the attention of Gov. Alcorn, who appointed him a member
of his staff with the rank of colonel. Col. Bruce was not merely
Sergeant-at-arms of the Senate, but was a power behind that body. His
intelligence, his knowledge of the character of the legislation needed
for the people of Mississippi, and the excellent impression he made
upon the members, gave him great power in suggesting and influencing
legislation.

The sheriffs of Mississippi were not elected in those days; and the
Governor had to look a good ways to find the proper men for such
positions. His faith in Col. Bruce as a man and an officer led him to
select him to be sheriff of Bolivar County. Col. Bruce discharged the
delicate duties of his office with eminent ability, and attained a
popularity very remarkable under the circumstances.

During this time, while other politicians were dropping their money at
the gaming-table and in the wine cup, Col. Bruce was saving his funds,
and after purchasing a splendid farm at Floraville, on the Mississippi
River, he made cautious and profitable investments in property and
bonds. His executive ability was marvellous, and his successful
management of his own business and that of the people of the county
made him friends among all classes and in both political parties. He
was appointed tax-collector for his county, a position that was
calculated to tax the most accomplished financier and business man in
the State. But Col. Bruce took to the position rare abilities, and
managed his office with such matchless skill, that when the term of
Henry R. Pease expired, he was chosen United States Senator from
Mississippi on the third of February, 1875, for the constitutional
term of six years. He took his seat on the 4th of March, 1875.

He did nothing in the line of oratory while in the Senate. That was
not his forte. He was an excellent worker, a faithful committee-man,
and finally was chairman of the Committee on the Freedman's Savings
Bank, etc. Mr. Bruce was chairman of the Committee on Mississippi
Levees, where he performed good work. He presided over the Senate with
dignity several times. To the charge that he was a "silent Senator,"
it may be observed that it was infinitely better that he remained
silent, than in breaking the silence to exhibit a mental feebleness in
attempting to handle problems to which most of the Senators had given
years of patient study. His conduct was admirable; his discretion
wise; his service faith