he was hesitating
in temperament. This was not true. He sought all the light possible on
every subject patiently and earnestly, and when he arrived at his
conclusion no man adhered to it more tenaciously or enforced it more
earnestly.

As a speaker, Gen. LEE possessed many of the attributes of the orator, a
gift inherited from his grandfather, Light-Horse Harry Lee. He was
graceful in delivery, persuasive in manner, and forcible in argument.

His diction was pure, unpretentious, and simple. His speeches were
often embellished with references to ancient and modern history and
mythology with which he seemed to be very familiar.

Dutifulness, I believe, was the most prominent trait of his character.
It was the star by which his life was guided. Once persuaded that a
certain measure or a certain line of policy was right, and he was
unflinchingly firm in its support. No burden was too heavy, no privation
too severe, if only they were borne along the path of duty.

He exemplified in his life the noble utterance of his distinguished
father: "Duty is the sublimest word in the English language."

In politics he was a Democrat, but not a partisan, and he firmly
believed that the supremacy of his party was necessary for the good of
the country and the welfare of the people. His patriotism was exalted,
and his faith in the ultimate triumph of the right never wavered.

His manly appearance, his gracious but dignified manner, his courtly
bearing and pleasing conversation marked him as a gentleman of the "old
school," as one of nature's noblemen.

Any sketch of Gen. LEE would indeed be imperfect that failed to mention
his love for little children, and his friends will never fail to recall
the tender interest he always manifested in the children of their
families, especially in the youngest.

His life, Mr. Speaker, was a truly noble one. It was on the highest
plane. His character had no spot or blemish upon it that sweet charity
would now consign to oblivion, but it was robust, well-rounded, and
symmetrical, open as day. His ambition was not to attain but to deserve
the praise of the good, and that higher benediction, to be pronounced by
the final Judge of the world: "Well done, good and faithful servant;
enter thou into the joys of thy Lord."

He was an earnest believer in the Christian faith. The abstruse
doctrines of the church formed no part of his creed. His faith was in
the Christ the Saviour of mankind; a faith which