HOW TO GET STRONG
earth; it is unfortunate that, instead of confining himself to his private practice, he does not let his countrymen enjoy him more, and have his services. Fit to range up alongside of Gladstone, why not take the steps—which he could if he would—to win power and influence for good in our land equal to Gladstone's in his?
Chancellor Kent said of Hamilton: "I have very little doubt that if General Hamilton had lived twenty years longer he would have rivalled Socrates or Bacon, or any of the sages of ancient or modern times in researches after truth. Benevolent of mankind! the active and profound statesman! the learned and eloquent lawyer would probably have disappeared before the character of the sage philosopher, instructing mankind by his wisdom; elevating his country by his example." If this could be said of Hamilton at forty-seven, why is it not true of Choate—a greater lawyer than Hamilton—at sixty-six? with a mind of marvellous readiness; opulent in equipment; trained by long and exceptional experience to deal with large subjects in a large way; with the most profitable practice—save one[1]—probably of any man in America; pressing close on Mr. Horace Davy's twenty-three thousands pounds, or Sir Richard Webster's thirty thousand pounds, a year in England—if not passing them; why should not his countrymen, instead of merely his private clients, profit by his great abilities?
Physically the youngest-looking man of his age at the New York Bar; scarcely gray yet—a characteristic he has in common with his renowned relative—youthful and sunny of disposition; six feet high, not erect, of good frame and breadth; but lacking depth of chest—look at Webster's mighty vital-house if you want to see a deep chest—a great chest, worthy of Ajax or Agamemnon—he has many good years in him yet; and the country ought to own them. He would make, as did Mr. Webster, a great Secretary of State—a great At-
- ↑ "Mr. John E. Parsons, whose friends say that he is fond of the repute which he has of having the finest practice of the English-speaking Bar."—Philadelphia Press.
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