arrest and trial, and even up to the present moment,
with his open coffin beside him, displayed marvellous fortitude,
suddenly exhibiting deep emotion, piteously exclaimed, "Please hang
me first, _and let him speak afterwards!"_
When, in the tide of time, will the House of Representatives witness
the like of "Sunset" Cox? Beginning a Congressional career, which
was to terminate only with his death, when scarcely of the
constitutional age, he was in close succession a representative
from two great States,--in his early manhood from the Capital
district of Ohio, and in his maturer years, even down to old age, the
most prominent of the delegation from the great State of New York.
Mr. Cox was gifted as few men have been in this world. His literary
attainments were of a high order, and some of the books of which
he was the author will no doubt furnish instructive and entertaining
reading for many generations to come. He was an indefatigable
student, and seemed, as did Lord Bacon, to have "taken all knowledge
for his province." His accurate knowledge of the history of all
countries and times was a marvel, and, all at his instant command,
placed him upon rare vantage ground in the many forensic struggles
in which he took part. Woe betide the unfortunate antagonist whose
record was other than faultless. He was a born debater, full of
resources, and aggressive to the last degree. He never waited for
opportunities, but sought them. In great emergencies he was often
put forward by his political associates for the fierce encounter
with the great leaders upon the opposite side of the Chamber.
He was withal one of the most kindly of men. He was the soul of
personal and official honor. His integrity could know no
temptation. It may truly be said of him that--
"Whatever record leaps to light,
He never can be shamed."
His sympathies were deeply enlisted for the safety of those "who
go down to the sea in ships." For years he was the earnest advocate
of a thorough life-saving system. Much of the present efficiency of
this humane branch of the public service is due to his untiring
efforts. He had travelled to all countries, and even to the islands
of the sea. He was of sunny disposition, and believed that "whatever
places the eye of Heaven visits are to the wise man ports and happy
havens."
Mr. Cox was one of the most genial and delightful of associates.
With him and Vance, Knott, and Randolph Tucker as compan
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