Page:Men of Mark in America vol 2.djvu/290

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JAMES SUMNER PETTIT

He was married to Bessie Bryson Sharp, November 22, 1886. They have had three children, all of whom are now living. The degree of A.M. was conferred upon him by Yale university. He is a member of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion, the Order of Foreign Wars, the Order of the Carabao, of the Spanish War Veterans, of the Army and Navy club of New York, and of the Army and Navy, and the University clubs, of Washington. He is the author of "Elements of Military Science," and "Outposts and Advanced Guards." He is not identified with any political party. His religious connection is with the Protestant Episcopal church. He finds his principal relaxation in tennis; and for exercise prefers horseback riding, although he is fond of all manly sports and exercises.

His early life was divided between the village and the country. His health was good, and his tastes and interests were those common to boys of his age. The books which he has found to be most helpful in his work are military histories. Of the influences which have tended to make him successful in life he places first, those of home; second, those of school; third, contact with men in active life; fourth, private study; fifth, early companionship. He has no marked failures to regret, but he "hopes to make a record of greater achievement in the future." To the young he would say that, in whatever calling they engage, "industry, honesty and sobriety are the principal requisites for success."