Clinton County, Missouri - The whole text, 1881 (part 2 of 11)

His administration was as satisfactory as it could ha\e been to all conservative men. At the expiration of his term of office, he resumed the practice of law in St. Joseph, which he has followed e\'er since. He has been employed in all the important cases since his return to the practice, and has added greatly to his well earned reputation as a law\'er before the war. He has sought no oftice or position since. On the contrar}% Governor Hardin told me that he had twice offered him the position of Supreme Judge since the death of Judge Vories, but that Mr. Hall had declined both times.

Solomon L. Leonard

was one of the early immigrants to the Platte country. He had been -eng'aged in teaching school at tlie time of his coming. He was in modcrate circumstances, indeed might be termed poor, but he had pluck and perseverance enough for two men. but succeeded rather slowly at the practice of law. He lived on a small farm two miles from Platte City, about twenty acres of which he cleared and cultivated. From these two sources he made barel\- a comfortable subsistence. In 1S43, I think, the state was entitled to five hundred thousand acres of public land, and Solomon L, Leonard was appointed a commissioner to select land for the state. The compensation he received for the same enabled him to purchase the land on which he resided and on which his wife now resides, east of St. Joseph.

In 1844 or 1S43, he v.-as appointed judge of that circuit to fill a vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Henderson Young, who had been judge for about one year after General Atchison's resignation. He continued in ofiice until 1852, when he declined being a candidate for re-election. In niost respects he was a model judge ; commencing court every morning early, at the ver)- moment to which it was adjourneil. Every day he got through the docket of that day, if it could be done by dark.

Lawyers had to work hard, and those who were not fond of hard work found faulL I always found him courteous and respectful to all members of the bar. The hard vv'ork im[x>sed on the bar was not the result of any arbitrary feclinj^ on his part, but a determination and an honest purpose to subserve the interest of the public properly. It would be better for the bar and public if jnore judc^es would follow the same course.

After he retired from the bench he formed a partnership in the practice of law with General Bela M. Hui^hcs. It was a very able fum, and while it continued it had as much practice as it could attend to. Judge Leonard's wealth gradually increased, and the property he left made all his famil}' rich. The increase of his propert)', and the business conseqvient upon it, induced him to abandon the practice almost entirely.

During the first _\-ear of the war, in i86i, he went '^.outh, whether to carry his negroes south or to engage in the Southern cause, I do not know. He was drowned at Fort Gibson, Indian Territory, in Grand River, in that year.

Judge Leonard had as much will-pov/er as any man I e\-er knew, and a large volume of brain power. He was a man of strong prejudices - his enemies could hardly do right, and his friends could scarcely do wrong. He was aware of these prejudices, and brought his strong willpower to control them on the bench, which he did successful!}-. He was devoted to his family, and educated his daughters with a great deal of care, regardless of expense. Rather impatient b\- nature, yet he A\as fond of legal and logical discussion, and listened with patience to lawyers of any ability. We were warm personal friends, and I deemed him a just and able judge.

was the son of General Andrew S. Hughes, herein mentioned, and born in Nicholas County, Kentucky. His mother was a sister to Thomas Metcalf, who was a captain in the war of 1812, a mem.ber of congress for many years, governor of the state, and then a L^nited States Senator.

Coming from such a stock on the respective sides, it would naturally be supposed that General Hughes would be a man of high order of intellect. Those whose anticipations were the highest have not been disappointed. He graduated at Augusta College, Kentucky.

Immediately after he graduated he went to Wisconsin Territor\' as a private secretary of the territorial governor. He was introduced into social and political life under favorable auspices. While there he improved his learning much from men and books. Coming to Missouri, he commenced the study of law. but having married when he was very young, and having six or eight thousand dollars in his own right, he thought it would be better to accumulate a fortune rapidl}' by engaging in merchandising and commerce. He located at Weston, Platte County. As he knew nothing of business, it did not take him long to lose half of his fortune. He sold out, re-engaged in the study, and finally in the practice of his profession.

He succeeded very well from the start ; was elected to the legislature from that county, and appointed Receiver of Public Mone)-s at the I'nited States land office at Plattsburc;, Missouri. He remained there imtil General Ta}'lor was elected in 1848, and although his uncle, who was then a V\'hig senator from Kentucky, and myself and others, who knew General Taylor well, assured him he would not be removed, his delicate sense of propriety induced him to resign (he being a Democrat), sayingthat he wouUl not hold an office which, under the custom of parties, belonged to some Whig." Fie removed to St. Joseph, and lived there as long as he remained in the state. He formed a partnership, first with Solomon L. Leonard, and afterwards with Silas Woodson. Both these partnerships were remunerative. Governor Woodson was appointed judge of that circuit, and General Hughes went to Atchison, Kansas, more for the purpose of attending to the varied interests of his cousin, Benjamin Holliday, the distinguished pioneer in steamship lines, railroads, and overland mail. This business required many long and dangerous voyages to Colorado, Salt Lake, and San Francisco, in connection with the Holliday mail route. Selecting Denver as a central position for the route, he finally located there, removed his family, and made it his permanent home. When his connection with Holliday had terminated, he resumed his profession, and at a bound placed himself at the head of the able bar of Colorado, which position he maintains now (1881). He is employed in all the important suits arising from railroads, mines, telegraphs, and stock operations. He has acquired a fortune by his close attention to business, and with the wonderful success with which he has m.et. I have spent six summers in Colorado, have often heard him in courts, and was there when he was nominated by the Democrats of that state for governor, and during his brilliant canvass. His speeches were marked by the caustic wit, sharp repartee, and boundless humor that characterized .his father, with much more, learning and general attainments. He may be deemed an eminent jurist and orator, and I know personally of his receiving a letter from one of the most distinguished jurists in New York asking his opinion in relation to his construction of a very ambiguous statute, saying " that he would rather have his opinion than any other lawyer, and that his clients would pay him liberally for it."

His great ability, integrity, and attention to business, assures us that he will aUvays retain his business and practice as long as he desires.

Silas Woodson

My first acquaintance with Silas Woodson was at Plattsburg, in the fall of 1854. I was then attending court, and v/as employed to assist Hughes and Leonard and General Loan in the defense of William Lanes- toil, charijed with murder. The case had been pending some time in Buchanan Count}-, and finrdlv liad been taken to Clinton County; but I was only emplo\-ed in the case at the term at which it was tried. Governor Woodson had recently emigrated from Kno.N Count)-, Kentuck\-, to St. Joseph, and some of the citizens of St. Joseph had employed him to assist in the prosecution of Lanf^ston. \Vc had been several days engaged in examining the testimony and had closed on both sides. Wliile I was writing some instructions at m\- room. General Loan and Judge Leonard came in and told me Mr. Woodson complained of being sick, and desired to make the closing argument in the case instead of the opening. 1 told them that I had an invariable rule that I would not depart from, that the circuit atlorney must make the closing argument in every criminal case in which I was engaged. In a (ew minutes after they left Mr. Woodson came in, and told me he was not well, and bein^- a stranger did not like to address a jury under disadvantageous circumstances. It was a strong appeal to my courtesy, and I felt somewhat inclined to accede to his request, but I had read the trial of Dr. Baker, who %\as tried and convicted for murder in Kentucky, and a Mr. Woodson had been the prosecuting attorney. It occurred to me that he might possibly be the man. I asked him if he had been prosecuting attorney when Dr. Baker was tried. He said he had. I said. " Mr. Woodson, a prosecutor who was able to meet and gain a victory over the most eminent attorneys and advocates in the Union, is able to prosecute against such lawyers as Langston has, even though he is sick. I regret that my duty to my client compels me to be apparently discourteous. You cannot make the closing argument in this case." An hour afterward, the instructions had been given by the court, and Mr. Woodson commenced his address, which for ability, brilliancy and pathos I have never heard equalled. I regret that I have not language that will conve}' even the faintest idea of this torrent of eloquent invective.

In i860, he was elected judge of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, in which position he gave universal satisfaction, and at the expiration of his term, with a most enviable reputation, again resumed the practice of law.

As a practitioner, he takes rank am.ong the leading lawyers of the state, and his professional associates cheerfull>- concede his eminent ability in criminal cases. The vital interests of the largest corporations, the equally important rights of the humblest citizen, alike command his services, and whether the fee is a fortune or a farthing, he devotes his best abilities and his constant attention to the success of his client.

In August 1872, quite unexpectedly to himself, he was nominated by the State Democratic Convention as candidate for Go\-ernor of Missouri, and was elected to that office by a large majority, and served for two years with distinguislied abilitv.

No blcnush. mars the jiurity of hi,^ private life. He is one of the few men. wlio, throuL,''li a Iohl.; public cai-eer, ha\'e ne\-er once neglected or betrayed any trust reposed in them. His motto is, and his action has ahvaj's been, to do what right and justice demand, leaving consequences to take care of themseKes.

He possesses an earnest nature, great energy and firmness, a clear judgment, with comprehensive and analytical mind, and a heart full of true charity and noble impulses.

General J. Nl Rassett

J. M. Bassett was born in New Haven, Connecticut, February 7, 1817. He came with his fatlier, Avhen a small boy, to Ohio, and at the age of ten years removed to Springfield, Illinois, where he completed his education. He read law with Governor Cailin, and was adm.itted to the bar by Judge Stephen A. Douglas. Afterward he opened an office in Quincy, Illinois, and, after several \-ears of successful practice, came to Plattsburg, Clinton County, Missouri, in 1S44, where he ren'iained two A-ears. While here he was elected a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, and came to St. Joseph shortl\- after the labors of that convention were closed.

He soon became one of the leading lawyers of the country. He served four years as prosecuting attorney of this judicial district. Was elected Ma}-or of St. Joseph in iS55- At the breaking out of the war he espoused the cause of the Union, and did much to ralh^ the loyal sentiment of Northwest Missouri. He was captain of a company of militia, and was for two years pro\'ost marshal of this district.

General Bassett was a ready and powerful writer ; generous, pleasant, social and charitable. He was a fluent speaker, and strong in argument, and his success before juries and judges was proverbial.

Keen, cool, shrewd and cautious, his speeches in court often veined glowing sarcasm, were not onh' models of terseness and force, but revealed a background of study, reflection and special preparation, which stamped him as one of the foremost lawyers of Northwest Missouri. He seemed to rise with the occasion when the subject in hand demanded intellect and power. Then it was he would pour forth argument, and hurl invectixe and eloquent appeals to the jur}-, sweeping e\-erything before hini.

Whenever he devoted his full powers to a case, no client in the West had a more safe, competent and successful advocate. General Bassett died in 1S71.

who was born in Mason County, Kentucky July 9th, 1808. His ances- cestors on both paternal and maternal lines were of English extraction. Mis father and mother were natives of Virginia, his father being a revolutionary soldier. His mother was a woman of extraordinary mental powers and sparkling wit. He graduated at Augusta College, Kentucky, at the early age of eighteen years, with distinction, especially in the classics. Fie studied law in the office of Martin V. Marshal, of Kentucky. After a period of two years he was licensed to practice law by the Supreme Court of Ohio. In ^vlarch, 1830, he came to Missouri, and was licensed to practice by the supreme court, at Fayette, in the succeeding month. On the iQth of April, 1S30, he settled at Lexington, Missouri, and began his long, successful and brilliant forensic career. At the age of twenty-two, without experience, he was placed in collision with Abiel Leonard, Robert \V. Wells, Peyton R. Hayden and others, gentlemen eminent for ability and legal attainments.

His maiden speech at the bar was made in 1830, in defense of a man indicted fv^r murder. His conduct in this trial was modest, and gave evidence of the dawning of that reputation as a criminal lawyer which he afterward attained.

In 1837, he removed to Liberty, Missouri, which he made his home for the succeeding thirty years. There he found, already established in the practice of law, those distinguished lawyers, D. R. Atchison, Amos Rees and James M. Hughes. His experience at Lexington had been preparatory ; at Liberty his reputation attained its zenith. Doniphan was young, ambitious, highly cultured, and his mind expanded with ease to meet the magnitude of each new occasion. The faculty of ready.- powerful and tempestuous speech - the flashes of brilliant thought had come to him, and the people of the state at once recognized him as an orator.

In 183*6, 1840, and in 1854, he represented Clay County in the legisture without opposition. He was a member of the Peace Conference of 1S61. In 1846, occurred the war with Mexico, and in May, 1S46, he was elected Colonel of the first regiment Missouri Mounted Volunteers.

The laurels won by Colonel Doniphan and his men during the Mexican war are among the brightest that grace the American arms, and the memory of them will be as enduring as time itself.

In the varied circumstances of life Colonel Doniphan has exerted a great influence. In parliamentary bodies he has done this mainly through social impress and personal contact. He is fascinating in conversation. and his society is sought wherever he goes. His mind acts with quickness and precision. His temperament is poetic, even romantic, but is guarded by fine taste and the most delicate sense of the ludicrous. His mind is so well organized, so nicely balanced, its maci)inery so happily fitted, its stores of information so well digested, and so completely made a part of the brain, that its riches, without apparent effort, flow or flash fourth on all occasions, and places each subject or object it touches in a flood of light.

Nature lias endowed him munificiently. He now leads a quiet life at Richmond, Missouri, devoting himself entirely to the amusements of reading, correspondence and converse with his myriad of friends.

Hon. Wm. T. Wood

was born in Mercer County, Kentucky, about the year 1S09, and after receiving an excellent education, emigrated to Clay County, Missouri, when about twenty-one years of age, and began the practice of lav/. He continued to practice with great success, until about 1838, when he became circuit attorney of the Fifth Judicial Circuit. In 1840, he represented Clay County in the Legislature of the state. In 1844, he moved to Lexington, Missouri, at that time, one of the most flourishing towns in the state. After following his profession for several years, in Fayette and adjoining counties, he was elected Judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit. After holding the ofiice for tv.-o or three years, he resigned, and located in St. Louis, where he resumed and continued the practice of law until about 1866, when he returned to Lexington. In 1S68, he was again elected Judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit, and in 1874, was re-elected for the term of six years. After the expiration of his term of office, he moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where he now resides, still following his profession at the advanced age of seventy-two years, tie has been a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church for many years, and distinguished himself in defending Dr. ]\IcPheters in the ecclesiastical courts.

Judge Wood is not a brilliant orator, but possesses a profound knowledge of the law, and is honest and conscientious in the discharge of his duties. While judge, he gave great satisfaction for his fairness and impartiality. Possessing in an eminent degree a legal mind, his decisions from the bench were always delivered in a clear and convincing manner.

was born in Bourbon County, Kentucky, on the 28th day of P'ebruary, 183 1. He is the eldest of a fam.ily of five children, his parents being Morgan Turney and Tripo'^a M. Birch.

When six years of age, he came with the fiimily to Shelby County, Illinois, v.'here they located, and v.here he continued to reside until he reached the age of twenty-one years. While in Shelby County he studied law witli Anthony Tliornton, afterward jndc^e of the supreme court of that state and a member of conc^^ress. He also remained for a short time in the business house of William V. Thornton, a brother of the juds^e, as clerk.

In 1852, he cmii^rated to Clinton Count}', Missouri, locatincc in Plattsburg. He resumed the stud\- of the law after his arrival, in the law office of James H. Birch, Jr., and in 1S53 obtained a license to practice. He was elected to the legislature from Clinton County, in 1S56, on the Know-nothing ticket, ha\ing been a Whig in politics prior to that date.

In 1S59, he married Miss Angelina Funkhouser, of Clinton Count)-, and b}' this union the\' have had six children, four of whom, (Thomas K., Olive, Lulu and Mary), are now- living.

In 186S, he was elected judge of the court of common pleas, which position he filled with great abilit)' and in an acceptable manner to the people. He moved to his farm in 1864, in Clinton Count\% where he followed agricultural pursuits in conjunction with his professional duties as a lawyer and judge until 1S70, when he located in Cameron. Since 1875, he has had charge of the business of the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad Compan}- in the circuit courts of seven counties.

Judge Turnev ranks among the best attorneys at the bar in Northwest Missouri, and has for many years enjoyed a lucrative practice. He is thoroughh- conversant with the elementary principles of the law, and applies them with great clearness and candor. He is a forcible, logical speaker, and conducts his cases with marked ability and great success.

Hon. Thomas J. Porter

is the son of Jesse J. and IMargaret M. Porter, and was born in Greenville, Darke County, Ohio, on the 17th day of December, 1842. He attended the common schools of his native town, until the age of sev- -enteen, when he entered the Sidney Union School, where he was graduated in 1863. He then studied law, under Edwin Smith, one of the ablest law}-ers of his county, obtaining a lic-ense to practice law in 1864. He commenced the practice of law, during the same \'ear, at Leon, Decatur Count)-, Iowa, where he resided till the fall of 1S65. He came to ^lissouri, reaching Plattsburg on the 2Sth day of Xo\-ember, 1S65, where he has since resided. In October, 1866, he married Miss Sarah A. Harrah, of r)sceola. Iowa. B)- this union the\- ha\-e had six children. \\z : Zella K., Nellie \'.. Alleta A,. Florence L., Clara R. and Charles T., five of whom are still living, Charles T.. the youngest, being dead.

In 1S74, he was elected Probate Judge of Clinton Count)-, which position he filled with credit to himself and with great acceptance to the people. He then resumed the practice of his profession, which he has followed e.xclusiveh- since.

Judj^e Porter is conceded to be one of the best lawyers in this [)ortion of the state, and ranks hii^h as a brilliant and effective speaker. lie is, withal, an upri^;ht, conscientious nian, being hiijhly esteemed anioni^ his f'.-Ilow citizens, fur his many good qualities, as a man, neighbor and friend.

Colonel Winslow Tcknlk

was born in Plymouth Count)-, in the Old I)a\- State, in December, 1802, and came to Missouri, locating in Plattsburg, in 1S40. During that }-ear he receixed the appointment of county and circuit court clerk, which positions he held with distinguished credit until 1S56, when he resigned. In liiS^, he was appointed register of the land oftlcc at Plattsburg, resigning in 1S58. He represented Clinton County in the legislature of the state in. the same year, and was elected the speaker of that bod)'. While there, he-ranked high as a legislator, and was one of the most useful and influential members. After his term in the legislature expired, he returned home and devoted himself to the practice of law, which he continued until the date of his death, which occurred on the 5th day of March, 1874. He was a man of the purest honor. He scorned ever\'thing that was false and mean. Possessing pronounced sentiments, he expressed them freely and fearlessly under any and all circumstances. To a friend or foe he was frank, manly, bold and unequivocal. He was guided by principle, and no question of policy could intervene to abate his advocacy of what he deemed right. He was a man of excellent education, systematic habits and possessed a warm and sympathetic heart. He was a good lawyer and safe counsellor, and carried into his profession the same habits of system and thought that characterized him in all the private and public walks of life. As a man he was an excellent citizen and a kind neighbor. As a lawyer he was industrious, methodical, full of research and always courteous and gentlemanly towards his brother attorneys at the bar.

Hon. George W. Dunn

A more complete sketch of the life o( the Hon. George W. Dunn will be found among the biographies of this work. This reference is here made to him as a lawyer and a judge.

Those who have read his poetical effusions, notably his " Temple of Justice," will be likely to conclude that, as a lawyer, he is brilliant rather than profound. Such, however, is not the case. While always eloquent in expression, as a practicing lawyer, he was especially distinguished for his thorough knowledge of the law, and the facts of every case in which he was engaged. His proficiency as a pleader, for accuracy of statement and a power of reasoning, which rarely failed to convince those he addressed, whether court or jur)-.

As a jud<,^e. these characteristics are still more conspicuous. With u'ondorful rapidity and correctness, he pursues the real issues in the case submitted to him, and api)lies the law ^^overninc^ them. IJeinij deeply read in the elementary principles of the law, his declarations, which are models of correct rcasonincr, are usually based upon these principles, and are at once a statement and vindication of the law. Add to these qualities an incorruptible integrity, and we have a sketch of Hon. Georcre W. Dunn as a lawyer and a judge.

Having referred to the judge as a poet, we will conclude this brief sketch by producing here the first stanza of his poem, entitled "The Ermine and the Harp," which is conceded by his friends to be one of kis best productions : iras born in East Tennessee, about th(3 beginning of the present century, and moved to Missouri in 182S. and located in Columbia, Boone County. There he commenced the practice of law, and soon took high rank among the members of the legal profession. He was elected representive in the legislature of the state about 1S36, serving one term. He was a prominent leader of the Democracy while there, and was at the close of his term, appointed by the governor of the state, Judge of the Fifth Jitdiekil Circuit. In the spring of 1837, he moved to Ray County. Misso'uri, and located on a farm one mile and a half southeast of Richmond, where he continued to reside until the date of his death. He held the ©ff\ce of Judge of the Fifth Judicial Circuit from the time of his appointment until the year 1848. During the period of his judgeship, all the sawyers of his court traveled with him, horseback around his circuit. He possessed a strong, vigorous intellect, was well read in the elementary principles of the law, and was familiar with the leading adjudged cases a>f that period. He was industrious and indefatigable, and had a strong Love of justice and right.

As a judge, he enjoyed the confidence and esteem of not onl}- the bar. but the people of his circuit. His ardent nature, however, was better suited for the political arena than the bench. Accordingly, in 1S48. he became the Democratic nominee for the gubernatorial chair of ll\e state, and was elected by a larger majority than any other man had

Historv 01- Clinton County

At the close of his term as governor, he resumed the jjractice of law in his old circuit, drying a large and lucrative business. He was a logical speaker and a clear reasoner, and rarel}' failed to con\-ince either court or jury of the correctness of his views and the rightful claims t>f his case, whether civil or criminal. In i86.| he was elected a representative in Congress from Missouri, serving one term. While in Congress he took an active part in his support and advocacy of the Union cause, as well as all other measures pertaining to the welfare of the nation. On returning home from Congress, he resumed the practice of law, and continued his profe'isional labors unremitting!}' until his death, which occurred in 1870. He was during all his long life an uncompromising Democrat, and was emphatically a positive, affirmative man. He had warm friends and some bitter enemies, but all alike conceded his integrity, his fairness, and his great abilit)'. He had, " Charity for all, and ihalice towards none," .and now all unite in doing honor to his memory.

Whereas, The members of the bar of the Fifth and Twelfth Judicial Circuits assembled in Plattsburg have recei\'ed the mournful intelligence that the venerable and illustrious brother, the Hon. Austin A. King, departed this life in the cit)* of St. Louis on the 226 instant, after a brief illness, therefore, with heartfelt grief, it is

Rcso/i'tif, That the death of ex-Governor Austin A. King is an irreparable loss to the state, the bench and the bar, and fills the hearts of his numerous friends and associates with the most profound s)'mpathy and sorrow.

Ri^sohed, That in ever)- relation of life, whether official and public, or personal and private, either as the chief executive of this great commonwealth, - on the bench, at the bar, cr as a representative in the state and national legislatures, Gov. King was earnest, sincere and faithful, and zealously emplo\'ed his great abilities and wonderful energ\- in the maintenance of his conscientious convictions of duty and right.

Resolved, That a venerated and illustrious citizen has fallen, an able jawyer and profound jurist has retired from all earthh* courts, a dis- "tinguished statesman has terminated an honorable career in his country's service, and a practical Christian gone to test the realit)- of a living faith :in the great Redeemer, and we, his professional brethren, with aftectionate veneration for his memory, tender to his stricken famil)' our unfeigned sympathy and condolence.

Reso.k-ed, That the foregoing resolutions be presented to the Hon- -orable, the Circuit Court of the Fifth Circuit, nou' in session, with a jequest that the same be entered upon the record thereof; and that a ,cop)-, attested b)- the chairman and secretar)' of this iiieeting. be transfflitced to the famil\- of the deceased.

Rt-so/rLtf, That the Hon. James H. Birch, an illustrious compeer and friend of the late Governor King be, and lie is hereby, fraternally requested to present these resolutions to the court, in pursuance of the fourth resolution.

Benjamin F. Loan

I first knew the late General Loan in Platte County. He was born in Hardensburg, Pireckenridge County, Kentucky, in 18 19. He rem.ained at the old home in Kentucky until 1S38, when he came to Missouri and settled in Platte County. He commenced reading law in Platte City with Isaac N. Jones, in 1842. After two years spent in close study, he obtained ^ license and located in }5uchanan County. He was an active, industrious, painstaking and conscientious attorney. He was a deep thinker and a ripe scholar in legal and political lore, and possessed great personal honor and integrity, and was admired by not only his brother attorneys, but no one spoke of hini but to praise.

When the late civil war broke out he took an active part in military affairs, and was appointed brigadier general. In 1862 he was elected to a seat in the Thirty-eight Congress, and served as a member of the Committes on Pacific Railroads, and PVeedmen, and Debts of Loyal States.. and other committees. During the Fortieth Congress he was chairman of the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, and on that of P'reedmen's affairs. In 1S69, he was appointed visitor to West Point. He was the Republican candidate for congress in 1S76, and was defeated by Hon. David Rea. These in brief are the salient points of one of the most popular and one of the ablest and best known law^yers in the " Platte Purchase."

General Loan died ac his home in St. Joseph on the 30th da}' of March, 1S81, at the age of sixty-two years. The St. Joseph bar held a meeting on the occasion of his death, the proceedings of which we here give:

" The adjourned meeting of the Bar Association o( St. Joseph v,-as held in the circuit court room yesterday afternoon at half-past four. General Craig, as chairman, called the meeting to order, and requested the chairman of the committee appointed to v.-ait upon the family of Geiieral Loan to ascertain their desire as to the funeral arrangements, to report. Mr. Allen H. Vories then informed the meeting that General Loan's family had expressed their wish that the bar should take charge of the funeral, which was to take place at two o'clock this afternoon. Mr. Vories suggested that the bar should not monopolize the funeral arrajigements, but should invite a number of citizens to assist in the obsequies.

It was niovcJ aiu! seconded tliat six members of the bar bu ajjijointed pall bearers, with authority to select four citiz.ens to act with them in the same capacit)-.

Messrs. Vories and Vineyard were appointed by the chair to select the legal pall bearers, and made choice of the following gentlemen : Governor Woodson, General Craig, Judge Tutt, Governor Hall, John D. Strong, and A. H. Vories.

Ri-sohed, That we, the members of the bar of St. Joseph, bear witness that through the crucial test of a long and active practice in a profession v.-hich, more than any other, tries and makes known to his fellows the real character of a man, Benjamin F. Loan has passed, without an imputation of the slightest neglect of a client's interest or of the courtesies and fair dealings due to an opponent ; that his life is a noble illustration of the truth that untiring industry and unswerving honesty are the essential elements of real success in our own, no less than in the other avocations of life ; and we direct the attention of every young man who would gain an enviable distinction in the legal profession to the course and career of the deceased as worthy of the highest emulation.

Rt-so/zt\f, That our departed brother was true to the interests committed to hifn in all the relations of life ; that he was a faithful public servant, a steadfast friend, a devoted husband, an estimable citizen and. an honest man.

Resok'tiL That as a mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, we request the judge to adjourn the circuit court of this county, now in session, during the day of the funeral, and that the members of this bar attend the funeral in a body.

Resolz'cd, That the secretary of this meeting furnish a copy of these resolutions to the press of the city for publication, also a copy thereot to the family of the deceased, and also a copy thereof to Alex. D. Vories, by him to be presented to the judge of the Buchanan Circuit Court, with a request that they may, with other proceedings of this meeting, be spread in full upon the records of said court.

WllKREAS. It has pleased AlmiLjhty God, in His divine providence, to remove from ourinidst our \alued friend and associate, the Mon. iienjamin F. Loan, therefore be it

Rcsoh-id, B)- the Board of Directors of the Merchants" liank, that in the death of the Hon. Benjamin F. Loan, this board has lost a member whose counsels were of the utmost value to the interests of the institution, and that we, individually, have lost a friend and associate whose death is deeply and sincerely deplored ; and be it further

Rcsok-cd, That we sympathize most sincerely with the family and relatives of our deceaspd friend in this hour of their sad bereavement ; and be it further

Rcsohtd, That these resolutions be spread at lenc,'-th upon the minutes of the board, and that a copy signed by the president be sent to the family of our deceased friend.

After reading the resolutions Mr. \''ineyard said that it seemed strange to him to stand among his professional brethren and miss the form of General Loan. Only two days ago he was engaged in the active duties of his profession, and now he was no longer among us. Not \-ery long ago General Loan had said to him that he would go soon and go suddenl)-, and his foreboding had proved true. He had known the deceased since 1S66, and had enjo}-ed his disinterested friendship. Of his militar}' and congressional record, he would let others speak, but as a lawyer he had found him frank, upright and sincere. General Loan never made a promise to a brother lawx'er that he did not faithfully keep. His zeal for his clients was unbounded, while he was ever an indefatigable worker. To pronounce this eulogy was a sad task, not because the subject did not deserve it, but because he was no more.

The chairman here suggested that the youngest member of the bar be selected to present the resolutions to the Circuit Court. The suggestion was adopted.

]Mr. R. T. Davis then addressed the meeting and recalled his last conversation with General Loan. It was the opinion of the deceased that young lawyers should stick to their practice and a\-oid politics. He had such a high appreciation of the bar of St. Joseph that he told the .speaker that nothing could induce him to reside away from this cit\'. F'ree passes to Chicago and New York, a large income and nothing to do would ha\-e no temptation to him, compared \\'ith the societ\- of his friends, if he had to give upthe latter to enjoy the former.

li.id lost his most cc/nfiiJcntial friend and he could not reconcile himself to liis loss. l'"or thirt)- )'ears a close friendship had existed between liiniself and the deceased. If e\er there was an honest man General Loan was that man. Ivver faithful to his clients he was the soul of honor in his dealings \\\[h all men. Anicjn:;" the meml)crs of this bar lie had not one enemw Cjutside of his i)rofcssional career he had no enjo}'ments, and was so attached to the members of the St. Joseph bar tliat he had determined to spend all hi.s days amonij^ them. Of his proficienc)- as a l;i.w\er it was not nccessar}- to speak. The harder the case the better law\ er General Loan proved himself to be. His courtesy to other attorne)-s ^\'as remarkable-. " ]^y his death," concluded Mr. Vories, "I h:\vf. lost m\- best friend."

Mr. Thomas had known General Loan for eleven years, and had frequontl)', as a young man, applied to him for adx'ice, aiid had always found him gracious and courteous. Whether opposed to him or associated with him, he always exhibited a courtesx' wliich was extended to all the attorneys with whom he cahie in contact. His loss will be greatly felt. Mr. Thomas endorsed the sentiments of the resolutions.

^Ir. H. K. White said that General Loan had attained the high degree of philosophy which enabled him to endure differences of opinion without giving up personal regard, hi his adherence to the ideas of the past upon legal matters, General Loan had man\- sharp conflicts with the rising generation, but from these antagonisms an unkind personal feeling had never once been dexeloj^ed.

]\Ir. Jolin S. Crosby, as a younger member of the bar, paid an earnest tribute to the friendliness toward }-oung members of his profession, which General Loan. He also referred to the strong domestic .affections of the deceased, which he had had occasion to witness. Carr)-- ing with him a heavy and constant burden of disease and suffering which ha\"e. made most men morose, he was always cheerful and good Tiatured.

Mr. P. V. Wise said that he had so long associated with General Loan that he did not consider it inappropriate on his part to make a few remarks. The deceased was a man who took for his motto " deeds not words." He acted justly from a principle of right and not from the hope of future reward. He was satisfied to practice the golden rule. Notwithstanding the industrious habits of the deceased he enjoyed philosophical contemplation, and belie\'ed that the best of all lives was to so live here that when the great change came there \\ould be nothing to repent of. He fulfilled William Cullen Br\-ant's noble lines:

"So live that when thy .summons come to join The innumerable caravan which moves I'o that mysterious realm where each shall take His chamber in the silent halls of death

Thou go not, like the quarry slave at night, Scourged to his dungeon, but sustained and soothed By an unfaltering tru-t, approach thy grave, Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch About him, and lies down to^ileasaiU dreams."

The chairman then said that ho fir>t knew General Loan thirty-fivc years ai^o, when he was stru<;"glinfj to earn his first town hDt. In those days he had traveled the circuit with him, had observed his course during the war, and had known him intimately as a Conc^ressman, and he had always found him honest. During the days of political corruption that followed the war, no man had ever dared to say that General Loan had taken a dollar that was not his own. His home life was full of tender affection, one long honeymoon. It ha.s beea said that he was not Avithout a presentiment of his approaching end, and on Tuesday called at the bank and transferred some bonds, from his own name to that of his wife. In all the relations of life, he. General Craig, had never known a better man than Benjamin F. Loan,

Other Attorneys

We have given short biographical sketches of only those members of the bar, who came to Plattsburg or practiced before the Plattsburg bar at an early day. In addition, will be found belov/ a short and incomplete list of names of other attorne\-s. There have been many itinerant lawyers and journeymen counsellors, many of whons are doubtlessstill living, and known to the reader, and others are dead, or have moved elsewhere, that have practiced in the Clinton County courts. We should be glad to speak of all, but our limited space precludes us from doing more than merely chronicling their names :

History Oi- Clinton County Bench And Bar Of Cameron

The first attorney to locate on the site of the present town of Cameron, was the late Colonel M. F. Tiernan, one of the earliest settlers of the place.

In 1S5S, Charles C Bassett. Esq., located in the practice of the law there., and remained till 1S62, when he entered the Sixth Missouri State Cavalr\-, of which Major B. ^^"as quartermaster. Captain Bassett was afterwards the founder of the prosperous town of Rich Hill, in Bates County, and is now (i8Si^ a resident of Kansas City, and a representative law}'er of that section.

In 1 866, William Henry, afterwards Judge of the Cameron Court of Common Pleas, opened in partnership with T. Criss, Esq., since deceased, an office in Cameron. He is still a leading attorney ^)f that town.

In June 1S67, J. F. Harwood moved from Illinois and settled in Cameron, where, with the interval of a few months residence in Kansas City, he has since continued uninterruptedly to remain, in the enjoyment of an excellent practice.

S. H. Corn. Esq.. came from Ohio, and in 1S69, located in Cameron. where he still resides, in the practice of his profes-sion. About the same period William V. McCandless (afterwards a partner of the present Judge Henry, above referred toj, but since deceased, came to Cameron as a practicitig attorne\-.

In 1S76. K.J. Saiith.at one time publisher of the Cameron Observer, opened a hiw office in the city of Cameron, and has since devoted his attention to the practice of that profession.

These constitute the roll of attorneys that have been identified with the population of Cameron from the founding of the town to the {^resent period.

In view of the increasing demands of legal business in this part of the count)', the Court of Common Pleas of Cameron wa.s established b\- an act of the legislature, passed March 28, 1S61. This act provided that "a court of record, to be called the Cameron Court of Common Pleas, is hereby e^'tablished, to extend its jurisdiction over the territory included within the township of Shoal in Clinton County, which shall possess all the powers, perform all the duties, and be subjected to the restrictions of a court of record according to the laws of this state."

1. Concurrent original jurisdiction with the circuit courts of Clinton County in all c'wn actions, except in actions whereb}- the title to any real estate may be affected or impaired ; provided, however, that nothin herein expressed shall prevent real estate from being sold under executions issued from said Court of Common Pleas, and the sale thereof from being a valid sale.

2. Concurrent original jurisdiction with justices of the peace in all civil cases not exclusivel}' cognizable before a justice of the peace, a concurrent superintendent control with the circuit court of the county aforesaid over justices of the peace, and a concurrent jurisdiction with such circuit court over appeals from the judgments of justices of the peace within said township.

Section 8 provided that the Judge of the Cameron Court of Common Pleas hold his office for four years, and until his successor is elected and qualified.

Section 13 provided for the holding of four terms of this court during the year, at some place in the town of Cameron, in each year, commencing on the third Mondaj-s of January. April. July and October, and he (the judge), may appoint and hold adjourned terms and special terms of said court in the same manner as is or may be provided by law in regard to circuit courts.

Section 14 pro\iclcc! for the election of a m.irslial b)- the qualified \oter.s of Shoal Town-hip. on the first Morula)' in Ma)', 1S61, and every two years thereafter, and prescribed the ni<jde, which was similar to that provided in the act for the election and conmiissioning of the judsi^e of said court of common pleas. The act incori)oratiivj; this court was passed at the suggestion of Maj<3r A. T. Baubic (one of the founders of the city of Cameron,, and first settler in the town), who had long previously advocated the necessit)' of its establishment. Major Baubie was the first judge of this court, having been elected in the fall of 1S61. He served till 1S62, when he joined the Federal army. During the period of the civil war there were no sessions of this court held.

In 1S66, the Cameron Court of Common Pleas was virtually defunct. On a petition then signed by William Henry, Major Baubie and others, 'the court was revived, and at the suggestion of the latter named gentleman, Thomas E. Turney, Esq., was appointed to the bench, and Henry C. Culver marshal. These appointments took effect in 1867. In 1S69,. Judge Turney resigned, and A. S. Seaton was appointed his successor. Judge Seaton continued to discharge the duties of the office till January, iS/i, when he resigned. William Henr)' was immediately appointed his successor, and held the ofhce till after the close of the July term following, when his resignation was accepted. A. W. Frederick, Escp, formerly of the State of Ohio, became by appointment his successor, and continued on the bench till the office was abolished by act of the legislature, in the spring of 1873. This act was passed in obedience to a petition circulated for that purpose. During the administration of Judge Turney, Taylor Criss was clerk of the court up to the period of his death, when he was succeeded by Jesse S. Hake. During the administration of Judge Seaton he was his own clerk, discharging the duties of both offices by virtue of a provision in the organic act rendering such modus operandi admissable. During Judge Henry's term S. A. Powers was clerk of the court. Judge PVederick acted as his own clerk. . -<

The sessions of this court were held at first in the upper story of a frame building owned by John Shirts. This building stood on Walnut street, near the site of the present Cameron Hotel. It was destroyed in the great fire of 1871. The sessions of the court were then held for one or two terms in the rear room of the Cameron Deposit Bank building, on the southwest corner of Main and Third Streets. It was next moved to a room in the upper story of DeStiger's building, on Third Street, where it continued to assemble till the period of its abolishment by act of the legislature, as above stated.

Chapter Xxvii

Our State Constitution lays down, as the very foundation of society and good f^ovornment, the following principle: "Schools and the means of education shall fore\-er be encouraged in this state. One school, or more, shall be established in each township, as soon as practicable and necessary, where the poor shall be taught gratis."

Thus we find, in the fundamental law of ^Missouri, the plain and unequivocal announcement of the principle that every state is bound to see that its citizens are educated. It is a voluntar\- a\owal of the tact that the happiness, wealth and prosperity of a nation must depend on the intelligence and \irtue of the people.

In the act of congress (1820) authorizing the people of Missouri Territory to form a constitution and state government, the sixteenth section of each township, or its equivalent, was devoted to the purpose of supporting schools in each township.

Twelve salt springs, with six sections, or thirty-eight hundred and fort\- acres of land adjoining each, were also granted to the state, and those were afterwards devoted by the legislature to the same object.

The first act passed by the legislature of the state on the subject of education, was on the 17th of January-, 1S25. This law enacted that each congressional township should form a school district, to be under the control of the count}- court in all matters pertaining to schools. It also declared that all rents (of school lands) fines, penalties and forfeitures accruing under provisions of this act, should be set apart and appropriated exclusively to a school fund, and, in no case, should it be otherwise applied.

January 26. 1S33, the legislature authorized the governor to appoint three suitable persons, whose dut\- it should be to prepare a s\-stem oi" primary school instruction, as nearly uniform as practicable, throughout the state, and to make report to the next meeting of .the legislature.

By act of June 23, 1S36, the office of Superintendent of Common Schools was first created. Peter G. Glover was the first to fill this office. He was required in the month of January of each year, to make distribuli: tion of tlic " School Mone>-s " amoni^fst the several counties in which there niay be an}- scliool, based upon the number of white chiliiren between the ages of six and eighteen }'ears.

During the session of 1 853, a committee composed of Acock, of Polk Count)', Hickman, of Hoone, and Kelle\-, of Holt Count)-, Y.y authorit)' of the legislature, matured and presented to that body the law in force on the statute book, up to the passage of the second State Constitution, and with some modifications substantially the same as exists to-day (1S81). The first distribution of state school moneys was made in Januar\-, 1842, when only thirteen counties received any portion of the fund. These were Benton. Boone. Clark, Cole, Cooper, Greene, La Fa\-ette, Livingston. Marion. Monroe, Ralls. Saliiie ^id Shelb)-. The aggregate amount of this apportionment was $1,999.60. The number of children in the report here fails appear. In 1S59, the number of children reported was 367,248, and the amount appropriated, $253,401.12.

One of the earliest educational conventions, held in Northwest Missouri, was during the year 1844, in Buchanan County. Its object was to discuss the benefits accruing to the teacher, from teachers institutes and associations, and to devise the best means for the mutual improvement of teachers. The remarks made at that meeting by a Mr. Stratton. a teacher himself, upon the subject of teachers' conventions will, doubtless, be read with interest b\- those who are engaged in the same pursuit now(i88rj. ^Ir. Stratton said :

How shall teachers become better prepared for their profession ^ Howcan the\- be continuall)- improving their minds and their systems of instruction ? And how shall every teacher receive the light which the more e.xperienced are constantly throwing upon the subject of instruction ? V\'e know of no means so common to all, and so favorable, as count)- conventions of teachers. Heretofore there has been but little communication between teachers. The improvements which one has made have not been made known to others ; the incompetency of teachers, and the bad eftects of teacher have not been made to elevate and honor their profession. Other classes of men ha\-e had their con\ention5 - men of science, ministers and statesmen, to ensure enlightened and united operations, appoiiit their conventions to redress wrongs, to correct errors, and make known the impro\-ements and able suggestions that mav be discovered or proposed b)- an)- one of the part)-.

The wisdom and experience of. these conventions not only enlighten the people and sit in judgment upon their errors, but produce tliroughoutthe whole countr\- similarity of feeling and harmony of efforts for the peace of the church, the advancement of science and the prosperity of the countr)-.

Such conventions are absolute!)- necessary, but are not conventions of teachers equally as necessary for the prosperity of our schools ? Does not the difficulty' and responsible position of teaching require all the light and knowledge that can be obtained on the subject ? Does not the incompetency of teachers invite all the aid that can be obtained on this subject .' Does not the incompetency of teachers invite all the aid that

"Certainly!" every one will say, "such assistance is hi^^dily imjjortant ; it would' affortl that necessary aid which teachers now have no means of obtainin;^^"

Yet so i^aeat is the a{)athy of the pople tliat we seldom hear of a teachers' convention. The introduction of a teachers' convention, it seems, has but just found its way into Missfuiri. Hence but a small number of our teachers have been profitted by them. Hut how shall teachers improve themselves, if not by such conventions .'

Works on education have a very limited circulation. Xot one teacher out of a hundred reads anything on the subject ; nor will they read before the living voice exercises their attention. There are but few seminaries for educatin;^ teachers, and riirely a lecture delivered on school-keepinj^. Teachers are seldom qualified when tliey enter into the profession, and they have neither the assistance of teaclu rs in the vicinity aor intelligence from abroad, either from books or the speaking lecture. This should not be so. There are man)- means which teacliers may use to prepare themselves for their profession and for improving themselves while engaged in their duties; and we know of none so advantaf'-eous to teachers, and that is attended with so little expense and within reach of all, as frequent county conventions. If these are generally announced and faithfuH}- attended, they will not only be highlyinteresting to teachers, but of the greatest benefit to our schools. They should be attended not only by teachers, but by all the friends of education ; each individual should go prepared to contribute to their interest and usefulness and with a hearty desire to promote the general cause ot education. Each county association should have a correspondence with similar associations in adjacent counties and so throughout the United States. By this communication all the improvements or changes which have been' made may be made known. It should be the object of these conventions and communications with other associations to discover the origin of the defects in the present system of instruction, to acertain the actual condition of schools throughout the United States, who are in school, and the number who do not use the means of education. To ascertain the true interest which parents are taking in educating their children, to convince the people of the necessity of general intelligence in a free government, and to make known the duties which every one owes to the free institutions of his country. The mutual improvement of teachers is one of the first objects of these conventions. To render this mutual instruction each teacher before the convention should describe his s\ stem of instruction and his form of government. From this interchange of views on the best methods of teaching and governing many valuable suggestions will be elicited and many evils and defects disclosed. Individuals should be appointed to deliver lectures before these conventions, the object of the lectures being either to illustrate or simplify the branches which are taught in our schools, or to make known the best methods of instructing. These, with many other advantages, too numerous to mention, are the happv results of county teachers' conventions.

The first teachers' institute orL,^'inize'l in Clinton Count)- was held in the court house, in IMattsbui;^, on the 2ist day of July, 1866. At th's meeting H. F. Pot; was chosen president, and A. J. I'^vcrly secretary.

This institute adjourned to meet on the fust Saturday in September following^. Not bein<:f fortunate enouc^h to obtain the proceedinjjjs of this mcctinij, wc present the minutes of the Clinton County Teachers' Institute, which was held in Plattsburg, in October, [867:

The constitution drafted by the committee was adopted by sections, after some slight change in the phraseology of article 4 of section i. Committee discharged.

L. H. Webster gave a very appropriate lecture on PLnglish Grammar. His method of teaching being entirely oral. The rest of the teachers on performance were either absent or unprepared.

Performance for next meeting : Lecture on arithmetic, b)- L. II. Webster ; lecture on geography, by J. H. Watson; lecture on reading, b)- W. II. Price ; lecture on grammar, by A. J. Lott ; lecture on writing, by James Muftaker ; lecture on ancient history. b\' G. W. Russ ; lecture on modern history, by T. C. \\'eadin.

Debate: Question - Rcsoktii, That we bt.-come more hap^jy as we become more learned. Affirmative - Thomas B. Holt, J. W. Iluffakcr and J. H. Thomas. Negative - A. G. Rogers, B. F. Poe and A. K. Porter.

There being no further business to transact, institute adjourned to meet on the fourth Saturday in November, 1867, at 9 o'clock A. >[.. in the chapel of the Plattsburg Academy.

These institutes ha\'e been continued down to the present time (18S1), and have accomplished great good. They have not onl\- been the means of bringing together the teachers from the different sections of the county for an interchange of thought and feeling, thus binding them more closely in the bonds of sympathy and social feeling, but they have materially aided in the practical methods o^ imparting instruction and simplifying the lessons of the school room and economizing time.

Prior to 1866, the county superintendents of schools were called count}' commissioners. The first county commissioner of public schools was T. D. W. Yonley. His successors in office were : John T. Hughes, James E. Hughes. W. P. Hooper, county clerk, acting commissioner. B. F. Poe, A. K. Porter, county superintendent, and W P. Kelley. Mr. Kelle\- lias been county su{)erintendent of public schools since about 1871, and uKikes an excellent official.

This amount was added to the county public school fund, which is being constantly increased by fines, penalties, tax upon circuses, etc. Witness fees, which have not been called for by the parties to whom due. after the lapse of two years, are also transferred to this fund.

The township school fund is derived from the sale of the school lands, or every sixteenth section. Quite a revenue also has accrued from the sale of swamp lands, the internal improvement, and the three per cent fund, all of which are now utilized in the establishment and maintenance of public schools.

There are now sixty-nine school districts in Clinton Count}-, and between seventy-five and eighty school houses. A few o( these have been constructed of brick and stone, while the great majority have been built of frame. They are generally in good condition, and are furnished with all the means alTotded the best public sciiouls of the countrw In fact, the public schools of Clinton County are well orL;ani/.ed, well Contlucted, and in a prosperous condition, perha[)s more flourishin;,^ now thaii at any other period since the date of their ori^anizatioH.

When wt- compare Clinton County with Clay, Ikichanan, DeKalb, and Caldwell C(junties in reference to the comlition of their public schools, we find that Clinton Count)' does not suffer at all by the comparison. We ha\'e no correct data at hand, other than the state superintendent's report for 1S7S.

Buchanan' Cointv Clinton Col'Ntv

It will be seen from the above reports for the year 187S that Clinton County had a f,^reater number of school houses than either Clay, Buchanan, De Kalb or Caldwell ; a Ljreater number of pupils than Clav. Caldwell, (both older counties than Clinton) and DeKalb, and but a few less than Buchanan ; a greater number of teachers employed than either of the other counties, and a greater average of salaries paid. It will also be seen that the value of schoo] property in Clinton County exceeds that of either of the other counties named ; that the amount realized from taxation is greater than that realixed by either of the other four, and that Clinton county had a greater amount of unexpended school funds at the close of the year than either Clay, Buchanan, DeKalb or Caldwell. These facts speak well and eloquently for Clinton Count)-, and show that her p<;ople are wide awake upon the subject of public schools.

We will close our chapter on schools by publishing in full the excellent address of Hon. John M. McMichael, delivered before Thomas H. B. Turner's school in the south eastern part of Clinton County in May, 1S70.

Patrons and Stitdcjiis - I have been invited by your worthv preceptor to join you in the festivities and intellectual pleasures of this bright May-day, and to say something which might, perchance, stimulate and encourage a perseverance, on your part, in the cause which has occasioned this pleasant assemblage. To the performance of a duty so laudable, so full of inspiration to an enlightened conception I approach with many misgivings of competent ability to discharge so grave, and yet so agreeable a duty. I would, therefore, invoke that this kind indulgence which your appreciation for honest purpose, indifferently manifested, will doubtless grant. The subject of education is replete with prolific interest. The greatest minds of all ages have discussed it with the depth of thought unkindled by the munificence its possession created. To be fully appreciated and enjoyed, it must adorn the mind. In proportion to our knowledge do we learn to estimate its worth. Since mankind first learned the rudiments, a thirst for more of this life-givingsustenance has rapidly increased. The individual who is deprived of education, journeys through life without an aim or an object. Indeed, to him life is a blank. a desert without a single oasis to cheer him on in the dark and perilous way unseen by him which marks his "footprints on the sands of Time."' EducationI What is it.' The untutored mind cannot define it, for it is deprived of the source whence comcth the power of its elucidation. Some one has most truthfully said, " What sculpture is to a block of marble, education is to the human soul." Man, we are informed by Revelation, was created in the image of his Maker. He came into existence wearing the badge of Divinity upon his brow. .Mind constitutes the immortal essence of his being. Mind elevates him above the brute.

Mind leads him to discover his origin, reveals the secret of his own existence, and points him to an attainable happy future. Mis superiority . over all terrestrial creation is evinced in his possession of reason. In consc(.[uence of the possession of this invaluable inheritance, he has complete dominion over all inferior creation, which was designed by Providence to subserve his purpose for happiness. The happy recipients then of this beneficient gift, it should be our object to improve and develop this distinguishing element of our nature.

It was the design of our Creator in vouchsafing reason to man to furnish him with the means of his defense against the encroachments of all the animal kingdom. For this is the citadel of his strength, the armor with which he is panoplied in the battle of life. It fortifies him against the attack of all his foes, and places him in an attitude from which he bids defiance to all the world. Mind constitutes the majesty of man ; virtue the accompaniment of its culture, his true nobility. Hi-^tory speaks adown the steeps of time the honored truth that education is the moral lever that controls the destiny of nations. Read the story of impartial writers from the day that witnessed the entrance of our ancestors into blissful Eden until the present hour, and you will learn that intelligence has conquered ignorance in every engagement. Enlightened, educated armies have invariably put to rout the combined hordes oi barbarism. In every combat fought on earth, truth, the outgrowth of education, has triumphed. The cultured Romans subdued the world by the invincibility of their \'alor and the prowess of their armies. Archimedes defied the bravery of innumerable hosts of Roman legions b\- his knowledge. Upon the culture of the mind, the durability of government rests. Despoiled of the refining and moralizing influence of education, mankind subside into anarchy, into barbarism and servility. War, under all circumstances a curse, becomes doubly so when its excesses are not restrained by the wholesome effects of education. Even after the Romans were emancipated from the thraldom of despotism b}' the feeble rays of light which had dawned upon them, tlic}- sold their captive prisoners, no matter what their color, race or se.x, into perpetual slaver\'- Man}' of their prisoners were slaughtered outright. But as the beams of education fell upon them, thus partially christianizing them, they became more humaiie. At every stage in the history of our world, we see that an educated race must triumph over an illiterate one. England holds the heroic race of Ireland in subjection to this day, simply because she surpasses her in intelligence, not natural but cultivated.

I discern with heartfelt joy the movement throughout our country in favor of a more general diffusion of education among the masses. I hail this as the harbinger of a brighter future and a more glorious career to our country. I believe in the education of the masses - of every single being endowed with reason - and I am decidedly in favor of an unlimited education. I would not only have the \'outh of our country provided with the elemental branches, but I would extend it to all the higher branches. To the son of the farmer, the mechanic, the merchant or the professional man, I would measure it equally. Educate your son thoroughly. Do not attempt to choose his calling for him, but educate him qualified for any position, and let his own genius and inclination carve out his mission in life. To parents I would say. urge upon \"our children the advantage of a good education. Do not content yourselves with an occasional aclnioniti'^>n to them to bu studious, but make it an every clay business to warn ihcm of the folly of ncj^lectintj to improve the golden days of their youth. They, like you and I, will rejjrct. sadly rei,Mct, their failure to secure the richest boon on earth in earl}- life ; but not, perhaps, until too late to remedy the error. Is there a man or woman here who will not make the same confession that I do - tli.it the\' wouKl like to be children again, with their pre-^eiit experience, to teach them the priceless value of a good education .' 1 utter a sincere truth when I tell these scholars that of all m\- errors, the or,e I most deeply deplore is the failure on my part when it was in my power, to secure a better education. Mark it, my young hearer.s, you u ill never cea^e to regret it if )-ou fritter awa\- your present opportunities for a good education. Devote yourselves to your studies. When }-our school closes do not cease from your labors. The money you si^end for trifles should be used for the purpose of purchasing good, solid books, and then spend no idle time in loitering about, but constantly pore over these books, and ere you are aware, you will become an educated man or woman, fitted for any sphere in life, an ornament to society and a blessing to mankind. Vo not read the light novelistic literature of the day. It will do you no good, but much harm. The time consumed in reading such trash can be usefully emplo>-ed in reading something which will be of pcrm.anent value to you.

How I should like to instill into your minds the great importance of diligent ap[)lication to studx-. Unless you take an interest in the development of your own intellectual powers, your teacher, however competent and solicitous, can be of little advantage to you, Remember, it all depends upon your own exertions, comparative!)-. Let me entreat }-ou to take the advice of one who has seen the folly of a great neglect in this particular. As before stated, my whole heart is in sympathy with the cause of education. I have learned to know its worth. In the general assembly of last winter, I voted against nearly all my political friends, to ask congress to change the terms of the Agricultural Land Grant, to the end that the grant, with about half a million dollars might be put in the common school fund of the state. This I did. not out of any antipathy to Columbia, where the most of nn- friends wished to locate the the Agricultural College, but because I thought it would be v.-ise to provide an additional increase of our already munificent school fund, in order that all might be made surer of a good education. Parents, educate your children. Send them forth into the world pennile^s rather than unlearned. This is }-our positive dut\-. and you dare not incur the responsibility of dereliction in this matter. To the teacher, engaged in a noble calling, I would say, persevere ,in your arduous, and often thankless, task. Your labors will be rewarded. You have a weighty responsibility committed -to \our charge. Instill into these \-outhful minds, not only the science of learning, but principles of morality and goodness. Teach them kindness, patience and self-government. Learn them to master themselves - to treat each other as brothers and co-laborers in a conimon cause.

In conclusion, let me say. that Education. Christianity and Liberty, constitnte the chief aim of man on earth. Did \-ou ever think how harmoniously they succeed each other.' Education fits the human soul for Christianit)-, because without it, our conceptions of a God are vague.

indefinite and false. Cliristianil}' ministers at the altar of Libert)', and liallijus its shrine. Liberty protects and g,"uards Christianit)- and EducatiiMi ; and none of these can exist, in purit}- without the other. An inseparablx; trio, hai)[Mf\-inL,^ man's jjih^rimaj^fe on earth. Tlien let us cherish these \irtues and bulwarks to our liberties, that those who come after us ma>' rejoice in the jtossession of a c^ood inlieritance. W'eshould justly prize the liberties, the free institutions and the matchless constitution which i> ours. True, crimes have been committed in their names, and the}- have e\en at times been made the instruments of opi)ression in parricidal hands ; but they are still precious and interwo\en with proud memories. Inculcate into the minds of the masses the blessinf^.s of education, and libert)', regulated by law, will be restored in all its former grandeur and glory. The more education we have, the more liberty we will enjoy. Republican government is more securely held, more full}- appreciated b\' an enlightened j^eople. In proportion to our intelligence will our government be peaceful, mild and parental.

With educated citizens to conduct the affairs of state ; u-ith educated masses to curb the spirit of demagogues, no t}Tant"s heel can e\-er press a happy and united people. Thus, and thus only, can Education, Christianity and Liberty, be the watchwords which shall guide us to the full summit of human happiness.

BARLRCLTC AUGUST 2S, 1S73-EISHOP MARVIN-S LF.Tl t K - RKUNKJNS AT ^r. Jo-KPH IN 1S74 AND 1575 - SPLtCHKS OF GKNKKALS CRAIG, UON' I I'HAN. A1CHI.S(JN, JL D';K BIRCH, JUDGE VOKIF-S, AND OTHlr.RS.

There has never been any distinctive reunion of the old settlers of Clinton County. There was, however, a barbecue at the brid^^e, south of riattsburg, on the 2Sth day of August. 1873, which was attciidcd by both old and young. The old settlers were especially invited to be present, not only those who were then residing within the limits of the county, but those who had formerly lived here, and had moved away: This being the first meeting of the kind held in the county where the coming together of these old veterans was made a prominent feature of the occasion, they turned out en iiiassc, and it was estimated that nearl)- all the old pioneers who were ph\-sically able to be present, were there.

The occasion was redolent of pleasant memories and sacred recollections to the old gray haired sires. Many of them have long since passed to the land of shadows,

A few Still linger upon the shores of time, as the oldest landn]arks, when Clinton County was still a wilderness. Brave hearted old pioneers! Golden be the evening twilight of their lives. We have for them a peculiar reverence, and upon our hearts may their memories. abide imperishable. A tew more years of watching and waiting, and those who still survi\-e will have joined

The Plattsburg Lever of September 5, 1873. i" speaking of that e\-ent. says: " Never, perhaps, in the history of Plattsburg has a day dawned that will be longer referred to than the one just closing. For weeks past the topic of conversation in all circles has been 'the big barbecue.' Children became impatient waiting. The lads and lassies have been busy getting their stunning outfits in order, and even those whose locks are silvered over thought the sands ot life moved slowly. In fixct, everybody and their families were on the qui vivc.

*' Yesterday afternoon, the fires were kiiuMed under five of the finest oxen, thirty-five hoi^s and ten sheep, antl four liuntlred and ei;.dit\- feet of table, four feet w ide, was put uj). This they thou^dit would be ample room. Tlu: next thini; in order was a suitable rostrum, -which was erected in a suitable place, ami over it was a motto, ' Peace on earth and t^ood will to all men.' which reflected the sentiment of e\cr)- participant. At the head of the table the foUowin^^ motto : * A kind and cor^lial welcome to all,' was noticeable in lar^e, bold letters. The grove selected for tliis t^Mtherin;^ lies nearly one mile south of the cit\\

"At an early iiour this morninc;, farmers from all parts of this and adjoinin<^^ counties, commenced making their appearance, from all directions, in waggons, butjgies, carriages, horseback, and on foot. The railroads came in, some on time, and others behind, all filled to their utmost, with men, women and children, for the grand barbecue. Long before noon, the dense throng of people was estimated at se\'en thousand.

"About cle\'en o'clock, attention was secured, and Hon. J. M. Lowe, chairman, delivered a welcome speech on the part of the citizens, and then introduced Judge James H. Birch, who entertained us with welltimed remarks, after which Hon. James E. Hughes was introduced and fa\-ored his hearers with his experience. B>- this time, it was high twelve, and dinner was announced. Beside all the barbecued animal-^, several wagons, loaded with all sorts of the best pro\-isions, were sent in from the country. One baker, we learn, furnished fifteen hundred loaves of bread and a wagon load of pies. Every one felt satisfied there was enough for him, and seemed anxious that his neighbor should be served first, hence, there was none of that snatching and pushing, which generall\- characterizes public dinners. I have no hesitanc}' in sa^'ing, it was the most orderh' concourse of people ever assembled.

"After dinner Colonel John Doniphan, of St. Joseph and John R. Keller, of Clay County, made short speeches, after which Judge R. R.Rees, the pioneer of Plattsburg, but at present of Leavenworth, was introduced. L^ncle Dick was in his proper mood to interest everyone within the sound of his voice. He told us how he came to settle in Clinton County in 1833 ; where he built the first log cabin on the town site ; how he was made the first clerk of the count)-, and last, but not least, how on the 4th of July, 1833. he danced on the green with the girls ; and added further, if any one of these girls was present, he would like once more to trip with her the light fantastic toe. Other speeches were listened to with interest by a j)ortion of the people, v.-hile others participated in the dance, the amusement of swinging and the cr^Dquet games. Both the brass and string bands added much to the festivities of the day. At present writing. 9:30 p. m.. nearl\- e\er\- house is illuminated, and the air is filled with music, while the City Hall is packed with the eiito engaged in the maz)- dance. All feel that the day has been spent pleas-

In 1S74 and 1875, in September, the old settlers of the Platte Purchase, includiiic:^ Clinton County, held reunions in the city of St. Jose[)h. At each of these nieetings were many of thu old pioneers of (Jlinton County, whose names appear among the list of veterans who were then present, .\lthough these reunions did not occur in Clinton County,' many of her citi/.ens jjarticipated in their., among whc^m were Judge James H. Birch and David R. Atchison ; and believing that an authentic and reliable account of what was done and said upon those interesting occasions, and especially the part that was taken b\- tiie pioneers of Clinton Count)' therein, would be of interest now, we shall in this connection give of them a full and complete history, beginning with the letter of Bishop Marvin to Colonel James X. Burnes, the president of the old settlers' meeting. Bishop Marvin had been in\-itcd to be present at the meeting in September, 1S74, but owing to his ministerial duties, could not attend. His letter, we think, will be read with great interest, especially by the old pioneers of Northwest Missouri, nearly all of whom, doubtless, met the Bishop during the early \-ears of his ministry in this portion of the state :

Dear Sir and BrotJicr : I have just returned from a tour, and find yours of August 27th, inviting me to participate in the reunion of the " old settlers " of the Platte Purchase. I regret that I did not know of the reunion a month earlier. In that case I could have arranged my appointments so as to enable me to be present. As it is, I have an engagement in Dent County, which, for special reasons it is necessary to meet. Vou ma}- assure your board that no circumstances of a trivial character would prevent my acceptance of their invitation.

The early years of my ministry were spent in that part of the state. In 1842, I passed the present site of St. Joseph, on my wa\- to a field of labor quite on the frontier. It embraced all the country west of Nodaway River. Vou will remember at that time there was wo St. Joseph. In subsequent years I labored in Clay, Platte and Buchanan counties. I shall never forget the uncalculating, unbounded hospitalit\- of the "old settlers." Many of them were in their first rude cabins, but those cabins had the rarest capacitv' for entertaining both friend and stranger of any houses of their size I ever saw. I often saw them crowded, but to the best of my recollection I never saw one of them full ; there was always room for a fresh comer. I recollect once in the Platte Purchase. I wa.s wedging myself into a bed already occupied by five children, when one of them waked sufficiently to exclaim, " Mamma, mamma, he"s a scrougin me ! "

At tliat time I knew many men who di<l not know me, for I was .1 niere >outh. 1 knew they were i;"reat as comp.ireil with other men I kmw, but 1 had a fancy that the i^neat men were in the east. But after niany years of extended observation I have come to the conclusion that I heard as fine a specimen of political speakin:^ in Liberty, in 1844. by Colonel Doniphan, as I have ever heard since, and that the country would be happ\- if the balances were everywhere held b\' hands as intelli'^ent and firm as those of the pioneer jurist, David R. Atchison.

Among my own class there was the laborious Redman, the scholarly Tutt, the impetuous and saintly Roberts, and many others, now dead. Xor can I omit the name of the incorruptible and courageous Robcrson. Some are still li\-ing: Holmes, Perry. Ruble, Jordan, Rush, Spencer. 15arker and others.

There was a man, a minister of Christ, a large portion of whose public career. belongs to the Platte Purchase, of whom I must say, he was in some respects the most remarkable man I ever saw. ^ I refer to \V. G. Capics. He was another "Agamemnon, King of men." He was a firstclass wit, a man of the finest social feeling, having positive ideas," and a groat end to accomplish. That end was the extension of the kingdom of Christ and the salvation of men. In his view, a high standard of popular education would contribute to this. He did much for Northwest Mi.ssouri in establishing schools under Christian auspices, and although they did not survive the war. they did much to elevate public sentiment, and' have left an influence behind them that must be permanent.

Now I proceed to say that the old settlers of Platte have heard as great preaching as any other people on the American continent, and from the lips of the inan. Caples. I have heard more scholarly men. men whose sermons evinced higher cultivation and a better classical finish; but for pov.-er of argumentation, for philo.^ophical breadth and sweep, for grandeur of conception, for greatness of imagination, for force and pungency of popular appeal, for originality, variety and opulence of thought, and for patlios. my conviction is his superior has not appeared in the American pulpit.

I make no doubt that the ministry and church have done more to quicken thought and create a thirst for knowledge in the west, than i> generally understood. Ministers of the gospel in the new communities, being above the average of people in culture, and dealing in truths of a character to elevate the mind, and provoke inquiry, have, as an incident of their calling, toned up the popular mind, encouraged a taste for reading and created a demand for schools. Such a man as Caples connot mingle with people without elevating them.

But pardon "me. I had no thought of becoming so garrulous. I am getting to be almost an old man, and thoughts of the old times hiivc "awakened the talking mood in me. until it seems a real hardship and self-denial not to be with you at the reunion. It is thirty years since I heard Doniphan. Hov/ I would like to listen to his utterances on this occasion, when old memories will mellow his voice, and since, as I doubt not, Christian sentiments will exalt and irradiate his conception.

The Old Settlers' meeting was the most interesting feature of the day. At least one hundred of the old gray-haired sires and mothers, who were among the early settlers of the Platte Purchase, were gathered on the reserved seat? in front of the grand stand. At half-past twelve o'clock this meeting was called to order by Colonel James X. Ikirne.-,, who spoke as follows:

Ladie.s .\XI) Gkxtlemex - Vou will not expect of me an extended speech. I am too full to express what I feel. Vou will allow me to nominate for chairman of this meeting the Hon. David R. Atchison. His name is the balance of my speech.

Hon. D. R. Atchison then took the floor, and thanked the audience for the honor conferred upon him. He had once presided over the United States Senate, but this was a prouder position than he had ever occupied before. He referred in feeling terms to the early settlers of the Platte Purchase, the trials and hard.siiips of the people, and their courage and endurance under difficulties.

Hon. George Smith v.as elected first vice president. Mr. Smith returned his thanks for the distinction. He had no speech, but would on a proper occasion address the people of the Platte Purchase.

Gen. Craig then introduced Gen. A. W. Doniphan. Gen. Doniphan then came forward and said the sight of the Old Settlers e.xhilarated him like laughing gas. He said that old people like to talk, but he had to excuse himself with returning his thanks to the managers of the E.xposition for granting the opportunity to the Old Settlers to have are-union. One of the privileges of an old man was to contrast the present state of the country with what it was when the first settlement v/as made. He referred to the railroads, cities, college^ and other evidences of civilization that had sprung up in this country, that was an unknown wilderness in the old times. The Missouri of 1874 was an entirely difierent Missouri from that of 1830. He referred in feeling terms to those who had died since the settlement of the country.

He referred to the free and eas\- hospitalities of the early days. Men did not stop to part their hair in the middle, but just gave it a toss back and went about their business. The unbounded ho-,])italit)' was such as the world had never seen before. The ladies were the picture of health, and had stren<?th as well as beautv, and tiierc wasn't a strong minded one among them. The)- had e}-es like the due, and a step like the gazelle, and were self-reliant and natural. He referred to the old type of men, that some thought had become e.xtinct.but assured the au(Jience they still lived.

His speech was well interspersed with anecdotes, and he kept the audience laughing and roaring for full fifteen minutes. He referred to the old Missouri settlers who had made homes in Colorado and California, and said still the\- kept up the good old customs. He spoke of the progress of the last quarter of a century. Twent)'-five \'ears ago there was not more than a thousand miles of railroad in America. St. Joseph and Kansas City were the ultimathule of ci\ilization. Now the}- were great railroad centers, teeming with the commerce of half a dozen states and territories. The iron horse' had passed our borders and gone careering on his conquering course across numerous territories to the golden gates of the Pacific. It was impossible to conceive what the next hundred years had in store for this great country.

Ladies and Gentlemen of Northwest Missouri: - For many years I have attended meetings of the people in different towns, cities and counties of the State, and, indeed, in many of the States of the Union, but I can say with the utmost sincerity' that I have never before taken part in any assemblage of the people, which gave me so much true and heartfelt pleasure as this one does. When \-our invitation, sent to me by \-our committee, was received. I was on the eve of disposing of my time in a different way from that of being present here to-da\-, but the reading of it at once decided me to forego all other engagements. I have come, m)- friends, to exchange with you greetings of friendship, and to talk of the past, and of the men who, a few years ago, were with us working and shaping the destiny of our state and devoting their time, and energies to its material development. Most of them after wellspent lives, have passed from among us, leaving behind them honored names - to be cherished and respected b\' their descendants. I take it that, with few exceptions, I am addressing the children of the old settlers. Judging from my own recollections, there are but few left of the old set. Thornton and Thompson, and Laidlow, and Rich and Dougherty, with whom I was personally acquainted, have paid the great debt of nature, and lie now beneath the green sod of the section first made to contribute its share to the support of the civilized man. ( )ther names could be mentioned b}- persons better acquainted with the individuals of this secti<"jn than I am ; but these (ew are a type of the old settlers. Who does not remember the name of each of these men without a profound emotion of respect and veneration ? They were not only intelligent and influential, but in their respective persons was embodied the true character of American citizenship.

Vou. my friciuls, who arc their descendants, shoukl not only respect their memories, but be proud of their private and public virtue-^. A nation of such men would be the wonder of the w(jrld. So much for the past. I meet here to-day a few of the old settlers who have been spared as the connectinc^ link between us and the past. Atchison and Doniphan, Morin and Wood and Birch, and a few others are here yet. Two of these have national reputations, and would of themselves be sufficient to make a nation illustrious. Atchison was for a lon,i,^time the presidinjr officer of the Senate of the United States, when in that bod\- WLre Calhoun and Clay and Webster and Benton and Crittenden and Mani^um and Cass and Houston, and a host of other illustrious characters. He then ac(|uireti a reputation co-e.\tensive with the nation. The name of Doniphan will live in history forever. His campaign in and throuj^h an enemy's countr\', under the most difficult circumstances, has ne\-er been surpassed by anything in ancient or modern times. Alexander obtained the name of Great because he went from Greece to the Indus and for ages a halo of glory has surrounded his name, not surpassed by that of Hannibal or Napoleon ; yet when all the attending circum>tances are duly considered, the march headed by }'our own Doniphan required more true courage and bravery, and power of- endurance, and patience, and perseverance, and skill and military genius than the expedition headed by Alexander the Great. Atchison and Doniphan are yet with you - and with the true simplicity of Cincinnatus and the dignit\- of Cato, move in your midst, sharing in your joys and sym.pathi;^ing with \-our sorrows. May they be spared for many years to come. I am not here to-day, my friends, to deliver an eulogy upon the men who first settled this section. I have mentioned a few as a type, so as to let their descendants know what sort of men they came from, and so that they may entertain a feeling of great pride in their ancestors.

I am myself a descendant of a race of pioneers, different in many respects from the one I am speaking of. The first settlers of the \aHey were French, yet they did not come here from France. In the latter part of the seventeenth and early part of the eighteenth century, the fur trade of the valley of the Mississippi became an object of commercial importance, and the Canadians were the first persons who came here, and did so as fur traders. Canada was then a colony of France, and remained so till the treaty of Paris of 1763. The eari\- Canadian pioneer is, therefore, the original settler of this country. They remained, however, on the east side of the Mississippi, and settled the towns of Cahokia, Prairie du Pont, Prairie du Rocher. Kaskaskia. and Fort Chartiers, and crossed the river only towards the latter part of the eighteenth century.

After the treaty of 1763, by v/hich the east side of the river v.as ceded to England, they came over the river in large numbers, believing that it yet belonged to France, although the same treaty had ceded it to Spain. I will not detain you with the details, and only mention them to explain the different character of emigrants who first settled our state. At the time Louisiana was organized, in 1803, by Mr. Jefferson, the population of this countr}' was, I may say, entirely French. Soon after the acquisition a large emigration came from Virginia, th: great old mother of states, and from Kentucky, the first daughter of the glorious old mother, and from the old North State of Carolina, and from Tennessee, and stttled in tlic counties of New Madrid, Cape Girardeau, Stc. Genevieve, St. Louis and St. Cliarles. This emi;;;rati(Mi continued, not very rapidly, till the admission of Missouri as a state, when our population was only 56,000. I well remember the excitement about the Boone's Lick country, when I was a boy in m\- native town. \\'ar,'ons filled with women and children, followed by cattle, horses and lio^s, were passincj through the town every day. ^Llny of the little boys in the wagons became, in after times, leading men in our state, and no doubt man)' of the innocent little girls became the mothers of oth.er men wlio also became distinguished and played their parts in the drama of life. Boone's Lick w as settled by a noble lot of men and women. Old Daniel Boone himself came to our state and settled here. Boone, Callaway, Howard and Clinton Counties were settled at this period. A few ) ears afterwards the tide moved towards the northwest and settled the counties of Clay, Ray, Carroll, etc.

In iSj6, a most remarkable, and, under the political condition of the country, a most singular event took place. The section of country known as the Platte country, being the triangle l>'ing west of the western line of our state and the Missouri Ri\er, was by act of congress added to our state. I well remember the newspaper controversy which took place at the time in relation to it. Benton and Linn were in the senate - both being senators of commanding influence - Benton being then considered the Ajax of the administration, and Linn, personall}', the most popular man in the senate, for he was as lovely as a woman, yet possessing the true characteristics of one of the knights of old. Ashbury was in the House - a man of high character and large wealth, which he expended with princely liberality. Benton and Linn claimed a measure of credit for the passage of this law, which Ashley denied. On the other hand, he claimed that which tliey denied. The truth is, that not one was entitled to great credit for the passage of the measure. It required the combination of talent and personal popularity and {personal influence which they had to secure its passage, and to each and to all are we indebted for this great measure.