Page:The Presidents of the United States, 1789-1914, v. III.djvu/227

JAMES ABRAM GARFIELD 187 The avowed object was to promote to the presiden tial chair Vice-President Arthur, who represented the Grant or "stalwart" wing of the party. The president was setting out on a trip to New Eng land, anticipating especial pleasure in witnessing the commencement exercises of his alma mater at Williamstown. He was passing through the wait ing room of the Baltimore and Potomac depot, at nine o clock that morning, leaning on the arm of Mr. Elaine, when the assassin fired at him with a pistol. The first ball passed through his coat- sleeve; the second entered by the back, fractured a rib, and lodged deep in the body. The president was carried to the White House, where, under the highest medical skill, and with every comfort that money and devotion could bring, he lingered for more than ten weeks between life and death. The country and the world were moved by the dastardly deed; and the fortitude and cheerfulness with which the president bore his suffering added to the universal grief. Daily bulletins of his condi tion were published in every city in the United States and in all the European capitals. Many of the crowned heads of Europe sought by telegraphic inquiry more particular news, and repeated their wishes for his recovery. A day of national supplication was set apart and sacredly observed and the prayers at first seemed answered. His physicians were hopeful,