+
+Exceedingly fond of poetry, at twelve he could repeat many of the hymns
+of Dr. Watts. Later, he found delight in Don Quixote, of which he says,
+"I began to read it, and it is literally true that I never closed my
+eyes until I had finished it; nor did I lay it down, so great was the
+power of that extraordinary book on my imagination." Later still,
+Milton, Shakespeare, and the Bible became his inspiration.
+
+Years after, he used to say, "I have read through the entire Bible many
+times. I now make it a practice to go through it once a year. It is the
+book of all others for lawyers as well as for divines; and I pity the
+man that cannot find in it a rich supply of thought, and of rules for
+his conduct. It fits man for life--it prepares him for death!"
+
+Captain Webster had secretly nourished the thought that he should send
+Daniel to college, but he was not a man to awaken false hopes, so he
+made no mention of his thoughts. An incident related by Daniel shows his
+father's heart in the matter. "Of a hot day in July, it must have been
+in one of the last years of Washington's administration, I was making
+hay with my father. About the middle of the forenoon, the Honorable
+Abiel Foster, who lived in Canterbury, six miles off, called at the
+house, and came into the field to see my father. He was a worthy man,
+college-learned, and had been a minister, and was not a person of any
+considerable natural power. He talked a while in the field and went on
+his way. When he was gone, my father called me to him, and we sat down
+beneath the elm, on a haycock. He said, 'My son, that is a worthy man;
+he is a member of Congress; he goes to Philadelphia, and gets six
+dollars a day, while I toil here. It is because he had an education,
+which I never had. If I had had his early education, I should have been
+in Philadelphia in his place. I came near it as it was. But I missed it,
+and now I must work here.' 'My dear father,' said I, 'you shall not
+work. Brother and I shall work for you, and will wear our hands out, and
+you shall rest.' And I remember to have cried, and I cry now at the
+recollection. 'My child,' said he, 'it is of no importance to me. I now
+live but for my children. I could not give your elder brothers the
+advantages of knowledge, but I can do something for you. Exert yourself,
+improve your opportunities, learn, learn, and, when I am gone, you will
+not need to go through the hardships which I have undergone, and which
+have made me an old man before my time.'"
+
+Daniel never forgot those precious words, "Improve your opportunities,
+learn, learn." The next year, 1796, he went to Phillips Exeter Academy,
+where he found ninety boys. He had come with his plain clothes from his
+plain home, while many of the others had come from rich and aristocratic
+families. Sometimes the boys ridiculed his country ways and country
+dress. Little they knew of the future that was to give them some slight
+renown simply because they happened to be in the same class with this
+country lad! When will the world learn not to judge a person by his
+clothes! When the first term at Exeter was near its close, the usher,
+Nicholas Emery, afterward an eminent lawyer in Portland, Maine, said to
+Webster, "You may stop a few minutes after school: I wish to speak to
+you." He then told the lad that he was a better scholar than any in his
+class, that he learned more readily and easily, and that if he returned
+to school he should be put into a higher class, and not be hindered by
+boys who cared more for play and dress than for solid improvement.
+
+"These were the first truly encouraging words," said Mr. Webster, "that
+I ever received with regard to my studies. I then resolved to return,
+and pursue them with diligence and so much ability as I possessed."
+Blessings on thee, Nicholas Emery! Strange that either from
+indifference, or what we think the world will say, we forget to speak a
+helpful or an encouraging word. True appreciation is not flattery.
+
+Daniel was at this time extremely diffident--a manner that speaks well
+for a boy or girl generally--and was helped out of it by a noble young
+teacher, Joseph Stevens Buckminster, who died at twenty-eight. Mr.
+Webster says, "I believe I made tolerable progress in most branches
+which I attended to while in this school; but there was one thing I
+could not do--I could not make a declamation. I could not speak before
+the school. The kind and excellent Buckminster sought, especially, to
+persuade me to perform the exercise of declamation like other boys, but
+I could not do it. Many a piece did I commit to memory, and recite and
+rehearse in my own room, over and over again, yet, when the day came,
+when the school collected to hear declamations, when my name was called,
+and I saw all eyes turned to my seat, I could not raise myself from it.
+Sometimes the instructors frowned, sometimes they smiled. Mr.
+Buckminster always pressed and entreated, most winningly, that I would
+venture, but I could never command sufficient resolution. When the
+occasion was over, I went home and wept bitter tears of mortification."
+
+After nine months at Exeter, Daniel began to study with Rev. Samuel
+Wood, a minister in the adjoining town of Boscawen, six miles from
+Salisbury. As Captain Webster was driving over with his son, he
+communicated to him his plan of sending him to college. "I remember,"
+says Daniel Webster, "the very hill which we were ascending, through
+deep snows, in a New England sleigh, when my father made known this
+purpose to me. I could not speak. How could he, I thought, with so large
+a family, and in such narrow circumstances, think of incurring so great
+an expense for me? A warm glow ran all over me, and I laid my head on my
+father's shoulder and wept."
+
+All through life, Mr. Webster, greatest of American orators, was never
+afraid nor ashamed to weep. Children are not, and the nearer we keep to
+the naturalness of children, with reasonable self-control, the more
+power we have over others, and the sweeter and purer grow our natures.
+
+While Daniel was at Dr. Wood's, a characteristic incident occurred. He
+says: "My father sent for me in haying time to help him, and put me into
+a field to turn hay, and left me. It was pretty lonely there, and, after
+working some time, I found it very dull; and as I knew my father was
+gone away, I walked home, and asked my sister Sally if she did not want
+to go and pick some whortle-berries. She said, yes. So I went and got
+some horses, and put a side-saddle on one, and we set off. We did not
+get home until it was pretty late, and I soon went to bed. When my
+father came home he asked my mother where I was, and what I had been
+about. She told him. The next morning, when I awoke, I saw all the
+clothes I had brought from Dr. Wood's tied up in a small bundle again.
+When I saw my father, he asked me how I liked haying. I told him I found
+it 'pretty dull and lonesome yesterday.' 'Well,' said he, 'I believe you
+may as well go back to Dr. Wood's.' So I took my bundle under my arm,
+and on my way I met Thomas W. Thompson, a lawyer in Salisbury; he
+laughed very heartily when he saw me. 'So,' said he, 'your farming is
+over, is it?'"
+
+In August, 1797, when Daniel was fifteen, he entered Dartmouth College;
+there he proved a genial, affectionate friend, and a devoted student.
+But for this natural warmth of heart, he probably never would have been
+an orator, for those only move others whose own hearts are moved. "He
+had few intimates," says Henry Cabot Lodge, in his admirably written and
+discriminating "Life of Webster," "but many friends. He was generally
+liked as well as universally admired, was a leader in the college
+societies, active and successful in sports, simple, hearty, unaffected,
+without a touch of priggishness, and with a wealth of wholesome animal
+spirits."
+
+After two years, the unselfish student could bear no longer the thought
+that his beloved brother Ezekiel was not to enjoy a college education.
+When he went home in vacation, he confided to his brother his
+unhappiness for his sake, and for a whole night they discussed the
+subject. It was decided that Daniel should consult the father. "This, we
+knew," said Mr. Webster, "would be a trying thing to my father and
+mother and two unmarried sisters. My father was growing old, his health
+not good, and his circumstances far from easy.... The farm was to be
+carried on, and the family taken care of; and there was nobody to do all
+this but him, who was regarded as the mainstay--that is to say, Ezekiel.
+However, I ventured on the negotiation, and it was carried, as other
+things often are, by the earnest and sanguine manner of youth. I told
+him that I was unhappy at my brother's prospects. For myself, I saw my
+way to knowledge, respectability, and self-protection; but, as to him,
+all looked the other way; that I would keep school, and get along as
+well as I could, be more than four years in getting through college, if
+necessary,--provided he also could be sent to study.... He said that to
+carry us both through college would take all he was worth; that, for
+himself, he was willing to run the risk; but that this was a serious
+matter to our mother and two unmarried sisters; that we must settle the
+matter with them, and, if their consent was obtained, he would trust to
+Providence, and get along as well as he could."
+
+Captain Webster consulted with his wife; told her that already the farm
+was mortgaged for Daniel's education, and that if Ezekiel went to
+college it would take all they possessed. "Well," said she, with her
+brave mother-heart, "I will trust the boys;" and they lived to make her
+glad that she had trusted them.
+
+The boy of seventeen went back to Dartmouth to struggle with poverty
+alone, but he was happy; the boy of nineteen began a new life, studying
+under Dr. Wood, and, later, entered Dartmouth College.
+
+Daniel, as he had promised, began to earn money to pay his own and his
+brother's way. By superintending a small weekly paper, called the
+_Dartmouth Gazette_, he earned enough to pay his board. In the winter he
+taught school, and gave the money to Ezekiel. While in college, his
+wonderful powers in debate began to manifest themselves. He wrote his
+own declamations. Said one of his classmates: "In his movements he was
+rather slow and deliberate, except when his feelings were aroused; then
+his whole soul would kindle into a flame. We used to listen to him with
+the deepest respect and interest, and no one ever thought of equalling
+the vigor and flow of his eloquence."
+
+Beside his regular studies, he devoted himself to history and politics.
+From the old world he learned lessons in finance, in commerce, in the
+stability of governments, that he was able to use in after life. He
+remembered what he read. He says, "So much as I read I made my own. When
+a half-hour or an hour, at most, had elapsed, I closed my book, and
+thought over what I had read. If there was anything peculiarly
+interesting or striking in the passage, I endeavored to recall it, and
+lay it up in my memory, and commonly I could recall it. Then, if, in
+debate or conversation afterward, any subject came up on which I had
+read something, I could talk very easily so far as I had read, and then
+I was very careful to stop." In this manner Mr. Webster became skilled
+in the art of conversation, and could be the life of any social
+gathering.
+
+On July 4, 1800, he delivered his first public speech, at the request of
+the people of Hanover, tracing the history of our country to the grand
+success of the Revolution.
+
+On leaving college he entered the law office of Mr. T. W. Thompson, of
+Salisbury. He seems not to have inclined strongly to the law, his tastes
+leading him toward general literature, but he was guided by the wishes
+of his father and other friends. His first reading was in the Law of
+Nations--Vattel, Burlamaqui, and Montesquieu, followed by Blackstone's
+Commentaries. After four months, he was obliged to quit his studies and
+earn money for Ezekiel.
+
+He obtained a school at Fryeburg, Maine, promising to teach for six
+months for one hundred and seventy-five dollars. Four nights each week
+he copied deeds, and made in this way two dollars a week. Thirty years
+afterward he said, "The ache is not yet out of my fingers; for nothing
+has ever been so laborious to me as writing, when under the necessity of
+writing a good hand."
+
+When May came with its week of vacation, he says, "I took my quarter's
+salary, mounted a horse, went straight over all the hills to Hanover,
+and had the pleasure of putting these, the first earnings of my life,
+into my brother's hands for his college expenses. Having enjoyed this
+sincere and high pleasure, I hied me back again to my school and my
+copying of deeds." Thus at twenty was the great American living out
+Emerson's sublime motto, "Help somebody," founded on that broadest and
+sweetest of all commands, "Love one another."
+
+"In these days," says George Ticknor Curtis' delightful life of Webster,
+"he was always dignified in his deportment. He was usually serious, but
+often facetious and pleasant. He was an agreeable companion, and
+eminently social with all who shared his friendship. He was greatly
+beloved by all who knew him. His habits were strictly abstemious, and he
+neither took wine nor strong drink. He was punctual in his attendance
+upon public worship, and ever opened his school with prayer. I never
+heard him use a profane word, and never saw him lose his temper."
+
+While teaching and copying deeds, he read Adam's "Defence of the
+American Constitutions," Williams' "Vermont," Mosheim's "Ecclesiastical
+History," and continued his Blackstone. He walked much in the fields,
+alone, and thus learned to know himself; gaining that power of thought
+and mastery of self which are essential to those who would have mastery
+over others. He said, "I loved this occasional solitude then, and have
+loved it ever since, and love it still. I like to contemplate nature,
+and to hold communion, unbroken by the presence of human beings, with
+'this universal frame--this wondrous fair.' I like solitude also, as
+favorable to thoughts less lofty. I like to let the thoughts go free,
+and indulge excursions. And when thinking is to be done one must, of
+course, be alone. No man knows _himself_ who does not thus sometimes
+keep his own company. At a subsequent period of life, I have found that
+my lonely journeys, when following the court on its circuits, have
+afforded many an edifying day."
+
+And yet in this busy life he called himself "naturally indolent," which
+was true, probably. Seeing that most of us do not love work, it is wise
+that in early life, if we would accomplish anything, we are drilled into
+habits of industry.
+
+When he went back to the study of law, he says, "I really often
+despaired. I thought I never could make myself a lawyer, and was almost
+going back to the business of school-keeping. There are propositions in
+Coke so abstract, and distinctions so nice, and doctrines embracing so
+many conditions and qualifications, that it requires an effort not only
+of a mature mind, but of a mind both strong and mature, to understand
+him." And yet he adds, "If one can keep up an acquaintance with general
+literature in the meantime, the law may help to invigorate and unfold
+the powers of the mind."
+
+He longed, as every ambitious young man longs, for a wider sphere. If he
+could only go to Boston, and mingle with the cultivated society
+there!--but this seemed an impossibility. At this time Ezekiel, through
+a college friend, was offered a private school in Boston. He accepted
+the position, and wrote to Daniel urging him to come and teach Latin and
+Greek for an hour and a half each day, thus earning enough to pay his
+board.
+
+Daniel went to Boston, poor and unknown. His first efforts in finding an
+office in which to study were unsuccessful, for who cares about a young
+stranger in a great city? If we looked upon a human being as his Maker
+looks, doubtless we should be interested in him. He desired to study
+with some one already prominent. He found his way to the office of
+Christopher Gore, who was the first district attorney of the United
+States for Massachusetts, a commissioner to England under Jay's treaty
+for eight years, Ex-Governor of the State, and ex-senator. Mr. Webster
+thus narrates his early experience: "A young man, as little known to Mr.
+Gore as myself, undertook to introduce me to him. We ventured into Mr.
+Gore's rooms, and my name was pronounced. I was shockingly embarrassed,
+but Mr. Gore's habitual courtesy of manner gave me courage to speak. I
+had the grace to begin with an unaffected apology, told him my position
+was very awkward, my appearance there very like an intrusion; and that
+if I expected anything but a civil dismission, it was only founded in
+his known kindness and generosity of character. I was from the country,
+I said; had studied law for two years; had come to Boston to study a
+year more; had some respectable acquaintances in New Hampshire, not
+unknown to him, but had no introduction; that I had heard he had no
+clerk; thought it possible he would receive one; that I came to Boston
+to work, not to play; was most desirous, on all accounts, to be his
+pupil; and all I ventured to ask at present was that he would keep a
+place for me in his office till I could write to New Hampshire for
+proper letters, showing me worthy of it. I delivered this speech
+_trippingly_ on the tongue, though I suspect it was better composed
+than spoken. Mr. Gore heard me with much encouraging good-nature. He
+evidently saw my embarrassment; spoke kind words, and asked me to sit
+down. My friend had already disappeared. Mr. Gore said what I had
+suggested was very reasonable, and required little apology.... He
+inquired, and I told him, what gentlemen of his acquaintance knew me and
+my father in New Hampshire. Among others, I remember I mentioned Mr.
+Peabody, who was Mr. Gore's classmate. He talked to me pleasantly for a
+quarter of an hour; and, when I rose to depart, he said: 'My young
+friend, you look as though you might be trusted. You say you come to
+study, and not to waste time. I will take you at your word. You may as
+well hang up your hat at once; go into the other room; take your book,
+and sit down to reading it, and write at your convenience to New
+Hampshire for your letters.'"
+
+The young man must have had the same earnest, frank look as the father
+when Washington said to him, "Captain Webster, I believe I can trust
+you," else he would not have won his way so quickly to the lawyer's
+confidence. Mr. Gore was a man of indefatigable research and great
+amenity of manners. The younger man probably unconsciously took on the
+habits of the older, for, says Emerson, "With the great we easily become
+great."
+
+Webster now read, in addition to books on the common and municipal law,
+Ward's "Law of Nations," Lord Bacon's "Elements," Puffendorff's "Latin
+History of England," Gifford's "Juvenal," Boswell's "Tour to the
+Hebrides," Moore's "Travels," and other works. When we know what books a
+man or woman reads, we generally know the person. The life in Mr. Gore's
+office was one long step on the road to fame, and it did not come by
+chance; it came because, even in timidity, Webster had the courage to
+ask for a high place.
+
+When about ready for admission to the bar, the position of Clerk of the
+Court of Common Pleas of Hillsborough County was offered to him, an
+appointment which had been the desire of the family for him for years.
+The salary was fifteen hundred dollars. This seemed a fortune indeed. "I
+could pay all the debts of the family," he says, "could help on
+Ezekiel--in short, I was independent. I had no sleep that night, and the
+next morning when I went to the office I stepped up the stairs with a
+lighter heart than I ever had before." He conveyed the good news to Mr.
+Gore.
+
+"Well, my young friend," said he, "the gentlemen have been very kind to
+you; I am glad of it. You must thank them for it. You will write
+immediately, of course."
+
+"I told him that I felt their kindness and liberality very deeply; that
+I should certainly thank them in the best manner I was able; but that, I
+should go up to Salisbury so soon, I hardly thought it was necessary to
+write. He looked at me as if he was greatly surprised. 'Why,' said he,
+'you don't mean to accept it, surely!' The bare idea of not accepting it
+so astounded me that I should have been glad to have found any hole to
+have hid myself in.... 'Well,' said he, 'you must decide for yourself;
+but come, sit down, and let us talk it over. The office is worth fifteen
+hundred a year, you say. Well, it never will be any more. Ten to one, if
+they find out it is so much, the fees will be reduced. You are appointed
+now by friends; others may fill their places who are of different
+opinions, and who have friends of their own to provide for. You will
+lose your place; or, supposing you to retain it, what are you but a
+clerk for life? And your prospects as a lawyer are good enough to
+encourage you to go on. Go on, and finish your studies; you are poor
+enough, but there are greater evils than poverty: live on no man's
+favor; what bread you do eat, let it be the bread of independence;
+pursue your profession, make yourself useful to your friends and a
+little formidable to your enemies, and you have nothing to fear.'"
+
+Young Webster went home and passed another sleepless night. Then he
+borrowed some money, hired a sleigh, and started for Salisbury. When he
+reached his father's house, the pale old man said to him, "Well, Daniel,
+we have got that office for you."
+
+"Yes, father," was the reply, "the gentlemen were very kind; I must go
+and thank them."
+
+"They gave it to you without my saying a word about it."
+
+"I must go and see Judge Farrar, and tell him I am much obliged to him."
+
+"Daniel, Daniel," said he, at last, with a searching look, "don't you
+mean to take that office?"
+
+"No, indeed, father," was the response, "I hope I can do much better
+than that. I mean to use my tongue in the courts, not my pen; to be an
+actor, not a register of other men's acts. I hope yet, sir, to astonish
+your honor in your own court by my professional attainments."
+
+He looked half proud, half sorrowful, and said slowly, "Well, my son, your
+mother has always said you would come to something or nothing. She was not
+sure which; I think you are now about settling that doubt for her." He
+never spoke a word more upon the subject. The fifteen-hundred-dollar
+clerkship was gone forever, but Daniel had chosen the right road to fame
+and prosperity.
+
+He returned finally to the quiet town of Boscawen, and, not willing to
+be separated from his father, began the life of a country lawyer. His
+practice brought not more than five or six hundred dollars a year, but
+it gave self-support. He had also time for study. "Study," he said, "is
+the grand requisite for a lawyer. Men may be born poets, and leap from
+their cradle painters. Nature may have made them musicians, and called
+on them only to exercise, and not to acquire, ability; but law is
+artificial. It is a human science, to be learned, not inspired. Let
+there be a genius for whom nature has done so much as apparently to have
+left nothing for application, yet, to make a lawyer, application must do
+as much as if nature had done nothing. The evil is that an accursed
+thirst for money violates everything.... The love of fame is
+extinguished, every ardent wish for knowledge repressed; conscience put
+in jeopardy, and the best feelings of the heart indurated by the mean,
+money-catching, abominable practices which cover with disgrace a part of
+the modern practitioners of the law."
+
+Webster's first speech at the bar was listened to by his proud and
+devoted father, who did not live to hear him a second time. He died in
+1806, at sixty-seven, and was buried beneath a tall pine-tree on his own
+field. Daniel assumed his debts, and for ten years bore the burden, if
+that may be called a burden which we do willingly for love's sake.
+
+The next year he removed to Portsmouth. He was now twenty-five, pale,
+slender, and of refined and apparently delicate organization. He had
+written considerable for the press, made several Fourth of July
+orations, and published a little pamphlet, "Considerations on the
+Embargo Laws."
+
+In June, 1808, when he was twenty-six, he made the wisest choice of his
+life in his marriage to Grace Fletcher, daughter of Rev. Elijah Fletcher
+of Hopkinton. She was twenty-seven, a rare combination of intellect and
+sweetness, just the woman to inspire an educated man by her cultivated
+and sympathetic mind, and to rest him with her gentle and genial
+presence. She had a quiet dignity which won respect, and her manners
+were unaffected, frank, and winning. From the first time he saw her she
+looked "like an angel" to him, and such she ever remained to his vision.
+
+And now began the happiest years of his life. The small, wooden house in
+which they lived grew into a palace, because love was there. His first
+child, little Grace, named for her mother, became the idol of his heart.
+Business increased and friends multiplied during the nine years he lived
+at Portsmouth. He was fortunate in having for an almost constant
+opponent in the law the renowned Jeremiah Mason, fourteen years his
+senior, and the acknowledged head of the legal profession in New
+Hampshire. Mr. Webster studied him closely. "He had a habit," said
+Webster, "of standing quite near to the jury, so near that he might have
+laid his finger on the foreman's nose; and then he talked to them in a
+plain conversational way, in short sentences, and using no word that was
+not level to the comprehension of the least educated man on the panel.
+This led me to examine my own style, and I set about reforming it
+altogether." Before this his style had been somewhat florid; afterward
+it was terse, simple, and graphic.
+
+On July 4, 1812, Webster delivered an oration before the "Washington
+Benevolent Society," in which he stoutly opposed the war then being
+carried on with England. The address immediately passed through two
+editions, and led to his appointment as delegate to an assembly of the
+people of Rockingham County, to express disapproval of the war. The
+"Rockingham Memorial," which was presented to the President, was written
+by Mr. Webster, and showed a thorough knowledge of the condition of
+affairs, and an ardent devotion to the Union, even though the various
+sections of the country might differ in opinion. The result of this
+meeting was the sending of Mr. Webster to Congress, where he took his
+seat May 24, 1813. He was thirty-one; the poverty, the poor clothes in
+Dartmouth College, the burden of the father's debts had not kept him
+from success.
+
+Once in Congress, it was but natural that his influence should be felt.
+He did not speak often, but when he did speak the House listened. He was
+placed on the committee on Foreign Relations, with Mr. Calhoun as
+chairman. He helped to repeal the Embargo Laws, spoke on the Tariff,
+showing that he was a Free Trader in principle, but favored Protection
+as far as expediency demanded it, and took strong grounds against the
+war of 1812. He urged the right and necessity of free speech on all
+questions. He said, "It is the ancient and undoubted prerogative of this
+people to canvas public measures and the merits of public men. It is a
+'home-bred right,' a fireside privilege. It has ever been enjoyed in
+every house, cottage, and cabin in the nation.... It is as undoubted as
+the right of breathing the air, or walking on the earth. Belonging to
+private life as a right, it belongs to public life as a duty; and it is
+the last duty which those whose representative I am shall find me to
+abandon."
+
+He was active in that almost interminable discussion concerning a United
+States Bank. The first bank, chartered in 1791, had Hamilton for its
+defender, and Jefferson for its opponent. In 1811, the bank failed to
+obtain a renewal of its charter. During the war of 1812, the subject was
+again urged. The Jeffersonians were opposed to any bank; another party
+favored a bank which should help the government by heavy loans, and be
+relieved from paying its notes in specie; still another party, to which
+Webster belonged, favored a bank with reasonable capital, compelled to
+redeem its notes in specie, and at liberty to make loans or not to the
+government. On the subject of the currency he made some remarkable
+speeches, showing a knowledge of the subject perhaps unequalled since
+Hamilton.
+
+The bank bill passed in 1816, shorn of some of its objectionable
+features. On April 26, Mr. Webster presented his resolutions requiring
+all dues to the government to be paid in coin, or in Treasury notes, or
+in notes of the Bank of the United States, and by a convincing speech
+aided in its adoption, thus rendering his country a signal service.
+
+During this session of Congress, Webster received a challenge to a duel
+from John Randolph of Roanoke, and was brave enough to refuse, saying,
+"It is enough that I do not feel myself bound, at all times and under
+any circumstances, to accept from any man, who shall choose to risk his
+own life, an invitation of this sort."
+
+The time had come now in Mr. Webster's life for a broader sphere; he
+decided to move to Boston. His law practice had never brought more than
+two thousand dollars a year, and he needed more than this for his
+growing family. Besides, his house at Portsmouth, costing him six
+thousand dollars, had been burned, his library and furniture destroyed,
+and he must begin the world anew.
+
+The loss of property was small compared with another loss close at hand.
+Grace, the beautiful, precocious first-born, the sunshine of the home,
+died in her father's arms, smiling full in his face as she died. He wept
+like a child, and could never forget that parting look.
+
+After settling in Boston, business flowed in upon him, until he earned
+twenty thousand dollars a year. He would work hard in the early morning
+hours, coming home tired from the courts in the afternoon. Says a
+friend, "After dinner, Mr. Webster would throw himself upon the sofa,
+and then was seen the truly electrical attraction of his character.
+Every person in the room was drawn immediately into his sphere. The
+children squeezing themselves into all possible places and postures upon
+the sofa, in order to be close to him; Mrs. Webster sitting by his
+side, and the friend or social visitor only too happy to join in the
+circle. All this was not from invitation to the children; he did nothing
+to amuse them, he told them no stories; it was the irresistible
+attraction of his character, the charm of his illumined countenance,
+from which beamed indulgence and kindness to every one of his family."
+
+Among the celebrated cases which helped Mr. Webster's renown was the
+Dartmouth College case in 1817. The college was originally a charity
+school for the instruction of the Indians in the Christian religion,
+founded by Rev. Eleazer Wheelock. He solicited and obtained
+subscriptions in England, the Earl of Dartmouth being a generous giver.
+A charter was obtained from the Crown in 1769, appointing Dr. Wheelock
+president, and empowering him to name his successor, subject to the
+approval of the trustees. In 1815 a quarrel began between two opposite
+political and religious factions. The Legislature was applied to, which
+changed the name from college to university, enlarged the number of
+trustees, and otherwise modified the rights of the corporation under the
+charter from England. The new trustees took possession of the property.
+The old board brought action against the new, but the courts of New
+Hampshire decided that the acts of the Legislature were constitutional.
+The case was appealed to Washington, and on March 10, 1818, Mr. Webster
+made his famous speech of over four hours, proving that by the
+Constitution of the United States the charter of an institution is a
+contract which a State Legislature cannot annul.
+
+In closing he said to the Chief Justice, "This, sir, is my case. It is
+the case, not merely of that humble institution, it is the case of every
+college in our land. It is more. It is the case of every eleemosynary
+institution throughout our country--of all those great charities founded
+by the piety of our ancestors, to alleviate human misery and scatter
+blessings along the pathway of life. It is more! It is, in some sense,
+the case of every man among us who has property of which he may be
+stripped, for the question is simply this: Shall our State Legislatures
+be allowed to take that which is not their own, to turn it from its
+original use, and apply it to such ends or purposes as they in their
+discretion shall see fit? Sir, you may destroy this little institution;
+it is weak; it is in your hands! I know it is one of the lesser lights
+in the literary horizon of our country. You may put it out. But, if you
+do so, you must carry through your work! You must extinguish, one after
+another, all those greater lights of science which, for more than a
+century, have thrown their radiance over our land!
+
+"It is, sir, as I have said, a small college. And yet there are those
+who love it--"
+
+Here Mr. Webster broke down, overcome by the recollections of those
+early days of poverty, and the self-sacrifice of the dead father. The
+eyes of Chief Justice Marshall were suffused with tears, as were those
+of nearly all present. When Mr. Webster sat down, for some moments the
+silence was death-like, and then the people roused themselves as though
+awaking from a dream. Nearly seventy years after this, when the Hon.
+Mellen Chamberlain, Librarian of the Boston Public Library, gave his
+eloquent address at the dedication of Wilson Hall, the library building
+of Dartmouth College, he held in his hand the very copy of Blackstone
+from which Webster quoted in his great argument, with his autograph on
+the fly-leaf. Of Webster he said, "His imagination transformed the
+soulless body corporate--the fiction of the king's prerogative--into a
+living personality, the object of his filial devotion, the beloved
+mother whose protection called forth all his powers, and enkindled in
+his bosom a quenchless love."
+
+Several years later, Webster won the great case of Gibbons vs. Ogden,
+which settled that the State of New York had no right, under the
+Constitution, to grant a monopoly of steam navigation, on its waters, to
+Fulton and Livingston.
+
+He now took an active part in the revision of the Constitution of
+Massachusetts, helping to do away with the religious test, that a person
+holding office must declare his belief in the Christian religion. A
+believer himself, he was unwilling to force his views upon others.
+December 22, 1820, he delivered an oration at Plymouth, commemorating
+the two-hundredth anniversary of the landing of the Pilgrims. It was a
+grand theme, and the theme had a master to handle it. He began simply,
+"Let us rejoice that we behold this day. Let us be thankful that we have
+lived to see the bright and happy breaking of the auspicious morn which
+commences the third century of the history of New England.... Forever
+honored be this, the place of our fathers' refuge! Forever remembered
+the day which saw them, weary and distressed, broken in everything but
+spirit, poor in all but faith and courage, at last secure from the
+danger of wintry seas, and impressing this shore with the first
+footsteps of civilized man!"
+
+Then the picture was sketched on a glowing canvas;--the noble Pilgrims;
+the progress of New England during the century; the grand government
+under which we live and develop, with the Christian religion for our
+comfort and our hope. In closing he said, "The hours of this day are
+rapidly flying, and this occasion will soon be passed. Neither we nor
+our children can expect to behold its return. They are in the distant
+regions of futurity, they exist only in the all-creating power of God,
+who shall stand here, a hundred years hence, to trace through us their
+descent from the Pilgrims, and to survey, as we have now surveyed, the
+progress of their country during the lapse of a century. We would
+anticipate their concurrence with us in our sentiments of deep regard
+for our common ancestors. We would anticipate and partake the pleasure
+with which they will then recount the steps of New England's
+advancement. On the morning of that day, although it will not disturb us
+in our repose, the voice of acclamation and gratitude, commencing on the
+Rock of Plymouth, shall be transmitted through millions of the sons of
+the Pilgrims, till it lose itself in the murmurs of the Pacific seas."
+
+The people heard the oration as though entranced. Said Mr. Ticknor, a
+man of remarkable culture, "I was never so excited by public speaking
+before in my life. Three or four times I thought my temples would burst
+with the gush of blood; for, after all, you must know that I am aware it
+is no connected and compacted whole, but a collection of wonderful
+fragments of burning eloquence, to which his whole manner gave tenfold
+force. When I came out I was almost afraid to come near to him. It
+seemed to me as if he was like the mount that might not be touched, and
+that burned with fire."
+
+John Adams wrote him, "If there be an American who can read it without
+tears, I am not that American.... Mr. Burke is no longer entitled to the
+praise--the most consummate orator of modern times.... This oration will
+be read five hundred years hence with as much rapture as it was heard.
+It ought to be read at the end of every century, and indeed at the end
+of every year, forever and ever."
+
+From the day he delivered that oration, Mr. Webster was the leading
+orator of America. From that day he belonged not to Grace Webster
+alone, not to Massachusetts, not to one political party, but to the
+people of the United States. Five years after that, he delivered the
+address at the laying of the corner-stone of Bunker Hill monument. Who
+does not remember the impassioned words to the survivors of the
+Revolution, "Venerable men! you have come down to us from a former
+generation. Heaven has bounteously lengthened out your lives that you
+might behold this joyous day. You are now where you stood fifty years
+ago, this very hour, with your brothers and your neighbors, shoulder to
+shoulder, in the strife for your country. Behold, how altered! The same
+heavens are indeed over your heads; the same ocean rolls at your feet;
+but all else, how changed! You hear now no roar of hostile cannon, you
+see no mixed volumes of smoke and flame rising from burning Charlestown.
+The ground strewed with the dead and the dying; the impetuous charge;
+the steady and successful repulse; the loud call to repeated assault,
+the summoning of all that is manly to repeated resistance; a thousand
+bosoms freely and fearlessly bared in an instant to whatever of terror
+there may be in war and death,--all these you have witnessed, but you
+witness them no more.... All is peace; and God has granted you this
+sight of your country's happiness, ere you slumber in the grave forever.
+He has allowed you to behold and to partake the reward of your patriotic
+toils, and he has allowed us, your sons and countrymen, to meet you
+here, and in the name of the present generation, in the name of your
+country, in the name of liberty, to thank you!
+
+"But, alas! you are not all here! Time and the sword have thinned your
+ranks. Prescott, Putnam, Stark, Brooks, Read, Pomeroy, Bridge! our eyes
+seek for you in vain amidst this broken band. You are gathered to your
+fathers, and live only to your country in her grateful remembrance and
+your own bright example."
+
+Who has not read that address delivered at Faneuil Hall, Boston, in
+commemoration of the lives and services of John Adams and Thomas
+Jefferson, who died July 4, 1826. Who does not remember that imaginary
+speech of John Adams, "Sink or swim, live or die, survive or perish, I
+give my hand and my heart to this vote. It is true, indeed, that in the
+beginning we aimed not at independence. But there's a Divinity which
+shapes our ends.... Sir, I know the uncertainty of human affairs, but I
+see, I see clearly through this day's business. You and I, indeed, may
+rue it. We may not live to see the time when this declaration shall be
+made good. We may die,--die colonists,--die slaves;--die, it may be,
+ignominiously and on the scaffold. Be it so. Be it so. If it be the
+pleasure of Heaven that my country shall require the poor offering of my
+life, the victim shall be ready at the appointed hour of sacrifice, come
+when that hour may. But, while I do live, let me have a country, or at
+least the hope of a country, and that a free country."
+
+Concerning this speech of John Adams, beginning, "Sink or swim, live or
+die," Mr. Webster said, "I wrote that speech one morning before
+breakfast, in my library, and when it was finished my paper was wet with
+my tears." In delivering this oration, his manuscript lay near him on a
+small table, but he did not once refer to it. As far as possible in his
+addresses, he preferred Anglo-Saxon words to those with Latin origin;
+therefore, this great speech is so simple that school-boys the country
+over can declaim it and understand it.
+
+In 1823, when Webster was forty-one, Boston elected him to Congress. He
+was, of course, widely known and observed; courtly in physique,
+impassioned yet calm, easy yet dignified, comprehensive in thought, a
+lover of and expounder of the Constitution.
+
+The following year he visited Marshfield, on the south-east shore of
+Massachusetts, and saw the home which he afterward purchased, and which,
+with its eighteen hundred acres, became the joy of his later years. Here
+he planted flowers and trees. He would often say to others, "Plant
+trees, adorn your grounds, live for the benefit of those who shall come
+after you." Here he watched every sunrise and sunset, every moonrise
+from new to full, and grew rested and refreshed by these ever recurring
+glimpses of divine power. He said, "I know the morning; I am acquainted
+with it, and I love it, fresh and sweet as it is, a daily creation,
+breaking forth and calling all that have life, and breath, and being,
+to new adoration, new enjoyments, and new gratitude."
+
+Here he enjoyed the ocean as he had enjoyed it in his boyhood, and years
+later, when his brain was tired from overwork, he would exclaim,
+plaintively, "Oh, Marshfield! the Sea! the Sea!"
+
+This year also Webster paid a visit to Thomas Jefferson at Monticello.
+In his conversation with the ex-President, he told this story of
+himself, which well illustrates the fact that all the knowledge which we
+can acquire becomes of use to us at one time or another in life. When a
+young lawyer in Portsmouth, a blacksmith brought him a case under a
+will. As the case was a difficult one, he spent one month in the study
+of it, buying fifty dollars' worth of books to help him in the matter.
+He argued the case, won it, and received a fee of fifteen dollars. Years
+after, Aaron Burr sent for him to consult with him on a legal question
+of consequence. The case was so similar to that of the blacksmith that
+Webster could cite all the points bearing upon it from the time of
+Charles II. Mr. Burr was astonished, and suspected he was the counsel
+for the opposite side. Webster received enough compensation from Burr to
+cover the loss of time and money in the former case, and gained,
+besides, Burr's admiration and respect.
+
+In the winter of 1824, Webster's youngest child, Charles, died, at the
+age of two years. Mrs. Webster wrote her absent husband, "I have dreaded
+the hour which should destroy your hopes, but trust you will not let
+this event afflict you too much, and that we both shall be able to
+resign him without a murmur, happy in the reflection that he has
+returned to his Heavenly Father pure as I received him.... Do not, my
+dear husband, talk of your own 'final abode;' that is a subject I never
+can dwell on for a moment. With you here, my dear, I can never be
+desolate. Oh, may Heaven, in its mercy, long preserve you!"
+
+Four years later, "the blessed wife," as he called her, went to her
+"final abode." Mr. Webster watched by her side till death took her. Then
+at the funeral, in the wet and cold of that January day, he walked close
+behind the hearse, holding Julia and Fletcher, his two children, by the
+hand. Her body was placed beneath St. Paul's Church, Boston, beside her
+children. All were removed afterward to Marshfield.
+
+Webster went back to Washington, having been made United States senator,
+but he seemed broken-hearted, and unable to perform his duties. He wrote
+to a friend, "Like an angel of God, indeed. I hope she is in purity, in
+happiness, and in immortality; but I would fain hope that, in kind
+remembrance of those she has left, in a lingering human sympathy and
+human love, she may yet be, as God originally created her, a 'little
+lower than the angels.' I cannot pursue these thoughts, nor turn back to
+see what I have written." Again he wrote, "I feel a vacuum, an
+indifference, a want of motive, which I cannot describe. I hope my
+children, and the society of my best friends, may rouse me; but I can
+never see such days as I have seen. Yet I should not repine; I have
+enjoyed much, very much; and, if I were to die to-night, I should bless
+God most fervently that I have lived."
+
+Judge Story spoke of Mrs. Webster as a sister with "her kindness of
+heart, her generous feelings, her mild and conciliatory temper, her warm
+and elevated affections, her constancy, purity, and piety, her noble
+disinterestedness, and her excellent sense."
+
+Later, Mr. Webster married Caroline Le Roy, the daughter of a New York
+merchant, but no affection ever effaced from his heart the memory of
+Grace Webster, whom he always spoke of as "the mother of his children."
+
+The next year, 1829, his idolized brother Ezekiel died suddenly at
+forty-nine, while he was addressing a jury in the court-house at
+Concord, New Hampshire.
+
+Daniel Webster said of this shock, "I have felt but one such in life;
+and this follows so soon that it requires more fortitude than I possess
+to bear it with firmness, and, perhaps, as I ought. I am aware that the
+case admits no remedy, nor any present relief; and endeavor to console
+myself with reflecting that I have had much happiness with lost
+connections, and that they must expect to lose beloved objects in this
+world who have beloved objects to lose."
+
+Recently, at the home of Kate Sanborn in New York, the grand-niece of
+Daniel Webster, I met the sweet-faced wife of Ezekiel, young in her
+feelings and young in face despite her four-score years. Here I saw a
+picture of the great orator in his youth, the desk on which he wrote,
+and scores of mementos of Marshfield and "Elms Farms," treasured by the
+cultivated woman who bears token of her renowned kinship.
+
+With all these sorrows crowded into Mr. Webster's life, he could not
+cease his pressing work in Congress. Andrew Jackson had become
+President, and John C. Calhoun had preached his Nullification doctrines
+till South Carolina was ready to separate herself from the Union,
+because of her dissatisfaction with the tariff laws. Webster had
+somewhat changed his views, and had become a supporter of the "American
+System" of Henry Clay, the system of "protection," because he thought
+the interests of his constituents demanded it. For himself, he loved
+agriculture, but he saw the need of fostering manufactures if we would
+have a great and prosperous country.
+
+On December 29, 1829, Mr. Foote, a senator from Connecticut, introduced
+a resolution to inquire respecting the sales and surveys of western
+lands. In a long debate which followed, General Hayne of South Carolina
+took occasion to chastise New England, in no tender words, for her
+desire to build up herself in wealth at the expense of the West and
+South. On January 20, Webster made his first reply to the General,
+having only a night in which to prepare his speech. The notes filled
+three pages of ordinary letter paper, while the speech, as reported,
+filled twenty pages.
+
+Again General Hayne spoke in an able yet personal manner, asserting the
+doctrines of nullification, and attempting to justify the position of
+his State in seceding. Mr. Webster took notes while he was speaking,
+but, as the Senate adjourned, his speech did not come till the following
+day. Again he had but a night in which to prepare.
+
+When the morning of January 26 came, the galleries, floor, and staircase
+were crowded with eager men and women. "It is a critical moment," said
+Mr. Bell, of New Hampshire, to Mr. Webster, "and it is time, it is high
+time, that the people of this country should know what this Constitution
+_is_." "Then," answered Webster, "by the blessing of Heaven they shall
+learn, this day, before the sun goes down, what I understand it to be."
+
+When Webster began speaking his words were slowly uttered. "Mr.
+President,--When the mariner has been tossed, for many days, in thick
+weather, and on an unknown sea, he naturally avails himself of the first
+pause in the storm, the earliest glance of the sun, to take his
+latitude, and ascertain how far the elements have driven him from his
+true course. Let us imitate this prudence, and before we float farther
+on the waves of this debate, refer to the point from which we departed,
+that we may at least be able to conjecture where we now are. I ask for
+the reading of the resolution."
+
+And then with trenchant sarcasm, unanswerable logic, and the intense
+feeling which belongs to true oratory, Mr. Webster taught the American
+people the strength and holding power of the Constitution, which a civil
+war, thirty years later, was to prove unalterably. The speech, which
+filled seventy printed pages, came from only five pages of notes. When
+asked how long he was in preparation for the reply to Hayne, he
+answered, his "whole life."
+
+How often his loving defence of Massachusetts has been quoted! "Mr.
+President, I shall enter on no encomiums upon Massachusetts. She needs
+none. There she is--behold her, and judge for yourselves. There is her
+history: the world knows it by heart. The past, at least, is secure.
+There is Boston, and Concord, and Lexington, and Bunker Hill,--and there
+they will remain forever. The bones of her sons, falling in the great
+struggle for Independence, now lie mingled with the soil of every State,
+from New England to Georgia; and there they will lie forever. And, sir,
+where American liberty raised its first voice, and where its youth was
+nurtured and sustained, there it still lives, in the strength of its
+manhood and full of its original spirit. If discord and disunion shall
+wound it--if party strife and blind ambition shall hawk at and tear
+it--if folly and madness, if uneasiness under salutary and necessary
+restraint, shall succeed to separate it from that union, by which alone
+its existence is made sure, it will stand, in the end, by the side of
+that cradle in which its infancy was rocked: it will stretch forth its
+arm, with whatever of vigor it may still retain, over the friends who
+gather round it; and it will fall at last, if fall it must, amidst the
+proudest monuments of its own glory, and on the very spot of its origin.
+
+"When my eyes shall be turned to behold for the last time the sun in
+heaven, may I not see him shining on the broken and dishonored fragments
+of a once glorious Union; on States dissevered, discordant, belligerent;
+on a land rent with civil feuds, or drenched, it may be, in fraternal
+blood!--Let their last feeble and lingering glance rather behold the
+gorgeous ensign of the republic, now known and honored throughout the
+earth, still full high advanced, its arms and trophies streaming in
+their original lustre, not a stripe erased or polluted, nor a single
+star obscured--bearing for its motto no such miserable interrogatory as
+_What is all this worth_? Nor those other words of delusion and folly,
+_Liberty first_, and _Union_ afterwards--but everywhere, spread all over
+in characters of living light, blazing on all its ample folds, as they
+float over the sea and over the land, and in every wind under the whole
+heavens, that other sentiment, dear to every true American
+heart--Liberty and Union, now and forever, one and inseparable!"
+
+Of course, this reply to Hayne electrified the country, and Webster
+began to be mentioned for the presidential chair. No one who ever heard
+him speak, with his wonderful magnetism, his majestic enthusiasm, his
+rich, full voice, and his unsurpassed physique, could ever forget the
+man, his words, or his presence. When he visited Europe, some said,
+"There goes a king." When Sydney Smith saw him, he exclaimed, "Good
+Heavens! he is a small cathedral by himself."
+
+Through Jackson's administration Webster was his courteous opponent in
+most measures, but in the nullification scheme he was heart and hand
+with the fearless, self-willed general. When Henry Clay brought forward
+his compromise tariff bill, which pacified the nullifiers, Webster
+opposed it, believing that, in the face of this opposition to the
+Constitution, concession was unwise.
+
+In 1833, the famous statesman made an extended journey through the West,
+and was everywhere honored and feted. Church-bells were rung, cannon
+fired, and houses decorated at his coming. Great crowds gathered
+everywhere to hear him speak.
+
+By this time a party was developing in opposition to the unusual powers
+exercised by General Jackson, whose great victory at New Orleans had
+made him the idol of the people. The party was the more easily formed
+from the financial troubles under Van Buren, he having reaped the
+harvest of which Jackson had sown the seed. Naturally, Mr. Webster
+became the leader of this Whig party, so called from the Whig party in
+England, formed to resist the ultra demands of the king. Massachusetts
+favored him for the presidency. Boston presented him with a massive
+silver vase, before an audience of four thousand persons. Philadelphia
+and Baltimore gave him public dinners. Letters came from various States
+urging his name upon the National Convention, which met at Harrisburg,
+Pennsylvania, December 4, 1839. But Mr. Webster had been so prominent
+that his views upon all public questions were too well known, therefore
+General William Henry Harrison, of Ohio, an honored soldier of the War
+of 1812, was chosen, as being a more "available" candidate.
+
+Webster must have been sorely disappointed, as were his friends, but he
+at once began to work earnestly for his party, spoke constantly at
+meetings, and helped to elect Harrison, who died one month after the
+exciting election, at the age of sixty-eight. John Tyler, of Virginia,
+the Vice-President, succeeded him, and Mr. Webster remained Secretary of
+State under him, as he had been under Harrison. Here the duties were
+arduous and complicated.
+
+For many years the north-eastern boundary had been a matter of dispute
+between England and the United States. Bitter feeling had been
+engendered also by trouble in Canada in 1837. Several of those in
+rebellion had fled from Canada to the States, had fitted out an American
+steamboat, the Carolina, to make incursions into that country. She was
+burned by a party of Canadians, and an American was killed. McLeod,
+from Canada, acknowledged himself the slayer, was arrested, and
+committed for murder. The British were angered by this, as were the
+Americans by the search of their vessels by British cruisers. Lord
+Ashburton was finally sent as a special envoy to the United States, and
+largely through the statesmanship of Mr. Webster the Ashburton treaty
+was concluded, and war between the nations avoided.
+
+Meantime, President Tyler had vetoed the bill for establishing another
+United States Bank, and thereby set his own party against him. Most of
+the cabinet resigned, and although much pressure was brought by the Whig
+party upon Mr. Webster, that he resign also, he remained till the treaty
+matter was settled. Then he returned to Marshfield, and devoted himself
+once more to the law.
+
+He had spent lavishly upon his farm; he had also bought western land,
+and lost money by his investments. He felt obliged to entertain friends,
+and this was expensive. Besides, he never kept regular accounts, often
+in his generosity gave five hundred dollars when he should have given
+but five, and now found himself embarrassed by debts which were a source
+of sorrow to his friends as well as to himself, and a source of
+advantage to his enemies. Thirty-five thousand dollars were now given
+him by his admirers, from which he received a yearly income.
+
+In 1844, the annexation of Texas was a leading presidential question.
+Until 1836 she was a province of Mexico, but in 1835 she resorted to
+arms to free herself. On March 6, 1836, a Texan fort, called the Alamo,
+was surrounded by eight thousand Mexicans, led by Santa Anna. The
+garrison was massacred. The next month the battle of San Jacinto was
+fought, and Texas became independent. When she asked admission to the
+Union, the Democrats favored and the Whigs opposed, because she would
+naturally become slave territory. Already, August 30, 1843, the "Liberty
+Party" had assembled at Baltimore and nominated a candidate for the
+presidency. The North was becoming agitated on the subject of slavery,
+but the Whigs avoided both the subjects of slavery and Texas in their
+platform, and nominated as their presidential candidate not Daniel
+Webster but Henry Clay.
+
+Again Webster worked earnestly for his party and its nominee, but the
+Whigs were defeated, as is usually the case when a party fears to touch
+the great questions which public opinion demands. They learned a lesson
+when it was too late, and other political parties should profit by their
+example.
+
+James K. Polk of Tennessee was elected, Texas was admitted to the Union,
+and the Mexican War resulted. War was declared by Congress May 11, 1846,
+vigorously prosecuted, and Mexico was defeated. By the terms of the
+treaty, concluded February 2, 1848, New Mexico and Upper California were
+given to the United States. Webster, who had been returned to the
+Senate by Massachusetts, opposed the war as he had the annexation of
+Texas. At this time a double sorrow came to him. His second son, Major
+Edward Webster, a young man of fine abilities, courage, and high sense
+of honor, died near the city of Mexico, from disease induced by
+exposure. His body arrived in Boston May 4, and, only three days before,
+Webster's lovely daughter, Julia, who had married Samuel Appleton of
+Boston, was carried to her grave by consumption. Her death, at thirty,
+was beautiful in its resignation and faith, even though she left five
+little children to the care of others. Her last words were, "Let me go,
+for the day breaketh," which words were placed upon her tombstone.
+
+Mr. Webster was indeed crushed by this new sorrow. He wrote to his
+friend Mrs. Ticknor, "I cannot speak of the lost ones; but I submit to
+the will of God. I feel that I am nothing, less even than the merest
+dust of the balance; and that the Creator of a million worlds, and the
+judge of all flesh, must be allowed to dispose of me and mine as to his
+infinite wisdom shall seem best."
+
+In 1848, when Mr. Webster was sixty-six, the presidency once more eluded
+his grasp by the nomination of another "available" man, General Zachary
+Taylor, one of the heroes of the Mexican War. Webster had spoken
+earnestly for Harrison and Clay; now he was unwilling longer to work for
+the party which had ignored him and nominated a man whom, though an
+able soldier, he thought unfitted for the place as a statesman. If it
+was a mistake to show that he was wounded in spirit, as it undoubtedly
+was for so great a man, it was nevertheless human.
+
+The thing which Mr. Webster had feared these many years was now coming
+to pass. A violent agitation of the slavery question in the Territories
+was upon the nation. For thirty years slavery had been odious to the
+North, and carefully nurtured by the South. In 1820, when Missouri was
+admitted as a State, the North insisted that a clause prohibiting
+slavery should be inserted as a condition of her admission to the Union.
+Henry Clay devised the compromise by which slavery was prohibited in all
+the new territory lying north of latitude 36 deg. 30', which was the
+southern boundary of Missouri. This line was called Mason and Dixon's
+line, from the names of the two surveyors who ran the boundary line
+between Maryland and Pennsylvania.
+
+Year by year the hatred of slavery had intensified at the North.
+February 1, 1847, David Wilmot of Pennsylvania introduced in Congress
+his famous proviso, by which slavery was to be excluded from all
+territory thereafter acquired or annexed by the United States. And now,
+in 1849, the conflict on the slavery question was more virulent than
+ever. California, having framed a constitution prohibiting slavery,
+applied for admission to the Union. New Mexico asked for a territorial
+government and for the exclusion of slavery.
+
+The South claimed that the Missouri Compromise, extending to the Pacific
+coast, guaranteed the right to introduce slavery into California and New
+Mexico, and threatened secession from the Union. Again Henry Clay
+settled the matter,--for a time only, as it proved,--by his famous
+Compromise of 1850, by which California was admitted as a free State,
+the Territories taken from Mexico left to decide the slavery question as
+they chose, the slave-trade abolished in the District of Columbia, more
+effectual enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law demanded, with some
+other minor provisions.
+
+The Fugitive Slave Law, which provided for the return of the fugitives
+without trial by jury, and expected Christian people to aid the
+slave-dealers in capturing their slaves, was especially obnoxious to the
+North. Some of the States had passed "Personal Liberty Bills," punishing
+as kidnappers persons who sought to take away alleged slaves.
+
+Mr. Webster saw with dismay all this bitterness, and knew that the Union
+which he loved was in danger. He hoped to avert civil war, perhaps to
+still the tumult forever, and so gave his great heart and brain to the
+Clay compromise. On March 7, 1850, he delivered in Congress his famous
+speech on the Compromise bill. The Senate chamber was crowded with an
+intensely excited audience. Mr. Webster discussed the whole history of
+slavery, opposed the Wilmot Proviso, because he thought every part of
+the country settled as to slavery, either by law or nature,--he could
+not look into the future and see Kansas,--and then condemned the course
+of the North in its resistance to the Fugitive Slave Law, which he held
+to be constitutional. The words in reference to restoring fugitive
+slaves created a storm of indignation at the North, which had looked
+upon Webster as a great anti-slavery leader, and who had said in the
+oration at Plymouth, "I hear the sound of the hammer, I see the smoke of
+the furnaces where manacles and fetters are still forged for human
+limbs. I see the visages of those who, by stealth and at midnight, labor
+in this work of hell, foul and dark, as may become the artificers of
+such instruments of misery and torture. Let that spot be purified, or
+let it cease to be of New England. Let it be purified, or let it be set
+aside from the Christian world; let it be put out of the circle of human
+sympathies and human regards, and let civilized man henceforth have no
+communion with it." In his speech to Hayne he had said, "I regard
+domestic slavery as one of the greatest evils, both moral and
+political."
+
+Probably Mr. Webster had not changed his mind at all in regard to the
+enormity of slavery, but he hoped to save the Union from war. He indeed
+helped to postpone the conflict, but if the presidency had before this
+been a possibility to him, it became now an impossibility forever, and
+his own words had done it.
+
+President Taylor died July 9, 1850, when the discussion of the
+Compromise matter was at its height, and Millard Fillmore became
+President. He at once made Webster Secretary of State. Mr. Webster bore
+bravely the reproaches of the North. He said, "I cared for nothing, I
+was afraid of nothing, but I meant to do my duty. Duty performed makes a
+man happy; duty neglected makes a man unhappy.... If the fate of John
+Rogers had stared me in the face, if I had seen the stake, if I had
+heard the fagots already crackling, by the blessing of Almighty God I
+would have gone on and discharged the duty which I thought my country
+called upon me to perform."
+
+At the next national Whig convention, General Winfield Scott was
+nominated to the presidency. Multitudes throughout the country were
+disappointed that Webster was not chosen. Boston gave him a magnificent
+reception. Marshfield welcomed him with a gathering of thousands of
+people nine miles from his home, who escorted him thither, scattering
+garlands along the way. "I remember how," says Charles Lanman, "after
+the crowd had disappeared, he entered his house fatigued beyond measure,
+and covered with dust, and threw himself into a chair. For a moment his
+head fell upon his breast, as if completely overcome, and he then looked
+up like one seeking something he could not find. It was the portrait of
+his darling but departed daughter, Julia, and it happened to be in full
+view. He gazed upon it for some time in a kind of trance, and then wept
+like one whose heart was broken, and these words escaped his lips, 'Oh,
+I am so thankful to be here. If I could only have my will, never, never
+would I again leave this home!'"
+
+Here he was happy. Here he had gathered a large library, many of his
+books being on science, of which he was very fond. Of geology and
+physical geography he had made a careful study. Humboldt's "Cosmos" was
+an especial favorite.
+
+In the spring of 1852, Mr. Webster fell from his carriage, and from this
+fall he never entirely recovered. In the fall he made his will, and
+wrote these words for his monument, "Lord, I believe; help thou mine
+unbelief. Philosophical argument, especially that drawn from the
+vastness of the universe in comparison with the apparent insignificance
+of this globe, has sometimes shaken my reason for the faith that is in
+me; but my heart has assured and reassured me that the Gospel of Jesus
+Christ must be a Divine Reality.
+
+"The Sermon on the Mount cannot be a merely human production. This
+belief enters into the very depth of my conscience. The whole history of
+man proves it."
+
+Mr. Webster had repeatedly given his testimony in favor of the Christian
+religion. "Religion," he said, "is a necessary and indispensable element
+in any great human character. There is no living without it. Religion is
+the tie that connects man with his Creator, and holds him to his throne.
+If that tie be all sundered, all broken, he floats away, a worthless
+atom in the universe; its proper attractions all gone, its destiny
+thwarted, and its whole future nothing but darkness, desolation, and
+death."
+
+Once, at a dinner party of gentlemen, he was asked by one present, "What
+is the most important thought that ever occupied your mind?"
+
+The reply came slowly and solemnly, "My individual responsibility to
+God!"
+
+When the last of October came, Mr. Webster was nearing the end of life.
+About a week before he died he asked that a herd of his best oxen might
+be driven in front of his windows, that he might see their honest faces
+and gentle eyes. A man who thus loves animals must have a tender heart.
+
+A few hours before Mr. Webster died, he said slowly, "My general wish on
+earth has been to do my Maker's will. I thank him now for all the
+mercies that surround me.... No man, who is not a brute, can say that he
+is not afraid of death. No man can come back from _that_ bourne; no man
+can comprehend the will or the works of God. That there _is_ a God all
+must acknowledge. I see him in all these wondrous works--himself how
+wondrous!
+
+"The great mystery is Jesus Christ--the Gospel. What would the condition
+of any of us be if we had not the hope of immortality?... Thank God, the
+Gospel of Jesus Christ brought life and immortality to _light_,
+_rescued_ it--brought it to _light_." He then began to repeat the Lord's
+prayer, saying earnestly, "Hold me up, I do not wish to pray with a
+fainting voice."
+
+He longed to be conscious when death came. At midnight he said, "I still
+live," his last coherent words. A little after three he ceased to
+breathe.
+
+He was buried as he had requested to be, "without the least show or
+ostentation," on October 29, 1852. The coffin was placed upon the lawn,
+and more than ten thousand persons gazed upon the face of the great
+statesman. One unknown man, in plain attire, said as he looked upon him,
+all unconscious that anybody might hear his words, "Daniel Webster, the
+world without you will seem lonesome." Six of his neighbors bore him to
+his grave and laid him beside Grace and his children.
+
+When the Civil War came, which Mr. Webster had done all in his power to
+avert, it took the last child out of his family: Fletcher, a colonel of
+the Twelfth Massachusetts volunteers, fell in the battle of August 29,
+1862, near Bull Run.
+
+[Illustration: Signature "Your friend & obe Serv H. Clay"]
+
+
+
+
+HENRY CLAY.
+
+
+Henry Clay, the "mill-boy of the Slashes," was born April 12, 1777, in
+Hanover County, Virginia, in a neighborhood called the "Slashes," from
+its low, marshy ground. The seventh in a family of eight children, says
+Dr. Calvin Colton, in his "Life and Times of Henry Clay," he came into
+the home of Rev. John Clay, a true-hearted Baptist minister, poor, but
+greatly esteemed by all who knew him. Mr. Clay used often to preach
+out-of-doors to his impecunious flock, who, beside loving him for his
+spiritual nature, admired his fine voice and manly presence.
+
+When Henry was four years old the father died, leaving the wife to
+struggle for her daily bread, rich only in the affection which poverty
+so often intensifies and makes heroic. She was a devoted mother, a
+person of more than ordinary mind, and extremely patriotic, a quality
+transmitted to her illustrious son.
+
+Says Hon. Carl Schurz, in his valuable Life of Clay, "There is a
+tradition in the family that, when the dead body [of the father] was
+still lying in the house, Colonel Tarleton, commanding a cavalry
+force under Lord Cornwallis, passed through Hanover County on a raid,
+and left a handful of gold and silver on Mrs. Clay's table as a
+compensation for some property taken or destroyed by his soldiers; but
+that the spirited woman, as soon as Tarleton was gone, swept the money
+into her apron and threw it into the fireplace. It would have been in no
+sense improper, and more prudent, had she kept it, notwithstanding her
+patriotic indignation."
+
+Anxious that her children be educated, Mrs. Clay sent them to the log
+school-house in the neighborhood, to learn reading, writing, and
+arithmetic from Peter Deacon, an Englishman, who seems to have succeeded
+well in teaching, when sober. The log house was a small structure, with
+earth floor, no windows, and an entrance which served for continuous
+ventilation, as there was no door to keep out cold or heat. Henry had
+nothing of consequence to remember of this school save the marks of a
+whipping received from Peter Deacon when he was angry.
+
+As soon as school hours were over each day, he had to work to help
+support the family. Now the bare-footed boy might be seen ploughing;
+now, mounted on a pony guided by a rope bridle, with a bag of meal
+thrown across the horse's back, he might be seen going from his home to
+Mrs. Darricott's mill, on the Pamunky River. The people nicknamed him
+"The mill-boy of the Slashes," and, years later, when the same
+bare-footed, mother-loving boy was nominated for the presidency, the
+term became one of endearment and pride to hundreds of thousands, who
+knew by experience what a childhood of toil and hardship meant. He
+became the idol of the poor not less than of the rich, because he could
+sympathize in their privations, and sympathy is usually born of
+suffering. Perchance we ought to welcome bitter experiences, for he
+alone has power who has great sympathy.
+
+After some years of widowhood, Mrs. Clay married Captain Henry Watkins
+of Richmond, Virginia, and, though she bore him seven children, he did
+not forget to be a father to the children of her former marriage. When
+Henry was fourteen, Captain Watkins placed him in Richard Denny's store
+in Richmond. For a year the boy sold groceries and dry-goods in the
+retail store, reading in every moment of leisure. His step-father
+thought rightly that a boy who was so eager to read should have better
+advantages, and therefore applied to his friend, Colonel Tinsley, for a
+position in the office of the Clerk of the High Court of Chancery, the
+clerk being the brother of the colonel.
+
+"There is no vacancy," said the clerk.
+
+"Never mind," said the colonel, "you _must_ take him;" and so he did.
+
+The glad mother cut and made for Henry an ill-fitting suit of gray
+"figinny" (Virginia) cloth, cotton and silk mixed, and starched his
+linen to a painful stiffness. When he appeared in the clerk's office he
+was tall and awkward, and the occupants at the desks could scarcely
+restrain their mirth at the appearance of the new-comer. Henry was put
+to the task of copying. The clerks wisely remained quiet, and soon found
+that the boy was proud, ambitious, quick, willing to work, and superior
+to themselves in common-sense and the use of language.
+
+Every night when they went in quest of amusement young Clay went home to
+read. It could not have been mere chance which attracted to the
+studious, bright boy the attention of George Wythe, the Chancellor of
+the High Court of Chancery. He was a noted and noble man, one of the
+signers of the Declaration of Independence, for ten years teacher of
+jurisprudence at William and Mary's College, a man so liberal in his
+views in the days of slavery that he emancipated all his slaves and made
+provision for their maintenance; the same great man in whose office
+Thomas Jefferson gained inspiration in his youth.
+
+George Wythe selected Clay for his amanuensis in writing out the
+decisions of the courts. He soon became greatly attached to the boy of
+fifteen, directed his reading, first in grammatical studies, and then in
+legal and historical lines. He read Homer, Plutarch's Lives, and similar
+great works. The conversation of such a man as Mr. Wythe was to Clay
+what that of Christopher Gore was to Daniel Webster, or that of Judge
+Story to Charles Sumner. Generally men who have become great have allied
+themselves to great men or great principles early in life. When Clay
+had been four years with the chancellor he naturally decided to become a
+lawyer. Poverty did not deter him; hard work did not deter him. Those
+who fear to labor must not take a step on the road to fame.
+
+Clay entered the office of Attorney-General Robert Brooke, a man
+prominent and able. Here he studied hard for a year, and was admitted to
+the bar, having gained much legal knowledge in the previous four years.
+During this year he mingled with the best society of Richmond, his own
+intellectual ability, courteous manners, and good cheer making him
+welcome, not less than the well known friendship of Chancellor Wythe for
+him. Clay organized a debating society, and the "mill-boy of the
+Slashes" quite astonished, not only the members but the public as well,
+by his unusual powers of oratory.
+
+The esteem of Richmond society did not bring money quickly enough to the
+enterprising young man. His parents had removed to Kentucky, and he
+decided to go there also, "and grow up with the country." He was now
+twenty-one, poor, not as thoroughly educated as he could have wished,
+but determined to succeed, and when one has this determination the
+battle is half won. That he regretted his lack of early opportunities, a
+speech made on the floor of Congress years afterward plainly showed. In
+reply to Hon. John Randolph he said, "The gentleman from Virginia was
+pleased to say that in one point, at least, he coincided with me in an
+humble estimate of my grammatical and philological acquisitions. I know
+my deficiencies. I was born to no proud patrimonial estate. I inherited
+only infancy, ignorance, and indigence. I feel my defects. But, so far
+as my situation in early life is concerned, I may, without presumption,
+say it was more my misfortune than my fault. But, however I regret my
+want of ability to furnish the gentleman with a better specimen of
+powers of verbal criticism, I will venture to say it is not greater than
+the disappointment of this committee as to the strength of his
+argument."
+
+When Clay arrived in Lexington, Kentucky, he found not the polished
+society of Richmond, but a genial, warm-hearted, high-spirited race of
+men and women, who cordially welcomed the young lawyer with his
+sympathetic manner and distinguished air, the result of an inborn sense
+of leadership. Soon after he began to practise law, he joined a debating
+society, and, with his usual good-sense, did not take an active part
+until he became acquainted with the members.
+
+One evening, after a subject had been long debated, and the vote was to
+be taken, Clay, feeling that the matter was not exhausted, rose to
+speak. At first he was embarrassed, and began, "Gentlemen of the jury!"
+The audience laughed. Roused to self-control by this mistake, his words
+came fast and eloquent, till the people held their breath in amazement.
+From that day, Lexington knew that a young man of brilliancy and power
+had come within her borders.
+
+Nearly fifty years later, he said in the same city, when he retired from
+public life, "In looking back upon my origin and progress through life,
+I have great reason to be thankful. My father died in 1781, leaving me
+an infant of too tender years to retain any recollection of his smiles
+or endearments. My surviving parent removed to this State in 1792,
+leaving me, a boy fifteen years of age, in the office of the High Court
+of Chancery, in the city of Richmond, without guardian, without
+pecuniary means of support, to steer my course as I might or could. A
+neglected education was improved by my own irregular exertions, without
+the benefit of systematic instruction. I studied law principally in the
+office of a lamented friend, the late Governor Brooke, then
+attorney-general of Virginia, and also under the auspices of the
+venerable and lamented Chancellor Wythe, for whom I had acted as
+amanuensis. I obtained a license to practise the profession from the
+judges of the court of appeals of Virginia, and established myself in
+Lexington in 1797, without patrons, without the favor or countenance of
+the great or opulent, without the means of paying my weekly board, and
+in the midst of a bar uncommonly distinguished by eminent members. I
+remember how comfortable I thought I should be if I could make one
+hundred pounds, Virginia money, per year, and with what delight I
+received the first fifteen-shilling fee. My hopes were more than
+realized. I immediately rushed into a successful and lucrative
+practice."
+
+His cases at first were largely criminal. His first marked case was that
+of a woman who, in a moment of passion, shot her sister-in-law. Clay
+could not bear to see a woman hanged, and she heretofore the respected
+wife of a respected man. He pleaded "temporary delirium," and saved her
+life.
+
+It is said that no murderer ever suffered the extreme penalty of the law
+who was defended by Henry Clay. He saved the life of one Willis, accused
+of an atrocious murder. Meeting the man later, he said, "Ah! Willis,
+poor fellow, I fear I have saved too many like you who ought to be
+hanged." When Clay was public prosecutor, he took up the case of a
+slave, much valued for his intelligence and honor, who, in the absence
+of his owner, had been unmercifully treated by an overseer. In
+self-defence the slave killed the overseer with an axe. Clay argued that
+had the deed been done by a free man it would have been man-slaughter,
+but by a slave, who should have submitted, it was murder. The colored
+man was hanged, meeting death heroically. Clay was so overcome by the
+painful result of his own unfortunate reasoning that he at once resigned
+his position, and never ceased to be sorry for his connection with the
+affair.
+
+Sometimes the ending of a case was ludicrous as well as pathetic. Two
+Germans, father and son, were indicted for murder in the first degree.
+The mother and wife were present, and, of course, intensely interested.
+When Clay obtained the acquittal of the accused, the old lady rushed
+through the crowd, flung her arms around the neck of the stylish young
+attorney, and clung to him so persistently that it was difficult for him
+to free himself!
+
+He soon began to engage more exclusively in civil suits, especially
+those growing out of the land laws of Virginia and Kentucky, and quickly
+acquired a leading position at the bar. He had already married, at
+twenty-two, Lucretia Hart, eighteen years old, the daughter of Colonel
+Thomas Hart, a well known and respected citizen of Lexington. She was a
+woman of practical common-sense, devoted to him, and a tender mother to
+their eleven children, six daughters and five sons.
+
+As soon as Mr. Clay had earned sufficient money he bought Ashland, an
+estate of six hundred acres, a mile and a half south-east from Lexington
+court-house. A spacious brick mansion, with flower gardens and groves,
+made it in time one of the most attractive places in the South. Here,
+later, Clay entertained Lafayette, Webster, Monroe, and other famous men
+from Europe and America.
+
+Mr. Clay began his political life when but twenty-two. Kentucky, in
+1799, in revising her constitution, considered a project for the gradual
+abolition of slavery in the State. Clay was an ardent advocate of the
+measure. He wrote in favor of it in the press, and spoke earnestly in
+its behalf in public. He, however, received more censure than praise for
+the position he took, but his conduct was in keeping with his
+declaration years later: "I had rather be right than be President."
+
+All his life he rejoiced that he had thus early favored the abolition of
+slavery. He said, thirty years later, "Among the acts of my life which I
+look back to with most satisfaction is that of my having cooperated with
+other zealous and intelligent friends to procure the establishment of
+that system in this State. We were overpowered by numbers, but submitted
+to the decision of the majority with that grace which the minority in a
+republic should ever yield to that decision. I have, nevertheless, never
+ceased, and shall never cease, to regret a decision the effects of which
+have been to place us in the rear of our neighbors, who are exempt from
+slavery, in the state of agriculture, the progress of manufactures, the
+advance of improvements, and the general progress of society."
+
+From this time Clay spoke on all important political questions. Once,
+when he and George Nicholas had spoken against the alien and sedition
+laws of the Federalists, so pleased were the Kentuckians that both
+speakers were placed in a carriage and drawn through the streets, the
+people shouting applause. Thus foolishly are persons--usually young
+men--willing to be considered horses through their excitement!
+
+When Clay was twenty-six, so effective had been his eloquence that he
+was elected to the State Legislature. Who would have prophesied this
+when he carried meal to Mrs. Darricott's mill! Reading evenings, when
+other boys roamed the streets, had been an important element in this
+success; friendship with those older and stronger than himself had given
+maturity of thought and plan.
+
+When he was thirty he was chosen to the United States Senate, to fill
+the unexpired term of another. At once, despite his youth, he took an
+active part in debate, was placed on important committees, and advocated
+"internal improvements," as he did all the rest of his life, desiring
+always that America become great and powerful. He was happy in this
+first experience at the national capital. He wrote home to his wife's
+father: "My reception in this place has been equal, nay, superior to my
+expectations. I have experienced the civility and attention of all I was
+desirous of obtaining. Those who are disposed to flatter me say that I
+have acquitted myself with great credit in several debates in the
+Senate. But, after all I have seen, Kentucky is still my favorite
+country. There amidst my dear family I shall find happiness in a degree
+to be met with nowhere else."
+
+As soon as Clay was home again, Kentucky sent him to her State
+Legislature, where he was elected speaker. Already the conflicts between
+England and France under Napoleon had seriously affected our commerce
+by the unjust decrees of both nations. Mr. Clay strongly denounced the
+Orders in Council of the British, and praised Jefferson for the embargo.
+He urged, also, partly as a retaliatory measure, and partly as a measure
+of self-protection, that the members of the Legislature wear only such
+clothes as were made by our own manufacturers. Humphrey Marshall, a
+strong Federalist, and a man of great ability, denounced this resolution
+as the work of a demagogue. The result was a duel, in which, after Clay
+and Marshall were both slightly wounded, the seconds prevented further
+bloodshed. Once before this Clay had accepted a challenge, and the duel
+was prevented only by the interference of friends. Had death resulted at
+either time, America would have missed from her record one of the
+brightest and fairest names in her history.
+
+When Clay was thirty-three he was again sent to the Senate of the United
+States, to fill an unexpired term of two years. At the end of that time
+Kentucky was too proud of him to allow his returning to private life. He
+was therefore elected to the House of Representatives, and took his seat
+November 4, 1811. He was at once chosen speaker, an honor conferred for
+seven terms, fourteen years.
+
+"Henry Clay stands," says Carl Schurz, "in the traditions of the House
+of Representatives as the greatest of its speakers. His perfect mastery
+of parliamentary law, his quickness of decision in applying it, his
+unfailing presence of mind and power of command in moments of excitement
+and confusion, the courteous dignity of his bearing, are remembered as
+unequalled by any one of those who had preceded or who have followed
+him."
+
+Here in the excitement of debate he was happy. He could speak at will
+against the British, who had seized more than nine hundred American
+ships, and the French more than five hundred and fifty. When several
+thousand Americans had been impressed as British seamen, the hot blood
+of the Kentuckian demanded war. He said in Congress, "We are called upon
+to submit to debasement, dishonor, and disgrace; to bow the neck to
+royal insolence, as a course of preparation for manly resistance to
+Gallic invasion! What nation, what individual was ever taught in the
+schools of ignominious submission these patriotic lessons of freedom and
+independence?... An honorable peace is attainable only by an efficient
+war. My plan would be to call out the ample resources of the country,
+give them a judicious direction, prosecute the war with the utmost
+vigor, strike wherever we can reach the enemy, at sea or on land, and
+negotiate the terms of a peace at Quebec or at Halifax. We are told that
+England is a proud and lofty nation, which, disdaining to wait for
+danger, meets it half way. Haughty as she is, we once triumphed over
+her, and, if we do not listen to the counsels of timidity and despair,
+we shall again prevail. In such a cause, with the aid of Providence, we
+must come out crowned with success; but if we fail, let us fail like
+men, lash ourselves to our gallant tars, and expire together in one
+common struggle, fighting for FREE TRADE AND SEAMEN'S RIGHTS."
+
+The War of 1812 came, even though New England strongly opposed it. The
+country was poorly prepared for a great contest by land or by sea, but
+Clay's enthusiasm seemed equal to a dozen armies. He cheered every
+regiment by his hope and his patriotism. When defeats came at Detroit
+and in Canada, Josiah Quincy of Massachusetts, leader of the
+Federalists, said, "Those must be very young politicians, their
+pin-feathers not yet grown, and, however they may flutter on this floor,
+they are not fledged for any high or distant flight, who think that
+threats and appealing to fear are the ways of producing any disposition
+to negotiate in Great Britain, or in any other nation which understands
+what it owes to its own safety and honor."
+
+Clay answered in a two-days speech that was never forgotten. He scourged
+the Federalists with stinging words: "Sir, gentlemen appear to me to
+forget that they stand on American soil; that they are not in the
+British House of Commons, but in the chamber of the House of
+Representatives of the United States; that we have nothing to do with
+the affairs of Europe, the partition of territory and sovereignty there,
+except so far as these things affect the interests of our own country.
+Gentlemen transform themselves into the Burkes, Chathams, and Pitts of
+another country, and forgetting, from honest zeal, the interests of
+America, engage with European sensibility in the discussion of European
+interests.... I have no fears of French or English subjugation. If we
+are united we are too powerful for the mightiest nation in Europe, or
+all Europe combined. If we are separated and torn asunder, we shall
+become an easy prey to the weakest of them. In the latter dreadful
+contingency, our country will not be worth preserving.
+
+"The war was declared because Great Britain arrogated to herself the
+pretension of regulating our foreign trade, under the delusive name of
+retaliatory orders in council--a pretension by which she undertook to
+proclaim to American enterprise, 'Thus far shalt thou go, and no
+further'--orders which she refused to revoke, after the alleged cause of
+their enactment had ceased; because she persisted in the practice of
+impressing American seamen; because she had instigated the Indians to
+commit hostilities against us; and because she refused indemnity for her
+past injuries upon our commerce. I throw out of the question other
+wrongs. The war in fact was announced on our part to meet the war which
+she was waging on her part."
+
+The speech electrified the country. The army was increased, the nation
+encouraged, and the war carried to a successful issue. Such a power had
+Clay become that Madison talked of making him commander-in-chief of the
+army, but Gallatin dissuaded him, saying, "What shall we do without
+Clay in Congress?"
+
+When the war was nearing its end--before Jackson had fought his famous
+battle at New Orleans--and a treaty of peace was to be effected, the
+President appointed five commissioners to confer with the British
+government: John Quincy Adams, Clay, Bayard, Jonathan Russell, Minister
+to Sweden, and Albert Gallatin.
+
+They reached Ghent, in the Netherlands, July 6, 1814, a company of
+earnest men, not always in accord, but desirous of accomplishing the
+most possible for America. Adams was able, courageous, irritable, and
+sometimes domineering; Clay, impetuous, spirited, genial, making friends
+of the British commissioners as they played at whist--he never allowed
+cards to come into his home at Ashland; Gallatin, discreet, a
+peace-maker, and dignified counsellor.
+
+For five months the commissioners argued, waited to see if their
+respective countries would accede to the terms proposed, and finally
+settled an honorable peace. Then Clay, Adams, and Gallatin spent three
+months in London negotiating a treaty of commerce. Clay had meantime
+heard of the battle of New Orleans, and said, "Now I can go to England
+without mortification." In Paris he met Madame de Stael. "I have been in
+England," said she, "and have been battling for your cause there. They
+were so much enraged against you that at one time they thought seriously
+of sending the Duke of Wellington to lead their armies against you."
+
+"I am very sorry," replied Clay, "that they did not send the duke."
+
+"And why?" she asked.
+
+"Because if he had beaten us, we should have been in the condition of
+Europe, without disgrace. But if we had been so fortunate as to defeat
+him, we should have greatly added to the renown of our arms."
+
+When Clay returned to America, he was welcomed in New York and Lexington
+with public dinners. That the war had produced good results was well
+stated in his Lexington address. "Abroad, our character, which, at the
+time of its declaration, was in the lowest state of degradation, is
+raised to the highest point of elevation. It is impossible for any
+American to visit Europe without being sensible of this agreeable change
+in the personal attentions which he receives, in the praises which are
+bestowed on our past exertions, and the predictions which are made as to
+our future prospects. At home, a government, which, at its formation,
+was apprehended by its best friends, and pronounced by its enemies to be
+incapable of standing the shock, is found to answer all the purposes of
+its institution."
+
+Clay was now famous; commanding in presence, with a winsome rather than
+handsome face, exuberant in spirits, generous by nature, polite to the
+poorest, self-possessed, with a voice unsurpassed, if ever equalled,
+for its musical tone; a man who made friends everywhere and among all
+classes, and never lost them; who was always a gentleman, because always
+kind at heart. Manner, which Emerson calls the "finest of the fine
+arts," gave Clay the "mastery of palace and fortune" wherever he went.
+That voice and hand-grasp, that remembrance of a face and a name, won
+him countless admirers.
+
+President Madison offered him the mission to Russia, which he declined,
+as also a place in the Cabinet, as Secretary of War, preferring to speak
+on all those matters which helped to build up America. On the question
+of the United States Bank he made a strong speech against its
+constitutionality, which Andrew Jackson said later was his most
+convincing authority when he destroyed the bank. Clay's views changed in
+after years, and made him at bitter enmity with Andrew Jackson and John
+Tyler, both of whom vigorously opposed a bank, with its vast capital and
+consequent power in politics.
+
+Clay's desire for the rapid development of America led him to become a
+"protectionist," and the leader of the so-called "American system," as
+opposed to Free Trade or the Foreign System. He believed that only as we
+encourage our own manufactures can we become a powerful nation, paying
+high wages, shutting out the products of the cheap labor of Europe,
+increasing our home market, and becoming independent of the foreign
+market. Clay's speeches were read the country over, and won him
+thousands of followers.
+
+Like others in public life, he now and then gave offence to his
+constituents. He had voted for a bill to increase the pay of members of
+Congress from six dollars a day to a salary of fifteen hundred dollars a
+year. To the farmers of Kentucky this amount seemed far too great. He
+one day met an old hunter who had always voted for him, but was now
+determined to vote against a man so extravagant in his ideas!
+
+"My friend," said Clay, "have you a good rifle?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did it ever flash?"
+
+"Yes; but only once."
+
+"What did you do with the rifle when it flashed?--throw it away?"
+
+"No; I picked the flint, tried again, and brought down the game."
+
+"Have I ever flashed, except upon the compensation bill?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Well, will you throw me away?"
+
+"No, Mr. Clay; I will pick the flint and try you again."
+
+Mr. Clay was returned to Congress, and voted for the repeal of the
+fifteen hundred dollar salary.
+
+The subject which was to surpass all other subjects in interest, and
+well-nigh destroy the Union, was coming into prominence--slavery. Henry
+Clay, from a boy, when George Wythe, the Virginia chancellor, freed his
+slaves, had looked upon human bondage as a curse. He used to say, "If I
+could be instrumental in eradicating this deepest stain from the
+character of our country, and removing all cause of reproach on account
+of it, by foreign nations; if I could only be instrumental in ridding of
+this foul blot that revered State that gave me birth, or that not less
+beloved State which kindly adopted me as her son, I would not exchange
+the proud satisfaction which I should enjoy for the honor of all the
+triumphs ever decreed to the most successful conqueror.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"When we consider the cruelty of the origin of negro slavery, its
+nature, the character of the free institutions of the whites, and the
+irresistible progress of public opinion throughout America, as well as
+in Europe, it is impossible not to anticipate frequent insurrections
+among the blacks in the United States; they are rational beings like
+ourselves, capable of feeling, of reflection, and of judging of what
+naturally belongs to them as a portion of the human race. By the very
+condition of the relation which subsists between us, we are enemies of
+each other. They know well the wrongs which their ancestors suffered at
+the hands of our ancestors, and the wrongs which they believe they
+continue to endure, although they may be unable to avenge them. They are
+kept in subjection only by the superior intelligence and superior power
+of the predominant race."
+
+At the North, anti-slavery sentiments had intensified; at the South,
+where slavery was at first regarded as an evil, the consequent ease and
+wealth from slave labor had changed public opinion, and had made the
+people jealous of northern discussion. Through the invention of the
+cotton-gin, by Eli Whitney, the value of cotton exports had quadrupled
+in twenty years, and the value of slaves had trebled. Comparatively good
+feeling was maintained by the two sections of the country as long as for
+every slave State admitted to the Union a free State was also admitted.
+
+In 1818, the people of Missouri desired to be admitted to the Union. Mr.
+Tallmadge of New York proposed that the further introduction of slavery
+should be prohibited, and that all children born within the said State
+should be free at the age of twenty-five years. The discussion grew
+strong and bitter. Two years later the inhabitants of the State
+proceeded to adopt a constitution which forbade free negroes from coming
+into the territory or settling in it. The discussion grew more bitter
+still. Threats of disunion and civil war were heard. Jefferson wrote
+from his Monticello home, "The Missouri question is the most portentous
+one that ever threatened the Union. In the gloomiest moments of the
+Revolutionary War I never had any apprehension equal to that I feel from
+this source."
+
+A senator from Illinois, Mr. Thomas, proposed that no restriction as to
+slavery be imposed upon Missouri, but that in all the rest of the
+territory ceded by France to the United States, north of 36 deg. 30',
+this being the southern boundary of Missouri, there should be no slavery.
+Then Mr. Clay, with his intense love for the Union, bent all his
+energies to effect this compromise suggested by Thomas. He spoke
+earnestly in its behalf, and went from member to member, persuading and
+beseeching with all his genius and winsomeness. When Clay had effected
+the passage of the bill, the "great pacificator" became more beloved
+than ever. He had saved the Union, and now was talked of as the
+successor to President Monroe.
+
+Clay was now forty-seven, the polished orator, the consummate leader,
+one of the great trio whom all visitors to Washington wished to look
+upon: Clay, Webster, and Calhoun. Kentucky was earnest in her support of
+Clay as President.
+
+When the time came for voting, six candidates were before the people:
+John Quincy Adams, Jackson, Clay, Calhoun, Clinton of New York, and
+Crawford of Georgia. Hon. Thomas H. Benton of Missouri was an ardent
+supporter of Clay, and travelled over several States speaking in his
+behalf.
+
+Clay was anxious for the position, but would do nothing unworthy to
+obtain it. He wrote to a friend, "On one resolution, my friends may rest
+assured, I will firmly rely, and that is, to participate in no
+intrigue, to enter into no arrangements, to make no promises or pledges;
+but that, whether I am elected or not, I will have nothing to reproach
+myself with. If elected, I will go into the office with a pure
+conscience, to promote with my utmost exertions the common good of our
+country, and free to select the most able and faithful public servants.
+If not elected, acquiescing most cheerfully in the better selection
+which will thus have been made, I will at least have the satisfaction of
+preserving my honor unsullied and my heart uncorrupted."
+
+After the vote had been taken, as no candidate received a clear
+majority, the election necessarily went to the House of Representatives.
+Though Jackson received the most electoral votes, Clay, not friendly to
+him, used his influence for Adams and helped obtain his election. Clay
+was, of course, bitterly censured by the followers of Jackson, and when
+Adams made him Secretary of State the cry of "bargain and sale" was
+heard throughout the country. Though both Adams and Clay denied any
+promise between them, the Jackson men believed, or professed to believe
+it, and helped in later years to spoil his presidential success. Adams
+said, "As to my motives for tendering him the Department of State when I
+did, let the man who questions them come forward. Let him look around
+among the statesmen and legislators of the nation and of that day. Let
+him then select and name the man whom, by his preeminent talents, by his
+splendid services, by his ardent patriotism, by his all-embracing
+public spirit, by his fervid eloquence in behalf of the rights and
+liberties of mankind, by his long experience in the affairs of the
+Union, foreign and domestic, a President of the United States, intent
+only upon the honor and welfare of his country, ought to have preferred
+to Henry Clay."
+
+Returning to Kentucky before taking the position of Secretary of State,
+his journey thither was one constant ovation. Public dinners were given
+him in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. In the midst of this
+prosperity, sorrow laid her hand heavily upon the great man's heart. His
+children were his idols. They obeyed him because they loved him and were
+proud of him. Lucretia, named for her mother, a delicate and much
+beloved daughter, died at fourteen. Eliza, a most attractive girl, with
+her father's magnetic manners, died on their journey to Washington. A
+few days after her death, another daughter, Susan Hart, then Mrs.
+Durolde of New Orleans, died, at the age of twenty.
+
+There was work to be done for the country, and Mr. Clay tried to put
+away his sorrow that he might do his duty. As Secretary of State he
+helped to negotiate treaties with Prussia, Denmark, Austria, Russia, and
+other nations. The opposition to Adams and Clay became intense. The
+Jackson party felt itself defrauded. John Randolph of Virginia was an
+outspoken enemy, closing a scathing speech with the words, "by the
+coalition of Blifil and Black George--by the combination, unheard of
+till then, of the Puritan with the blackleg."
+
+Clay was indignant, and sent Randolph a challenge, which he accepted. On
+the night before the duel, Randolph told a friend that he had determined
+not to return Clay's fire. "Nothing," he said, "shall induce me to harm
+a hair of his head. I will not make his wife a widow and his children
+orphans. Their tears would be shed over his grave; but when the sod of
+Virginia rests on my bosom, there is not in this wide world one
+individual to pay this tribute upon mine."
+
+The two men met on the banks of the Potomac, near sunset. Clay fired and
+missed his adversary, while Randolph discharged his pistol in the air.
+As soon as Clay perceived this he came forward and exclaimed, "I trust
+in God, my dear sir, that you are unhurt; after what has occurred, I
+would not have harmed you for a thousand worlds." Years afterward, a
+short time before Randolph's death, as he was on his way to
+Philadelphia, he stopped in Washington, and was carried into the Senate
+chamber during its all-night session. Clay was speaking. "Hold me up,"
+he said to his attendants; "_I have come to hear that voice._"
+
+At the presidential election of 1828 Andrew Jackson was the successful
+candidate, and Clay retired to his Ashland farm, where he took especial
+delight in his fine horses, cattle, and sheep. But he was soon returned
+to the Senate by his devoted State.
+
+The tariff question was now absorbing the public mind. The South, under
+Calhoun's leadership, had been opposed to protection, which they
+believed aided northern manufacturers at the expense of southern
+agriculturists. When the tariff bill of 1832 was passed, and South
+Carolina talked of nullification and secession, Clay said: "The great
+principle which lies at the foundation of all free government is that
+the majority must govern, from which there can be no appeal but the
+sword. That majority ought to govern wisely, equitably, moderately, and
+constitutionally; but govern it must, subject only to that terrible
+appeal. If ever one or several States, being a minority, can, by
+menacing a dissolution of the Union, succeed in forcing an abandonment
+of great measures deemed essential to the interests and prosperity of
+the whole, the Union from that moment is practically gone. It may linger
+on in form and name, but its vital spirit has fled forever."
+
+South Carolina passed her nullification ordinance, and prepared to
+resist the collection of revenues at Charleston. Then Jackson, with his
+undaunted courage and indomitable will, ordered a body of troops to
+South Carolina, and threatened to hang Calhoun and his nullifiers as
+"high as Haman."
+
+Then the "great pacificator" came forward to heal the wounds between
+North and South, and preserve the Union. He prepared his "Compromise
+Bill," which provided for a gradual reduction of duties till the year
+1842, when twenty per cent. at a home valuation should become the rate
+on dutiable goods. He spent much time and thought on this bill, visiting
+the great manufacturers of the country, and urging them to accede for
+the sake of peace.
+
+After this bill passed he was more esteemed than ever. He visited by
+request the Northern and Eastern States, and spoke to great gatherings
+of people in nearly all the large cities. A platform having been erected
+on the heights of Bunker Hill, Edward Everett addressed him in the
+presence of an immense audience, and Clay responded with his usual
+eloquence. The young men of Boston presented him a pair of silver
+pitchers, weighing one hundred and fifty ounces. The young men of Troy,
+New York, gave him a superbly mounted rifle. Other cities made him
+expensive presents.
+
+After the first four years of Jackson's "reign," as it was called by
+those who deprecated the unusual power held by the executive, Clay was
+again nominated for the presidency by the Whigs, and again defeated,
+Jackson receiving two hundred and nineteen electoral votes and Clay only
+forty-nine.
+
+Again in 1840, after the four years' term of Van Buren, the protege of
+Jackson, all eyes turned toward Clay as the coming President. But
+already he had been twice the nominee and been twice defeated. The
+anti-slavery element had become a serious factor in party plans. The
+secretary of the American Anti-Slavery Society in New York wrote Clay:
+"I should consider the election of a slave-holder to the presidency a
+great calamity to the country." The slave-holders meantime denounced
+Clay as an abolitionist.
+
+When the Whig national convention met, December 4, 1839, they chose, not
+Clay, but General William Henry Harrison, a good man and a successful
+soldier, but a very different man from the popular Clay. The statesman
+was sorely disappointed. "I am," he said, "the most unfortunate man in
+the history of parties: always run by my friends when sure to be
+defeated, and now betrayed for a nomination when I or any one would be
+sure of an election."
+
+His friends throughout the country were grieved and indignant. But Clay
+supported with all his power the true-hearted old soldier, who, when
+elected, offered him the first place in the Cabinet, which was declined.
+Harrison died a month after his inauguration, and John Tyler became
+President. Clay and Tyler differed constantly, till Clay determined to
+retire from the Senate. He said: "I want rest, and my private affairs
+want attention. Nevertheless, I would make any personal sacrifice if, by
+remaining here, I could do any good; but my belief is I can effect
+nothing, and perhaps my absence may remove an obstacle to something
+being done by others." When it became known that Clay would make a
+farewell address, the Senate chamber was crowded.
+
+He spoke of his long career of public service, and the memorable scenes
+they had witnessed together. His feelings nearly overcame him as he
+said: "I emigrated from Virginia to the State of Kentucky now nearly
+forty-five years ago; I went as an orphan boy who had not yet attained
+the age of majority, who had never recognized a father's smile nor felt
+his warm caresses, poor, penniless, without the favor of the great, with
+an imperfect and neglected education, hardly sufficient for the ordinary
+business and common pursuits of life; but scarce had I set foot upon her
+generous soil when I was embraced with parental fondness, caressed as
+though I had been a favorite child, and patronized with liberal and
+unbounded munificence. From that period the highest honors of the State
+have been freely bestowed upon me; and when, in the darkest hour of
+calumny and detraction, I seemed to be assailed by all the rest of the
+world, she interposed her broad and impenetrable shield, repelled the
+poisoned shafts that were aimed for my destruction, and vindicated my
+good name from every malignant and unfounded aspersion. I return with
+indescribable pleasure to linger a while longer, and mingle with the
+warm-hearted and whole-souled people of that State; and, when the last
+scene shall forever close upon me, I hope that my earthly remains will
+be laid under her green sod with those of her gallant and patriotic
+sons."
+
+When Clay reached Lexington he was welcomed like a prince. A great
+public feast was given in his honor. In his speech to the people he
+said: "I have been accused of ambition, often accused of ambition. If to
+have served my country during a long series of years with fervent zeal
+and unshaken fidelity, in seasons of peace and war, at home and abroad,
+in the legislative halls and in an executive department; if to have
+labored most sedulously to avert the embarrassment and distress which
+now overspread this Union, and, when they came, to have exerted myself
+anxiously, at the extra session and at this, to devise healing remedies;
+if to have desired to introduce economy and reform in the general
+administration, curtail enormous executive power, and amply provide, at
+the same time, for the wants of the government and the wants of the
+people, by a tariff which would give it revenue and then protection; if
+to have earnestly sought to establish the bright but too rare example of
+a party in power faithful to its promises and pledges made when out of
+power,--if these services, exertions, and endeavors justify the
+accusation of ambition, I must plead guilty to the charge.
+
+"I have wished the good opinion of the world; but I defy the most
+malignant of my enemies to show that I have attempted to gain it by any
+low or grovelling acts, by any mean or unworthy sacrifices, by the
+violation of any of the obligations of honor, or by a breach of any of
+the duties which I owed to my country."
+
+In 1844, at the Whig convention at Baltimore, May 1, Clay was
+unanimously nominated for the presidency, with a great shout that shook
+the building. It seemed as though his hour of triumph had come at last.
+James K. Polk was the Democratic nominee. Another party now appeared,
+the "Liberty Party," with James G. Birney of Kentucky as its candidate.
+He was an able lawyer, and a man who had liberated his slaves through
+principle. The contest was one of the most acrimonious in our national
+history. Texas was clamoring for admission to the Union, with the
+Mexican War sure to result. The Whigs feared to commit themselves on the
+slavery question. When the votes were counted Birney had received over
+sixty-two thousand, enough to throw the election into the hands of the
+Democrats. The abolitionists had done what they were willing to
+do,--bury the Whig party, that from its grave might arise another party,
+which should fearlessly grapple with slavery, and they accomplished
+their desire, when, in 1860, the Republican party made Abraham Lincoln
+President.
+
+The disappointment to Mr. Clay was extreme, but he bore it bravely. His
+friends all over the country seemed broken-hearted. Letters of sorrow
+poured into Ashland. "I write," said one, "with an aching heart, and
+ache it must. God Almighty save us! Although our hearts are broken and
+bleeding, and our bright hopes are crushed, we feel proud of our
+candidate. God bless you! Your countrymen do bless you. All know how to
+appreciate the man who has stood in the first rank of American patriots.
+Though unknown to you, you are by no means a stranger to me." Another
+wrote: "I have buried a revolutionary father, who poured out his blood
+for his country; I have followed a mother, brothers, sisters, and
+children to the grave; and, although I hope I have felt, under all these
+afflictions, as a son, a brother, and a father should feel, yet nothing
+has so crushed me to the earth, and depressed my spirits, as the result
+of our late political contest."
+
+"Permit me, a stranger, to address you. From my boyhood I have loved no
+other American statesman so much except Washington. I write from the
+overflowing of my heart. I admire and love you more than ever. If I may
+never have the happiness of seeing you on earth, may I meet you in
+heaven."
+
+A lady wrote, "I had indulged the most joyous anticipations in view of
+that political campaign which has now been so ingloriously ended. I
+considered that the nation could never feel satisfied until it had
+cancelled, in some degree, the onerous obligations so long due to its
+faithful and distinguished son."
+
+Another lady wrote, "My mind is a perfect chaos when I dwell upon the
+events which have occurred within the last few weeks. My heart refused
+to credit the sad reality. Had I the eloquence of all living tongues, I
+could not shadow forth the deep, deep sorrow that has thrilled my inmost
+soul. The bitterest tears have flowed like rain-drops from my eyes.
+Never, till now, could I believe that truth and justice would not
+prevail."
+
+A lady in Maryland, ninety-three years old, wrought for Clay a
+counterpane of almost numberless pieces. New York friends sent a silver
+vase three feet high. The ladies of Tennessee sent a costly vase. Tokens
+of affection came from all directions. But the grief was so great that
+in some towns business was almost suspended, while the people talked "of
+the late blow that has fallen upon our country."
+
+Other troubles were pressing upon Mr. Clay's heart. By heavy
+expenditures and losses through his sons, his home had become involved
+to the extent of fifty thousand dollars. The mortgage was to be
+foreclosed, and Henry Clay would be penniless. A number of friends had
+learned these facts, and sent him the cancelled obligation. He was
+overcome by this proof of affection, and exclaimed, "Had ever any man
+such friends or enemies as Henry Clay!"
+
+Two years later, his favorite son, Colonel Henry Clay, was killed under
+General Taylor, in the battle of Buena Vista. "My life has been full of
+domestic affliction," said the father, "but this last is the severest
+among them." A few years before, while in Washington, a brilliant and
+lovely married daughter had died. When Mr. Clay opened the letter and
+read the sad news, he fainted, and remained in his room for days.
+
+Mr. Clay was now seventy years old. Chastened by sorrow, he determined
+to unite with the Episcopal Church. Says one who was present in the
+little parlor at Ashland, "When the minister entered the room on this
+deeply solemn and interesting occasion, the small assembly, consisting
+of the immediate family, a few family connections, and the clergyman's
+wife, rose up. In the middle of the room stood a large centre-table, on
+which was placed, filled with water, the magnificent cut-glass vase
+presented to Mr. Clay by some gentlemen of Pittsburg. On one side of the
+room hung the large picture of the family of Washington, himself an
+Episcopalian by birth, by education, and a devout communicant of the
+church; and immediately opposite, on a side-table, stood the bust of the
+lamented Harrison, with a chaplet of withered flowers hung upon his
+head, who was to have been confirmed in the church the Sabbath after he
+died,--fit witnesses of such a scene. Around the room were suspended a
+number of family pictures, and among them the portrait of a beloved
+daughter, who died some years ago, in the triumphs of that faith which
+her noble father was now about to embrace; and the picture of the late
+lost son, who fell at the battle of Buena Vista. Could these silent
+lookers-on at the scene about transpiring have spoken from the marble
+and the canvas, they would heartily have approved the act which
+dedicated the great man to God."
+
+In 1848, Clay was again talked of for the presidency, but the party
+managers considered General Taylor, of the Mexican War, a more available
+candidate, and he was nominated and elected. Clay was again unanimously
+chosen to the Senate for six years from March 4, 1849. Seven years
+before, he had said farewell. Now, at seventy-two, he was again to
+debate great questions, and once more save the nation from disruption
+and civil war,--for a time; he hoped, for all time.
+
+The territory obtained from Mexico became a matter of contention as to
+whether it should be slave territory or not. California asked to be
+admitted to the Union without slavery. The North favored this, while the
+South insisted that the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which forbade
+slavery north of 36 deg. 30', if continued to the Pacific Ocean, would
+entitle them to California. Already the Wilmot Proviso, which sought to
+exclude slavery from all territory hereafter acquired by the United
+States, had aroused bitter feeling at the South. Clay, loving the Union
+beyond all things else, thought out his compromise of 1850. As he walked
+up to the Capitol to make his last great speech upon the measure, he
+said to a friend accompanying him, "Will you lend me your arm? I feel
+myself quite weak and exhausted this morning." The friend suggested that
+he postpone his speech.
+
+"I consider our country in danger," replied Clay; "and if I can be the
+means in any measure of averting that danger, my health and life are of
+little consequence."
+
+Great crowds had come from Philadelphia, New York, Boston, and elsewhere
+to hear the speech, which occupied two days. He said: "War and
+dissolution of the Union are identical; they are convertible terms; and
+such a war!... If the two portions of the confederacy should be involved
+in civil war, in which the effort on the one side would be to restrain
+the introduction of slavery into the new territories, and, on the other
+side, to force its introduction there, what a spectacle should we
+present to the contemplation of astonished mankind! An effort to
+propagate wrong! It would be a war in which we should have no sympathy,
+no good wishes, and in which all mankind would be against us, and in
+which our own history itself would be against us."
+
+For six months the measure was debated. Clay came daily to the Senate
+chamber, so ill he could scarcely walk, but determined to save the
+Union. "Sir," said the grand old man, "I have heard something said about
+allegiance to the South. I know no South, no North, no East, no West, to
+which I owe any allegiance.... Let us go to the fountain of
+unadulterated patriotism, and, performing a solemn lustration, return
+divested of all selfish, sinister, and sordid impurities, and think
+alone of our God, our country, our conscience, and our glorious
+Union.... If Kentucky to-morrow unfurls the banner of resistance
+unjustly, I never will fight under that banner. I owe a paramount
+allegiance to the whole Union,--a subordinate one to my own State. When
+my State is right, when it has a cause for resistance, when tyranny and
+wrong and oppression insufferable arise, I will then share her fortunes;
+but if she summons me to the battlefield, or to support her in any cause
+which is unjust against the Union, never, _never_ will I engage with her
+in such a cause!"
+
+Finally the Compromise Bill of 1850 was substantially adopted. Among its
+several provisions were the admission of California as a free State, the
+abolition of the slave-trade in the District of Columbia, the
+organization of the Territories of New Mexico and Utah without
+conditions as to slavery, and increased stringency of the Fugitive Slave
+Laws.
+
+Mr. Clay's hopes as to peace seemed for a few brief months to be
+realized. Then the North, exasperated by the provisions of the Fugitive
+Slave Bill, by which all good citizens were required to aid
+slave-holders in capturing their fugitive slaves, began to resist the
+bill by force. Clay could do no more. He must have foreseen the bitter
+end. Worn and tired, he went to Cuba to seek restoration of health.
+
+In 1852 he was urged to allow his name to be used again for the
+presidency. It was too late now. He returned to Washington at the
+opening of the thirty-second Congress, but he entered the Senate
+chamber but once. During the spring, devoted friends and two of his sons
+watched by his bedside. He said: "As the world recedes from me, I feel
+my affections more than ever concentrated on my children and theirs."
+
+The end came peacefully, June 29, 1852, when he was seventy-six. On July
+1 the body lay in state in the Senate chamber, and was then carried to
+Lexington. In all the principal cities through which the cortege passed,
+Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland,
+Cincinnati, and others, thousands gathered to pay their homage to the
+illustrious dead, weeping, and often pressing their lips upon the
+shroud. On July 10, when the body, having reached Lexington, was ready
+for burial, nearly a hundred thousand persons were gathered. In front of
+the Ashland home, on a bier covered with flowers, stood the iron coffin.
+Senators and scholars, the rich and the poor, the white and the black,
+mourned together in their common sorrow. The great man had missed the
+presidency, but he had not missed the love of a whole nation. The
+"mill-boy of the Slashes," winsome, sincere, had, unaided, become the
+only and immortal Henry Clay.
+
+[Illustration: CHARLES SUMNER.]
+
+
+
+
+CHARLES SUMNER.
+
+
+Henry Ward Beecher said of Charles Sumner: "He was raised up to do the
+work preceding and following the war. His eulogy will be, a lover of his
+country, an advocate of universal liberty, and the most eloquent and
+high-minded of all the statesmen of that period in which America made
+the transition from slavery to liberty."
+
+"The most eloquent and high-minded." Great praise, but worthily
+bestowed!
+
+Descended from an honorable English family who came to Massachusetts in
+1637, settling in Dorchester, and the son of a well known lawyer,
+Charles Sumner came into the world January 6, 1811, with all the
+advantages of birth and social position. That he cared comparatively
+little for the family coat-of-arms of his ancestors is shown by his
+words in his address on "The True Grandeur of Nations." "Nothing is more
+shameful for a man than to found his title to esteem not on his own
+merits, but on the fame of his ancestors. The glory of the fathers is,
+doubtless, to their children, a most precious treasure; but to enjoy it
+without transmitting it to the next generation, and without adding to
+it yourselves,--this is the height of imbecility."
+
+Sumner added to the "glory of the fathers," not by ease and
+self-indulgence, not by conforming to the opinions of the society about
+him, but by a life of labor, and heroic devotion to principle. He had
+such courage to do the right as is not common to mankind, and such
+persistency as teaches a lesson to the young men of America.
+
+Charles was the oldest of nine children, the twin brother of Matilda,
+who grew to a beautiful womanhood, and died of consumption at
+twenty-one. The family home was at No. 20 Hancock Street, Boston, a
+four-story brick building.
+
+Charles Pinckney Sumner, the father, a scholarly and well bred man of
+courtly manners, while he taught his children to love books, had the
+severity of nature which forbade a tender companionship between him and
+his oldest son. This was supplied, however, by the mother, a woman of
+unusual amiability and good-sense, who lived to be his consolation in
+the struggles of manhood, and to be proud and thankful when the whole
+land echoed his praises.
+
+The boy was tall, slight, obedient, and devoted to books. He was
+especially fond of reading and repeating speeches. When sent to
+dancing-school he showed little enjoyment in it, preferring to go to the
+court-room with his father, to listen to the arguments of the lawyers.
+When he visited his mother's early home in Hanover, he had the extreme
+pleasure of reciting in the country woods the orations which he had read
+in the city.
+
+In these early days he was an aspiring lad, with a manner which made his
+companions say he was "to the manor born." The father had decided to
+educate him in the English branches only, thus fitting him to earn his
+living earlier, as his income from the law, at this time, was not large.
+Charles, however, had purchased some Latin books with his pocket money,
+and surprised his father with the progress he had made by himself when
+ten years old. He was therefore, at this age, sent to the Boston Latin
+School. So skilful was he in the classics that at thirteen he received a
+prize for a translation from Sallust, and at fifteen a prize for English
+prose and another for a Latin poem. At the latter age he was ready to
+enter Harvard College. He had desired to go to West Point, but,
+fortunately, there was no opening. The country needed him for other work
+than war. To lead a whole nation by voice and pen up to heroic deeds is
+better than to lead an army.
+
+All this time he read eagerly in his spare moments, especially in
+history, enjoying Gibbon's "Rome," and making full extracts from it in
+his notebooks. At fourteen he had written a compendium of English
+history, from Caesar's conquest to 1801, which filled a manuscript book
+of eighty-six pages.
+
+His first college room at Harvard was No. 17 Stoughton Hall. "When he
+entered," says one of his class-mates, "he was tall, thin, and somewhat
+awkward. He had but little inclination for engaging in sports or games,
+such as kicking foot-ball on the Delta, which the other students were in
+almost the daily habit of enjoying. He rarely went out to take a walk;
+and almost the only exercise in which he engaged was going on foot to
+Boston on Saturday afternoon, and then returning in the evening. He had
+a remarkable fondness for reading the dramas of Shakespeare, the works
+of Walter Scott, together with reviews and magazines of the higher
+class. He remembered what he read, and quoted passages afterwards with
+the greatest fluency.... In declamation he held rank among the best; but
+in mathematics there were several superior. He was always amiable and
+gentlemanly in deportment, and avoided saying anything to wound the
+feelings of his class-mates." One of the chief distinguishing marks of a
+well bred man is that he speaks ill of no one and harshly to no one.
+
+In Sumner's freshman year his persistency showed itself, as in his
+childhood, when, in quarrelling with a companion over a stick, he held
+it till his bleeding hands frightened his antagonist, who ran away. By
+the laws of the college, students wore a uniform, consisting of an
+Oxford cap, coat, pantaloons, and vest of the color known as "Oxford
+mixed." In summer a white vest was allowed. Sumner, having a fancy for a
+buff vest, purchased one, wore it, and was summoned before the teachers
+for non-conformity to rules. He insisted, with much eloquence, that his
+vest was white. Twice he was admonished, and finally, as the easiest way
+to settle with the good-principled but persistent student, it was voted
+by the board, "that in future Sumner's vest be regarded as white!"
+
+In scholarship in college he ranked among the first third. He gave much
+time to general reading, especially the old English authors, Milton,
+Pope, Dryden, Addison, Goldsmith. Hazlitt's "Select British Poets" and
+Harvey's "Shakespeare" he kept constantly on his table in later life,
+ready for use. The latter, which he always called THE BOOK, was found
+open on the day of his death, with the words marked in Henry VI:--
+
+  "Would I were dead! if God's good will were so;
+  For what is in this world but grief and woe?"
+
+On leaving college, Sumner's mind was not made up as to his future work.
+He was somewhat inclined to the law, but questioned his probable success
+in it. He spent a year at home in study, mastering mathematics, which he
+so disliked, and reading Tacitus, Juvenal, Persius, Hume, Hallam, and
+the like. In the winter he composed an essay on commerce, and received
+the prize offered by the "Boston Society for the Diffusion of Useful
+Knowledge." Daniel Webster, the president of the society, gave the
+prize, Liebner's "Encyclopaedia Americana," to Sumner, taking his hand
+and calling him his "young friend." He did not know that this youth
+would succeed him in the Senate, and thrill the nation by his eloquence,
+as Webster himself had done.
+
+Sumner's class-mates were proud that he had gained this prize, and one
+wrote to another, "Our friend outstrips all imagination. He will leave
+us all behind him.... He has been working hard to lay a foundation for
+the future. I doubt whether one of his class-mates has filled up the
+time since commencement with more, and more thorough labor; and to keep
+him constant he has a pervading ambition,--not an intermittent, fitful
+gust of an affair, blowing a hurricane at one time, then subsiding to a
+calm, but a strong, steady breeze, which will bear him well on in the
+track of honor."
+
+In the fall of 1831 Sumner had decided to study law, and began in
+earnest at the Harvard Law School. Early and late he was among his
+books, often until two in the morning. He soon knew the place of each
+volume in the law library, so that he could have found it in the dark.
+He read carefully in common law, French law, and international law;
+procured a common-place book, and wrote out tables of English kings and
+lord-chancellors, sketches of lawyers, and definitions and incidents
+from Blackstone. He made a catalogue of the law library, and wrote
+articles for legal magazines. He went little into society, because he
+preferred his books. Judge Story, a man twice his own age, became his
+most devoted friend, and to the end of his life Sumner loved him as a
+brother.
+
+Chief Justice Story, whom Lord Brougham called the "greatest justice in
+the world," was a man of singularly sweet nature, appreciative of the
+beautiful and the pure, as well as a man of profound learning. The
+influence of such a lovable and strong nature over an ambitious youth,
+who can estimate?
+
+The few friends Sumner made among women were, as a rule, older than
+himself, a thing not unusual with intellectual men. He chose those whose
+minds were much like his own, and who were appreciative, refining, and
+stimulating. Brain and heart seemed to be the only charms which
+possessed any fascination for him.
+
+The eminent sculptor, W. W. Story of Rome, says, "Of all men I ever knew
+at his age, he was the least susceptible to the charms of women. Men he
+liked best, and with them he preferred to talk. It was in vain for the
+loveliest and liveliest girl to seek to absorb his attention. He would
+at once desert the most blooming beauty to talk to the plainest of men.
+This was a constant source of amusement to us, and we used to lay wagers
+with the pretty girls that with all their art they could not keep him at
+their side a quarter of an hour. Nor do I think we ever lost one of
+these bets. I remember particularly one dinner at my father's house,
+when it fell to his lot to take out a charming woman, so handsome and
+full of _esprit_ that any one at the table might well have envied him
+his position. She had determined to hold him captive, and win her bet
+against us. But her efforts were all in vain. Unfortunately, on his
+other side was a dry old _savant_, packed with information; and within
+five minutes Sumner had completely turned his back on his fair companion
+and engaged in a discussion with the other, which lasted the whole
+dinner. We all laughed. She cast up her eyes deprecatingly, acknowledged
+herself vanquished, and paid her bet. Meantime, Sumner was wholly
+unconscious of the jest or of the laughter. He had what he
+wanted--sensible men's talk. He had mined the _savant_ as he mined every
+one he met, in search of ore, and was thoroughly pleased with what he
+got."
+
+In manner Sumner was natural and sincere, friendly to all, winning at
+the first moment by his radiant smile. A sunny face is a constant
+benediction. How it blesses and lifts burdens from aching hearts! Sumner
+had heart-aches like all the rest of mankind, but his face beamed with
+that open, kindly expression which is as sweet to hungering humanity as
+the sunshine after rain. And this "genial illuminating smile," says Mr.
+Story, "he never lost."
+
+These days in the law school were happy days for the lover of learning.
+Forty years afterward, Mr. Sumner said, in an address to the colored law
+students of Howard University, Washington, "These exercises carry me
+back to early life.... I cannot think of those days without fondness.
+They were the happiest of my life.... There is happiness in the
+acquisition of knowledge, which surpasses all common joys. The student
+who feels that he is making daily progress, constantly learning
+something new,--who sees the shadows by which he was originally
+surrounded gradually exchanged for an atmosphere of light,--cannot fail
+to be happy. His toil becomes a delight, and all that he learns is a
+treasure,--with this difference from gold and silver, that it cannot be
+lost. It is a perpetual capital at compound interest."
+
+While at the law school, Sumner wrote a friend, "A lawyer must know
+everything. He must know law, history, philosophy, human nature; and, if
+he covets the fame of an advocate, he must drink of all the springs of
+literature, giving ease and elegance to the mind, and illustration to
+whatever subject it touches. So experience declares, and reflection
+bears experience out.... The lower floor of Divinity Hall, where I
+reside, is occupied by law students. There are here Browne and Dana of
+our old class, with others that I know nothing of,--not even my
+neighbor, parted from me by a partition wall, have I seen yet, and I do
+not wish to see him. I wish no acquaintances, for they eat up time like
+locusts. The old class-mates are enough." To another he wrote,
+"Determine that you will master the whole compass of law; and do not
+shrink from the crabbed page of black-letter, the multitudinous volumes
+of reports, or even the gigantic abridgments. Keep the high standard in
+your mind's eye, and you will certainly reach some desirable point....
+You cannot read history too much, particularly that of England and the
+United States. History is the record of human conduct and experience;
+and it is to this that jurisprudence is applied.... Above all love and
+honor your profession. You can make yourself love the law, proverbially
+dry as it is, or any other study. Here is an opportunity for the
+exercise of the will. Determine that you will love it, and devote
+yourself to it as to a bride."
+
+When the study at the law school was over, Sumner returned to Boston,
+and entered the office of Benjamin Rand, Court Street, a man
+distinguished for learning rather than for oratory. The young lawyer
+succeeded fairly well, though he loved study better than general
+practice. Two years later he gave instruction at the law school when
+Judge Story was absent, and then reported his opinions in the Circuit
+Court, in three volumes. He assisted Professor Greenleaf in preparing
+"Reports of the Decisions of the Supreme Court of Maine," revised, with
+much labor, Dunlap's "Admiralty Practice," and edited "The American
+Jurist."
+
+In the midst of this hard work he spent a brief vacation at Washington,
+writing to his father, "I shall probably hear Calhoun, and he will be
+the last man I shall ever hear speak in Washington. I probably shall
+never come here again. I have little or no desire ever to come again in
+any capacity. Nothing that I have seen of politics has made me look upon
+them with any feeling other than loathing. The more I see of them the
+more I love law, which, I feel, will give me an honorable livelihood."
+
+When he visited Niagara, he wrote home, "I have sat for an hour
+contemplating this delightful object, with the cataract sounding like
+the voice of God in my ears. But there is something oppressive in
+hearing and contemplating these things. The mind travails with feelings
+akin to pain, in the endeavor to embrace them. I do not know that it is
+so with others; but I cannot disguise from myself the sense of weakness,
+inferiority, and incompetency which I feel."
+
+When Sumner was twenty-six, he determined to carry out a life-long plan
+of visiting Europe, to study its writers, jurists, and social customs.
+He needed five thousand dollars for this purpose. He had earned two
+thousand, and, borrowing three from three friends, he started December
+8, 1837. Emerson gave him a letter of introduction to Carlyle, Story to
+some leading lawyers, and Washington Allston to Wordsworth. Judge Story
+said in his letter, "Mr. Sumner is a practising lawyer at the Boston
+bar, of very high reputation for his years, and already giving the
+promise of the most eminent distinction in his profession; his literary
+and judicial attainments are truly extraordinary. He is one of the
+editors, indeed, the principal editor, of 'The American Jurist,' a
+quarterly journal of extensive circulation and celebrity among us, and
+without a rival in America. He is also the reporter of the court in
+which I preside, and has already published two volumes of reports. His
+private character, also, is of the best kind for purity and propriety."
+
+His friend Dr. Lieber gave him some good suggestions about travelling.
+"Plan your journey. Spend money carefully. Keep steadily a journal.
+Never think that an impression is too vivid to be forgotten. Believe me,
+_time_ is more powerful than senses or memory. Keep little books for
+addresses. Write down first impressions of men and countries."
+
+Just before Sumner started from New York, he wrote to his little sister,
+Julia, then ten years old, "I am very glad, my dear, to remember your
+cheerful countenance.... Let it be said of you that you are always
+amiable.... Cultivate an affectionate disposition. If you find that you
+can do anything which will add to the pleasure of your parents, or
+anybody else, be sure to do it. Consider every opportunity of adding to
+the pleasure of others as of the highest importance, and do not be
+unwilling to sacrifice some enjoyment of your own, even some dear
+plaything, if by doing so you can promote the happiness of others. If
+you follow this advice, you will never be selfish or ungenerous, and
+everybody will love you."
+
+To his brother George, six years younger than himself, he wrote, "Do not
+waste your time in driblets. Deem every moment precious,--far more so
+than the costliest stones.... Keep some good book constantly on hand to
+occupy every stray moment."
+
+As soon as Sumner reached Paris he devoted himself to the study of the
+language, so as to be able to speak what he could write already. He
+attended lectures given by the professors of colleges, became acquainted
+with Victor Cousin, the noted writer on morals and metaphysics, and the
+friend of authors, lawyers, and journalists. He said, years later,
+in an eloquent tribute to Judge Story: "It has been my fortune to
+know the chief jurists of our time in the classical countries of
+jurisprudence,--France and Germany. I remember well the pointed and
+effective style of Dupin, in one of his masterly arguments before the
+highest court of France; I recall the pleasant converse of Pardessus, to
+whom commercial and maritime law is under a larger debt, perhaps, than
+to any other mind, while he descanted on his favorite theme; I wander in
+fancy to the gentle presence of him with flowing silver locks who was so
+dear to Germany, Thibaut, the expounder of Roman law, and the earnest
+and successful advocate of a just scheme for the reduction of the
+unwritten law to the certainty of a written text; from Heidelberg I pass
+to Berlin, where I listen to the grave lecture and mingle in the social
+circle of Savigny, so stately in person and peculiar in countenance,
+whom all the continent of Europe delights to honor; but my heart and my
+judgment, untravelled, fondly turn with new love and admiration to my
+Cambridge teacher and friend. Jurisprudence has many arrows in her
+quiver, but where is one to compare with that which is now spent in the
+earth?"
+
+After some months in Paris, Sumner went to England, remaining ten
+months, and receiving attentions rarely if ever accorded to an American.
+He used some letters of introduction, but generally he was welcomed to
+the houses of lords and authors simply because the young man of learning
+was honored for his refinement and nobility of soul. He was admitted to
+the clubs, attended debates in Parliament, was present at the coronation
+of Queen Victoria in Westminster Abbey, sat on the bench at Westminster
+Hall, dined often with Lord Brougham, Sir William Hamilton, Jeffrey of
+the _Edinburgh Review_, Lord Morpeth the Chief Secretary for Ireland,
+Hallam, Carlyle, Lord Holland, Lord Houghton, Grote, Sydney Smith,
+Macaulay, Landor, Leigh Hunt, and scores of others, the greatest in the
+kingdom. An English writer said: "He presents in his own person a
+decisive proof that an American gentleman, without official rank or
+widespread reputation, by mere dint of courtesy, candor, an entire
+absence of pretension, an appreciating spirit, and a cultivated mind,
+may be received on a perfect footing of equality in the best English
+circles, social, political, and intellectual."
+
+Sumner wrote back to his friends in America: "I have made myself master
+of English practice and English circuit life. I cannot sufficiently
+express my admiration of the heartiness and cordiality which pervade all
+the English bar. They are truly a band of brothers, and I have been
+received among them as one of them. I have visited many--perhaps I may
+say most--of the distinguished men of these glorious countries (England,
+Scotland, and Ireland), at their seats, and have seen English country
+life, which is the height of refined luxury, in some of its most
+splendid phases. For all the opportunities I have had I feel grateful."
+
+Sumner found, what all travellers find, that cultivated, well bred
+people all speak a common language, that of universal courtesy and
+kindness. The English did not ask if he had wealth or distinguished
+parentage; it was enough that he was intelligent on all topics,
+considerate, gentle in manner, a gentleman in every possible situation.
+
+Every letter home teemed with descriptions of visits to Wordsworth, then
+sixty-nine years of age; to Macaulay, whom Sydney Smith called "a
+tremendous machine for colloquial oppression;" to the beautiful Caroline
+Norton, the poet, "one of the brightest intellects I have ever met,"
+with "the grace and ease of the woman, with a strength and skill of
+which any man might well be proud;" to Lord Brougham, with "a fulness of
+information and physical spirits, which make him more commanding than
+all."
+
+Sumner spent three months in Rome, at first studying the language from
+six to twelve hours a day. He became the friend of the artist Thomas
+Crawford, then poor, but with high ambition. He wrote his praises home
+to his friends, induced them to buy one of his earliest works and
+exhibit it in Boston; cheered the half-despairing artist by assuring him
+that he would be "a great and successful sculptor, and be living in a
+palace," all of which came true. A noble nature, indeed, that could
+pause in its own aspiring work and lift another to fame and success!
+
+Six months were spent in Germany by Sumner, where he studied language
+and law as earnestly as he had in France and Italy. The rich, full days
+of literary intercourse were coming to an end. He wrote to his intimate
+friend Longfellow: "I shall soon be with you; and I now begin to think
+of hard work, of long days filled with uninteresting toil and humble
+gains. I sometimes have a moment of misgiving, when I think of the
+certainties which I abandoned for travel, and of the uncertainties to
+which I return. But this is momentary; for I am thoroughly content with
+what I have done. If clients fail me; if the favorable opinion of those
+on whom professional reputation depends leaves me; if I find myself poor
+and solitary,--still I shall be rich in the recollection of what I have
+seen, and will make companions of the great minds of these countries I
+have visited."
+
+In the spring of 1840 Sumner was home again, having been abroad for two
+and one-half years. The father and his sister Jane, a lovely girl of
+seventeen, had both died during his absence. He went at once to the
+Hancock Street home, and began his professional labors from nine till
+five or six in the afternoon. In the evening he read as formerly till
+midnight or later, going every Saturday evening to spend the night with
+Longfellow at Craigie House.
+
+This affection for Longfellow never changed. When the poet went abroad
+in 1842, Sumner wrote him, "We are all sad at your going; but I am more
+sad than the rest, for I lose more than they do. I am desolate. It was
+to me a source of pleasure and strength untold to see you; and, when I
+did not see you, to feel that you were near, with your swift sympathy
+and kindly words. I must try to go alone,--hard necessity in this rude
+world of ours, for our souls always in this life need support and gentle
+beckonings, as the little child when first trying to move away from its
+mother's knee. God bless you, my dear friend, from my heart of hearts.
+My eyes overflow as I now trace these lines."
+
+Sumner was full of incident and vivid description of his life abroad,
+and the most charming homes of Boston were open to him whenever he had
+the time to visit, which was seldom. The letters from Europe made the
+long days of law practice less monotonous. He wrote much on legal
+matters; and now, at thirty-three, undertook to edit the "Equity
+Reports" of Francis Vesey, Jr., numbering twenty volumes, for two
+thousand dollars. By the terms agreed upon, a volume was to be ready
+each fortnight. He worked night and day, took no recreation, and soon
+broke down in health; and his life was despaired of. He welcomed death,
+for he had before this time become somewhat despondent. Most of his
+friends were married, and some, like Prescott and Longfellow, had come
+to fame already. He felt that his life was not showing the results of
+which his youth gave promise.
+
+Had he found at this time "the perfect woman" for whom he used to tell
+his friends he was seeking, and made her his wife, there would doubtless
+have come into his life satisfaction and rest. That he did not marry was
+the more strange since women admired him for the qualities which are
+especially attractive to the sex; a knightly sense of honor, fidelity in
+friendship, fearlessness, and affectionate confidence.
+
+Sumner recovered his health, while his beloved sister Mary, at the age
+of twenty-two, faded from his sight by consumption. He wrote his brother
+George: "She herself wished to die; and I believe that we all became
+anxious at last that the angel should descend to bear her aloft. From
+the beautiful flower of her life the leaves had all gently fallen to the
+earth; and there remained but little for the hand of death to pluck.
+During the night preceding the morning on which she left us, she slept
+like a child; and within a short time of her death, when asked if she
+were in pain, she said, 'No; angels are taking care of me.'"
+
+To Charles Sumner this death was an incomparable loss. She was
+especially beautiful and lovely, and the idol of his heart. Possibly it
+helped to make him ready for his great work.
+
+Into most lives, especially those designed for great deeds, there seem
+to come decisive moments when events open the door from the darkness of
+obscurity into the noonday glare of fame. Such a time came to Sumner in
+1845. He was asked to deliver the usual Fourth of July address at
+Tremont Temple, Boston, as Charles Francis Adams, Horace Mann, and
+others had done in previous years. He chose for his subject "The True
+Grandeur of Nations," showing that the "true grandeur" is peace and not
+war. He dealt vigorously with the Mexican War, then impending, as a
+result of the annexation of Texas, with consequent enlargement of slave
+territory.
+
+Sumner was now thirty-four, well developed physically, his face handsome
+and radiant as ever, with the smile of his boyhood, his voice clear and
+resonant, his mind full to overflowing. He spoke for two hours, without
+notes. He said: "The true greatness of a nation cannot be in triumphs of
+the intellect alone. Literature and art may widen the sphere of its
+influence; they may adorn it; but they are in their nature but
+accessories. _The true grandeur of humanity is in moral elevation,
+sustained, enlightened, and decorated by the intellect of man...._ In
+our age there can be no peace that is not honorable; there can be no war
+that is not dishonorable. The true honor of a nation is to be found only
+in deeds of justice and beneficence, securing the happiness of its
+people,--all of which are inconsistent with war. In the clear eye of
+Christian judgment, vain are its victories, infamous are its spoils. He
+is the true benefactor, and alone worthy of honor, who brings comfort
+where before was wretchedness; who dries the tear of sorrow; who pours
+oil into the wounds of the unfortunate; who feeds the hungry, and
+clothes the naked; who unlooses the fetter of the slave; who does
+justice; who enlightens the ignorant; who, by his virtuous genius in
+art, in literature, in science, enlivens and exalts the hours of life;
+who, by words or actions, inspires a love for God and for man. This is
+the Christian hero; this is the man of honor in a Christian land."
+
+The believers in war felt somewhat hurt by Sumner's plainness of speech,
+but the city of Boston and the State of Massachusetts awoke to the
+knowledge of an eloquent man in their midst, who had doubtless a work
+before him. Mrs. Lydia Maria Child wrote him: "How I did thank you for
+your noble and eloquent attack upon the absurd barbarism of war! It was
+worth living for to have done that, if you never do anything more. But
+the soul that could do that _will_ do more."
+
+Chancellor Kent wrote him, "I am very strongly in favor of the
+institution of a congress of nations or system of arbitration without
+going to war. Every effort ought to be made by treaty stipulation,
+remonstrance, and appeal to put a stop to the resort to brutal force to
+assert claims of right. The idea of war is horrible. I remember I was
+very much struck, even in my youth, by the observation (I think it was
+in Tom Paine's 'Crisis') that 'he who is the author of war lets loose
+the whole contagion of hell, and opens a vein that bleeds a nation to
+death.'"
+
+Seven thousand copies of this oration were distributed by the Peace
+Societies of England, and it had a wide reading in our own country.
+
+Sumner was now called upon to speak with Garrison, Phillips, and others,
+on the question of the annexation of Texas with her slave territory. He
+said, "God forbid that the votes and voices of the freemen of the North
+should help to bind anew the fetters of the slave! God forbid that the
+lash of the slave-dealer should be nerved by any sanction from New
+England! God forbid that the blood which spurts from the lacerated
+quivering flesh of the slave should soil the hem of the white garments
+of Massachusetts."
+
+The educated Boston lawyer, the friend of hosts of authors and jurists
+on both sides of the ocean, the accomplished and aristocratic scholar,
+Sumner had placed himself among the despised Abolitionists! Many of his
+friends stood aghast, even refusing to recognize him on the street. This
+act required great moral heroism, but he was equal to the occasion. The
+door had opened to fame and immortality, even though they came to him
+through contumely and well-nigh martyrdom.
+
+In 1846, Mr. Sumner spoke before the Phi Beta Kappa Society of Harvard
+University: "We stand on the threshold of a new age, which is preparing
+to recognize new influences. The ancient divinities of violence and
+wrong are retreating to their kindred darkness. The sun of our moral
+universe is entering a new ecliptic, no longer deformed by those images,
+Cancer, Taurus, Leo, Sagittarius, but beaming with the mild radiance of
+those heavenly signs, Faith, Hope, and Charity.
+
+  "'There's a fount about to stream;
+  There's a light about to beam;
+  There's a warmth about to glow;
+  There's a flower about to blow;
+  There's a midnight blackness changing
+          Into gray:
+  Men of thought and men of action,
+          Clear the way!'"
+
+Theodore Parker wrote to the orator, "You have planted a seed, 'out of
+which many and tall branches shall arise,' I hope. _The people are
+always true to a good man who truly trusts them._ You have had
+opportunity to see, hear, and feel the truth of that oftener than once.
+I think you will have enough more opportunities yet; men will look for
+deeds noble as the words _a man speaks_."
+
+And Charles Sumner became as noble as the words he had spoken. It makes
+us stronger to commit ourselves before the world. We are compelled to
+live up to the standard of our speech, or be adjudged hypocrites.
+
+Before the Boston Mercantile Library Association, Sumner read a
+brilliant paper on "White Slavery in the Barbary States," and gave an
+address before Amherst College on "Fame and Glory." He spoke earnestly
+in the Whig conventions, asking them to come out against slavery. He
+urged Daniel Webster, the Defender of the Constitution, to become the
+"Defender of Humanity," "by the side of which that earlier title shall
+fade into insignificance, as the Constitution, which is the work of
+mortal hands, dwindles by the side of man, who is created in the image
+of God." But the words of entreaty came too late; the Whig party did not
+dare take up the cause of human freedom.
+
+In 1851, when Sumner was forty, the new era of his life came. The
+Free-Soil party, organized August 9, 1848, the successor of the
+"Liberty" party formed eight years earlier, wanted him as their leader.
+Would he separate from the Whigs? Yes, for he had said, "Loyalty to
+principle is higher than loyalty to party. The first is a heavenly
+sentiment from God; the other is a device of this earth.... I wish it to
+be understood that I belong to the party of freedom,--to that party
+which plants itself on the Declaration of Independence and the
+Constitution of the United States.... It is said that we shall throw
+away our votes, and that our opposition will fail. Fail, sir! No
+honest, earnest effort in a good cause ever fails. It may not be crowned
+with the applause of man; it may not seem to touch the goal of immediate
+worldly success, which is the end and aim of so much of life; but still
+it is not lost. It helps to strengthen the weak with new virtue, to arm
+the irresolute with proper energy, to animate all with devotion to duty,
+which in the end conquers all. Fail! Did the martyrs fail when with
+their precious blood they sowed the seed of the Church?... Did the three
+hundred Spartans fail when, in the narrow pass, they did not fear to
+brave the innumerable Persian hosts, whose very arrows darkened the sun?
+No! Overborne by numbers, crushed to earth, they have left an example
+which is greater far than any victory. And this is the least we can do.
+Our example shall be the source of triumph hereafter."
+
+Millard Fillmore had signed the hated Fugitive Slave Bill, and Webster
+had made his disastrous speech of March 7, 1850, urging conformity to
+the demands of the bill. Sumner's hour had come. By a union of the
+Free-Soil and Democratic parties, he was elected to the Senate of the
+United States for six years, over the eloquent Robert C. Winthrop, the
+Whig candidate. The contest was bitter. Sumner would give no pledges,
+and said he would not walk across the room to secure the election. On
+Monday, December 1, 1851, he took his seat. Devotion to principle had
+gained him an exalted position.
+
+Months went by before he could possibly obtain a hearing on the slavery
+question, on which issue he had been elected. Finally, the long sought
+opportunity came by introducing an amendment that the Fugitive Slave
+Bill should be repealed. He spoke for four hours as only Charles Sumner
+could speak. Despised by the slave-holders, they listened to his burning
+words. In closing, he said: "Be admonished by those words of oriental
+piety,--'Beware of the groans of wounded souls. Oppress not to the
+utmost a single heart; for a solitary sigh has power to overset a whole
+world.'"
+
+Mr. Polk of Tennessee said to him: "If you should make that speech in
+Tennessee, you would compel me to emancipate my niggers."
+
+The vote on the repeal stood: Yeas, four; nays, forty-seven. Alas! how
+many years he wrought before the repeal came.
+
+Sumner had been heard not merely by Congress; he had been heard by two
+continents. Henceforward, for twenty-three years, he was to be in
+Congress the great leader in the cause of human freedom.
+
+In 1854 the advocates of slavery brought forward the Kansas-Nebraska
+Bill, by which a large territory, at the recommendation of Stephen A.
+Douglas, was to be left open for slavery or no slavery, as the dwellers
+therein should decide. On the night of the passage of this bill, Sumner
+made an eloquent protest. "Sir, the bill which you are now about to pass
+is at once the worst and the best bill on which Congress ever acted.
+Yes, sir, WORST and BEST at the same time.
+
+"It is the worst bill, inasmuch as it is a present victory of
+slavery.... It is the best, for it prepares the way for that 'All hail
+hereafter,' when slavery must disappear.... Thus, sir, now standing at
+the very grave of freedom in Kansas and Nebraska, I lift myself to the
+vision of that happy resurrection by which freedom will be secured
+hereafter, not only in these Territories but everywhere under the
+national government. More clearly than ever before, I now see 'the
+beginning of the end' of slavery. Proudly I discern the flag of my
+country as it ripples in every breeze, at last become in reality, as in
+name, the flag of freedom,--undoubted, pure, and irresistible. Am I not
+right, then, in calling this bill the best on which Congress ever acted?
+
+"Sorrowfully I bend before the wrong you are about to enact. Joyfully I
+welcome all the promises of the future."
+
+After the passage of the bill the excitement at the North was intense.
+Public meetings were held, denouncing the new scheme of the slave-power
+to acquire more territory. So bitter grew the feeling that Sumner was
+urged by his friends to leave Washington, lest harm come to him; but he
+walked the streets unarmed. "He was assailed," said the noble Joshua R.
+Giddings of Ohio, "by the whole slave-power in the Senate, and, for a
+time, he was the constant theme of their vituperation. The maddened
+waves rolled and dashed against him for two or three days, until
+eventually he obtained the floor himself; then he arose and threw back
+the dashing surges with a power of inimitable eloquence utterly
+indescribable."
+
+The Kansas-Nebraska Bill produced its legitimate result,--civil war in
+the Territory. Slave-holders rushed in from Missouri, bringing their
+slaves with them; free men came from the East to build homes,
+school-houses, and churches on these fertile lands. The struggles at the
+ballot-box over illegal elections were followed by struggles on the
+battle-field. At the village of Ossawatomie twenty-eight Free State men
+led by John Brown defeated on the open prairie fifty-six Slave State
+men. Houses were burned, and men murdered. Two State constitutions were
+adopted: one at Lecompton, representing the pro-slavery element; the
+other at Lawrence, representing the anti-slavery party. Finally, the
+President, in 1855, appointed a military governor to restore Kansas to
+order. But, while order might be restored there, the whole country
+seemed on the verge of civil war.
+
+Meantime the Republican party had been formed in 1854, the outgrowth of
+the "Liberty" and "Free Soil" parties. A "Bill for the Admission of
+Kansas into the Union" having been presented, Sumner made his celebrated
+speech "The Crime against Kansas," on the 19th and 20th of May, 1856. He
+spoke eloquently and fearlessly, arousing more than ever the hot blood
+of the South. Two days later, as Mr. Sumner was sitting at his desk in
+the Senate chamber, his head bent forward in writing, the Senate having
+adjourned, Preston S. Brooks, a nephew of Mr. Butler, a senator of South
+Carolina, stood before him. "I have read your speech twice over,
+carefully," he said. "It is a libel on South Carolina and Mr. Butler,
+who is a relative of mine." Instantly he struck Mr. Sumner on the back
+of the head, with his hollow gutta-percha cane, making a long and
+fearful gash, repeating the blows in rapid succession. Sumner wrenched
+the desk from the floor, to which it was screwed, but, unable to defend
+himself, fell forward bleeding and insensible. He was carried by his
+friends to a sofa in the lobby, and during the night lay pale and
+bewildered, scarcely speaking to any one about him.
+
+The indignation and horror of the North beggar description. That a man,
+in this age of free speech, should be publicly beaten, and that by a
+member of the House of Representatives, was, of course, a disgrace to
+the nation. Said Joseph Quincy: "Charles Sumner needs not our sympathy.
+If he dies his name will be immortal--his name will be enrolled with the
+names of Warren, Sidney, and Russell; if he lives he is destined to be
+the light of the nation." Wendell Phillips said: "The world will yet
+cover every one of those scars with laurels. He must not die! We need
+him yet, as the van-guard leader of the hosts of Liberty. Nay, he shall
+yet come forth from that sick-chamber, and every gallant heart in the
+commonwealth be ready to kiss his very footsteps."
+
+Brooks was censured by the House of Representatives, resigned his seat,
+and died the following year. Sumner returned to Boston as soon as he was
+able. Houses were decorated for his coming, and banners flung to the
+breeze with the words, "Welcome, Freedom's Defender," "Massachusetts
+loves, honors, will sustain and defend her noble SUMNER." The home on
+Hancock Street was surrounded by a dense crowd. He appeared at the
+window with his widowed mother, and bowed to their cheers. For several
+months he enjoyed the tender care of this mother, now almost alone. Her
+son Horace had been lost in the ship Elizabeth, July 16, 1850, when
+Margaret Fuller, her husband, and child were drowned. Albert, a
+sea-captain, had been lost with his wife and only daughter on their way
+to France. And now, perhaps, her distinguished son Charles was to give
+his life to help bring freedom to four millions in slavery.
+
+In 1857 Sumner was almost unanimously reelected to the Senate for six
+years, but Brooks had done his dreadful work too well. Broken in health,
+he sailed for Europe. Nearly twenty years before he had gone to meet the
+honored and famous, his future all unknown; now he went as the stricken
+leader of a great cause, one of the most able and eloquent men of the
+new world. Twenty years before he was restless and unhappy because he
+did not see his life-work before him; now he was happy in spite of
+physical agony, because he knew he was helping humanity.
+
+After travelling in Switzerland, Germany, and Great Britain, he returned
+and took his seat in Congress, but, finding his health still impaired,
+he sailed again to Europe. He regretted to leave the country, but was,
+as he says, "often assured and encouraged to feel that to every sincere
+lover of civilization my vacant chair was a perpetual speech." On this
+second visit he came under the treatment of Dr. Brown-Sequard, who, when
+asked by Mr. Sumner what would cure him, replied, "Fire." At once the
+dreadful remedy was applied. The physician says, when he first met the
+senator, "He could not make use of his brain at all. He could not read a
+newspaper, could not write a letter. He was in a frightful state as
+regards the activity of the mind, as every effort there was most painful
+to him.... I told him the truth,--that there would be more effect, as I
+thought, if he did not take chloroform; and so I had to submit him to
+the martyrdom of the greatest suffering that can be inflicted on mortal
+man. I burned him with the first moxa. I had the hope that after the
+first application he would submit to the use of chloroform; but for five
+times after that he was burned in the same way, and refused to take
+chloroform. I have never seen a patient who submitted to such treatment
+in that way."
+
+Sumner wrote home: "It is with a pang unspeakable that I find myself
+thus arrested in the labors of life and in the duties of my position.
+This is harder to bear than the fire."
+
+Four years elapsed before he regained his health; indeed his death
+finally resulted from the attack of Brooks. No sooner had he returned to
+the Senate than he made another great speech against slavery. The
+country was agitated by the coming presidential election. John Brown had
+captured, with a force of twenty-two men, the United States arsenal at
+Harper's Ferry, with the fallacious hope of setting the slaves at
+liberty. He was of course overpowered, his sons killed at his side, as
+others of his sons had been on the Kansas battlefields, and he led out
+to execution, December 2, 1859, with a radiant face and an overflowing
+heart, because he knew that his death would arouse the nation to action.
+
+Mr. Sumner spoke to an immense audience at Cooper Institute, urging the
+election of Abraham Lincoln. By this election, he said, "we shall save
+the Territories from the five-headed barbarism of slavery; we shall save
+the country and the age from that crying infamy, the slave-trade; we
+shall help save the Declaration of Independence, now dishonored and
+disowned in its essential, life-giving truth,--_the equality of men_....
+A new order of things will begin; and our history will proceed on a
+grander scale, in harmony with those sublime principles in which it
+commenced. Let the knell sound!--
+
+  "'Ring out the old, ring in the new!
+  Ring out the false, ring in the true!
+    Ring out a slowly dying cause,
+  And ancient forms of party strife!
+  Ring in the nobler modes of life,
+    With sweeter manners, purer laws.'"
+
+A "new order of things" was indeed begun. South Carolina very soon
+seceded from the Union, and other southern States followed her example.
+Sumner now spoke and wrote constantly. He urged Massachusetts to be
+"_firm_, FIRM, FIRM! against every word or step of concession.... More
+than the loss of forts, arsenals, or the national capital, I fear the
+loss of our principles."
+
+In 1861, Mr. Sumner was made chairman of the Committee on Foreign
+Relations. How different his position from that day, ten years before,
+when he stood almost alone in the Senate, a hated abolitionist!
+
+When the war began, he saw with prophetic eye the necessity of
+emancipating the slaves. He urged it in his public speeches. When
+Lincoln hesitated and the country feared the result, he said to a vast
+assembly at Cooper Institute, "There has been the cry, 'On to Richmond!'
+and still another worse cry, 'On to England!' Better than either is the
+cry, 'On to freedom!'"
+
+As the war went forward he was ever at his post, working for Henry
+Wilson's bill for the abolishing of slavery in the District of Columbia,
+for the recognition of the independence of Hayti and Liberia, for the
+final suppression of the coastwise trade in slaves, for the employment
+of colored troops in the army, and for a law that "no person shall be
+excluded from the cars on account of color," on various specified lines
+of railroad. He spoke words of encouragement constantly to the North,
+"This is no time to stop. FORWARD! FORWARD! Thus do I, who formerly
+pleaded so often for peace, now sound to arms; but it is because, in
+this terrible moment, there is no other way to that sincere and solid
+peace without which there will be endless war.... Now, at last, by the
+death of slavery, will the republic begin to live; for what is life
+without liberty?
+
+"Stretching from ocean to ocean, teeming with population, bountiful in
+resources of all kinds, and thrice happy in universal enfranchisement,
+it will be more than conqueror, nothing too vast for its power, nothing
+too minute for its care."
+
+He wrote for the magazines on the one great subject. He helped organize
+the Freedman's Bureau, which he called the "Bridge from Slavery to
+Freedom." He urged equal pay to colored soldiers. He was invaluable to
+President Lincoln. Though they did not always think alike, Lincoln said
+to Sumner, "There is no person with whom I have more advised throughout
+my administration than with yourself."
+
+When Lincoln was assassinated, Sumner wept by his bedside. "The only
+time," said an intimate friend, "I ever saw him weep." When he
+delivered his eloquent eulogy on Lincoln in Boston, he said, "That
+speech, uttered on the field of Gettysburg, and now sanctified by the
+martyrdom of its author, is a monumental act. In the modesty of his
+nature, he said, 'The world will little note, nor long remember, what we
+say here; but it can never forget what they did here.'
+
+"He was mistaken. The world noted at once what he said, and will never
+cease to remember it. The battle itself was less important than the
+speech. Ideas are more than battles."
+
+And so the great slavery pioneer and the great emancipator will go down
+in history together. How the world worships heroic manhood! Those who,
+with sweet and unselfish natures, seek not their own happiness, but are
+ready to die if need be for the right and the truth!
+
+Sumner aided in those three grand amendments to the Constitution, the
+thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth. "Neither slavery nor involuntary
+servitude, except as a punishment for crime, whereof the party shall
+have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any
+place subject to their jurisdiction.... All persons born or naturalized
+in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are
+citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No
+State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges
+or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State
+deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process
+of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal
+protection of the laws.... The right of citizens of the United States to
+vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States, or by any
+State, on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude."
+
+In June, 1866, Mr. Sumner came home to say good-bye to his dying mother.
+True to her noble womanhood, she urged that he should not be sent for,
+lest the country could not spare him from his work. Beautiful
+self-sacrifice of woman! Heaven can possess nothing more angelic. O
+mother, wife, and loved one, know thine unlimited powers, and hold them
+forever for the ennobling of men!
+
+When Mrs. Sumner was buried, her son turned away sorrowfully, and
+exclaimed, "I have now no home." He had a house in Washington, where he
+had lived for many years, but it was only home to him where a
+sweet-faced and sweet-voiced woman loved him.
+
+In 1869, Mr. Sumner made his remarkable speech on the "Alabama" claims,
+which for a time caused some bitter feeling in England. This vessel,
+built at Liverpool, and manned by a British crew, was sent out by the
+Confederate government, and destroyed sixty-six of our vessels, with a
+loss of ten million dollars. In 1864, she was overtaken in the harbor of
+Cherbourg, France, by Captain Winslow, commander of the steamer
+Kearsarge, and sunk, after an hour's desperate fighting. Her commander,
+Captain Raphael Semmes, was picked up by the English Deerhound, and
+taken to Southampton. In the summer of 1872, a board of arbitration met
+at Geneva, Switzerland, and awarded the United States over fifteen
+million dollars as damages, which Great Britain paid.
+
+On May 12, 1870, Mr. Sumner introduced his supplementary Civil-Rights
+Bill, declaring that all persons, without regard to race or color, are
+entitled to equal privileges afforded by railroads, steamboats, hotels,
+places of amusement, institutions of learning, religion, and courts of
+law. His maxim was, "Equality of rights is the first of rights."
+
+He supported Horace Greeley for President, thus separating himself from
+the Republican party, and carrying out his life-long opinion that
+principle is above party. After another visit to Europe, in 1872, when
+he was sixty-one years old, feeling that, the war being over and slavery
+abolished, the two portions of the country should forget all animosity
+and live together in harmony, he introduced a resolution in the Senate,
+"That the names of battles with fellow-citizens shall not be continued
+in the army register or placed on the regimental colors of the United
+States."
+
+Massachusetts hastily passed a vote of censure upon her idolized
+statesman, which she was wise enough to rescind soon after. This latter
+action gave Mr. Sumner great comfort. He said, "The dear old
+commonwealth has spoken for me, and that is enough."
+
+In his freestone house, full of pictures and books, overlooking
+Lafayette Square in Washington, on March 11, 1874, Charles Sumner lay
+dying. The day previous, in the Senate, he had complained to a friend of
+pain in the left side. On the morning of the eleventh he was cold and
+well nigh insensible. At ten o'clock he said to Judge Hoar, "Don't
+forget my Civil-Rights Bill." Later, he said, "My book! my book is not
+finished.... I am so tired! I am so tired!"
+
+He had worked long and hard. He passed into the rest of the hereafter at
+three o'clock in the afternoon. Grand, heroic soul! whose life will be
+an inspiration for all coming time.
+
+The body, enclosed in a massive casket, upon which rested a wreath of
+white azaleas and lilies, was borne to the Capitol, followed by a
+company of three hundred colored men and a long line of carriages. The
+most noticeable among the floral gifts, says Elias Nason, in his Life of
+Sumner, "was a broken column of violets and white azaleas, placed there
+by the hands of a colored girl. She had been rendered lame by being
+thrust from the cars of a railroad, whose charter Mr. Sumner, after
+hearing the girl's story, by a resolution, caused to be revoked." From
+there it was carried to the State House in Boston, and visited by at
+least fifty thousand people. In the midst of the beautiful floral
+decorations was a large heart of flowers, from the colored citizens of
+Boston, with the words, "Charles Sumner, you gave us your life; we give
+you our hearts."
+
+Through a dense crowd the coffin was borne to Mount Auburn cemetery, and
+placed in the open grave just as the sun was setting, Longfellow,
+Holmes, Emerson, and other dear friends standing by. The grand old song
+of Luther was sung, "Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott." Strange contrast!
+the quiet, unknown Harvard law student;--the great senator, doctor of
+laws, author, and orator. Sumner had his share of sorrow. He lived to
+see seven of his eight brothers and sisters taken away by death. He who
+had longed for domestic bliss did not find it. He married, when he was
+fifty-five, Mrs. Alice Mason Hooper, but the companionship did not prove
+congenial, and a divorce resulted, by mutual consent.
+
+He forgot the heart-hunger of his early years in living for the slaves
+and the down-trodden, whether white or black. Through all his struggles
+he kept a sublime hope. He used to say, "All defeats in a good cause are
+but resting-places on the road to victory at last." He had defeats, as
+do all, but he won the victory.
+
+Well says Hon. James G. Blaine, in his "Twenty Years of Congress," "Mr.
+Sumner must ever be regarded as a scholar, an orator, a philanthropist,
+a philosopher, a statesman, whose splendid and unsullied fame will
+always form part of the true glory of the nation."
+
+"He belongs to all of us, in the North and in the South," said Hon. Carl
+Schurz, in his eulogy delivered in Music Hall, Boston, "to the blacks
+he helped to make free, and to the whites he strove to make brothers
+again. On the grave of him whom so many thought to be their enemy, and
+found to be their friend, let the hands be clasped which so bitterly
+warred against each other. Upon that grave let the youth of America be
+taught, by the story of his life, that not only genius, power, and
+success, but, more than these, patriotic devotion and virtue, make the
+greatness of the citizen."
+
+[Illustration: Signature U. S. Grant]
+
+
+
+
+U. S. GRANT.
+
+
+What Longfellow wrote of Charles Sumner may well be applied to Grant:--
+
+  "Were a star quenched on high,
+    For ages would its light,
+  Still travelling downward from the sky,
+    Shine on our mortal sight.
+
+  "So when a great man dies,
+    For years beyond our ken
+  The light he leaves behind him lies
+    Upon the paths of men."
+
+The light left by General Grant will not fade out from American history.
+To be a great soldier is of course to be immortal; but to be magnanimous
+to enemies, heroic in affections, a master of self, without vanity,
+honest, courageous, true, invincible,--such greatness is far above the
+glory of battlefields. Such greatness he possessed, who, born in
+comparative obscurity, came to be numbered in that famous trio, dear to
+every American heart: Washington, Lincoln, Grant.
+
+Ulysses Simpson Grant was born April 27, 1822, in a log house at Mount
+Pleasant, Ohio. The boy seems to have had the blood of soldiers in his
+veins, for his great-grandfather and great-uncle held commissions in the
+English army in 1756, in the war against the French and Indians, and
+both were killed. His grandfather served through the entire war of the
+Revolution.
+
+His father, Jesse R. Grant, left dependent upon himself, learned the
+trade of a tanner, and by his industry made a home for himself and
+family. Unable to attend school more than six months in his life, he was
+a constant reader, and through his own privations became the more
+anxious that his children should be educated.
+
+Ulysses was the first-born child of Jesse Grant and Hannah Simpson, who
+were married in June, 1821. When their son was about a year old, they
+moved to Georgetown, Ohio, and here the boy passed a happy childhood,
+learning the very little which the schools of the time were able to
+impart.
+
+He was not fond of study, and enjoyed the more active life of the farm.
+He says in his personal memoirs: "While my father carried on the
+manufacture of leather and worked at the trade himself, he owned and
+tilled considerable land. I detested the trade, preferring almost any
+other labor; but I was fond of agriculture, and of all employment in
+which horses were used. We had, among other lands, fifty acres of forest
+within a mile of the village. In the fall of the year, choppers were
+employed to cut enough wood to last a twelve-month. When I was seven or
+eight years of age, I began hauling all the wood used in the house and
+shops. I could not load it on the wagons, of course, at that time, but I
+could drive, and the choppers would load, and some one at the house
+unload. When about eleven years old, I was strong enough to hold a
+plough. From that age until seventeen I did all the work done with
+horses, such as breaking up the land, furrowing, ploughing corn and
+potatoes, bringing in the crops when harvested, hauling all the wood,
+besides tending two or three horses, a cow or two, and sawing wood for
+stoves, etc., while still attending school. For this I was compensated
+by the fact that there never was any scolding or punishing by my
+parents; no objection to rational enjoyments, such as fishing, going to
+the creek a mile away to swim in summer, taking a horse and visiting my
+grandparents in the adjoining county, fifteen miles off, skating on the
+ice in winter, or taking a horse and sleigh when there was snow on the
+ground."
+
+The indulgent father allowed his son some unique experiences. Ulysses,
+at fifteen, having made a journey to Flat Rock, Kentucky, seventy miles
+away, with a carriage and two horses, took a fancy to a saddle-horse and
+offered to trade one which he was driving, for this animal. The owner
+hesitated about trading with a lad, but finally consented, and the
+untried colt was hitched to the carriage with his new mate. After
+proceeding a short distance, the animal became frightened by a dog,
+kicked, and started to run over an embankment. Ulysses, nothing daunted,
+took from his pocket a large handkerchief, tied it over the horse's
+eyes, and sure that the terrified creature would see no more dogs,
+though he trembled like an aspen leaf, drove peacefully homeward.
+
+Young Grant was as truthful as he was calm and courageous. He tells this
+story of himself. "There was a Mr. Ralston living within a few miles of
+the village, who owned a colt which I very much wanted. My father had
+offered twenty dollars for it, but Ralston wanted twenty-five. I was so
+anxious to have the colt that after the owner left I begged to be
+allowed to take him at the price demanded. My father yielded, but said
+twenty dollars was all the horse was worth, and told me to offer that
+price; if it was not accepted, I was to offer twenty-two and a half, and
+if that would not get him, to give the twenty-five. I at once mounted a
+horse and went for the colt. When I got to Mr. Ralston's house, I said
+to him: 'Papa says I may offer you twenty dollars for the colt; but if
+you won't take that, I am to offer twenty-two and a half; and if you
+won't take that, to give you twenty-five.' It would not require a
+Connecticut man to guess the price finally agreed upon....
+
+"I could not have been over eight years at the time. This transaction
+caused me great heart-burning. The story got out among the boys of the
+village, and it was a long time before I heard the last of it. Boys
+enjoy the misery of their companions, at least village boys in that day
+did, and in later life I have found that all adults are not free from
+the peculiarity. I kept the horse until he was four years old, when he
+went blind, and I sold him for twenty dollars. When I went to Maysville
+to school, in 1836, at the age of fourteen, I recognized my colt as one
+of the blind horses working on the tread-wheel of the ferry-boat."
+
+All this time the father was desirous of an education for his child. The
+son of a neighbor had been appointed to West Point, and had failed in
+his examinations. Mr. Grant applied for his son. "Ulysses," he said one
+day, "I believe you are going to receive the appointment." "What
+appointment!" was the response. "To West Point. I have applied for it."
+"But I won't go," said the impetuous boy. But the father's will was law,
+and the son began to prepare himself. He bought an algebra, but, having
+no teacher, he says, it was Greek to him. He had no love for a military
+life, and looked forward to the West Point experience only as a new
+opportunity to travel East and see the country.
+
+At seventeen he took passage on a steamer for Pittsburg, in the middle
+of May, 1839. Fortunately the accommodating boat remained for several
+days at every port, for passengers or freight, and meantime the curious
+boy used his eyes to learn all that was possible. When he reached
+Harrisburg, he rode to Philadelphia on the first railroad which he had
+ever seen except the one on which he had just crossed the summit of the
+Alleghany Mountains. "In travelling by the road from Harrisburg," he
+says, "I thought the perfection of rapid transit had been reached. We
+travelled at least eighteen miles an hour, when at full speed, and made
+the whole distance averaging probably as much as twelve miles an hour.
+This seemed like annihilating space. I stopped five days in
+Philadelphia; saw about every street in the city, attended the theatre,
+visited Girard College (which was then in course of construction), and
+got reprimanded from home afterwards, for dallying by the way so
+long....
+
+"I reported at West Point on the 30th or 31st of May, and about two
+weeks later passed my examinations for admission, without difficulty,
+very much to my surprise. A military life had no charms for me, and I
+had not the faintest idea of staying in the army even if I should be
+graduated, which I did not expect. The encampment which preceded the
+commencement of academic studies was very wearisome and uninteresting.
+When the 28th of August came--the date for breaking up camp and going
+into barracks--I felt as though I had been at West Point always, and
+that if I stayed to graduation I would have to remain always. I did not
+take hold of my studies with avidity, in fact I rarely ever read over a
+lesson the second time during my entire cadetship. I could not sit in my
+room doing nothing. There is a fine library connected with the academy,
+from which cadets can get books to read in their quarters. I devoted
+more time to these than to books relating to the course of studies.
+Much of the time, I am sorry to say, was devoted to novels, but not
+those of a trashy sort. I read all of Bulwer's then published, Cooper's,
+Marryat's, Scott's, Washington Irving's works, Lever's, and many others
+that I do not now remember. Mathematics was very easy to me, so that
+when January came I passed the examination, taking a good standing in
+that branch. In French, the only other study at that time in the first
+year's course, my standing was very low. In fact, if the class had been
+turned the other end foremost, I should have been near the head."
+
+The years at West Point did not go by quickly; only the ten weeks of
+vacation which seemed shorter than one week in school. Sometimes at the
+academy a great general, like Winfield Scott, came to review the cadets.
+"With his commanding figure," says young Grant, "his quite colossal
+size, and showy uniform, I thought him the finest specimen of manhood my
+eyes had ever beheld, and the most to be envied. I could never resemble
+him in appearance, but I believe I did have a presentiment, for a
+moment, that some day I should occupy his place on review--although I
+had no intention then of remaining in the army. My experience in a horse
+trade ten years before, and the ridicule it caused me, were too fresh in
+my mind for me to communicate this presentiment to even my most intimate
+chum." How often into lives there comes a feeling that there is a
+specified work to be done by us that no other person can or will ever
+do!
+
+When the years were over at West Point, each "four times as long as Ohio
+years," young Grant was anxious to enter the cavalry, especially as he
+had suffered from a cough for six months, and his family feared
+consumption. Having gone home, he waited anxiously for his new uniform.
+"I was impatient," he says, "to get on my uniform and see how it looked,
+and probably wanted my old school-mates, particularly the girls, to see
+me in it. The conceit was knocked out of me by two little circumstances
+that happened soon after the arrival of the clothes, which gave me a
+distaste for military uniform that I never recovered from. Soon after
+the arrival of the suit I donned it, and put off for Cincinnati on
+horseback. While I was riding along a street of that city, imagining
+that every one was looking at me with a feeling akin to mine when I
+first saw General Scott, a little urchin, bareheaded, barefooted, with
+dirty and ragged pants held up by a single gallows--that's what
+suspenders were called then--and a shirt that had not seen a washtub for
+weeks, turned to me and cried: 'Soldier, will you work? No sir-ee; I'll
+sell my shirt first!' The horse trade and its dire consequences were
+recalled to mind.
+
+"The other circumstance occurred at home. Opposite our house in Bethel
+stood the old stage tavern where 'man and beast' found accommodation.
+The stable-man was rather dissipated, but possessed of some humor. On
+my return, I found him parading the streets, and attending in the
+stable, barefooted, but in a pair of sky-blue nankeen pantaloons--just
+the color of my uniform trousers--with a strip of white cotton sheeting
+sewed down the outside seams in imitation of mine. The joke was a huge
+one in the minds of many of the people, and was much enjoyed by them;
+but I did not appreciate it so highly."
+
+In September, 1843, Grant reported for duty at Jefferson Barracks, St.
+Louis, the largest military post in the United States at that time. His
+hope was to become assistant professor of mathematics at West Point, and
+he would have been appointed had not the Mexican War begun soon after.
+
+A new page was now to be turned in the eventful life of the young
+officer; when he was to have, as Emerson beautifully says of love, "the
+visitation of that power to his heart and brain which created all things
+anew; which was the dawn in him of music, poetry, and art; which made
+the face of nature radiant with purple light; the morning and the night
+varied enchantments; when a single tone of one voice could make the
+heart bound, and the most trivial circumstance associated with one form
+is put in the amber of memory; when he became all eye when one was
+present, and all memory when one was gone; ... when the moonlight was a
+pleasing fever, and the stars were letters, and the flowers ciphers, and
+the air was coined into song; when all business seemed an impertinence,
+and all the men and women running to and fro in the streets were
+pictures."
+
+At West Point, Grant's class-mate was F. T. Dent, whose family resided
+five miles west of Jefferson Barracks. "Two of his unmarried brothers,"
+says Grant, "were living at home at that time, and, as I had taken with
+me from Ohio my horse, saddle, and bridle, I soon found my way out to
+White Haven, the name of the Dent estate. As I found the family
+congenial, my visits became frequent. There were at home, besides the
+young men, two daughters, one a school miss of fifteen, the other a girl
+of eight or nine. There was still an older daughter, of seventeen, who
+had been spending several years at boarding-school in St. Louis, but
+who, though through school, had not yet returned home.... In February
+she returned to her country home. After that I do not know but my visits
+became more frequent; they certainly did become more enjoyable. We would
+often take walks, or go on horseback together to visit the neighbors,
+until I became quite well acquainted in that vicinity.... If the fourth
+infantry had remained at Jefferson Barracks it is possible, even
+probable, that this life might have continued for some years without my
+finding out that there was anything serious the matter with me; but in
+the following May a circumstance occurred which developed my sentiment
+so palpably that there was no mistaking it."
+
+This "circumstance" was the annexation of Texas, the probability of a
+war with Mexico, and the necessity of leaving Jefferson Barracks for the
+Texan frontier. Alas! now that days full of hope, and the sweet
+realization of a divine companionship had come, they must have sudden
+ending. Grant took a brief furlough, went to say good-bye to his father
+and mother, and then to White Haven to see Julia Dent. In crossing a
+swollen stream, his uniform was wet through, but he donned the suit of a
+future brother-in-law, and appeared before his beloved to ask her hand
+in marriage, to receive her acceptance, and then to hasten to the scene
+of action. He saw her but once in the next four years and three months;
+four anxious years to her, when death often stared her lover in the
+face.
+
+As soon as Texas was admitted to the Union, in 1845, the "army of
+occupation," as the three thousand men under General Zachary Taylor were
+called, advanced to the Rio Grande and built a fort. When the first
+hostile gun was fired, Grant says, "I felt sorry that I had enlisted. A
+great many men, when they smell battle afar off, chafe to get into the
+fray. When they say so themselves, they generally fail to convince their
+hearers that they are as anxious as they would like to make believe, and
+as they approach danger they become more subdued. This rule is not
+universal, for I have known a few men who were always aching for a fight
+when there was no enemy near, who were as good as their word when the
+battle did come on. But the number of such men is small."
+
+The first battle was at Palo Alto, meaning "tall trees or woods," six
+miles from the Rio Grande. Early in the forenoon of May 8, Taylor's
+three thousand men were drawn up in line of battle, opposed by superior
+numbers. The infantry was armed with flintlock muskets and paper
+cartridges charged with powder, buckshot, and ball. "At the distance of
+a few hundred yards," says Grant, "a man might fire at you all day
+without your finding it out." The artillery consisted of two batteries
+and two eighteen-pounder iron guns, with three or four twelve-pounder
+howitzers throwing shell. The firing was brisk on both sides. One
+cannon-ball passed near Grant, killing several of his companions. After
+a hard day's fight, the enemy retreated in the night. The war had now
+begun in earnest, and the man who at the first hostile gun "felt sorry
+that he had enlisted" was ready to brave danger on any field.
+
+In the hard-fought battle of Monterey, between sixty-five hundred men
+under Taylor and ten thousand Mexicans, Grant's curiosity got the better
+of his judgment, and, leaving the camp, where he had been ordered to
+remain, he mounted a horse and rode to the front. He made the charge
+with the men, when about a third of their number were killed. He loaned
+his horse to the adjutant of the regiment, Lieutenant Hoskins, who was
+soon killed, and Grant was designated to act in his place.
+
+The ammunition became low, and to return for it was so dangerous that
+the general commanding did not like to order any one to fetch it, so
+called for a volunteer. Grant modestly says, "I volunteered to go back
+to the point we had started from.... My ride back was an exposed one.
+Before starting, I adjusted myself on the side of my horse furthest from
+the enemy, and with only one foot holding to the cantle of the saddle,
+and an arm over the neck of the horse exposed, I started at full run. It
+was only at street-crossings that my horse was under fire, but these I
+crossed at such a flying rate that generally I was past and under cover
+of the next block of houses before the enemy fired. I got out safely,
+without a scratch."
+
+When Monterey was conquered, and the garrison marched out as prisoners,
+young Grant was moved to pity, as he says in his Memoirs, thus showing a
+gentle nature, which he bore years later when thousands were falling
+around him, and he was still obliged to say, "Forward."
+
+After the capture of Vera Cruz and the surprise at Cerro Gordo, where
+three thousand Mexicans were made prisoners, the army advanced toward
+the City of Mexico. Between three and four miles from the city stood
+Molino del Rey, the "mill of the King," an old stone structure, one
+story high, flat-roofed, and several hundred feet long. Sandbags were
+laid along the roof, and good marksmen fought behind them. Near by was
+Chepultepec, three hundred feet high, fortified on the top and on its
+rocky sides. From the front, guns swept the approach to Molino. Yet, on
+the morning of September 8, the assault upon Molino was made, young
+Grant being among the foremost. The loss was severe, especially among
+commissioned officers.
+
+Grant says, "I was with the earliest of the troops to enter the mills.
+In passing through to the north side, looking toward Chepultepec, I
+happened to notice that there were armed Mexicans still on top of the
+building, only a few feet from many of our men. Not seeing any stairway
+or ladder reaching to the top of the building, I took a few soldiers,
+and had a cart that happened to be standing near brought up, and,
+placing the shafts against the wall, and chocking the wheels so that the
+cart could not back, used the shafts as a sort of ladder, extending to
+within three or four feet of the top. By this I climbed to the roof of
+the building, followed by a few men, but found a private soldier had
+preceded me by some other way. There were still quite a number of
+Mexicans on the roof, among them a major and five or six officers of
+lower grades, who had not succeeded in getting away before our troops
+occupied the building. They still had their arms, while the soldier
+before mentioned was walking as sentry, guarding the prisoners he had
+_surrounded_, all by himself. I halted the sentinel, received the swords
+from the commissioned officers, and proceeded, with the assistance of
+the soldiers now with me, to disable the muskets by striking them
+against the edge of the wall, and throwing them to the ground below."
+
+Five days after the fall of Molino, Chepultepec was taken, with severe
+loss. Grant was mentioned in the official report as having "behaved with
+distinguished gallantry." Just before the City of Mexico fell into our
+hands, Grant was made first lieutenant. Promotion had not come rapidly.
+It is sometimes better if success does not come to us early in life. To
+learn how to work steadily, day after day, with an unalterable purpose;
+to learn how to concentrate thought and will-power, how to conquer self
+through failure and hope deferred, is often essential for him who is to
+govern either by physical or moral power.
+
+After Mexico fell, and General Scott lived in the halls of the
+Montezumas, he controlled the city as a Havelock or a Gordon might have
+done; and Grant learned by observation the best of all lessons for a
+soldier, to be magnanimous to a fallen foe. He learned other valuable
+lessons in this war; made the acquaintance of the officers with whom he
+was to measure his strength, in the most stupendous war of modern times,
+twenty years later.
+
+When the treaty of peace was signed between our country and Mexico,
+February 2, 1848, whereby we paid fifteen million dollars for the
+territory ceded to us, Grant obtained leave of absence for four months.
+One person must have been inexpressibly thankful that his life had been
+spared. Four years, and she had seen him but once! How noble we often
+become by the mellowing power of circumstances which prevent our having
+our own way! Discipline may be only another word for achievement.
+
+U. S. Grant and Julia Dent were married August 22, 1848, when he was
+twenty-six, and began a life of affection and helpfulness, which grew
+brighter till the end came on Mt. McGregor. There was reason why the
+affection lasted through all the years; in the best sense they lived for
+each other. Those who find their happiness outside the home are apt to
+find little inside the home. Devotion begets devotion, and men and women
+must expect to receive only what they give. Affection scattered produces
+a scanty harvest.
+
+The winter of 1848 was spent at the post at Sackett's Harbor, New York;
+the next two years at Detroit, Michigan. In 1852, Grant was ordered to
+the Pacific coast. And now the young husband and wife must be separated;
+she to go to her home in St. Louis, and he to the then unsettled West.
+When Aspinwall was reached the streets of the town were a foot under
+water, in a blazing, tropical sun. Cholera broke out among the troops,
+as it had among the inhabitants, and a third of the people died. The
+crossing of the Isthmus of Panama, on the backs of mules, was tedious
+and trying. San Francisco was reached early in September. The
+gold-mining fever was at its height. Soon the troops passed up to Fort
+Vancouver, on the Columbia River, and a quiet and dull life began.
+Measles and small-pox were killing the Indians so rapidly that the gun
+of the white man was superfluous as an agent of destruction.
+
+In 1854, six years after Grant's marriage, despairing of supporting his
+wife and two children on the Pacific coast with his pay as an army
+officer, he resigned. His prospects now were not bright. Without a
+profession, save that of arms, he was to begin, at thirty-two, a
+struggle for support, which must have tested the affection of the woman
+who married the young officer in her hopeful girlhood. She owned a farm
+in St. Louis, and thither they moved as their home. He says of the farm:
+"I had no means to stock it. A house had to be built also. I worked very
+hard, never losing a day because of bad weather, and accomplished the
+object in a moderate way. If nothing else could be done, I would load a
+cord of wood on a wagon and take it to the city for sale. I managed to
+keep along very well until 1858, when I was attacked by fever and ague.
+I had suffered very severely and for a long time from this disease while
+a boy in Ohio. It lasted now over a year, and, while it did not keep me
+in the house, it did interfere greatly with the amount of work I was
+able to perform. In the fall of 1858 I sold out my stock, crops, and
+farming utensils at auction, and gave up farming."
+
+Four years of struggling had not paid pecuniarily. Poverty is not a
+pleasant school in which to be nurtured. Blessings upon those who do not
+grow harsh or discontented with its bitter lessons. To keep sunshine in
+the face when want knocks at the heart is to win the victory in a
+dreadful battle. And yet many are able to accomplish this, and brighten
+with their happy faces lives more prosperous than their own.
+
+In the winter of 1858 Captain Grant established a partnership with a
+cousin of his wife in the real estate business. Again separation came.
+The little family were left on the farm while the father tried another
+method of earning a living for them. "Our business," he says, "might
+have become prosperous if I had been able to wait for it to grow. As it
+was, there was no more than one person could attend to, and not enough
+to support two families. While a citizen of St. Louis, and engaged in
+the real estate agency business, I was a candidate for the office of
+county engineer, an office of respectability and emolument which would
+have been very acceptable to me at that time. The incumbent was
+appointed by the county court, which consisted of five members. My
+opponent had the advantage of birth over me (he was a citizen by
+adoption), and carried off the prize. I now withdrew from the
+co-partnership with Boggs, and, in May, 1860, removed to Galena,
+Illinois, and took a clerkship in my father's store."
+
+He was once more in the tannery business, which he had so hated when a
+boy. It is well that men and women are spurred to duty because somebody
+depends upon them for daily food, otherwise this life of often
+uncongenial labor would be unbearable. We rarely do what we like to do
+in this world;--we do what the merciless goad of circumstance forces us
+to do. He is wise who goes to his work with a smile.
+
+The year 1860 opened upon a new era in this country. Slavery and
+anti-slavery had struggled together till the election of Abraham Lincoln
+to the presidency told that the decisive hour had come. The nation could
+no longer exist "half slave and half free."
+
+When Mr. Lincoln was inaugurated, March 4, 1861, the Southern States
+seceded, one after another, until eleven had separated from the Union.
+Most of the Southern forts were already in the hands of the
+Confederates. Fort Sumter, in the harbor of Charleston, still remained
+under the control of the Union. While besieged by the South, an effort
+was made to send supplies to our starving garrison. The fort was fired
+upon April 11, 1861, and that shot, like the one at Concord, was "heard
+round the world."
+
+From that hour slavery was doomed. The President issued his first call
+for seventy-five thousand volunteers for ninety days. The North and West
+seemed to respond as one man. The intense excitement reached the little
+town of Galena. The citizens were at once called together. Business was
+suspended. In the evening the court-house was packed. Captain Grant was
+asked to conduct the meeting. The people naturally turned to one who
+understood battles, when they saw war close at hand. With much
+embarrassment Grant presided. The leather business was finished for him
+from that eventful night. The women of Galena were as deeply interested
+as the men. They came to Grant to obtain a description of the United
+States uniform for infantry, subscribed and bought the material,
+procured tailors to cut the garments, and made them with their own
+willing hands. More and more, with their superior education, women are
+to play an important part in this country, both in peace and war.
+
+Captain Grant was now asked by Governor Yates, of Illinois, to go into
+the adjutant-general's office, and render such assistance as he could,
+which position he accepted, but he modestly says, "I was no clerk, nor
+had I any capacity to become one. The only place I ever found in my life
+to put a paper so as to find it again was either a side coat-pocket or
+the hands of a clerk or secretary more careful than myself. But I had
+been quartermaster, commissary, and adjutant in the field. The army
+forms were familiar to me, and I could direct how they should be made
+out."
+
+Though a man of few words, those few could be effective if Grant chose
+to use them. Meeting in St. Louis, in a street-car, a young braggart,
+who said to him, "Where I came from, if a man dares to say a word in
+favor of the Union we hang him to a limb of the first tree we come to,"
+Grant replied, "We are not so intolerant in St. Louis as we might be. I
+have not seen a single rebel hung yet, nor heard of one. There are
+plenty of them who ought to be, however." The young man did not continue
+the conversation. In May, 1861, Grant wrote a letter to the
+adjutant-general of the army at Washington, saying that, as he had been
+in the regular army for fifteen years, and educated at government
+expense, he tendered his services for the war. No notice was ever taken
+of the letter, and, of course, no answer was returned. Soon after he
+spent a week with his parents, in Covington, Kentucky. Twice he called
+upon Major-General McClellan, at Cincinnati, just across the river, whom
+he had known slightly in the Mexican War, with the hope that he would be
+offered a position on his staff. But he failed to see the general, and
+returned to Illinois. He was not to serve under McClellan. A different
+destiny awaited him.
+
+President Lincoln now called for three hundred thousand men to enlist
+for three years or the war. Governor Yates appointed Grant colonel of
+the Twenty-First Illinois regiment. Another separation from wife and
+children had come; the beginning of a great career had come also. The
+regiment repaired to Springfield, Illinois, and, after some time spent
+in drill, was ordered to move against Colonel Thomas Harris, encamped at
+the little town of Florida. There was no bravado in the man who had
+fought so bravely in all the battles of the Mexican War. He says: "As we
+approached the brow of the hill from which it was expected we could see
+Harris' camp, and possibly find his men ready formed to meet us, my
+heart kept getting higher and higher until it felt to me as though it
+was in my throat. I would have given anything then to have been back in
+Illinois, but I had not the moral courage to halt and consider what to
+do; I kept right on. When we reached a point from which the valley below
+was in full view, I halted. The place where Harris had been encamped a
+few days before was still there, and the marks of a recent encampment
+were plainly visible, but the troops were gone. My heart resumed its
+place. It occurred to me at once that Harris had been as much afraid of
+me as I had been of him. This was a view of the question I had never
+taken before, but it was one I never forgot afterwards. From that event
+to the close of the war, I never experienced trepidation upon
+confronting an enemy, though I always felt more or less anxiety. I never
+forgot that he had as much reason to fear my forces as I had his. The
+lesson was valuable."
+
+Soon after this Lincoln asked the Illinois delegation in Congress to
+recommend some citizens of the State for the position of
+brigadier-general, and Grant, to his great surprise, was recommended
+first on a list of seven. After his appointment he spent several weeks
+in Missouri, whither he had been ordered. His first battle was at
+Belmont, where, in a severe engagement of four hours, the loss on our
+side was 485, and the Confederate loss 642. Grant's horse was shot under
+him. After the battle the Confederates received reenforcements, and
+there was danger that our men could not return to the transports on
+which they had come to Belmont. "We are surrounded," they cried.
+
+"Well," said their cool leader, "if that be so, we must cut our way out
+as we cut our way in;" and so they did.
+
+Grant, meantime, rode out into a cornfield alone to observe the enemy.
+While there, as he afterwards learned, the Southern General Polk and one
+of his staff saw the Union soldier, and said to their men, "There is a
+Yankee; you may try your marksmanship on him if you wish;" but,
+strangely enough, nobody fired, and Grant's valuable life was spared.
+
+He soon perceived that he was the only man between the Confederates and
+the boats. His horse seemed to realize the situation. Grant says: "There
+was no path down the bank, and every one acquainted with the Mississippi
+River knows that its banks, in a natural state, do not vary at any great
+angle from the perpendicular. My horse put his fore feet over the bank
+without hesitation or urging, and, with his hind feet well under him,
+slid down the bank and trotted aboard the boat, twelve or fifteen feet
+away, over a single gangplank. I dismounted and went at once to the
+upper deck.... When I first went on deck I entered the captain's room,
+adjoining the pilot-house, and threw myself on a sofa. I did not keep
+that position a moment, but rose to go out on the deck to observe what
+was going on. I had scarcely left when a musket-ball entered the room,
+struck the head of the sofa, passed through it, and lodged in the boat."
+Thus again was his life saved.
+
+Until February of the following year, 1862, little was done by the
+troops, except to become ready for the great work before them. The enemy
+occupied strong points on the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers, at Forts
+Henry and Donelson, points as essential to us as to them. These Grant
+determined to take, if possible. Truly said President Lincoln, "Wherever
+Grant is things move. I have noticed that from the beginning."
+
+On February 2 the expedition started against Fort Henry, with about
+seventeen thousand men. Several gun-boats, under Commodore Foote,
+accompanied the army. At a given hour the troops and gun-boats moved
+together, the one to invest the garrison, the other to attack the fort.
+After a severe fight of an hour and a half every gun was silenced.
+General Lloyd Tilghman surrendered, with his seventeen heavy guns,
+ammunition, and stores.
+
+Fort Donelson must now be taken, strongly fortified as it was. It stood
+on high ground, with rifle-pits running back two miles from the river,
+and was defended by fifteen heavy guns, two carronades, and sixty-five
+pieces of artillery. Outside the rifle-pits, trees had been felled, so
+that the tops lay toward the attacking army. Our men had no shelter from
+the snow and rain in this midwinter siege. No campfires could be allowed
+where the enemy could see them. In the march from Fort Henry to Fort
+Donelson numbers of the tired troops had thrown away their blankets and
+overcoats, and there was much real suffering. But war means discomfort
+and woe as well as death itself.
+
+At three o'clock, February 14, Commodore Foote's gun-boats attacked the
+water batteries, and after a severe encounter several of them were
+disabled. The one upon which the commodore stood was hit about sixty
+times, one shot killing the pilot, carrying away the wheel, and wounding
+the commander. The night came on intensely cold. The next morning, the
+enemy, taking heart, came against the national forces to cut their way
+out. Then Grant rode among his men, saying, "Whichever party first
+attacks now will whip, and the rebels will have to be very quick if they
+beat me.... Fill your cartridge-boxes quick, and get into line; the
+enemy is trying to escape, and he must not be permitted to do so."
+
+Our men worked their way through the abatis of trees, took the outer
+line of rifle-pits, and bivouacked within the enemy's lines. A driving
+storm of snow and hail set in, and many soldiers were frozen on that
+dismal night. There must have been little sleep amid the firing of the
+Confederate pickets and the groans of the wounded on that frozen ground.
+
+During the night the Confederate Generals Floyd and Pillow left the fort
+with three thousand men and Forrest with another thousand. On the
+morning of February 16, Brigadier-General S. B. Buckner sent a note to
+General Grant, suggesting an armistice. The following reply was returned
+at once:--
+
+     "Sir,--Yours of this date, proposing armistice and appointment of
+     commissioners to settle terms of capitulation, is just received. No
+     terms except an unconditional and immediate surrender can be
+     accepted. I propose to move immediately upon your works."
+
+From that day U. S. Grant became to the people of the North
+"Unconditional Surrender" Grant; precious words, indeed, to the army as
+well as the people, to whom decisive action meant peace at last.
+
+General Buckner considered the terms "ungenerous and unchivalrous," but
+he surrendered his sixty-five guns, seventeen thousand six hundred small
+arms, and nearly fifteen thousand troops. Our loss in killed, wounded,
+and missing was about two thousand; the Confederate loss was believed to
+be about twenty-five hundred.
+
+This victory, the first great victory of the war, caused much rejoicing
+at the North, and Grant was at once made major-general of volunteers.
+Two weeks from this time he was virtually under arrest for not
+conforming to orders which he never received, but he was soon restored
+to his position. The country was to learn later, what Lincoln learned
+early in the war, that one head for an army is better than several
+heads.
+
+The next great battle under Grant was at Shiloh, near Pittsburg Landing.
+On the morning of April 6, 1862, the Confederates, under General Albert
+Sidney Johnston and Beauregard, rushed upon the national lines. All day
+Sunday the battle raged, and at night the Union forces had fallen back a
+mile in the rear of their position in the morning. Sherman, who
+commanded the ridge on which stood the log meeting-house of Shiloh, was
+twice shot, once in the hand and once in the shoulder, a third ball
+passing through his hat. Grant could well say of this brave officer, "I
+never deemed it important to stay long with Sherman."
+
+During the night after the desperate battle the rain fell in torrents
+upon the two armies, who slept upon their arms. General Grant's
+headquarters were under a tree, a few hundred yards back from the river.
+"Some time after midnight," he says, "growing restive under the storm
+and the continuous rain, I moved back to the log house under the bank.
+This had been taken as a hospital, and all night wounded men were
+brought in, their wounds dressed, a leg or an arm amputated, as the case
+might require, and everything being done to save life or alleviate
+suffering. The sight was more unendurable than encountering the enemy's
+fire, and I returned to my tree in the rain."
+
+In battle, the great general could look on men falling about him
+apparently unmoved; when the battle was over, he could not bear the
+sight of pain. The men revered him, because, while he led them into
+death, he almost surely led them into victory.
+
+On April 7 the battle raged all along the line, and the enemy were
+everywhere driven back. At three o'clock Grant gathered up a couple of
+regiments, formed them into line of battle, and marched them forward,
+going in front himself to prevent long-range firing. The command
+"Charge" was given, and it was executed with loud cheers and a run, and
+the enemy broke. Grant came near losing his life. A ball struck the
+metal scabbard of his sword, just below the hilt, and broke it nearly
+off. Night closed upon a victorious Union army, but the victory had been
+gained at a fearful cost.
+
+"Shiloh," says General Grant, "was the severest battle fought at the
+West during the war, and but few in the East equalled it for hard,
+determined fighting. I saw an open field, in our possession on the
+second day, over which the Confederates had made repeated charges the
+day before, so covered with dead that it would have been possible to
+walk across the clearing, in any direction, stepping on dead bodies,
+without a foot touching the ground. On our side national and Confederate
+troops were mingled together in about equal proportions; but on the
+remainder of the field nearly all were Confederates. On one part, which
+had evidently not been ploughed for several years, probably because the
+land was poor, bushes had grown up, some to the height of eight or ten
+feet. There was not one of these left standing unpierced by bullets.
+The smaller ones were all cut down."
+
+During the first day the brave Albert Sidney Johnston was wounded. He
+would not leave the battle-field, but continued in the saddle, giving
+commands, till, exhausted by loss of blood, he was taken from his horse,
+and died soon after. The Union loss was reported to be over thirteen
+thousand. Some estimate the losses as not less than fifteen thousand on
+each side. Up to this time, Grant had hoped that a few such victories as
+Fort Donelson would dishearten the South; now he saw that conquest alone
+could compel peace, with a brave and heroic people, of our own blood and
+race. From this time the work of laying waste the enemy's country began,
+with the hope that the sooner supplies were exhausted the sooner peace
+would be possible.
+
+On October 25, the battle of Corinth having been fought October 3,
+General Grant was placed in command of the Department of the Tennessee,
+and began the Vicksburg campaign. The capture of this place would afford
+free navigation of the Mississippi. For three months plan after plan was
+tried for the reduction of this almost impregnable position. Sherman
+made a direct attack at the only point where a landing was practicable,
+and failed. Grant's army was stationed on the west bank of the river, on
+marshy ground, full of malaria, from recent rains. The troops were ill
+of fever, measles, and small-pox, and many died. There could be found
+scarcely enough dry land on which to pitch their tents.
+
+It was finally decided to cut a canal across the peninsula in front of
+Vicksburg, that the gun-boats might safely pass through to a point below
+the city. Four thousand men began work on the canal, but a sudden rise
+in the river broke the dam and stopped the work. A second method was
+tried, by breaking levees and widening and connecting streams between
+Lake Providence, seventy miles above Vicksburg, through the Red River,
+into the Mississippi again four hundred miles below, but this project
+was soon abandoned. Meantime, the North had become restless, and many
+clamored for Grant's removal, declaring him incompetent, but, amid all
+the reproaches, he kept silent. When Lincoln was urged to make a change,
+he said simply, "I rather like the man; I think we'll try him a little
+longer!"
+
+At length it was decided to attempt to run the gun-boats past the
+batteries, march the troops down the west bank of the river, cross over
+to the east side, and attack the rear of Vicksburg. The steamers were
+protected as far as possible with bales of hay, cotton, and grain, for
+the boilers could not bear the enemy's fire. On the 16th of April, 1863,
+on a dark night, the fleet was ready for the dangerous passage. As soon
+as the boats were discovered, the batteries opened fire, piles of
+combustibles being lighted along the shore that proper aim might be
+taken against the fleet. Every transport was struck. As fast as the
+shots made holes, the men put cotton bags in the openings. For nearly
+three hours the eight gun-boats and three steamers were under a
+merciless fire. The Henry Clay was disabled, and soon set on fire by the
+bursting of a shell in the cotton packed about her boilers. Grant
+watched the passage of the fleet from a steamer in the river, and felt
+relieved as though the victory were close at hand.
+
+Soon after, the whole force of thirty-three thousand men were crossed
+below Vicksburg. Fifty miles to the east, the Confederate General Joseph
+E. Johnston had a large army, which must be crippled before Vicksburg
+could be besieged. Port Gibson, near the river, was first taken by our
+troops; then Raymond, May 12; Jackson, May 18; Champion Hill, May 16;
+and then Black River Bridge. Grant had beaten Johnston in the rear; now
+he must beat Pemberton with his nearly fifty thousand men shut up in
+Vicksburg.
+
+On May 19, the city of Vicksburg was completely invested by our troops.
+Says General Grant, "Five distinct battles had been fought and won by
+the Union forces; the capital of the State had fallen, and its arsenals,
+military manufactories, and everything useful for military purposes had
+been destroyed; an average of about one hundred and eighty miles had
+been marched by the troops engaged; but five days' rations had been
+issued, and no forage; over six thousand prisoners had been captured,
+and as many more of the enemy had been killed or wounded; twenty-seven
+heavy cannon, and sixty-one field-pieces had fallen into our hands; and
+four hundred miles of the river, from Vicksburg to Port Hudson, had
+become ours."
+
+And now the siege began. By June 30, there were two hundred and twenty
+guns in position, besides a battery of heavy guns, manned and commanded
+by the navy. The besiegers had no mortars, save those of the navy in
+front of the city, but they took tough logs, bored them out for six or
+twelve-pound shells, bound them with strong iron bands, and used them
+effectively in the trenches of the enemy.
+
+The eyes of the whole country were centred on Vicksburg. Mines were dug
+by both armies, and exploded. Among the few men who reached the ground
+alive after having been thrown up by the explosions was a colored man,
+badly frightened. Some one asked how high he had gone up. "Dunno, massa;
+but tink 'bout t'ree mile," was the reply.
+
+Meantime, the people in Vicksburg were living in caves and cellars to
+escape the shot and shell. Starvation began to stare them in the face.
+Flour was sold at five dollars a pound; molasses at ten and twelve
+dollars a gallon. Yet the brave people held out against surrender. A
+Confederate woman, says General Badeau, in his graphic "Military History
+of U. S. Grant," asked Grant, tauntingly, as he stopped at her house for
+water, if he ever expected to get into Vicksburg.
+
+"Certainly," he replied.
+
+"But when?"
+
+"I cannot tell exactly when I shall take the town; but _I mean to stay
+here till I do, if it takes me thirty years_."
+
+All through the siege, the men of both armies talked to each other; the
+Confederates and Unionists calling each other respectively "Yanks" and
+"Johnnies." "Well, Yank, when are you coming into town?"
+
+"We propose to celebrate the Fourth of July there, Johnnie."
+
+The Vicksburg paper said, prior to the Fourth, in speaking of the Yankee
+boast that they would take dinner in Vicksburg that day, "The best
+receipt for cooking a rabbit is, 'First ketch your rabbit!'" The last
+number of the paper was issued on July 4, and said, "The Yankees have
+caught the rabbit."
+
+On July 3, at ten o'clock, white flags began to appear on the enemy's
+works, and two men were seen coming towards the Union lines, bearing a
+white flag. They bore a message from General Pemberton, asking that an
+armistice be granted, and three commissioners appointed to confer with a
+like number named by Grant. "I make this proposition to save the further
+effusion of blood," said General Pemberton, "which must otherwise be
+shed to a frightful extent, feeling myself fully able to maintain my
+position for a yet indefinite period."
+
+To this Grant replied: "The useless effusion of blood you propose
+stopping by this course can be ended at any time you choose, by the
+unconditional surrender of the city and garrison. Men who have shown so
+much endurance and courage as those now in Vicksburg will always
+challenge the respect of an adversary, and, I can assure you, will be
+treated with all the respect due to prisoners of war."
+
+In the afternoon of July 3, Grant and Pemberton met under a stunted
+oak-tree, a few hundred yards from the Confederate lines. They had known
+each other in the Mexican War. A kindly conference was held, and
+honorable terms of surrender agreed upon, the officers taking their
+side-arms and clothing, and staff and cavalry officers one horse each.
+When the men passed out of the works they had so gallantly defended, not
+a cheer went up from our men nor was a remark made that could cause
+pain. The garrison surrendered at Vicksburg numbered over thirty-one
+thousand men, with sixty thousand muskets, and over one hundred and
+seventy cannon. Five days later, Port Hudson, lower on the river,
+surrendered, with six thousand prisoners and fifty-one guns.
+
+There was great rejoicing at the North. Lincoln wrote to Grant: "My dear
+general, I do not remember that you and I have ever met personally. I
+write this now as a grateful acknowledgment for the almost inestimable
+service you have done the country. I write to say a word further. When
+you first reached the vicinity of Vicksburg, I thought you should do
+what you finally did, march the troops across the neck, run the
+batteries with the transports, and then go below; and I never had any
+faith, except a general hope that you knew better than I, that the Yazoo
+Pass expedition and the like could succeed. When you got below and took
+Port Gibson, Grand Gulf, and vicinity, I thought you should go down the
+river and join General Banks, and when you turned northward, east of the
+Big Black, I feared it was a mistake. I wish now to make the personal
+acknowledgment that you were right and I was wrong."
+
+Rare is that soul which is able to see itself in the wrong, and rarer
+still one which has the generosity to acknowledge it.
+
+In October, Grant, who had now been made a major-general in the regular
+army, as he had before been appointed to the same rank in the
+volunteers, was placed in command of the military division of the
+Mississippi. Later he defeated Bragg at Chattanooga, November 24 and 25,
+1863, in the memorable battles of Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain.
+General Halleck said in his annual report, "Considering the strength of
+the rebel position and the difficulty of storming his intrenchments, the
+battle of Chattanooga must be considered the most remarkable in history.
+Not only did the officers and men exhibit great skill and daring in
+their operations on the field, but the highest praise is due to the
+commanding general for his admirable dispositions for dislodging the
+enemy from a position apparently impregnable."
+
+How our brave men fought at Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain has
+never been more graphically and touchingly told than by the late
+lamented Benjamin F. Taylor: "They dash out a little way and then
+slacken; they creep up hand over hand, loading and firing, and wavering
+and halting, from the first line of works to the second; they burst into
+a charge, with a cheer, and go over it. Sheets of flame baptize them;
+plunging shots tear away comrades on left and right; it is no longer
+shoulder to shoulder; it is God for us all! Under tree-trunks, among
+rocks, stumbling over the dead, struggling with the living, facing the
+steady fire of eight thousand infantry poured down upon their heads as
+if it were the old historic curse from heaven, they wrestle with the
+Ridge. Ten, fifteen, twenty minutes go by, like a reluctant century. The
+batteries roll like a drum. Between the second and last lines of rebel
+works is the torrid zone of the battle. The hill sways up like a wall
+before them at an angle of forty-five degrees, but our brave
+mountaineers are clambering steadily on--up--upward still!... They seem
+to be spurning the dull earth under their feet, and going up to do
+Homeric battle with the greater gods."
+
+When this costly victory had been gained, President Lincoln appointed a
+day of national thanksgiving. Congress passed a unanimous vote of thanks
+to Grant and his officers and men, and ordered a medal to be struck in
+his honor: his face on one side, surrounded by a laurel wreath; on the
+other side, Fame seated on the American eagle, holding in her right hand
+a scroll with the words, Corinth, Vicksburg, Mississippi River, and
+Chattanooga.
+
+Early in 1864, a distinguished honor was paid him. Since the death of
+Washington, only one man had been appointed a lieutenant-general in the
+army of the United States,--Winfield Scott. Congress now revived this
+grade, and on March 1, 1864, Lincoln appointed Grant to this position.
+On March 9, before the President and his cabinet, his commission was
+formally presented to him, Lincoln saying, "As the country herein trusts
+you, so, under God, it will sustain you." Grant now had all the Union
+armies under his control--over seven hundred thousand men. When he was
+in the Galena leather store, men said his life was a failure! Was it a
+failure now? And yet he was the same modest, unostentatious man as when
+he tried farming to support his beloved family.
+
+Immediately Grant planned two great campaigns: one against Richmond,
+which was defended by Lee; the other against Atlanta, under Sherman,
+defended by Joseph E. Johnston. Sherman's march to the sea immortalized
+him; Grant's march to Richmond was the crowning success in the greatest
+of modern wars. President Lincoln reposed the utmost confidence in
+Grant. He wrote him: "The particulars of your plans I neither know nor
+seek to know. You are vigilant and self-reliant, and, pleased with this,
+I wish not to obtrude any constraints or restraints upon you. While I
+am very anxious that any great disaster or the capture of our men in
+great numbers shall be avoided, I know these points are less likely to
+escape your attention than they would be mine. If there is anything
+wanting which is within my power to give, do not fail to let me know it.
+And now, with a brave army and a just cause, may God sustain you."
+
+The end was coming. On May 4, 1864, Grant crossed the Rapidan with the
+Army of the Potomac, about one hundred and twenty thousand men,
+intending to put his forces between Lee and Richmond. Lee, perceiving
+this design, met the army at the Wilderness, a portion of country
+covered by a dense forest. The undergrowth was so heavy that it was
+scarcely possible to see more than one hundred paces in any direction.
+All day long, May 5, a bloody battle was waged in the woods.
+
+Says Private Frank Wilkeson, "I heard the hum of bullets as they passed
+over the low trees. Then I noticed that small limbs of trees were
+falling in a feeble shower in advance of me. It was as though an army of
+squirrels were at work cutting off nut and pine-cone laden branches
+preparatory to laying in their winter's store of food. Then, partially
+obscured by a cloud of powder smoke, I saw a straggling line of men clad
+in blue. They were not standing as if on parade, but they were taking
+advantage of the cover afforded by trees, and they were firing rapidly.
+Their line officers were standing behind them or in line with them. The
+smoke drifted to and fro, and there were many rifts in it.... We had
+charged, and charged, and charged again, and had gone wild with battle
+fever. We had gained about two miles of ground. We were doing
+splendidly. I cast my eyes upward to see the sun, so as to judge of the
+time, as I was hungry, and wanted to eat, and I saw that it was still
+low above the trees. The Confederates seemed to be fighting more
+stubbornly, fighting as though their battle-line was being fed with more
+troops. They hung on to the ground they occupied tenaciously, and
+resolutely refused to fall back further. Then came a swish of bullets
+and a fierce exultant yell, as of thousands of infuriated tigers. Our
+men fell by scores. Great gaps were struck in our lines. There was a
+lull for an instant, and then Longstreet's men sprang to the charge. It
+was swiftly and bravely made, and was within an ace of being successful.
+There was great confusion in our line. The men wavered badly. They fired
+wildly. They hesitated.... The regimental officers held their men as
+well as they could. We could hear them close behind us, or in line with
+us, saying, 'Steady, men, steady, steady, steady!' as one speaks to
+frightened and excited horses."
+
+Grant says, "More desperate fighting has not been witnessed on this
+continent than that of May 5 and 6.... The ground fought over had varied
+in width, but averaged three-quarters of a mile. The killed and many of
+the severely wounded of both armies lay within this belt where it was
+impossible to reach them. The woods were set on fire by the bursting
+shells, and the conflagration raged. The wounded who had not strength to
+move themselves were either suffocated or burned to death. Finally the
+fire communicated with our breastworks in places. Being constructed of
+wood, they burned with great fury. But the battle still raged, our men
+firing through the flames until it became too hot to remain longer."
+
+After a loss of from fourteen to fifteen thousand men on each side, Lee
+remained in his intrenchments and Grant still moved on toward Richmond.
+The armies met at Spottsylvania Court-House, and here was fought one of
+the bloodiest battles of the war, with about the same loss as in the
+Wilderness. Sometimes the conflict was hand to hand, men using their
+guns as clubs, being too close to fire. In one place a tree, eighteen
+inches in diameter, was cut entirely down by musket balls. Grant wrote
+to Washington, May 11: "We have now ended the sixth day of very hard
+fighting. The result up to this time is much in our favor. But our
+losses have been heavy, as well as those of the enemy. We have lost to
+this time eleven general officers killed, wounded, and missing, and
+probably twenty thousand men. I think the loss of the enemy must be
+greater. We have taken over four thousand prisoners in battle, whilst he
+has taken from us but few except a few stragglers. I am now sending
+back to Belle Plain all my wagons for a fresh supply of provisions and
+ammunition, and purpose _to fight it out on this line if it takes all
+summer_."
+
+After this came the battles of Drury's Bluff, North Anna, Totopotomoy,
+and Cold Harbor, with its brilliant assault and deadly repulse, with a
+loss of from ten to fourteen thousand men on the latter field.
+
+Lee had now been driven so near to Richmond, and the swamps of the
+Chickahominy were so impassable, that Grant determined to move his army,
+one hundred and fifteen thousand men, south of the James River and
+attack Richmond in the rear. The move was hazardous, but he reached City
+Point safely. General Butler here joined him, and the siege of
+Petersburg, twenty miles below Richmond, began, and was continued
+through the winter and spring.
+
+On July 30, 1864, a mine was exploded under one of the enemy's forts.
+The gallery to the mine was over five hundred feet long from where it
+entered the ground to the point where it was under the enemy's works.
+Eight chambers had been left, requiring a ton of powder each to charge
+them. It exploded at five o'clock in the morning, making a crater twenty
+feet deep and about one hundred feet in length. Instantly one hundred
+and ten cannon and fifty mortars commenced work to cover our troops as
+they entered the enemy's lines. "The effort," says Grant, "was a
+stupendous failure. It cost us about four thousand men, mostly,
+however, captured, and all due to inefficiency on the part of the corps
+commander and the incompetency of the division commander who was sent to
+lead the assault."
+
+Meanwhile Sheridan had destroyed the power of the South in the
+Shenandoah valley. Again the army began its march toward Richmond. On
+April 1, 1865, the battle of Five Forks was fought, nearly six thousand
+Confederates being taken prisoners; then Petersburg was captured, and on
+April 3 General Weitzel took possession of Richmond, the enemy having
+evacuated it, the city having been set on fire before their departure.
+
+For five days Lee's army was pursued with more or less fighting. On
+April 7, Grant wrote a letter to Lee, saying: "The results of the last
+week must convince you of the hopelessness of further resistance on the
+part of the Army of Northern Virginia in this struggle. I feel that it
+is so, and regard it as my duty to shift from myself the responsibility
+of any further effusion of blood, by asking of you the surrender of that
+portion of the Confederate States Army known as the Army of Northern
+Virginia."
+
+Lee replied, "I reciprocate your desire to avoid useless effusion of
+blood, and therefore, before considering your proposition, ask the terms
+you will offer on condition of its surrender."
+
+The answer came: "Peace being my great desire, there is but one
+condition I would insist upon, namely: that the men and officers
+surrendered shall be disqualified for taking up arms again against the
+government of the United States, until properly exchanged."
+
+A place of meeting was designated, and on April 9 Grant and Lee met at
+the house of a Mr. McLean, at Appomattox Court-House. Grant says, "When
+I had left camp that morning, I had not expected so soon the result that
+was then taking place, and consequently was in rough garb, and I was
+without a sword, as I usually was when on horseback on the field, and
+wore a soldier's blouse for a coat, with the shoulder-straps of my rank
+to indicate to the army who I was. When I went into the house I found
+General Lee. We greeted each other, and, after shaking hands, took our
+seats. I had my staff with me, a good portion of whom were in the room
+during the whole of the interview.
+
+"What General Lee's feelings were I do not know. As he was a man of much
+dignity, with an impassible face, it was impossible to say whether he
+felt inwardly glad that the end had finally come, or felt sad over the
+result, and was too manly to show it. Whatever his feelings, they were
+entirely concealed from my observation; but my own feelings, which had
+been quite jubilant on the receipt of his letter, were sad and
+depressed. I felt like anything rather than rejoicing at the downfall of
+a foe who had fought so long and valiantly, and had suffered so much for
+a cause, though that cause was, I believe, one of the worst for which a
+people ever fought, and one for which there was the least excuse. I do
+not question, however, the sincerity of the great mass of those who were
+opposed to us.
+
+"General Lee was dressed in a full uniform which was entirely new, and
+was wearing a sword of considerable value, very likely the sword which
+had been presented by the State of Virginia; at all events, it was an
+entirely different sword from the one that would ordinarily be worn in
+the field. In my rough travelling suit, the uniform of a private, with
+the straps of a lieutenant-general, I must have contrasted very
+strangely with a man so handsomely dressed, six feet high, and of
+faultless form. But this was not a matter that I thought of until
+afterwards."
+
+When the terms of surrender were completed, Lee remarked that his men
+had been living for some days on parched corn exclusively, and asked for
+rations and forage, which were cordially granted. "When news of the
+surrender first reached our lines," says Grant, "our men commenced
+firing a salute of a hundred guns in honor of the victory. I at once
+sent word, however, to have it stopped. The Confederates were now our
+prisoners, and we did not want to exult over their downfall." True and
+noble spirit! Twenty-seven thousand five hundred and sixteen officers
+and men were paroled at Appomattox. At the North, crowds came together
+to pray and give thanks, in the churches, that the war was over.
+Mourning garb seemed to be in every house, and the joy was sanctified by
+tears. The Army of the Potomac marched to Washington, and was disbanded
+June 30.
+
+The great war was ended. In July, 1866, Congress created the rank of
+general for the heroic, true-hearted, grand man, of quiet manner but
+indomitable will, who had saved the Union. He was now but forty-four
+years of age, and what a record!
+
+Two years later, in 1868, at the Chicago Republican national convention.
+Grant was unanimously nominated to the presidency. After the
+assassination of Lincoln, and the disagreement between Congress and
+Andrew Johnson in the matter of reconstruction, it was believed that
+Grant would "settle things." To the committee from the convention who
+announced his nomination to him, he said, "I shall have no policy of my
+own to enforce against the will of the people."
+
+During the eight years of Grant's presidency, from 1869 to 1877, the
+country was prosperous, save the financial depression of 1873. The
+Alabama claims were settled, whereby our country received from Great
+Britain fifteen million five hundred thousand dollars damages. Grant
+favored the annexation of the island of Santo Domingo, but the measure
+was defeated by Congress. The International Exposition was held in
+Philadelphia in 1876, with an average daily attendance, for five months,
+of over sixty-one thousand persons. While a large number of the people
+advocated a third term for General Grant, a nation loving freedom
+hesitated to establish such a precedent, and Rutherford B. Hayes was
+chosen President. It was well, in the exciting times preceding this
+election, when the number of votes for Hayes and Tilden was decided by
+an electoral commission, that a strong hand was on the helm of State, to
+keep the peace.
+
+After all these years of labor, General Grant determined to make the
+tour of the world, and, with his family and a few others, sailed for
+Europe, May 17, 1877. From the moment they arrived on the other side of
+the ocean to their return, no American ever received such an ovation as
+Grant. Thousands crowded the docks at Liverpool, and the mayor gave an
+address of welcome. At Manchester, ten thousand people listened to his
+brief address. "As I have been aware," he said, "for years of the great
+amount of your manufactures, many of which find their ultimate
+destination in my own country, so I am aware that the sentiments of the
+great mass of the people of Manchester went out in sympathy to that
+country during the mighty struggle in which it fell to my lot to take
+some humble part."
+
+In London, the present Duke of Wellington gave him a grand banquet at
+Apsley House. At Marlborough House, the Prince of Wales gave him private
+audience. The freedom of the city of London was presented to him in a
+gold casket, supported by golden American eagles, standing on a velvet
+plinth decorated with stars and stripes. He and his family dined with
+the Queen, at Windsor Castle.
+
+In Scotland, the freedom of the city of Edinburgh was conferred upon
+him. At a grand ovation at Newcastle, between forty and fifty thousand
+people were gathered on the moor to see the illustrious general. To the
+International Arbitration Union in Birmingham he said, "Nothing would
+afford me greater happiness than to know, as I believe will be the case,
+that at some future day the nations of the earth will agree upon some
+sort of congress which shall take cognizance of international questions
+of difficulty, and whose decisions will be as binding as the decision of
+our Supreme Court is binding upon us." In Belgium, the king called upon
+him, and gave a royal banquet in his honor. In Berlin, Bismarck called
+twice to see him, shaking hands cordially, and saying, "Glad to welcome
+General Grant to Germany." In Turkey, he was presented with some
+beautiful Arabian horses by the Sultan. King Humbert of Italy and the
+Czar of Russia showed him marked attentions. In Norway and Sweden,
+Spain, China, Egypt, and India, he was everywhere received as the most
+distinguished general of the age.
+
+On his return to America, at San Francisco and Sacramento, thousands
+gathered to see him. At Chicago, he said, in addressing the Army of the
+Tennessee, "Let us be true to ourselves, avoid all bitterness and
+ill-feeling, either on the part of sections or parties toward each
+other, and we need have no fear in future of maintaining the stand we
+have taken among nations, so far as opposition from foreign nations
+goes." In Philadelphia, where he was royally entertained by his friend
+Mr. George W. Childs, he said to the Grand Army of the Republic, "What I
+want to impress upon you is that you have a country to be proud of, and
+a country to fight for, and a country to die for if need be.... In no
+other country is the young and energetic man given such a chance by
+industry and frugality to acquire a competence for himself and family as
+in America. Abroad it is difficult for the poor man to make his way at
+all. All that is necessary is to know this in order that we may become
+better citizens." On his return to New York, he was presented by his
+friends with a home in that city, and also with the gift of two hundred
+and fifty thousand dollars.
+
+He was soon prevailed upon to enter a banking firm with Ferdinand Ward
+and James D. Fish. The bank failed, Grant found himself financially
+ruined, and the two partners were sent to prison. He was now to struggle
+again for a living, as in the early days in the Galena leather store. A
+timely offer came from the _Century_ magazine, to write his experiences
+in the Civil War. Very simply, so that an uneducated person could
+understand, Grant modestly and fairly described the great battles in
+which he was of necessity the central figure. Unused to literary labor,
+he bent himself to the task, working seven and eight hours a day.
+
+On October 22, 1884, cancer developed in the throat, and for nine months
+Grant fought with death, till the two great volumes of his memoirs could
+be completed and given to the world, that his family might not be left
+dependent. Early in June, 1885, as he was failing rapidly, he was taken
+to Mt. McGregor, near Saratoga, where a cottage had been offered him by
+Mr. Joseph W. Drexel. He worked now more heroically than ever, till the
+last page was written, with the words: "The war has made us a nation of
+great power and intelligence. We have but little to do to preserve
+peace, happiness, and prosperity at home, and the respect of other
+nations. Our experience ought to teach us the necessity of the first;
+our power secures the latter.
+
+"I feel that we are on the eve of a new era, when there is to be great
+harmony between the Federal and Confederate. I cannot stay to be a
+living witness to the correctness of this prophecy; but I feel it within
+me that it is to be so. The universally kind feeling expressed for me at
+a time when it was supposed that each day would prove my last seemed to
+me the beginning of the answer to 'Let us have peace.'"
+
+Night and day the nation watched for tidings from the bedside of the
+dying hero. At last, in July, when he knew that the end was near, he
+wrote an affectionate letter to the Julia Dent whom he had loved in his
+early manhood, and put it in his pocket, that she might read it after
+all was over. "Look after our dear children, and direct them in the
+paths of rectitude. It would distress me far more to think that one of
+them could depart from an honorable, upright, and virtuous life, than it
+would to know that they were prostrated on a bed of sickness from which
+they were never to arise alive. They have never given us any cause for
+alarm on their account, and I earnestly pray they never will.
+
+"With these few injunctions and the knowledge I have of your love and
+affection, and of the dutiful affection of all our children, I bid you a
+final farewell, until we meet in another, and, I trust, a better world.
+You will find this on my person after my demise." Blessed home
+affection, that brightens all the journey, and makes human nature
+well-nigh divine!
+
+On July 23, 1885, a few minutes before eight o'clock in the morning, the
+end came. In the midst of his children, Colonel Frederick, Ulysses,
+Jesse, and Nellie Grant-Sartoris, and his grandchildren, his wife
+bending over him, he sank to rest. In every city and town in the land
+there was genuine sorrow. Letters of sympathy came from all parts of the
+world. Before the body was put in its purple casket, the eldest son
+placed a plain gold ring upon the little finger of the right hand, the
+gift years before of his wife, but which had grown too large for the
+emaciated finger in life. In his pocket was placed a tiny package
+containing a lock of Mrs. Grant's hair, in a good-bye letter. Sweet and
+beautiful thought, to bury with our dead something which belongs to a
+loved one, that they may not sleep entirely alone!
+
+"We shall wake, and remember, and understand." Let the world laugh at
+sentiment outwardly--the hearts of those who laugh are often hungering
+for affection!
+
+The body, dressed in citizen's clothes, without military, was laid in
+the casket. Then, in the little cottage on the mountain-top, Dr. Newman,
+his pastor, gave a beautiful address, from the words, "Well done, thou
+good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." "His
+was the genius of common-sense, enabling him to contemplate all things
+in their true relations, judging what is true, useful, proper,
+expedient, and to adopt the best means to accomplish the largest ends.
+From this came his seriousness, thoughtfulness, penetration,
+discernment, firmness, enthusiasm, triumph.... Temperate without
+austerity; cautious without fear; brave without rashness; serious
+without melancholy, he was cheerful without frivolity. His constancy was
+not obstinacy; his adaptation was not fickleness. His hopefulness was
+not utopian. His love of justice was equalled only by his delight in
+compassion, and neither was sacrificed to the other.... The keenest,
+closest, broadest of all observers, he was the most silent of men. He
+lived within himself. His thought-life was most intense. His memory and
+his imagination were picture galleries of the world and libraries of
+treasured thought. He was a world to himself. His most intimate friends
+knew him only in part. He was fully and best known only to the wife of
+his bosom and the children of his loins. To them the man of iron will
+and nerve of steel was gentle, tender, and confiding, and to them he
+unfolded his beautiful religious life."
+
+After the services, the body of the great soldier was placed upon the
+funeral car, and conveyed to Albany, where it lay in state at the
+Capitol. At midnight dirges were sung, while eager multitudes passed by
+looking upon the face of the dead. Arriving in New York, the casket was
+laid in the midst of exquisite flowers in the City Hall. On this very
+day memorial services were held in Westminster Abbey, Canon Farrar
+delivering an eloquent address.
+
+During the first night at the City Hall, about fifteen thousand persons
+passed the coffin, and the next day ninety thousand; rich and poor,
+black and white; men, women, and little children. A man on crutches
+hobbled past the casket, bowed with grief. "Move on," said one of the
+guards of honor. "Yes," replied the old man, "as well as I can I will. I
+left this leg in the Wilderness." An aged woman wept as she said, "Oh!
+general, I gave you my husband, my sons, and my son's beautiful boys."
+
+On August 8, General Grant was laid in his tomb at Riverside Park, on
+the Hudson River, a million people joining in the sad funeral
+ceremonies. The catafalque, with its black horses led by colored grooms,
+moved up the street, followed by a procession four miles long. When the
+tomb was reached, the casket, placed in a cedar covering, leaden lined,
+was again enclosed in a great steel casket, round like an immense
+boiler, weighing thirty-eight hundred pounds. The only touching memento
+left upon the coffin was a wreath of oak-leaves wrought together by his
+grandchild Julia, on his dying day, with the words, "To Grandpa." Guns
+were fired, and cannon reverberated through the valley, as the
+pall-bearers, Confederate and Union generals, turned their footsteps
+away from the resting-place of their great leader. It was fitting that
+North and South should unite in his burial. Here, too, will sometime be
+laid his wife, for before his death he exacted a promise from his oldest
+son: "Wherever I am buried, promise me that your mother shall be buried
+by my side." Already she has received over three hundred thousand
+dollars in royalty on the memoirs which he wrote in those last months of
+agony. Beautifully wrote Richard Watson Gilder:--
+
+  "All's over now; here let our captain rest,--
+    The conflict ended, past men's praise and blame;
+    Here let him rest, alone with his great fame,--
+  Here in the city's heart he loved the best,
+      And where our sons his tomb may see
+      To make them brave as he:--
+
+    "As brave as he,--he on whose iron arm
+    Our Greatest leaned, our gentlest and most wise,--
+    Leaned when all other help seemed mocking lies,
+  While this one soldier checked the tide of harm,
+      And they together saved the State,
+      And made it free and great."
+
+[Illustration: Signature J. A. Garfield]
+
+
+
+
+JAMES A. GARFIELD.
+
+
+Not far from where I write is a tall gray stone monument, in the form of
+a circular tower, lined with various polished marbles, and exquisite
+stained-glass windows. It stands on a hill-top in the centre of three
+acres of green lawn, looking out upon blue Lake Erie and the busy city
+of Cleveland, Ohio.
+
+Within this tower rests the body of one whom the nation honors, and will
+honor in all time to come; one who was nurtured in the wilderness that
+he might have a sweet, natural boyhood; who studied in the school of
+poverty that he might sympathize with the sons of toil; who grew to an
+ideal manhood, that other American boys might learn the lessons of a
+grand life, and profit by them.
+
+In the little town of Orange, Ohio, James Abram Garfield was born,
+November 19, 1831. The home into which he came was a log cabin, twenty
+by thirty feet, made of unhewn logs, laid one upon another, to the
+height of twelve feet or more, the space between the logs being filled
+with clay or mud. Three other children were in this home in the forest
+already; Mehetabel, Thomas, and Mary.
+
+Abram, the father, descended from Revolutionary ancestors, was a
+strong-bodied, strong-brained man, who moved from Worcester, Otsego
+County, New York, to test his fortune in the wilderness. In his boyhood,
+he had played with Eliza Ballou, descended from Maturin Ballou, a
+Huguenot, from France. She also at fourteen moved with her family from
+New Hampshire, into the Ohio wilderness. Abram was more attracted to
+Ohio for that reason. They renewed the affection of their childhood, and
+were married February 3, 1821, settling first in Newburg, near
+Cleveland, and later buying eighty acres in Orange, at two dollars an
+acre. Here their four children were born, seven miles from any other
+cabin.
+
+When the boy James was eighteen months old, a shadow settled over the
+home in the woods. A fire broke out in the forest, threatening to sweep
+away the Garfield cabin. For two hours one hot July day the father
+fought the flames, took a severe cold, and died suddenly, saying to his
+wife, "I have planted four saplings in these woods; I must now leave
+them to your care." He had kept his precious ones from being homeless,
+only to leave them fatherless. Who would have thought then that one of
+these saplings would grow into a mighty tree, admired by all the world?
+
+In a corner of the wheat-field, in a plain box, the young husband was
+buried. What should the mother do with her helpless flock? "Give them
+away," said some of the relatives, or "bind them out in far-away homes."
+
+"No," said the brave mother, and put her woman's hands to heavy work.
+She helped her boy Thomas, then nine years old, to split rails and fence
+in the wheat-field. She corded the wool of her sheep, wove the cloth,
+and made garments for her children. She sold enough land to pay off the
+mortgage, because she could not bear to be in debt, and then she and
+Mehetabel and Thomas ploughed and planted, and waited in faith and hope
+till the harvest came. When the food grew meagre she sang to her helpful
+children, and looked ever toward brighter days. And such days usually
+come to those who look for them.
+
+It was not enough to widow Garfield that her children were decently
+clothed and fed in this isolated home. They must be educated; but how? A
+log school-house was finally erected, she wisely giving a corner of her
+farm for the site. The scholars sat on split logs for benches, and
+learned to read and write and spell as best they could from their
+ordinary teaching. James was now nearly three, and went and sat all day
+on the hard benches with the rest.
+
+But a school-house was not sufficient for these New England pioneers;
+they must have a church building where they could worship. Mrs. Garfield
+loved her Bible, and had taught her children daily, so that James even
+knew its stories by heart, and many of its chapters. A church was
+therefore organized in the log school-house, and now they could work
+happily, year after year, wondering perchance what the future would
+bring.
+
+James began to show great fondness for reading. As he lay on the cabin
+floor, by the big fireplace, he read by its light his "English Reader,"
+"Robinson Crusoe" again and again, and, later, when he was twelve,
+"Josephus," and "Goodrich's History of the United States." He had worked
+on the farm for years; now he must earn some money for his mother by
+work for the neighbors. He had helped his brother Thomas in enlarging
+the house, and was sure that he could be a carpenter.
+
+Going to a Mr. Trent, he asked for work.
+
+"There is a pile of boards that I want planed," said the man, "and I
+will pay you one cent a board for planing."
+
+James began at once, and at the end of a long day, to the amazement of
+Mr. Trent, he had planed one hundred boards, each over twelve feet long,
+and proudly carried home one dollar to his mother. After this he helped
+to build a barn and a shed for a potashery establishment for leeching
+ashes. The manufacturer of the "black-salts" seemed to take a fancy to
+the lad, and offered him work at nine dollars a month and his board,
+which James accepted. In the evenings he studied arithmetic and read
+books about the sea. This arrangement might have continued for some time
+had not the daughter of the salt-maker remarked one evening to her
+beau, as they sat in the room where James was reading, "I should think
+it was time for _hired servants_ to be abed."
+
+James had not realized how the presence of a third party is apt to
+restrain the confidential conversation of lovers. He was hurt and
+angered by the words, and the next day gave up his work, and went home
+to his mother, to receive her sympathy and find employment elsewhere.
+Doubtless he was more careful, all his life, from this circumstance,
+lest he wound the feelings of others.
+
+Soon after this he heard that his uncle in Newburg was hiring
+wood-choppers. He immediately went to see him, and agreed to cut one
+hundred cords of wood, at twenty-five cents a cord. It was a man's work,
+but the boy of sixteen determined to do as much as a man. Each day he
+cut two cords, and at last carried twenty-five dollars to his mother; a
+small fortune, it seemed to the earnest boy.
+
+While he chopped wood he looked out wistfully upon Lake Erie, recalled
+the sea stories which he had read, and longed more than ever to become a
+sailor. The Orange woods were growing too cramped for him. He was
+restless and eager for a broader life. It was the unrest of ambition,
+which voiced itself twenty years later in an address at Washington, D.
+C., to young men. "Occasion cannot make spurs, young men. If you expect
+to wear spurs, you must win them. If you wish to use them, you must
+buckle them to your own heels before you go into the fight. Any success
+you may achieve is not worth the having unless you fight for it.
+Whatever you win in life you must conquer by your own efforts; and then
+it is yours--a part of yourself.... Let not poverty stand as an obstacle
+in your way. Poverty is uncomfortable, as I can testify; but nine times
+out of ten the best thing that can happen to a young man is to be tossed
+overboard, and compelled to sink or swim for himself. In all my
+acquaintance I have never known one to be drowned who was worth
+saving.... To a young man who has in himself the magnificent
+possibilities of life, it is not fitting that he should be permanently
+commanded; he should be a commander. You must not continue to be
+employed; you must be an _employer_. You must be promoted from the ranks
+to a command. There is something, young men, that you can command; go
+and find it, and command it. You can at least command a horse and dray,
+can be generalissimo of them and may carve out a fortune with them."
+
+Mrs. Garfield, with her mother's heart, deprecated a life at sea for her
+boy, and tried to dissuade him. Through the summer he worked in the
+hay-field, and then, the sea-fever returning, his mother wisely
+suggested that he seek employment on Lake Erie and see if he liked the
+life.
+
+With his clothing wrapped in a bundle, he walked seventeen miles to
+Cleveland, with glowing visions of being a sailor. Reaching the wharf,
+he went on board a schooner, and asked for work. A drunken captain met
+him with oaths, and ordered him off the boat. The first phase of sea
+life had been different from what he had read in the books, and he
+turned away somewhat disheartened.
+
+However, he soon met a cousin, who gave him the opportunity of driving
+mules for a canal boat. To walk beside slow mules was somewhat prosaic,
+as compared with climbing masts in a storm, but he accepted the
+position, receiving ten dollars a month and his board. Says William M.
+Thayer, in his "From Log-Cabin to the White House": "James appeared to
+possess a singular affinity for the water. He fell into the water
+fourteen times during the two or three months he served on the canal
+boat. It was not because he was so clumsy that he could not keep right
+side up, nor because he did not understand the business; rather, we
+think, it arose from his thorough devotion to his work. He gave more
+attention to the labor in hand than he did to his own safety. He was one
+who never thought of himself when he was serving another. He thought
+only of what he had in hand to do. His application was intense, and his
+perseverance royal."
+
+After a few weeks he contracted fever and ague, and went home to be
+cared for by his mother, through nearly five months of illness. The
+sea-fever had somewhat abated. Could he not go to school again? urged
+the mother. Thomas and she could give him seventeen dollars; not much,
+to be sure, for some people, but much for the widow and her son.
+
+At last he decided to go to Geauga Seminary, at Chester; a decision
+which took him to the presidential chair. March 5, 1849, when he was
+eighteen, James and his cousins started on foot for Chester, carrying
+their housekeeping utensils, plates, knives and forks, kettle, and the
+like; for they must board themselves. A small room was hired for a
+pittance, four boys rooming together.
+
+The seventeen dollars soon melted away, and James found work in a
+carpenter's shop, where he labored nights and mornings, and every
+Saturday. Though especially fond of athletic games, he had no time for
+these. The school library contained one hundred and fifty volumes; a
+perfect mine of knowledge it seemed to the youth from Orange. He read
+eagerly biography and history; joined the debating society, where,
+despite his awkward manners and poor clothes, his eloquence soon
+attracted attention; went home to see his mother at the end of the first
+term, happy and courageous, and returned with ninepence in his pocket,
+to renew the struggle for an education. The first Sunday, at church, he
+put this ninepence into the contribution box, probably feeling no poorer
+than before.
+
+While at Chester, the early teaching of his mother bore fruit, in his
+becoming a Christian, and joining the sect called "Disciples." "Of
+course," said Garfield, years later, "that settled canal, and lake, and
+sea, and everything." A new life had begun--a life devoted to the
+highest endeavor.
+
+Each winter, while at Chester, he taught a district school, winning the
+love of the pupils by his enthusiasm and warm heart, and inciting them
+to study from his love of books. He played with them as though a boy
+like themselves, as he was, in reality, and yet demanded and received
+perfect obedience. He "boarded around," as was the custom, and thus
+learned more concerning both parents and pupils than was always
+desirable, probably; but in every house he tried to stimulate all to
+increased intelligence.
+
+During his last term at the seminary, he met a graduate of a New England
+college, who urged that he also attend college; told how often men had
+worked their way through successfully, and had come to prominence. Young
+Garfield at once began to study Latin and Greek, and at twenty years of
+age presented himself at Hiram College, Ohio, a small institution at
+that time, which had been started by the "Disciples." He sought the
+principal, and asked to ring the bell and sweep the floors to help pay
+his expenses. He took a room with four other students, not a wise plan,
+except for one who has will enough to study whether his companions work
+or play, and rose at five in the morning, to ring his bell.
+
+A lady who attended the college thus writes of him: "I can see him even
+now, standing in the morning with his hand on the bell-rope, ready to
+give the signal calling teachers and scholars to engage in the duties of
+the day. As we passed by, entering the school-room, he had a cheerful
+word for every one. He was probably the most popular person in the
+institution. He was always good-natured, fond of conversation, and very
+entertaining. He was witty and quick at repartee, but his jokes, though
+brilliant and sparkling, were always harmless, and he never would
+willingly hurt another's feelings.
+
+"Afterward, he became an assistant teacher, and while pursuing his
+classical studies, preparatory to his college course, he taught the
+English branches. He was a most entertaining teacher,--ready with
+illustrations, and possessing in a marked degree the power of exciting
+the interest of the scholars, and afterward making clear to them the
+lessons. In the arithmetic class there were ninety pupils, and I cannot
+remember a time when there was any flagging in the interest. There were
+never any cases of unruly conduct, or a disposition to shirk. With
+scholars who were slow of comprehension, or to whom recitations were a
+burden on account of their modest or retiring dispositions, he was
+specially attentive, and by encouraging words and gentle assistance
+would manage to put all at their ease, and awaken in them a confidence
+in themselves.... He was a constant attendant at the regular meetings
+for prayer, and his vigorous exhortations and apt remarks upon the
+Bible-lessons were impressive and interesting. There was a cordiality in
+his disposition which won quickly the favor and esteem of others. He had
+a happy habit of shaking hands, and would give a hearty grip which
+betokened a kind-hearted feeling for all....
+
+"One of his gifts was that of mezzotint drawing, and he gave instruction
+in this branch. I was one of his pupils in this, and have now the
+picture of a cross upon which he did some shading and put on the
+finishing touches. Upon the margin is written, in the hand of the noted
+teacher, his own name and his pupil's. There are also two other
+drawings, one of a large European bird on the bough of a tree, and the
+other a church-yard scene in winter, done by him at that time. In those
+days the faculty and pupils were wont to call him 'the second Webster,'
+and the remark was common, 'He will fill the White House yet.' In the
+Lyceum, he early took rank far above the others as a speaker and
+debater.
+
+"During the month of June the entire school went in carriages to their
+annual grove meeting at Randolph, some twenty-five miles away. On this
+trip he was the life of the party, occasionally bursting out in an
+eloquent strain at the sight of a bird or a trailing vine, or a
+venerable giant of the forest. He would repeat poetry by the hour,
+having a very retentive memory."
+
+The college library contained about two thousand volumes, and here
+Garfield read systematically and topically, a habit which continued
+through life, and made him master of every subject which he touched.
+Tennyson's poetry became, like the Bible, his daily study.
+
+Mr. J. M. Bundy, in his Life of Garfield, said, years later, "His house
+at Washington is a workshop, in which the tools are always kept within
+immediate reach. Although books overrun his house from top to bottom,
+his library contains the working material on which he mainly depends.
+And the amount of material is enormous. Large numbers of scrap-books
+that have been accumulating for over twenty years in number and
+value--made up with an eye to what either is or may become useful, which
+would render the collection of priceless value to the library of any
+first-class newspaper establishment--are so perfectly arranged and
+indexed that their owner, with his all-retentive memory, can turn in a
+moment to the facts that may be needed for almost any conceivable
+emergency in debate. These are supplemented by diaries that preserve
+Garfield's multifarious, political, scientific, literary, and religious
+inquiries, studies, and readings. And, to make the machinery of rapid
+work complete, he has a large box, containing sixty-three different
+drawers, each properly labelled, in which he places newspaper cuttings,
+documents, and slips of paper, and from which he can pull out what he
+wants as easily as an organist can play on the stops of his instrument."
+
+In Hiram College he formed an intellectual friendship with a
+fellow-student to whose inspiring help he testified gratefully to the
+end of his life; Miss Almeda A. Booth, eight years his senior, a
+brilliant and noble woman, pledged to "virgin widowhood" by the death of
+the young man to whom she was promised in marriage. Twenty years later,
+Garfield said, in a memorial address at Hiram College, "On my own behalf
+I take this occasion to say that for her generous and powerful aid, so
+often and so efficiently rendered, for her quick and never failing
+sympathy, and for her intelligent, unselfish, and unswerving friendship,
+I owe her a debt of gratitude and affection for the payment of which the
+longest term of life would have been too short.... I remember that she
+and I were members of the class that began Xenophon's 'Anabasis' in the
+fall of 1852. Near the close of that term I also began to teach in the
+Eclectic [College], and, thereafter, like her, could keep up my studies
+only outside of my own class hours. In mathematics and the physical
+sciences I was far behind her; but we were nearly at the same place in
+Greek and Latin, each having studied them about three terms. She had
+made her home at President Hayden's almost from the first; and I became
+a member of his family at the beginning of the winter term of 1852-53.
+Thereafter, for nearly two years, she and I studied together, and
+recited in the same classes (frequently without other associates) till
+we had nearly completed the classical course....
+
+"During the fall of 1853 she read one hundred pages of Herodotus, and
+about the same of Livy. During that term, also, Professors Dunshee and
+Hull, Miss Booth, and I met at her room two evenings of each week to
+make a joint translation of the Book of Romans. Professor Dunshee
+contributed his studies of the German commentators De Wette and Tholuck;
+and each of the translators made some special study for each meeting.
+How nearly we completed the translation I do not remember; but I do
+remember that the contributions and criticisms of Miss Booth were
+remarkable for suggestiveness and sound judgment. Our work was more
+thorough than rapid, for I find this entry in my diary for December 15,
+1853: 'Translation Society sat three hours at Miss Booth's room, and
+agreed upon the translation of nine verses.'
+
+"During the winter term of 1853-54 she continued to read Livy, and also
+the whole of Demosthenes 'On the Crown.' During the spring term of 1854
+she read the 'Germania' and 'Agricola' of Tacitus and a portion of
+Hesiod."
+
+To Garfield she was another Margaret Fuller. "I venture to assert that
+in native powers of mind, in thoroughness and breadth of scholarship, in
+womanly sweetness of spirit, and in the quantity and quality of
+effective, unselfish work done, she has not been excelled by any
+American woman.... I can name twenty or thirty books which will forever
+be doubly precious to me because they were read and discussed in company
+with her.... She was always ready to aid any friend with her best
+efforts. When I was in the hurry of preparing for a debate with Mr.
+Denton, in 1858, she read not less than eight or ten volumes, and made
+admirable notes for me on those points which related to the topics of
+discussion. In the autumn of 1859 she read a large portion of
+Blackstone's 'Commentaries,' and enjoyed with keenest relish the
+strength of the author's thought and the beauty of his style. From the
+rich stores of her knowledge she gave with unselfish generosity. The
+foremost students had no mannish pride that made them hesitate to ask
+her assistance and counsel. In preparing their orations and debates they
+eagerly sought her suggestions and criticisms....
+
+"It is quite probable that John Stuart Mill has exaggerated the extent
+to which his own mind and works were influenced by Harriet Mill. I
+should reject his opinion on that subject, as a delusion, did I not know
+from my own experience, as well as that of hundreds of Hiram students,
+how great a power Miss Booth exercised over the culture and opinions of
+her friends."
+
+The influence of such a woman upon an intellectual young man can
+scarcely be estimated, or over-estimated. The world is richer and nobler
+for such women. Garfield never forgot her influence. The year he died,
+he said at a Williams College banquet held in Cleveland, January 10,
+1881: "I am glad to say, reverently, in the presence of the many ladies
+here to-night, that I owe to a woman, who has long since been asleep,
+perhaps a higher debt intellectually than I owe to any one else. After
+that comes my debt to Williams College."
+
+He used to say, "Give me a log hut with only a simple bench, Mark
+Hopkins on one end and I on the other, and you may have all the
+buildings, apparatus, and libraries without him."
+
+After two years at Hiram College, Garfield decided to enter some eastern
+college, and wrote to Yale, Brown, and Williams. Their replies are shown
+in his letter to a friend at this time. "Their answers are now before
+me. All tell me I can graduate in two years. They are all brief business
+notes; but President Hopkins concludes with this sentence: 'If you come
+here, we shall be glad to do what we can for you.' Other things being so
+nearly equal, this sentence, which seems to be a kind of friendly grasp
+of the hand, has settled the question for me. I shall start for Williams
+next week." A kind sentence gave to Williams a distinguished honor for
+all coming years.
+
+Garfield had not only paid his way while at Hiram, but he had saved
+three hundred and fifty dollars for his course at Williams. Here he
+earned money, as he had at Hiram, by teaching, and borrowed a few
+hundreds from Dr. J. P. Robinson of Cleveland, Ohio, offering a life
+insurance policy as security.
+
+In college, says Dr. Hopkins, "as General Garfield was broad in his
+scholarship, so was he in his sympathies. No one thought of him as a
+recluse or as bookish. Not _given_ to athletic sports, he was fond of
+them. His mind was open to the impression of natural scenery, and, as
+his constitution was vigorous, he knew well the fine points on the
+mountains around us. He was also social in his disposition, both giving
+and inspiring confidence. So true is this of his intercourse with the
+officers of the college, as well as with others, that he was never even
+suspected of anything low or trickish.... General Garfield gave himself
+to study with a zest and delight wholly unknown to those who find in it
+a routine. A religious man and a man of principle, he pursued of his own
+accord the ends proposed by the institution. He was prompt, frank,
+manly, social, in his tendencies; combining active exercise with habits
+of study, and thus did for himself what it is the object of a college to
+enable every young man to do,--he made himself a MAN."
+
+When Garfield was at Williams, the slavery question had become the
+exciting topic of the day. Preston Brooks' attack on Charles Sumner had
+aroused the indignation of the students, who called a meeting, at which
+Garfield made an eloquent and powerful speech. At his graduation in
+1856, when he was twenty-five, he delivered the metaphysical oration,
+the highest honor awarded. He now returned to Hiram College, having been
+appointed professor of Greek and Latin. At once he began his work with
+zest. He said later: "I have taken more solid comfort in the thing
+itself, and received more moral recompense and stimulus in after life
+from capturing young men for an education than from anything else in the
+world.
+
+"As I look back over my life thus far, I think of nothing that so fills
+me with pleasure as the planning of these sieges, the revolving in my
+mind of plans for scaling the walls of the fortress; of gaining access
+to the inner soul-life, and at last seeing the besieged party won to a
+fuller appreciation of himself, to a higher conception of life and of
+the part he is to bear in it. The principal guards which I have found it
+necessary to overcome in gaining these victories are the parents or
+guardians of the young men themselves. I particularly remember two such
+instances of capturing young men from their parents. Both of those boys
+are to-day educators, of wide reputation,--one president of a college,
+the other high in the ranks of graded-school managers. Neither, in my
+opinion, would to-day have been above the commonest walks of life unless
+I, or some one else, had captured him. There is a period in every young
+man's life when a very small thing will turn him one way or the other.
+He is distrustful of himself, and uncertain as to what he should do. His
+parents are poor, perhaps, and argue that he has more education than
+they ever obtained, and that it is enough. These parents are sometimes a
+little too anxious in regard to what their boys are going to do when
+they get through with their college course. They talk to the young man
+too much, and I have noticed that the boy who will make the best man is
+sometimes most ready to doubt himself. I always remember the turning
+period in my own life, and pity a young man at this stage from the
+bottom of my heart. One of the young men I refer to came to me on the
+closing day of the spring term, and bade me good-by at my study. I
+noticed that he awkwardly lingered after I expected him to go, and had
+turned to my writing again.
+
+"'I suppose you will be back again in the fall, Henry,' I said, to fill
+in the vacuum. He did not answer, and, turning toward him, I noticed
+that his eyes were filled with tears, and that his countenance was
+undergoing contortions of pain. He at length managed to stammer out,
+'No, I am not coming back to Hiram any more. Father says I have got
+education enough, and that he needs me to work on the farm; that
+education don't help along a farmer any.'
+
+"'Is your father here?' I asked, almost as much affected by the
+statement as the boy himself. He was a peculiarly bright boy,--one of
+those strong, awkward, bashful, blond, large-headed fellows, such as
+make men. He was not a prodigy by any means; but he knew what work
+meant, and, when he had won a thing by true endeavor, he knew its value.
+
+"'Yes; father is here, and is taking my things home for good,' said the
+boy, more affected than ever.
+
+"'Well, don't feel badly,' I said. 'Please tell him Mr. Garfield would
+like to see him at his study, before he leaves the village. Don't tell
+him that it is about you, but simply that I want to see him.' In the
+course of half an hour the old gentleman, a robust specimen of a Western
+Reserve Yankee, came into the room and awkwardly sat down. I knew
+something of the man before, and I thought I knew how to begin. I shot
+right at the bull's-eye immediately.
+
+"'So you have come up to take Henry home with you, have you?' The old
+gentleman answered, 'Yes.' 'I sent for you because I wanted to have a
+little talk with you about Henry's future. He is coming back again in
+the fall, I hope?'
+
+"'Wal, I think not. I don't reckon I can afford to send him any more.
+He's got eddication enough for a farmer already, and I notice that when
+they git too much they sorter git lazy. Yer eddicated farmers are
+humbugs. Henry's got so far 'long now that he'd rather hev his head in a
+book than be workin'. He don't take no interest in the stock nor in the
+farm improvements. Everybody else is dependent in this world on the
+farmer, and I think that we've got too many eddicated fellows setting
+around now for the farmers to support.'
+
+"'I am sorry to hear you talk so,' I said; 'for really I consider Henry
+one of the brightest and most faithful students I have ever had. I have
+taken a very deep interest in him. What I wanted to say to you was, that
+the matter of educating him has largely been a constant outgo thus far,
+but, if he is permitted to come next fall term, he will be far enough
+advanced so that he can teach school in the winter, and begin to help
+himself and you along. He can earn very little on the farm in the
+winter, and he can get very good wages teaching. How does that strike
+you?'
+
+"The idea was a new and good one to him. He simply remarked, 'Do you
+really think he can teach next winter?'
+
+"'I should think so, certainly,' I replied. 'But, if he cannot do so
+then, he can in a short time, anyhow.'
+
+"'Wal, I will think on it. He wants to come back bad enough, and I guess
+I'll have to let him. I never thought of it that way afore.'
+
+"I knew I was safe. It was the financial question that troubled the old
+gentleman, and I knew that would be overcome when Henry got to teaching,
+and could earn his money himself. He would then be so far along, too,
+that he could fight his own battles. He came all right the next fall,
+and, after finishing at Hiram, graduated at an eastern college."
+
+One secret of Garfield's success in teaching was his deep interest in
+the young. He said, "I feel a profounder reverence for a boy than for a
+man. I never meet a ragged boy of the street without feeling that I may
+owe him a salute, for I know not what possibilities may be buttoned up
+under his shabby coat. When I meet you in the full flush of mature life,
+I see nearly all there is of you; but among these boys are the great men
+of the future, the heroes of the next generation, the philosophers, the
+statesmen, the philanthropists, the great reformers and moulders of the
+next age. Therefore, I say, there is a peculiar charm to me in the
+exhibitions of young people engaged in the business of an education."
+
+He made himself a student with his students. He said: "I shall give you
+a series of lectures upon history, beginning next week. I do this not
+alone to assist you; the preparation for the lectures will _compel_ me
+to study history."
+
+He was always a worker. "When I get into a place that I can easily fill,
+I always feel like shoving out of it into one that requires of me more
+exertion."
+
+His active mind was not content with teaching. He delivered lectures in
+the neighboring towns on geology, illustrated by charts of his own
+making; upon "Walter Scott;" Carlyle's "Frederick the Great;" the
+"Character of the German People;" government, and the topics of the
+times. He preached almost every Sabbath in some Disciple church. A year
+after his return from Williams he was promoted to the presidency of
+Hiram College.
+
+In 1858, when he was twenty-seven, he married Lucretia Rudolph, whom he
+had known at Geauga Seminary, and who was his pupil in Latin and Greek
+at Hiram. He had been engaged to her four years previously, when he
+entered Williams, she being a year his junior. She was his companion in
+study, as well as domestic life, and helped him onward in his great
+career.
+
+This same year, 1858, he entered his name as a student at law, with a
+Cleveland firm, carrying on his studies at home, and fitted himself for
+the bar in the usual time devoted by those who have no other work in
+hand.
+
+The following year, having taken an active part in the Republican
+campaign for John C. Fremont for the presidency, Garfield was chosen
+State senator. The same year Williams College invited him to deliver the
+master's oration on Commencement day. On the journey thither, he visited
+Quebec, taking with his wife their first pleasure trip. Only eight years
+before this he was ringing the bell at Hiram. Promotion had come
+rapidly, but deservedly.
+
+In the Legislature he naturally took a prominent part. Lincoln had been
+elected and had issued his call for seventy-five thousand men. Garfield,
+in an eloquent speech, moved, "That Ohio contribute twenty thousand men,
+and three million dollars, as the quota of the State." The motion was
+enthusiastically carried.
+
+Governor Dennison appointed Garfield colonel of the Forty-second Ohio
+Regiment, and he left the Senate for the battlefield, nearly one hundred
+Hiram students enlisting under him. At once he began to study military
+tactics in earnest. He organized a school among the officers, and kept
+the men at drill till they were efficient in the art of war. January
+10, 1862, he fought the battle of Middle Creek, with eleven hundred men,
+driving General Marshall out of Eastern Kentucky, with five thousand
+men. The battle raged for five hours, sometimes a desperate hand-to-hand
+fight. General Buell said in his official report of Garfield and his
+regiment: "They have overcome formidable difficulties in the character
+of the country, the condition of the roads, and the inclemency of the
+season, and, without artillery, have in several engagements, terminating
+in the battle of Middle Creek, driven the enemy from his intrenched
+positions and forced him back into the mountains, with the loss of a
+large amount of baggage and stores, and many of his men killed and
+captured. These services have called into action the highest qualities
+of a soldier--fortitude, perseverance, and courage." After this battle,
+President Lincoln made Garfield a brigadier-general.
+
+Says Mr. Bundy: "Having cleared out Humphrey Marshall's forces, Garfield
+moved his command to Piketon, one hundred and twenty miles above the
+mouth of the Big Sandy, from which place he covered the whole region
+about with expeditions, breaking up rebel camps and perfecting his work.
+Finally, in that poor and wretched country, his supplies gave out, and,
+as usual, taking care of the most important matter himself, he went to
+the Ohio River for supplies, got them, seized a steamer, and loaded it.
+But there was an unprecedented freshet, navigation was very perilous,
+and no captain or pilot could be induced to take charge of the boat.
+Garfield at once availed himself of his canal-boat experience, took
+charge of the boat, stood at the helm for forty out of forty-eight
+hours, piloted the steamer through an untried channel full of dangerous
+eddies and wild currents, and saved his command from starvation."
+
+Later, Garfield became chief of General Rosecrans' staff, was in the
+dreadful battle of Chickamauga, and was made major-general "for gallant
+and meritorious services" in that battle. Rosecrans said: "All my staff
+merited my warm approbation for ability, zeal, and devotion to duty; but
+I am sure they will not consider it invidious if I especially mention
+Brigadier-General Garfield, ever active, prudent, and sagacious. I feel
+much indebted to him for both counsel and assistance in the
+administration of this army. He possesses the energy and the instinct of
+a great commander."
+
+In the summer of 1862 the Nineteenth Congressional District of Ohio
+elected Garfield to Congress. He hesitated about leaving the army, but,
+being urged by his friends that it was his duty to serve his country in
+the House of Representatives, he took his seat December, 1863. Among
+such men as Colfax, Washburn, Conkling, Allison, and others, he at once
+took an honorable position. He was made chairman of military affairs,
+then of banking and currency, of appropriations, and other committees.
+
+On the slavery question he had always been outspoken. He said, on the
+constitutional amendment abolishing slavery: "All along the coast of our
+political sea these victims of slavery lie like stranded wrecks broken
+on the headlands of freedom. How lately did its advocates, with impious
+boldness, maintain it as God's own; to be venerated and cherished as
+divine! It was another and higher form of civilization. It was the holy
+evangel of America dispensing its mercies to a benighted race, and
+destined to bear countless blessings to the wilderness of the West. In
+its mad arrogance it lifted its hand to strike down the fabric of the
+Union, and since that fatal day it has been 'a fugitive and a vagabond
+in the earth.' Like the spirit that Jesus cast out, it has, since then,
+been 'seeking rest and finding none.' It has sought in all the corners
+of the republic to find some hiding-place in which to shelter itself
+from the death it so richly deserves. It sought an asylum in the
+untrodden territories of the West, but with a whip of scorpions
+indignant freemen drove it thence. I do not believe that a loyal man can
+now be found who would consent that it should again enter them. It has
+no hope of harbor there. It found no protection or favor in the hearts
+or consciences of the freemen of the republic, and has fled for its last
+hope of safety behind the shield of the Constitution. We propose to
+follow it there, and drive it thence, as Satan was exiled from
+heaven.... To me it is a matter of great surprise that gentlemen on the
+other side should wish to delay the death of slavery. I can only
+account for it on the ground of long continued familiarity and
+friendship.... Has she not betrayed and slain men enough? Are they not
+strewn over a thousand battle-fields? Is not this Moloch already gorged
+with the bloody feast? Its best friends know that its final hour is fast
+approaching. The avenging gods are on its track. Their feet are not now,
+as of old, shod with wool, nor slow and stately stepping, but winged
+like Mercury's to bear the swift message of vengeance. No human power
+can avert the final catastrophe."
+
+On the currency he spoke repeatedly and earnestly. He carefully studied
+English financial history, and mastered the French and German languages
+that he might study their works on political economy and finance. Says
+Captain F. H. Mason, late of the Forty-second Ohio Regiment, in his
+sketch of Garfield, "In May, 1868, when the country was rapidly drifting
+into a hopeless confusion of ideas on financial subjects, and when
+several prominent statesmen had come forward with specious plans for
+creating 'absolute money' by putting the government stamp upon bank
+notes, and for paying off with this false currency the bonds which the
+nation had solemnly agreed to pay in gold, General Garfield stood up
+almost single-handed and faced the current with a speech which any
+statesman of this century might be proud to have written on his
+monument. It embraced twenty-three distinct but concurrent topics, and
+occupied in delivering an entire day's session of the House."
+
+"For my own part," he said, "my course is taken. In view of all the
+facts of our situation, of all the terrible experiences of the past,
+both at home and abroad, and of the united testimony of the wisest and
+bravest statesmen who have lived and labored during the past century, it
+is my firm conviction that any considerable increase of the volume of
+our inconvertible paper money will shatter public credit, will paralyze
+public industry, and oppress the poor; and that the gradual restoration
+of our ancient standard of value will lead us by the safest and surest
+paths to national prosperity and the steady pursuits of peace."
+
+Again he said: "I for one am not willing that my name shall be linked to
+the fate of a paper currency. I believe that any party which commits
+itself to paper money will go down amid the general disaster, covered
+with the curses of a ruined people.
+
+"Mr. Speaker, I remember that on the monument of Queen Elizabeth, where
+her glories were recited and her honors summed up, among the last and
+the highest recorded as the climax of her honors was this: that she had
+restored the money of her kingdom to its just value. And when this House
+shall have done its work, when it shall have brought back values to
+their proper standard, it will deserve a monument."
+
+On the tariff question, General Garfield took the side of protection,
+yet was no extremist. His oft reiterated belief was, "As an abstract
+theory, the doctrine of free trade seems to be universally true, but as
+a question of practicability, under a government like ours, the
+protective system seems to be indispensable."
+
+He said in Congress: "We have seen that one extreme school of economists
+would place the price of all manufactured articles in the hands of
+foreign producers by rendering it impossible for our manufacturers to
+compete with them; while the other extreme school, by making it
+impossible for the foreigner to sell his competing wares in our market,
+would give the people no immediate check upon the prices which our
+manufacturers might fix for their products. I disagree with both these
+extremes. I hold that a properly adjusted competition between home and
+foreign products is the best gauge by which to regulate international
+trade. Duties should be so high that our manufacturers can fairly
+compete with the foreign product, but not so high as to enable them to
+drive out the foreign article, enjoy a monopoly of the trade, and
+regulate the price as they please. This is my doctrine of protection. If
+Congress pursues this line of policy steadily, we shall, year by year,
+approach more nearly to the basis of free trade, because we shall be
+more nearly able to compete with other nations on equal terms. I am for
+a protection which leads to ultimate free trade. I am for that free
+trade which can only be achieved through a reasonable protection.... If
+all the kingdoms of the world should become the kingdom of the Prince of
+Peace, then I admit that universal free trade ought to prevail. But that
+blessed era is yet too remote to be made the basis of the practical
+legislation of to-day. We are not yet members of 'the parliament of man,
+the federation of the world.' For the present, the world is divided into
+separate nationalities; and that other divine command still applies to
+our situation, 'He that provideth not for his own household has denied
+the faith, and is worse than an infidel,' and until that latter era
+arrives patriotism must supply the place of universal brotherhood."
+
+Again he said: "Those arts that enable our nation to rise in the scale
+of civilization bring their blessings to all, and patriotic citizens
+will cheerfully bear a fair share of the burden necessary to make their
+country great and self-sustaining. I will defend a tariff that is
+national in its aims, that protects and sustains those interests without
+which the nation cannot become great and self-sustaining.... So
+important, in my view, is the ability of the nation to manufacture all
+these articles necessary to arm, equip, and clothe our people, that if
+it could not be secured in any other way I would vote to pay money out
+of the federal treasury to maintain government iron and steel, woollen
+and cotton mills, at whatever cost. Were we to neglect these great
+interests and depend upon other nations, in what a condition of
+helplessness would we find ourselves when we should be again involved in
+war with the very nations on whom we were depending to furnish us these
+supplies? The system adopted by our fathers is wiser, for it so
+encourages the great national industries as to make it possible at all
+times for our people to equip themselves for war, and at the same time
+increase their intelligence and skill so as to make them better fitted
+for all the duties of citizenship in war and in peace. _We provide for
+the common defence by a system which promotes the general welfare...._ I
+believe that we ought to seek that point of stable equilibrium somewhere
+between a prohibitory tariff on the one hand and a tariff that gives no
+protection on the other. What is that point of stable equilibrium? In my
+judgment, it is this; a rate so high that foreign producers cannot flood
+our markets and break down our home manufacturers, but not so high as to
+keep them altogether out, enabling our manufacturers to combine and
+raise the prices, nor so high as to stimulate an unnatural and unhealthy
+growth of manufactures.
+
+"In other words, I would have the duty so adjusted that every great
+American industry can fairly live and make fair profits, and yet so low
+that, if our manufacturers attempted to put up prices unreasonably, the
+competition from abroad would come in and bring down prices to a fair
+rate."
+
+On special occasions, such as his eulogies on Lincoln and General
+Thomas, and on Decoration Day at Arlington Heights, Garfield was very
+eloquent. At the latter place, he said: "If silence is ever golden, it
+must be here, beside the graves of fifteen thousand men, whose lives
+were more significant than speech, and whose death was a poem the music
+of which can never be sung. With words, we make promises, plight faith,
+praise virtue. Promises may not be kept; plighted faith may be broken;
+and vaunted virtue may be only the cunning mask of vice. We do not know
+one promise these men made, one pledge they gave, one word they spoke;
+but we do know they summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the
+highest virtues of men and citizens. For love of country they accepted
+death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism
+and their virtue.
+
+"For the noblest man that lives there still remains a conflict. He must
+still withstand the assaults of time and fortune; must still be assailed
+with temptations before which lofty natures have fallen. But with
+_these_, the conflict ended, the victory was won, when death stamped on
+them the great seal of heroic character, and closed a record which years
+can never blot."
+
+Professor B. A. Hinsdale, the intimate friend of Garfield, says, in his
+"Hiram College Memorial," "General Garfield's readiness on all occasions
+has often been remarked. Probably some have attributed this readiness to
+the inspiration of genius. The explanation lies partly in his genius,
+but much more in his indefatigable work. He treasured up knowledge of
+all kinds. 'You never know,' he would say, 'how soon you will need it.'
+Then he forecasted occasions, and got ready to meet them. One hot day in
+July, 1876, he brought to his Washington house an old copy of _The
+Congressional Globe_. Questioned, he said, 'I have been told,
+confidentially, that Mr. Lamar is going to make a speech in the House on
+general politics, to influence the presidential canvass. If he does, I
+shall reply to him. Mr. Lamar was a member of the House before the war;
+and I am going to read some of his old speeches, and get into his mind.'
+Mr. Lamar made his speech August 2, and Mr. Garfield replied August 4.
+Men expressed surprise at the fulness and completeness of the reply,
+delivered on such short notice. But to one knowing his habits of mind,
+especially to one who had the aforesaid conversation with him, the whole
+matter was as light as day. His genius was emphatically the genius of
+preparation."
+
+Both in Congress and in the army Garfield gave a portion of each day to
+the classics, especially to his favorite, Horace. He was always an
+omnivorous reader.
+
+In 1880, he was elected United States senator. After the election he
+said, "During the twenty years that I have been in public life, almost
+eighteen of it in the Congress of the United States, I have tried to do
+one thing. Whether I was mistaken or otherwise, it has been the plan of
+my life to follow my convictions, at whatever personal cost to myself. I
+have represented for many years a district in Congress whose approbation
+I greatly desired; but, though it may seem, perhaps, a little
+egotistical to say it, I yet desired still more the approbation of one
+person, and his name was Garfield. He is the only man that I am
+compelled to sleep with, and eat with, and live with, and die with; and
+if I could not have his approbation I should have had bad
+companionship."
+
+All these years the home life had been helpful and beautiful. Of his
+seven children, two were sleeping in the Hiram church-yard. Five, Harry,
+James, Mollie, Irvin, and Abram, made the Washington home a place of
+cheer in winter, and the summer home, at Mentor, Ohio, a few miles from
+Hiram, a place of rest and pleasure. Here Garfield, beloved by his
+neighbors, ploughed and sewed and reaped, as when a boy. His mother
+lived in his family, happy in his success.
+
+When the national Republican convention met in June, 1880, at Chicago,
+the names of several presidential candidates came before the
+people,--Grant, Blaine, and others. Garfield nominated John Sherman, of
+Ohio, in a chaste and eloquent speech. He said: "I have witnessed the
+extraordinary scenes of this convention with deep solicitude. No emotion
+touches my heart more quickly than a sentiment in honor of a great and
+noble character; but, as I sat on these seats and witnessed these
+demonstrations, it seemed to me you were a human ocean in a tempest.
+
+"I have seen the sea lashed into fury and tossed into spray, and its
+grandeur moves the soul of the dullest man; but I remember that it is
+not the billows but the calm level of the sea from which all heights and
+depths are measured. When the storm has passed and the hour of calm
+settles on the ocean, when the sunlight bathes its smooth surface, then
+the astronomer and surveyor takes the level from which he measures all
+terrestrial heights and depths.
+
+"Gentlemen of the convention, your present temper may not mark the
+healthful pulse of our people. When our enthusiasm has passed, when the
+emotions of this hour have subsided, we shall find that calm level of
+public opinion, below the storm, from which the thoughts of a mighty
+people are to be measured, and by which their final action will be
+determined. Not here in this brilliant circle, where fifteen thousand
+men and women are assembled, is the destiny of the Republican party to
+be decreed. Not here, where I see the enthusiastic faces of seven
+hundred and fifty-six delegates, waiting to cast their votes into the
+urn and determine the choice of the republic, but by four million
+Republican firesides, where the thoughtful voters, with wives and
+children about them, with the calm thoughts inspired by love of home and
+country, with the history of the past, the hopes of the future, and
+reverence for the great men who have adorned and blessed our nation in
+days gone by burning in their hearts,--_there_ God prepares the verdict
+which will determine the wisdom of our work to-night. Not in Chicago, in
+the heat of June, but at the ballot-boxes of the republic, in the quiet
+of November, after the silence of deliberate judgment, will this
+question be settled."
+
+The thousands were at fever-heat hour after hour, in their intense
+excitement. After thirty-four ineffectual ballots, on the thirty-fifth,
+fifty votes were given for Garfield. The tide had turned at last. The
+delegates of State after State gathered around the man from Ohio,
+holding their flags over him, while the bands played, "Rally round the
+flag, boys," and fifteen thousand people shouted their thanksgiving for
+the happy choice. Outside the great hall, cannons were fired, and the
+crowded streets sent up their cheers. From that moment Garfield belonged
+to the nation, and was its idol.
+
+On March 4, 1881, in the presence of a hundred thousand people, the boy
+born in the Orange wilderness was inaugurated President of the United
+States. None of us who were present will ever forget the beauty of his
+address from the steps of the national Capitol, or the kiss given to
+white-haired mother and devoted wife at the close. Afterward, the great
+procession, three hours in passing a given point, was reviewed by
+President Garfield from a stand erected in front of the White House.
+
+Four months after this scene, on July 2, 1881, the nation was thrilled
+with sorrow. As General Garfield and his Secretary of State, James G.
+Blaine, arm in arm, were entering the Baltimore & Potomac Railroad
+depot, two pistol shots were fired; one passing through Garfield's
+coat-sleeve, the other into his body. He fell heavily to the floor, and
+was borne to the White House. The assassin was Charles Guiteau, a
+half-crazed aspirant for office, entirely unknown to the President. The
+man was hanged.
+
+Through four long months the nation prayed, and hoped, and agonized for
+the life of its beloved President. Gifts poured in from every part of
+the Union, but gifts were of no avail. On September 5, Garfield was
+carried to Elberon, Long Branch, New Jersey, where, in the Francklyn
+Cottage, he seemed to revive as he looked out upon the sea, the sea he
+had longed for in his boyhood. The nation took heart. But two weeks
+later, at thirty-five minutes past ten, on the evening of September 19,
+the anniversary of the battle of Chickamauga, the President passed from
+an unconscious state to the consciousness of immortality. At ten minutes
+past ten he had said to General Swaim, who was standing beside him, as
+he put his hand upon his heart, "I have great pain here."
+
+The whole world sympathized with America in her great sorrow. Queen
+Victoria telegraphed to Mrs. Garfield: "Words cannot express the deep
+sympathy I feel with you at this terrible moment. May God support and
+comfort you, as he alone can."
+
+On September 21, the body of the President was taken to Washington. At
+the Princeton Station, three hundred students from the college, with
+uncovered heads, strewed the track and covered the funeral car with
+flowers. At the Capitol, where he had so recently listened to the cheers
+of the people at his inauguration, one hundred thousand passed in
+silence before his open coffin. The casket was covered with flowers; one
+wreath bearing a card from England's queen, with the words: "Queen
+Victoria, to the memory of the late President Garfield, an expression of
+her sorrow and sympathy with Mrs. Garfield and the American nation."
+
+The body was borne to Cleveland, the whole train of cars being draped in
+black. Fifty thousand persons assembled at the station, and followed the
+casket to a catafalque on the public square. During the Sabbath, an
+almost countless throng passed beside the beloved dead. On Monday,
+September 26, through beautiful Euclid Avenue, the body was borne six
+miles, to its final resting-place. Every house was draped in mourning.
+Streets were arched with exquisite flowers on a background of black. One
+city alone, Cincinnati, sent two carloads of flowers. Among the many
+floral designs was a ladder of white immortelles, with eleven rounds,
+bearing the words: "Chester," "Hiram," "Williams," "Ohio Senate,"
+"Colonel," "General," "Congress," "United States Senate," "President,"
+"Martyr."
+
+After appropriate exercises, the sermon being preached by Rev. Isaac
+Errett, D.D., of Cincinnati, according to a promise made years before,
+the casket, followed by a procession five miles long, was carried to the
+cemetery. It was estimated that a quarter of a million people were
+gathered along the streets; not idle sight-seers, but men and women who
+loved the boy, and revered the man who had come to distinguished honor
+in their midst.
+
+Not only in Cleveland were memorial services held. The Archbishop of
+Canterbury spoke touching words in London. In Liverpool, in Manchester,
+in Glasgow, and hundreds of other cities, public services were held.
+Messages of condolence were sent from many of the crowned heads of
+Europe.
+
+Under the white stone monument in Lake View Cemetery, the statesman has
+been laid to rest. For centuries the tomb will tell to the thousands
+upon thousands who visit it the story of struggle and success; of work,
+of hope, of courage, of devotion to duty. Like Abraham Lincoln, Garfield
+was born in a log cabin, battled with poverty, was honest,
+great-hearted, a lover of America, and, like him, a martyr to the
+republic. To the world both deaths seemed unbearable calamities, but
+nations, like individuals, are chastened by sorrow, and learn great
+lessons through great trials. "Now we know in part; but then shall we
+know even as also we are known."
+
+
+
+
+"_The Best Book for Boys that has yet been written._ We say this with
+Tom Brown's delightful School Days fresh in our recollection."--_Portland
+Press._
+
+CUORE.
+
+_AN ITALIAN SCHOOL-BOY'S JOURNAL._
+
+By EDMONDO DE AMICIS. Translated from the 39th Italian Edition by Isabel
+F. Hapgood.
+
+12mo. $1.25.
+
+
+In this delightful volume, so unconventional in form, so fresh and
+energetic in style, Signor de Amicis has given not only the heart
+history of an Italian lad but also a very vivid and attractive picture
+of modern life in Italy. He is a genuine boy who is supposed to write
+the story, and all the events, incidents, and observations are seen
+through a boy's bright young eyes. The descriptions of school
+experiences, of festivals and public ceremonies, of scenes in city and
+country, are all full of color and charm, and are inspired by a genuine
+love for humanity.
+
+     "A charming and wholesome volume."--_Albany Journal._
+
+     "Just the thing for school-boys."--_Beacon._
+
+     "Its topics are such as boys take delight in. *** The moment a boy
+     begins to read it he decides to go through with it."--_Cleveland
+     Leader._
+
+     "Can not be spoken of in too high terms of praise."--_Boston
+     Transcript._
+
+     "Filled with incidents delightfully described."--_Albany Press._
+
+     "No wonder the work has reached its thirty-ninth
+     edition."--_Norwick Journal._
+
+     "Deserves a place beside Tom Bailey and Tom Brown."--_Commercial
+     Bulletin_, Boston.
+
+     "Written in just the style to please healthy boys."--_Ohio State
+     Journal._
+
+     "Lovers of literature will be delighted with it."--_Mail and
+     Express_, New York.
+
+     "A voyage into those wondrous regions, the heart, soul and pocket
+     of a school-boy *** Full of striking and beautiful
+     passages."--_Critic_, New York.
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO.
+
+13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.
+
+
+
+
+SIX BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
+
+By J A K
+
+12mo. Illustrated. $1.25 per Vol.
+
+
+BIRCHWOOD.
+
+"A hearty, honest boys' book, which young people are sure to
+enjoy."--_N. Y. Mail and Express._
+
+"An eminently wholesome and good book."--_Zion's Herald._
+
+"An excellent story for boys, inculcating the valuable truth that
+whether a boy be rich or poor he should learn to work. There is also a
+good temperance lesson taught; and it is all told in a simple way, that
+ought to interest young readers."--_Literary World._
+
+
+RIVERSIDE MUSEUM.
+
+"Thoroughly healthy in tone."--_Nation._
+
+"A very charming story for young folks."--_Inter-Ocean._
+
+"In a pleasant, easy style, the writer shows how children aiming at
+improvement can find around a village the objects in Nature which
+develop thought and knowledge."--_Christian Intelligencer._
+
+
+THE FITCH CLUB.
+
+"A very interesting and very profitable story."--_Hartford Post._
+
+"The author has a happy way of telling a story in just the style
+calculated to interest boys."--_Christian Union._
+
+"A pure and interesting story for the boys and girls. Ways and means of
+doing many useful things are so naturally and pleasantly told that the
+information does not appear like teaching, but like story-telling."
+--_Kansas City Times._
+
+
+PROFESSOR JOHNNY.
+
+"An admirable book for teaching boys the science of common
+things."--_Home Journal._
+
+"Combines scientific information, wise moral instruction, and capital
+entertainment in good proportions."--_The Congregationalist._
+
+"It is characterized by that uncommon thing--common sense."--_Christian
+Index._
+
+
+WHO SAVED THE SHIP.
+
+"Good wholesome reading."--_Milwaukee Sentinel._
+
+"One of the brightest books of the season."--_Ohio State Journal._
+
+"Admirable in tone and full of interest."--_Boston Traveller._
+
+
+THE GIANT DWARF.
+
+"Young and old will read the story with pleasure."--_Philadelphia
+Inquirer._
+
+"The author of 'Birchwood,' 'Prof. Johnny,' and other tales, will always
+be sure of a welcome among young people, and 'The Giant Dwarf' will be
+found to rank among his most fascinating work."--_Boston Traveller._
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO.
+
+13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.
+
+
+$1500 PRIZE STORY.
+
+THE BLIND BROTHER.
+
+_A STORY OF THE MINES._
+
+By HOMER GREENE.
+
+12mo, cloth. 230 pp. 14 illustrations. 90 cents.
+
+"The recent prize competition for stories, held by the publishers of the
+_Youth's Companion_, called forth about 5000 aspirants for literary
+honors, among that multitude, Mr. Homer Greene, of Honesdale, Pa., whose
+story, the Blind Brother, took the first prize of $1500, probably the
+largest sum ever paid for a story to a hitherto comparatively unknown
+writer. The Blind Brother deals with life in the coal-mining region of
+the Wyoming Valley, and is remarkable for its dramatic intensity, power
+of characterization, humor and pathos."
+
+     "There are 4,000,000 boys in the United States from 10 to 16 years
+     of age. This story was written for them. We wish every one of the
+     number to read it. A style of writing more simple, clear, direct,
+     forcible, and attractive could not be desired."--_National
+     Republican_, Washington, D. C.
+
+     "This wonderfully pathetic and beautiful creation."--_Wilkesbarre
+     Union-Leader._
+
+     "It is a pleasure to think of anything at once so entertaining, so
+     healthful, and so artistic, falling into the hands of youthful
+     readers."--_The Critic_, New York.
+
+     "Well conceived, prettily told, and enlivened with effective
+     touches of light and shade."--_The Epoch_, New York.
+
+     "A story of remarkable power and pathos."--_Chicago Advance._
+
+     "Replete with thrilling incidents."--_N. Y. Journal._
+
+     "Full of interest, full of information not usually stumbled upon,
+     and full of lessons of morality and true manliness."--_Christian
+     Standard._
+
+     "The plot natural and arousing deep interest, whilst the story has
+     its humorous and its touching passages."--_Presbyterian Banner_,
+     Pittsburgh.
+
+     "So sweet and touching that the moral is profound."--_New Haven
+     Palladium._
+
+     "A good strong story, told with simplicity and
+     directness."--_Christian Intelligence_, New York.
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO.
+
+13 ASTOR PLACE, NEW YORK.
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.
+
+
+POOR BOYS WHO BECAME FAMOUS.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. Short biographical sketches of George Peabody,
+Michael Faraday, Samuel Johnson, Admiral Farragut, Horace Greeley,
+William Lloyd Garrison, Garibaldi, President Lincoln, and other noted
+persons who, from humble circumstances, have risen to fame and
+distinction, and left behind an imperishable record. Illustrated with 24
+portraits. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+"It is seldom that a book passes under our notice which we feel impelled
+to commend so highly to young readers, and especially to boys."--_N. Y.
+Observer._
+
+
+GIRLS WHO BECAME FAMOUS.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. A companion book to "Poor Boys Who Became Famous."
+Biographical sketches of Harriet Beecher Stowe, George Eliot, Helen Hunt
+Jackson, Harriet Hosmer, Rosa Bonheur, Florence Nightingale, Maria
+Mitchell, and other eminent women. Illustrated with portraits. 12mo.
+$1.50.
+
+"Give this book to your daughter; she may, perhaps, never become famous,
+but it will help her to do well her life's work."--_American Baptist._
+
+
+FAMOUS AMERICAN AUTHORS.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. Short biographical sketches of Holmes, Longfellow,
+Emerson, Lowell, Aldrich, Mark Twain, and other noted writers.
+Illustrated with portraits. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+"Bright and chatty, giving glimpses into the heart and home life of some
+whom the world delights to honor.... At once accurate, inviting,
+instructive."--_Chautauquan._
+
+
+FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN.
+
+By SARAH K. BOLTON. A companion book to "Famous American Authors."
+Biographical sketches of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Hamilton,
+Webster, Sumner, Garfield, and others. Illustrated with portraits. 12mo.
+$1.50.
+
+Such lives as are sketched in this book are a constant inspiration, both
+to young and old. They teach Garfield's oft-repeated maxim, that "the
+genius of success is still the genius of labor." They teach patriotism,
+a deeper love for and devotion to America. They teach that life, with
+some definite and noble purpose, is worth living.
+
+
+BOYS' BOOK OF FAMOUS RULERS.
+
+By LYDIA HOYT FARMER. Lives of Agamemnon, Julius Caesar, Charlemagne,
+Frederick the Great, Richard Coeur de Lion, Robert Bruce, Napoleon, and
+other heroes of historic fame. Fully illustrated with portraits and
+numerous engravings. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+"A capital book for youth. Each subject has a portrait and illustrations
+of eventful scenes."--_Boston Globe._
+
+
+GIRLS' BOOK OF FAMOUS QUEENS.
+
+By LYDIA HOYT FARMER. A companion book to "Boys' Book of Famous Rulers."
+Lives of Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth, Catharine de Medici, Josephine,
+Victoria, Eugenie, etc. 12mo, cloth. 85 illustrations. $1.50.
+
+"Such a book for young people is worth a score of 'blood and thunder'
+fictions; it is worthy a place in the library of every boy and
+girl."--_Washington Post._
+
+
+LIFE OF LAFAYETTE, the Knight of Liberty.
+
+By LYDIA HOYT FARMER. A glowing narrative of the life of this renowned
+general, with 58 illustrations. 12mo. $1.50.
+
+As a large portion of the material presented in this volume has been
+gathered from French works never before translated and which are now out
+of print, and also from original files of newspapers, and various
+manuscripts written by members of the La Fayette family, a more complete
+life of General La Fayette is here offered than has before appeared,
+either in this country or in Europe.
+
+
+THOMAS Y. CROWELL & CO., 13 Astor Place, NEW YORK.
+
+
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber Note:
+
+Minor typographical errors and inconsistencies have been corrected
+without comment.
+
+
+
+***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAMOUS AMERICAN STATESMEN***
+
+
+******* This file should be named 39012.txt or 39012.zip *******
+
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