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AMERICA'S NATIONAL GAME

charged with religious bigotry or fanaticism of any kind other than that which manifests itself in a great love for our national game. His name was not enrolled among the list of moral reformers. He thought this world was good enough for him—for anybody, and he enjoyed it in his own way. And yet this man stood like a stone wall, protecting the game of Base Ball in its integrity and turning back the assaults of every foe who sought to introduce elements of dishonesty, discord or degeneration. He demanded always clean management, a clean game, and the best interests of manly sport.

There have been other forceful men at the head of our national organizations, men of high purpose, good judgment and fine executive ability. But in all the history of Base Ball no man has yet appeared who possessed in combination more of the essential attributes of a great leader and organizer of men than did William A. Hulbert.

Mr. Hulbert continued as President of the National League until his death, at his home in Chicago, April 10th, 1882.

A monument was erected at his grave in Graceland Cemetery, bearing the names of the eight clubs then members of the National League.

God bless his memory.

I ask all living professional Base Ball players to join me in raising our hats to the memory of William A, Hulbert, the man who saved the game!