Law, Plato, and Demosthenes, Emerson, and Hawthorne; and the histories of modern European nations. His favorite diversions have been "wandering in the woods on foot, and on the plains on horseback, with gun or fishing-tackle; travel and reading." The example of his brother, and his own preference, led him into the law as a profession. His first strong ambition to succeed came from natural impulse, and the rivalry of competition and contact with men. A broad basis of study, and wide travel gave him enlarged views of life. The influence of his home upon his life was seriously diminished by the early death of his father. He says: "In youth I was insubordinate, and wilful. In later years I have deferred much contemplated work to a 'more convenient time'; old age therefore surprised me with much of my anticipated work undone." To the young he adds, "Use the first opportunity for your contemplated work. Do not wait for some other time. Such delay is your enemy." The sound ideals he inculcates are, "Love of the truth, fidelity in every office, to every trust, courage without bluster, no hasty judgment of men or measures, patience in face of opposition, careful reading of history and biography. Keep a daily record of interesting incidents and personal experiences, cultivate carefully the memory of both men and events. Heartily accept the four Gospels for the rules of faith and conduct, It is the only thing that holds to the very end."
Mr. Kasson, though in his eighty-second year in 1904, was as straight as in his young manhood. It is in part owing to his distinction of manner, and his savoir faire and elegance of bearing, that he has been a persona grata in so many European circles. His high principle is as marked a characteristic of the man as are his political insight and his quick perceptions. Three features have marked his political campaigns: He has never allowed pecuniary assessments upon office-holders or other constituents in his district, for the expenses of his campaigns; he has never allowed a "boss" to manage his political affairs; he has not allowed personalities to mingle in politics, where he was a candidate or a debater.
Mr. Kasson has recently published a historical volume (Houghton, Mifflin & Co., Boston, 1904), containing "The Evolution of the
United States Constitution, and History of the Monroe Doctrine."
