which have passed into history, but merely to show how the subject of this memoir was brought into greater pominence.
It was in such a crisis that Michael Hahn took his stand amid the few who at the advent of the victorious Federal commanders in New Orleans in 1862 could be received with confidence. It was but natural that General Butler should look with favor upon the small band of men of good repute who went forward in good faith to welcome his arrival.
In the prominent part taken by Michael Hahn during this trying period it is worthy of remembrance and commendation that his course was never marked by unfriendly bearing to his fellow-citizens who had differed with him in opinion; that he evinced no malice, and he had none; that he never used his power to oppress or annoy when it could have been so readily done.
On the contrary, his talents and influence seem ever to have been industriously given to re-establish order and civil government, to restore prosperity, and to build up the best interests of the State in the mode he thought available. In this he was trusted far beyond what is the ordinary lot of man. and his judgment and learning lent strength to the fabric rebuilt.
He was of a kindly, courteous disposition, ever willing to extend the hand of relief, and approachable by all.
When a member of Congress in 1863 he was granted permission by the President to visit the Union military prisons to look into the condition of Louisiana prisoners.
Many kindly acts of Governor Hahn to the people of Louisiana will live in their grateful remembrance, and especially one recounted, when citizens from the interior of the State were dragged, upon frivolous charges, before the court in New Orleans and lodged in a loathsome prison, and it became necessary in order to enlarge them to give a heavy bond, his warm heart led him to tender his name for their relief.
In his quiet country home he was looked up to with the confidence of a father. His advice was sought by all, and his decisions settled difficulties, smoothed asperities, and preserved order.
