that he said, in his non-talkative way, was: "The place is very nice."
Isaiah Williamson had been for years peculiarly susceptible to cold. It is not at all improbable that the effort of this winter trip was too great, and that it had much to do with his sudden illness and death six days later. The last thing that he spoke of before sinking into final unconsciousness was the Media site, expressing to H. C. Townsend his approval of the Trustees in practically agreeing upon it the preceding day, and bidding Mr. Townsend: "Be sure and get from the railroad company a distinct statement and guarantee in writing of the privileges they propose to grant in connection with the school."
This was his last business act, and almost his last word, spoken smilingly, and eminently characteristic—the ruling passion strong in death.
How unexpected and sudden was Williamson's illness may be seen from a letter which Mr. Ludwig wrote to him on Monday of that week, regarding the option on the Media property:
