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Be this as it may, I have read the book to my own satisfaction; and the net result is the history of a gifted, truthful and honest man, striving to do well his allotted task in life, seeking to raise his fellowman to a higher and better level; and succeeding in the main.
It matters little whether or not we always agree with him as to the best means, or the, best road to reach the goal. Nor need we regret that, standing high and erect, he is a good target for the critic, honest or otherwise. Blessed is the public man who is unjustly and indiscriminately traduced in his lifetime. If he is called an impracticable stickler for principle by one and a Halifax the Trimmer by another, posterity will know, that they could not both be right and will conclude that both were wrong.
And to this we, who know him, do testify.
Very sincerely,
LETTER FROM MR. JOHN RITCHIE.
Boston, March 1, 1899.
Mr. George Wilson, Secretary.
Dear Sir: I regret very much that I cannot accept
your kind invitation to be present at the dinner
tomorrow night in honor of our great citizen and patriot,
Carl Schurz.
It will be a great occasion, but not greater than the recipient merits. He is an example to us all, and a source of hope and courage too. I would that all such men might live to be seventy.
Very truly yours,
