Hollinger Corp. pH8.5 T <^ ■ ' ■ . ■ y' -X '^'-^'MW^MMMm^&^M^ ^^''jdZ'^^or^] HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES {^^fj^^/gr RICHARD E. CONNELL (Late a Representative from New York) MEMORIAL ADDRESSES DELIVERED IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES SIXTY-SECOND CONGRESS Proceedings in the House February 16, 1913 Proceedings in the Senate Decembers, 1912 PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING M^ WASHINGTON 1913 6^Wr 'cir 7- a OF D, TABLE OF CONTENTS Page. Proceedings in the House 5 Prayer by Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D 6 Memorial addresses by — Mr. Underbill, of New York 9 Mr. Sisson, of Mississippi 11 Mr. Smith, of New York IG Mr. Maguire, of Nebraska 18 Mr. Reilly, of Connecticut 21 Mr. Collier, of Mississippi 2.o Mr. Kindred, of New York 31 Mr. Fitzgerald, of New York 35 Mr. Ayres, of New York 37 Proceedings in the Senate 55 Resolutions adopted 56 Tributes 39 [3] HON. RICHARD E.COMNEL-L DEATH OF HON. RICHARD E. CONNELL Proceeoings in the House Monday, December 2, 1012. Mr. SuLZER. Mr. Speaker, I offer the following resolu- tions and ask for their immediate consideration. The Clerk read as follows: House resolution 716 Resolved, That the House of Representatives has heard with profound sorrow of the death of the Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That the Clerk be directed to communicate these resolutions to the Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. The resolutions were agreed to. Mr. Cannon. Mr. Speaker, I move you, sir, that out of regard for the memory of the late Vice President, the Hon. James Schoolcraft Sherman, and the memory of the Members of this House and of the Senate who have de- parted this life since the adjournment of the last session of Congress this House do now adjourn. The motion was agreed to; and accordingly (at 1 o'clock and 8 minutes p. m.) the House adjourned until to- morrow, Tuesday, December 3, 1912, at 12 o'clock noon. Friday, December 6, 1912. A message from the Senate, bj' Mr. Crockett, one of its clerks, announced that the Senate had passed the fol- lowing resolutions: Resolved, That the Senate has heard with deep sensibility the announcement of the death of Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a Representative from the State of New York. [5] Memorial Addresses : Representative Conneli. Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of those Representatives (Hon. Richard E. Connell, of New York; Hon. Carl Carey Anderson, of Ohio; and Hon. George H. Utter, of Rhode Island) whose deaths have been announced the Senate do now adjourn. Monday, February 3, 1913. Mr. Ayres. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent for the present consideration of the following order, which I send to the Clerk's desk. The Clerk read as follows: Ordered, That Sunday, February 16, 1913, be set apart for ad- dresses upon the life, character, and public services of Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a I^epresentative from the State of New York. The Speaker. The gentleman from New York asks unanimous consent for the present consideration of the order. Is there objection? There was no objection. The order was agreed to. Sunday, February 16, 1913. The, House met at 12 o'clock noon, and was called to order by Mr. Doremus as Speaker pro tempore. The Chaplain, Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D., offered the following prayer : Our God and our Father, our life and our hope, for in Thy keeping is the destiny of men. We gather here to- day in memory of men who by dint of industry and faith- ful service proved themselves worthy of the confidence reposed in them, and have passed on to the reward of the faithful. It is well thus to commemorate their service and record their history as an example to those who shall [6] Proceedings in the House follow them. Strengthen our faith, encourage our hope, and inspire us to noble endeavors, that we may merit the confidence of our fellow men and Thy loving kindness. Help us and their dear ones to say in all faith. Thy will be done. So long Thy power has blest us, sure it still Will lead us on O'er moor and fen, o'er crag and torrent, till The night is gone, And with the morn those angel faces smile Which we have loved long since, and lost awhile. In the spirit of Him who brought to light life and im- mortality. Amen. The Clerk began the reading of the Journal of the pro- ceedings of yesterday. Mr. Hamilton, of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- mous consent that the reading of the Journal be dispensed with. The Speaker pro tempore. Is there objection? There was no objection. The Speaker pro tempore (Mr. Doremus). The Clerk will read the next special order. The Clei-k read as follows: On motion of Mr. Ayres, by unanimous consent, Ordered, That Sunday, February 16, 1913, be set apart for ad- dresses upon the life, character, and public services of Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a Representative from the State of New York. Mr. Fitzgerald took the chair as Speaker pro tempore. Mr. Ayres. Mr. Speaker, I offer the following resolu- tions, which I send to the Clerk's desk. [7] McMOltlAL AdD1U;SSI;.S : Hlil*RESKNT.\TlVE CONNELL 'l"lu' Clerk I'l'iid as follows: House risolution 843 lirsoli'fd, Tlinl, in pursuance of the special order heretofore ;uli)|)li'(l, llie House proceed to pay tribute to the memory of the Moil. HiciiAKD E. CoNNF.LL, late a Representative in Congress from the State of New York. lifsoli'cd. That as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, and In recognition of his distinguished career and ills nrvt\\ service to his country as a Representative in Congress, the House, al the conclusion of the memorial proceedings of this ilay. shall stand adjourned. Rrsolrctl. That the Clerk of the House communicate these reso- lutions to the Senate. liisolrrii. That the Clerk of the House be, and he is hereby, instruHed to seiul a copy of these resolutions to the family of the deceased. I'lu' rosolulioiis wero aijrood to. [SI MEMORIAL ADDRESSES Address of Mr. Underhill, of New York Mr. Speaker, it is not my purpose to deliver a studied eulogy on our late colleague, Mr. Richard E. Connell, who departed this life at his home October 30 last, but, rather, to render a brief tribute to one whom 1 had learned to love, respect, and admire. My acquaintance with our colleague did not begin until after the election of 1910. For years previously I had known him as an editor of rare sagacity, a Democrat who believed thoroughly in the principles of his party, who was always ready to carry the standard, no matter how inclement the political skies might be and however hopeless the outlook for success. He fought for years before achieving a personal victory at the polls, and his perseverance in presenting upon the stump and through the columns of his newspapers his views finally brought to him the success he so richly deserved. Our brother was a thorough American. His parents came from Ireland and were veiy poor in this world's goods. At the age of 13 he was left fatherless and com- pelled to assist his mother to earn support for herself and the other children. Any man who performs this function to the best of his ability and renders that noble service to a mother is almost sure to develop into a high type of manhood, and our late brother, Mr. Connell, certainly tj'pifies this situation. He was thoroughly American; he had not had the early opportunity' for education which he would so much have enjoyed. He was a graduate of the school of experience, and must have been an omnivorous reader, as he was one of the best informed of the many men who have had the same alma mater. He appreciated the opportunities presented by this countn,- and was full of patriotism. He [9] Memorial Addresses : Representative Connell had only to look upon the Stars and Stripes to receive an inspiration for an oration that would make the blood of every American tingle with pride. His address on the flag at the first Members' banquet of this Congress a year ago was an eloquent effort full of classical reference and was received with many plaudits of praise. His remarks upon the occasion of the admission of the Territories of New Mexico and Arizona into this Union, when he dwelt upon the addition of two stars to the flag, will be remembered by all as one of the most eloquent addresses made during the present Congress. His untimely death just as he was about to be reelected was a great shock. Brother Connell had been renomi- nated for election to the Sixty-third Congress and had made a vigorous fight throughout his district. He was an excellent orator, and his services were much in demand. He had returned to his home after a speak- ing engagement for the day and evening, and at mid- night left his chauffeur at the front door, with an injunc- tion to return early in the morning, as he had an engage- ment that day that would take him away from home again. The details of his returning to his home, of his retiring and never awakening again, I shall not take the time to depict. As many of his colleagues were unable, owing to the exigencies of the campaign, to pay personal tribute to his memory by attending his funeral, I ask unanimous consent that I may append to my remarks some articles appearing in the Poughkeepsie News-Press, which he edited before coming to Congress. The Speaker pro tempore. Is there objection? There was no objection. The articles above referred to are printed on pages 39 to 54. [10] Address of Mr. Sisson, of Mississippi Mr. Speaker, I knew Mr. Connell intimately. He and I lived at the same hotel. I frequently talked with him about various subjects. Mr. Connell was a Democrat in the broadest sense of the word. He believed absolutely in the people and their right to control. Trained and educated, as has been stated, in the school of hard ex- perience, he sympathized with the men who toil, and dur- ing all of the conversations that I had with him I never heard him utter a selfish thought. I never heard him utter an unkind word to or of any human being. There was not enough shadow in Richard Connell's soul and heart to hide a sinister thought. Coming, as he did, of Irish parentage, he knew the his- tory of the Irish struggle for liberty, and his soul always went out for any people who are striving to get the right to rule and govern themselves. He not only believed in the general right of the people to rule and control everywhere, but he had an abiding faith in our present form of Government to insure this if properly admin- istered. He was an intense State-rights man. He believed in the riglit of local self-government, and he made himself extremely close to me on account of the many expres- sions of tender regard for the southern people in their struggles during the dark days of reconstruction in the South. I presume the stories that he heard at the knees of his mother and father of the Irish struggle for liberty caused him to have such intense love and devotion for a people who were unfortunate and for a people who were suffering as the people were in the South during those dark days. [11] Memorial Aodkesshs: Hici'kksentative Connell I would invite attention especially to one peculiar chai-acteristic of Mr. Connell. I believe he had the broadest charity, not only in the sense that he relieved the unfortunate and the poor, but in his consideration for the thoughts and feelings of other people. Frequently on the street I have seen him help an unfortunate person who asked for help. He did it without a moment's hesi- tation, and he responded to every call, and with the gift, though small, there was a tender regard and sympathy which is always more thankfully received than the gift itself. His charity was so broad that in measuring the faults and foibles of others he was able not only in pri- vate life but in public life to overlook the selfishness, to overlook the unkindness of others. He felt that it was the duty of the people of every age to endeavor to answer in the affirmative the question asked in the early history of the world, "Am I my brother's keeper?" He felt that when a people could answer that question in the affirma- tive, and each and every man could say, "Yes; I am my brother's keeper," that people would then have solved the great questions of government. I believe firmly that when we shall have reached that position in our development when the great majority of our people can feel that they are indeed their brothers' keepers, leg- islation here and in the various States will be such as will give to all of the people equal opportunity and will bring about a situation that will realize more nearly equal conditions. If we shall be able, as each day goes, to add to our stock of information and knowledge, and to do that which makes us better than we were the day before, we will gradually reach that point where each and every one of us will begin to realize that we are our brothers' keepers. No man in this world, no man in this complicated so- ciety, if he be a true man, can fail to answer the question [12] Address of Mr. Sisson, of Mississippi in the affimiative. When that time shall come in the history of this Nation that men can answer that question in the affirmative, you will find that all of the hatred existing hetween the rich and the poor will disappear. We will have laws that will regulate the acquisition of property, so that the shrewd cunning of man to acquire property through special privilege and special law will be at an end. Richard Connell hated with all his Irish heart this cunning of the unrighteously rich. If we all felt as Connell did on this subject, we would be able to more nearly equalize conditions as well as opportunities. It has become necessary, in my humble judgment, for the legislatures of the country to begin to regulate this intel- lectual cunning exercised in the acquisition of property, so that all fortunes may have a moral foundation. I agree literally with Judge Coleridge, in England, that property rights find lodgment in the doctrine of the gen- eral good. When the property rights of the present age and day and generation shall not be for the general good, then property rights ought not to be respected. My de- parted friend believed in this doctrine. He believed in true progress and true advancement. I am an optimist, but I am not so optimistic that I can be blind to the evils that surround us. The man who is willing to close his eyes to the weak- nesses of his social and civil institutions is the man who is unable to help his day and generation. Connell was more of an optimist than I am. He be- lived in the final triumph of good and righteousness. And in your private conversations with him he would always fill you with hope. When some legislation would pass the House that outraged me I would always find consolation in talking with my good friend, because he always felt that if a wrong was done it would only take time to right it. He believed that this great Government [13] Mkmohiai. Addresses: Representative Connell of ours was an example to all the world, and he believed, as he said in that beautiful speech on the flag, that it was the emblem of equality throughout all the world. The example set by American patriots was always to him an inspiration. I have often heard him talk about the early struggle for American libertj' and the part the Irish took in it, and I quite agree with him that if it had not been for the Irish in the Revolutionary War there could have been no success to American arms. American libertj' was achieved largely bj"^ the strong arm of the Irish patriots who loved freedom and equality; and Connell's Irish heart went out in tender love for American institutions, and no opportunity^ ever presented itself on this floor that he was not the first man to fill the hearts of his people with patriotism by his eloquent addresses. He is an example to all of us, because you can always point to Richard Connell's life, when you talk to the boys in the rural districts who are born in poverty, and say, " He overcame difficulties and poverty, and so can you." The street gamin in every city can find an inspiration in Dick Connell. Why? Because here was a man who at 14 years of age had upon his shoulders the support of a widowed mother. For 16 years after the death of his father he worked at everything that his hand could find to do until he finally became a reporter on a newspaper in Poughkeepsie, and for 23 years he labored in this one field and did liis people and his party great service, and continued to labor on the same newspaper until he came to Congress. Every boy in America born in poverty is blessed. The boy who is born in luxury and ease is the boy who is cursed. There is no necessity for the boy born with a silver spoon in his mouth to devote his time and attention to those things that make him a useful man; but the boy ri4] Address of Mr. Sisson, of Mississippi who is born in poverty is compelled to struggle in order that he may win, and the struggle makes him only the stronger. So I would point to Dick Connell as an example for all the poor boys in America. Look at him, see what he accomplished. Any American boy with cnergj^ and en- terprise can accomplish success. Dick Connell's life has been a success; it has been a benediction. And may the boys of America learn to do as Dick Connell did, and succeed in spite of poverty and in spite of all obstacles. [15] Address of Mr. Smith, of New York Mr. Speaker, it is the rule that men come to Congress to learn the procedure and to study the principles and policies of government. Mr. Conneix had been a student of government from his early manhood. He entered the House of Representatives two years ago fully equipped to take part in the affairs of this Nation. He came here not as a pupil but as an instructor. He had been a writer of note. He was an eloquent and forceful public speaker. He was familiar with every great question pending in Congress. From the first day he took his seat as a Member of this body he was an essential part of the House, and no Member took a more active interest in the proceedings or had a more intelligent understand- ing of them than did he. By education, experience, inclination, and tempera- ment he was prepared for the duties that developed upon him. He did not devote himself to the selfish demands of a locality or to the partisan problems that are ever present in a national assembly. He conceived higher aims and established loftier ideals. He went into the question of admitting the Territoi-ies of Arizona and New Mexico to statehood. When the division over the admission of these Territories appeared to be hopeless, he went forward with the contest, scorning consideration of political or partisan advantage, until, largely through his activity and intelligent persistency, an agreement on the admission of the States was reached. Few outside of his close associates knew how hard he worked or how much he had accomplished. Despite the fact that he had been in Congress but one term, he [IG] Address of Mr. Smith, of New York was recognized as a ready and active debater. He was ever alert to protect the principles and policies that he avowed. Independent in spirit and free from affecta- tion, he sought in all that he did to perform the highest duty to his country, his district, and himself. He might be described as a practical altruist. He was a militant idealist. He fought for his principles, and he had faith in their ultimate triumph. The House could ill afford to lose such a man. The shock and sorrow of his death sent a pang into the heart of each one that knew him. He was brilliant in conversation, kindly in judgment, and simple, direct, and just in all his dealings. He had an individuality that had impressed itself on his colleagues. A great future seemed in store for him. Those of us who were privileged to know liim will not soon cease to mourn. 12266°— 13 2 [17] Address of Mr. Maguire, of Nebraska Mr. Speaker, while we have set apart this day to pay tribute to the nieniorj' of our lamented colleague, still I can not but feel how feeble and inadequate must be the effort when we scan the life storj' of our late friend and colleague, Richard E. Connell. What we say here in the world's greatest parliamen- tary forum becomes the written record for to-morrow in the larger story of a country's growth and a people's progress. In the perfection of the biographical record of the Nation we must of necessity touch lightly and imperfectly upon the story of one who played a leading part. While these are inadequate attempts of colleagues who know but a portion of his life story' and, therefore, feel less the intensity of his virtues, still our utterances may, in a measure, assuage and feebly compensate the loss to a beloved family weighed down under almost unbearable grief. Richard E. Connell was born in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., November 16, 1857. He there received his schooling; but at the age of 14 years his father died and he assumed the larger responsibilities and undertook the work of assisting his mother in the support and education of the family. Through boyhood and young manhood days his time was occupied at various industrial callings,' but dur- ing these years he devoted his spare time to study and the improvement of his opportunities. In 1887 he be- came a reporter on the Poughkeepsie News-Press and later its editor, remaining with the paper for 23 years. [18] Address of Mr. Maguire, of Nebraska He has been honored by his home people and his State in many positions — civic, political, and otherwise — and in 1910 was elected to Congress as a Democrat. In the midst of an active campaign for reelection to Congress he suddenly died at his home on October 30, 1912. Death came to him in the prime of life, apparently in the full possession of his intellectual and physical vigor. He leaves in his immediate family a wife, son, and three daughters to mourn his loss. When Mr. Connell came to Congress we lived at the same hotel, and it was my privilege to come more closely in touch with him as a legislator and a man. He was companionable, versatile, and cheerful of disposition. It seemed as if the candor and honesty of the man and the very music and sunshine of his soul enraptured you. Modest in manner, unassuming, and big souled, still he had a dignity and intellectual courage which commanded. Mr. Connell's home life must have been a beautiful one, for his true qualities as husband and father were re- vealed when he was in the company of his family. His early struggle was much the same as that of other boys of his time, but through the tragedy of events ob- stacles multiplied around him which intensified his sacrifice. Through the stern school of necessity and the inherent nature of the man he applied and made avail- able a large amount of useful knowledge. In earlier years he became a great reader of high-class literature and a keen observer, who extracted something each day from the everyday incidents of life, and through the ad- vancing years he became a scholar and an educated man in the larger sense and meaning of life's activities. There was no duplicity or deceit in Mr. Connell's na- ture and he extended no false sympathy and was easy to understand; he was clean of mind and pure of soul all the way through, and never wavered in his personal con- [19] Memorial Addresses : Representative Connell duct or coniproniised with wrong. While his own standards of conduct were of the highest, still he did not exact from others the application of his own belief or rule of action. Tolerance of thought, he believed, as- sured to every other man the right to act and believe according to his own right standards of life. He was a devout Christian and each day seemed to bring to his soul new inspiration. Faith was an ever-commanding force in the life of our departed friend — faith in his fel- low man, faith in his countrj, and faith in his God. To him it was a divine command and he did not arrogate to himself the right of its interpretation. Although thor- oughly informed on matters of faith and religion, still he found enough in the business of human affairs to occupy his time and intellect, and accepted with childlike sim- plicity the faith and commands of the Divine Teacher. Mr. Connell loved his counti-y and its institutions, be- cause he understood the structure and believed in the principles upon which it rested. Many times have I heard him express with feelings of emotion and pride the utmost confidence in the wisdom of our people in the ultimate destiny of the American Republic. Every speech and public utterance of his breathed the lofty spirit of patriotism. He was a true American citizen, and his State and the Nation will lose in his death a noble son and a man whose service will always merit the highest praise. [20] Address of Mr. Reilly, of Connecticut Mr. Speaker, it is a singular and sad coincidence that two native-born sons of the great State of New York, one who had become the beloved Vice President of the United States, the other a distinguished Representative of one of her congressional districts, slioukl botli end their life work on the same day. On the 30th of October last Richard E. Connell, in whose memory we are here assembled to-day, passed away from the activities of this world, and on the same day Vice President Shei'man died. It was my good fortune to live with Richard Connell for over a year, and I had learned to love him for what he was worth, a man of the highest ideals, full of senti- ment and patriotism and love for his fellow man. His newspaper activities for 23 years caused between us a fellow feeling that led possibly more even than with others to an interchange of ideas. I believe his training fitted him particularly for the work he had to do in this House, and he came with unusual equipment. But aside from his spirited Americanism, largely glori- fied by his noble ancestry, it was in the quietness of his private life that lay his sweetest charm. He was devoted to his family above all things else, devoted to his friends, devoted to what he believed to be his life work. Those of us who were fortunate enough to hear the magnificent speech upon the admission of New Mexico and Arizona to statehood will not for a moment doubt Mr. Connell's Americanism. No finer tribute was ever paid to the flag than he paid on that occasion, when he pictured what [21] Memoiuai, Aodresses: Representative Connell the adding of two more stars to that field of blue meant. As he was patriotic in speech, so he was in action. Those of us who were with him on the occasion of the meeting of the new Members of Congress a year or so ago will never forget his recital of " The Fighting Race," Joseph I. C. Clark's beautiful poem, written upon the occasion of the destruction of the Maine, and depicting better than our words just what Dick Connell felt to be the prin- ciple that should impel men to do their dutj% especially the duty they owe to their countrj\ We will long remember — and I wish I were gifted as he was gifted, that I might recite that song of the Celt to you to-day as best typifying the fighting spirit for righteousness and for liberty that lived and throbbed continually in Dick Connell's heart. His own patriotic nature was truly shown in those inspiring lines: "Read out the names! " and Burke sat back, And Kelly drooped his head, While Shea — they call him Scholar Jack — Went down the list of the dead. OfTicers, seamen, gunners, marines, The crews of the gig and yawl, The bearded man and the lad in his teens. Carpenters, coal passers — all. Then, knocking the ashes from out his pipe, Said Burke, in an ofThand way: "We're all in that dead man's list, by Gripe! Kelly and Burke and Shea." " Well, here's to the Maine, and I'm sorry for Spain," Said Kelly and Burke and Shea. " Wherever there's Kellys there's trouble," said Burke. " Wherever fighting's the game, Or a spice of danger in grown man's work," Said Kelly, " you'll find my name." [22] Address of Mr. Reilly, of Connecticut " And do we fall short," said Burke, getting mad, "When it's touch and go for life?" Said Shea, " It's thirty-odd years, bedad. Since I charged to drum and fife Up Maryes Heights, and my old canteen Stopped a rebel ball on its way. There were blossoms of blood on our sprigs of green — Kelly and Burke and Shea — And the dead didn't brag." " Well, here's to the flagi " Said Kelly and Burke and Shea. " 1 wish 'twas in Ireland, for there's the place," Said Burke, " that we'd die by right. In the cradle of our soldier race. After one good stand-up fight. My grandfather fell on Vinegar Hill, And fighting was not his trade. But his rusty pike's in the cabin still, With Hessian blood on the blade." "Aye, aye," said Kelly, "the pikes were great When the word was, ' Clear the way I ' We were thick on the roll in ninety-eight — Kelly and Burke and Shea." "Well, here's to the pike and the sword and the likel" Said Kelly and Burke and Shea. And Shea, the scholar, with rising joy. Said, " W^e were at Ramillies. We left our bones at Fontenoy And up in the Pyrenees. Before Dunkirk, on Landen's plain, Cremona, Lille, and Ghent, We're all over Austria, France, and Spain, Wherever they pitch a tent. We've died for England from Waterloo To Egypt and Dargai, And still there's enough for a corps or a crew, Kelly and Burke and Shea." "Well, here's to good honest fighting blood 1" Said Kelly and Burke and Shea. [23] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell " Oh, the fighting race don't die out, If they seldom die in bed, For love is first in their hearts, no doubt," Said Burke; then Kelly said: " When Michael, the Irish Archangel, stands, The angel with the sword. And the battle dead from a hundred lands Are ranged in one big horde. Our line, that for Gabriel's trumpet waits, Will stretch three deep that day From Jehoshaphat to the Golden Gates — Kelly and Burke and Shea." "Well, here's thank God for the race and the sod! " Said Kelly and Burke and Shea. And here's thank God that it has been my fortune, and the fortune of many of us, to have lived and known such a true patriot, such a true American, as Dick Connell! [24] Address of Mr. Collier, of Mississippi Mr. Speaker, we have assembled here to-day to pay our tribute of respect to the memory of our late colleague, Hon. Richard E. Connell, of the State of New York. Life is but a brief span; it has its sunshine and its shadows; it is characterized by an endless struggle for existence, a perpetual striving for advantage, and the way is strewn with the wrecks and monuments of those who have failed and those who have attained what the world calls success. Its uncertain course is a series of daily battles in which each of us, no matter how lowly our walk in life may be, must play our part. In the endless strivings and struggles which mark human progress " in the unequal distribution of wealth, power, capacity, pleasure, and opportunity," there are found on every side tragedy and comedy, sorrow and joy, pathos and pleasure, happiness and despair. In this great struggle soine may wear the victor's crown of laurel, while others may go down in dust to dark de- feat. For some " breasts may throb with love and lips may thrill on meeting other lips as fond, and life shall be to them a paradise, while other hearts shall bleed and break, and life for them shall be a never-ending night." There is so much that we can and should do for each other; there are so many ways in which we can lift the burdens from other shoulders; there are so many oppor- tunities presented for improving the conditions of our fellow man, that in the brief space allotted us here on earth of right and necessity our concern must ever be for the living and not for the dead. But yet it is an eminently appropriate custom sanctified by long usage that on God's hallowed day we should lay [25] Memoriai. Addresses : Representativ-e Connell aside the cares and the pleasures, the vexations and the trials of life, and reverently gather together to give ex- pression to the debt of gratitude we owe our lamented dead, and pay a passing tribute of respect to the memory of those who have crossed over the river, and " with a countenance like the lightning and in raiment white as snow " wait upon the other shore. Mr. Connell is no more. The kindly heart has ceased to beat. Cut down in the very zenith of his usefulness, suddenly and without warning, his spirit has gone to its eternal rest. He has gone, but his cordial greeting, his friendly smile, his hearty hand grasp still linger in our memories. Our late colleague did not serve quite one term in Con- gress. He entered here in March, 1911, and died October 30, 1912. But for over 25 years he was an ardent and able advocate of the principles of Democracy. He was the editor of the Poughkeepsie News-Press for a number of years, beginning his connection with that journal as a reporter in 1887. He was often honored by the Demo- cratic Party, frequently accepting a nomination at its hands when there was no hope of success, but always ready and willing to make any sacrifice for the benefit of the party he loved. It was my good fortune to become intimately ac- quainted with Mr. Connell soon after he entered Con- gress. This acquaintance quickly ripened into a sincere and lasting friendship. We lived at the same hotel, and I had ample opportunity to become familiar with those sterling qualities of heart and mind which so endeared him to all who knew liim. Mr. Connell was a man of generous heart, of lofty ideals, and inspired at all times with a spirit of intense patriotism. He was an orator of unquestioned ability. [26] Address of Mr. Collier, of Mississippi Though his legislative career was short, yet, notwith- standing his brief service here, on several occasions he demonstrated liis skill as a logician, his learning as a scholar, his profound knowledge of public affairs, and his power as an orator. His long training as a journalist gave him that experience in marshaling the salient points of his argument which is so essential here, where of necessity the time for debate is so limited. Our departed colleague was a Jeffersonian Democrat of the old school. He had implicit faith and confidence in the wisdom, the ability, and the judgment of the American people. He believed with the great exponent of Democracy that " Independence can be trusted nowhere but with the peo- ple en masse," for " they are the only sure reliance of the preservation of our liberty." I have never heard that confidence, that abiding trust and faith in the wisdom of the great masses of our peo- ple more beautifully and eloquently portrayed than in a speech he made on the floor of the House upon the ad- mission of New Mexico and Arizona to statehood. His speech upon that occasion attracted nation-wide promi- nence and elicited much applause from those who had the good fortune to be present. He was discussing that feature in the bill relating to the recall of the judiciary, and, though opposing the recall as applied to his own State, eloquently gave expression to the confidence he had in the American people. " I am convinced, Mr. Chairman," he said, in part, " that, so far as the recall is concerned, I voice the pres- ent thought of the vast majority of those who sent me here when I oppose it as applied to members of the judi- ciary or to any other public servant in New York State; but when opposition to the recall involves a denial of the intelligence and patriotism of the American people [27] Memorial Addresses : Hepresentative Connell sufficient to warrant confidence in them to exercise that power to the safety and honor of the courts, I protest against the doctrine plainly defined in that argument. Recall or no recall, the courts are safe in the care of the people, as are the destinies of the Republic. If this be not true, then wlio shall mark the limit beyond which the people shall not go in government, and who shall curtail their power? "The gentlemen picture the judge against whom the recall has been invoked by 25 per cent of the voters as consigned to oblivion and disgrace. Pray, what would the 75 per cent of the people to whom the judge would resubmit himself be doing in the meantime? " Suppose, sir, that bj' any conception of conditions it were possible to-day for the Standard Oil Co. to apply the law of recall to the judges of the Supreme Court of the United States. Surely it would not be the rabble that would be behind such a recall; but should that powerful organization, with all its millions and all the ramifications of its far-reaching power, array itself behind such a movement, do the gentlemen believe that the American people would not rally around that court and give such an approval to the judges as to dazzle the world by the emphasis of their democracy and the splendor of their power? And if those who are dissatisfied with the Standard Oil decision should invoke the recall, aimed at the court, do the gentlemen imagine that the result would be different?" The man who gave utterance to that statement was not afraid to trust the people. His lofty ideals of patriotism were beautifully ex- pressed in the closing words of that same speech, when he said: New Mexico and Arizona, this Democratic House of Repre- sentatives bids you welcome to the Union. I-orevermore be rep- [28] Addeiess of Mr. Collier, of Mississippi resented among the stars of the most beautiful banner that ever waved between earth and sky. It is the banner whose united stars gleam as a beacon of hope to the oppressed of every land, and under whose shadow liberty dwells and justice reigns. It is the banner for which the Father of his Country prayed that it might triumph over tyranny, through every danger withstand the enemies of the Republic, and vindicate the inalienable rights of mankind. Come, New Mexico and Arizona, enter into the Union, for whose mission heroes have sanctified with their blood the battle fields of a Nation. Come, make still more invincible, still more beautiful, the American flag, the truest banner of freedom, the sweetest emblem of hope, since the cross cast its redeeming shadow upon a lonely hill. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Connell will long be remembered by those who knew him here. He was faithful to his trust, he was devoted to his duties, he was a conscientious leg- islator, he was a courteous gentleman and a consistent Christian. In his death the people of his district have lost a faithful public servant, a sincere friend, and an able advocate. Upon an occasion of this kind it is our melancholy privilege to give to the family of our lamented colleague the assurance that though the one dear to them is no longer in our midst, yet he is not forgotten, for the tender chords of memory will bring back to us the recollection of him who, with his kindly word, his cheery smile, his gracious and sincere manner, his cordial friendship and manly qualities, endeared himself to all who knew him. And though his voice is hushed and silent, his familiar face is missing, and his vacant chair stands empty, yet — I can not say and I will not say That he is dead. — He is just away! With a cheery smile, and a wave of the hand. He has wandered into an unknown land. And left us dreaming how very fair It needs must be, since he lingers there. » [29] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell And you, — O you, who the wildest yearn For the old-time step and the glad return, — Think of him faring on, as dear In the love of There as the love of Here. Mild and gentle, as he was brave, — When the sweetest love of his life he gave To simple things; — where the violets grew Pure as the eyes they were likened to. The touches of his hand have strayed As reverently as his lips have prayed; When the little brown thrush that harshly chirred Was dear to him as the mocking bird; And he pitied as much as man in pain A writhing honey bee wet with rain. — Think of him still as the same, I say: He is not dead — he is just awayl For — It is idle to talk of the future, Of the sad " might have been " 'mid our tears; God knew all about it. Yet took him away from the oncoming years. God knows all about those who love him. How bitter that parting must be; And yet through it all God is loving And knows so much better than we. [30] Address of Mr. Kindred, of New York Mr. Speaker, it is well that we, in life, should in the midst of life's activities pause to sacredly observe an occasion like this and to drop a flower and a tear in memory of our departed friends. In the exercise of this high but sad duty we not only confer some measure of honor upon those who have gone to " that undiscovered country, from whose bourne no traveler returns " to greet us again on this material earth, but we at the same time cultivate our own conceptions and understanding regard- ing the highest of things — that is, what we call life here and life hereafter. We ourselves profit in thus meditat- ing upon the virtues and even the failings of the lives of those who have left us, and in cherishing the sublime philosophy leading us to an abiding faith in immortality of the soul, which old-fashioned idea, even as a scientific theory, is borne out by much recent investigation. It is peculiarly fitting, then, that we to-day gather here to memorialize the life and character of one of our most worthy colleagues, Richard E. Connell, the late Repre- sentative from the twenty-first congressional district of New York, who served as a Member of this House with honor and distinction from the date of his election, in November, 1910, to the time of his death. Richard E. Connell was born of rugged Irish parents, both of whom — as I have heard him state — came to this country as poor emigrants a few years prior to his birth, which took place in Dutchess County, N. Y., November 16, 1857. He died October 30, 1912, very unexpectedly, from rupture of the aorta, after severe mental and phys- ical strain, incident to his hotly contested campaign for reelection to the House of Representatives. He con- LSI] Memorial Addresses : Representative Connei.i. ducted this campaign as he did everj' other undertaking, with marked ability, fairness, judgment, and energy'. His personal popularity and his force of character be- hind it were indicated by his election over a strong and distinguished opponent from a congressional district that had always previously been overwhelmingly opposed to his partj-'s principles. He grew up amid the poor surroundings of a family who had spent their all to seek their fortunes on Amer- ican soil, and as a boy and as a young man sought and performed almost any honest work he could obtain, al- ways doing his work well and honorably. Not unlike the great Lincoln, he was ambitious even as a boy, and snatched from such hours of toil everj' possible oppor- tunity for study and mental improvement, going when he could to the public schools. In his comparatively early manhood he worked his way up to the position of local news gatherer or reporter in and around Poughkeepsie, N. Y., for the only Demo- cratic daily newspaper in that citj% the News-Press, which he filled for many years so acceptably to his employers and to the community that he was made, until he entered Congress, the editor in chief of this important paper. In this capacity, as editor, Mr. Connell found for many years a splendid field for the development and exercise of his talents as a writer, thinker, and eloquent public speaker, and his talents were in these directions versatile and of a high order. This versatility and literary taste led him also to keenly appreciate not only general litera- ture but also poetry and blank verse, to which he, with his usual modest}', occasionally contributed. His course and record as a Member of the House and as an active member of the Committees on Territories and War Claims were such as to win for him the ap- proval and friendship of his fellow members and of his [32] Address of Mr. Kindred, of New York constituents, whom he always faithfully and industriously represented. We come now to consider him in his more intimate and personal relations. Like so many others of the Irish race, from which he sprang, his was a choice, lovable, and true spirit, shining out most to those who knew him best. It was my good fortune to have known him well for many years since 1890, when he did reportorial work in Poughkeepsie and while I was a physician on the staff of the Hudson River State Hospital, located there, and with which he had been honorably connected. He was always a loyal friend, always held to and acted on the highest civic ideals; he was always sympathetic, and was one of the broadest, most liberal-minded men I ever knew. His was a helpful, hopeful life, shedding its luster of gen- erous, cheerful helpfulness upon all with whom he came in contact. He was free from affectation; a constructive, good citizen and neighbor; a patriotic, patient, consistent worker for the upbuilding of his church, his town, his State, and his country; but above all these were those still nobler qualities as a family man, a faithful, tender, devoted husband and father. I was one of several Mem- bers of the House who attended his funeral ceremonies at St. Mary's Church, at Poughkeepsie, and was pro- foundly impressed by the sincere evidences of sorrow, love, and respect manifested by the vast throng who gathered there to honor him on that solemn occasion, representing, as they did, every phase of religious, po- litical, and social life. A man of Richard Connell's life, character, works, and faith still lives; such men do not die, for in the words of an unknown author — There is no death; the stars go down To rise upon some fairer shore, And bright in heaven's jeweled crown They shine forevermore. 12266°— 13 3 [33] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell There is no death; an angel form Walks o'er the earth with silent tread; He bears our best-loved things away, And then we call them dead. Born into that undying life, They leave us but to come again; In all, in everything, the same, Except in grief and pain. And ever near us, though unseen. The dear immortal spirits tread. For all the boundless universe is life; There are no deadl Mr. Doremus resumed the chair as Speaker pro tem- pore. [34] Address of Mr. Fitzgerald, of New York Mr. Speaker, I desire to join in this tribute to the mem- ory of our deceased colleague, Richard E. Connell. The pressure of public business at this time in the session has prevented me from preparing that comprehensive review of the life and character of this remarkable man which I desired. I did not care, however, to permit the occasion to pass without recording my admiration for one whom I cherished as a loyal friend. Born in the Hudson Valley, he was a typical American citizen. He was one of those described by Artemas Ward as of the class that went to work at 14 years. All his life was a struggle. He was not born with the opportunities or advantages of wealth or social position. His only attri- butes were character, courage, and determination to do the best possible. Like many men born in the Hudson Valley, where that majestic stream flows quietly and serenely to the sea, and nature stands out in bold and picturesque hills behind which the peace-inspiring val- leys are cultivated to advantage, he had a deep, broad, and sympathetic nature, and was bold and untiring in work and yet was peaceful and loving in manner, all the while doing those things which make the world better. Mr. Connell came to the House well advanced in life, but he had accumulated wide information and had had an experience that well equipped him for the arduous duties of membership in the House. He was not ambi- tious to do things merely for the sensations resulting. He was not of the showy kind, and he had no desire to attract attention by peculiar and unusual expressions of views upon public questions. He was a man endowed [35] Memoiuai, Adokesses: Representative Conneli. Avith great common sense, with a very wide knowledge of the history of this country and of the forces and ele- ments that go to make up the country's prosperity. He was an industrious man. Those who wei'e acquainted with his work in the House are aware that he entered with great energy upon the performance of his duties. He was one of the many men who come here and con- tribute materially to the success of important legislation, and yet because their work is done in the quiet of the study or in the seclusion of the committee room few outside of their colleagues ever know or realize or appre- ciate how important the services are which thej' render, or how valuable are their contributions to the countrj^'s development and well-being. I had learned to know and to love Mr. Connell. He had a broad, kind, generous heart. He had a loving disposition. Ho was a loyal friend. His friendship was prized by all who knew him. It helped to make service in this House more satisfactory and more pleasant for manj^ men. He has left behind in many ways e^^dences of the good he has done, and his memory will be cherished and re- vered by all M'ho had the opportunity and pleasure of having come in contact with him. [36] Address of Mr. Ayres, of New York Mr. Speaker, we arc met here to-day to fittingly com- memorate the life and public services of our lamented colleague, Richard E. Connell. In the term of his serv- ice in this House he earned the respect and affection of us all. I use the word " earned " advisedly, because Mr. Connell came here without the advantage of any pre- vious legislative experience, and his career was one of continually increasing usefulness and appreciation. He was constant in attendance upon his duties, always faith- ful to every responsibility. His extraordinary oratorical gifts first came to the attention of the House upon the occasion of a speech delivered on the bill for the admis- sion of Arizona and New Mexico. This gave a fitting opportunity for a display of the earnest and brilliant patriotism which was his most striking characteristic, and his eloquent peroration roused the audience to a high pitch of enthusiasm. The State of New York has in re- cent years sent to Congress few men who combine the ability to perform useful and effective work with the gift of eloquent and emotional expression, and Mr. Con- nell's future was therefore looked forward to with more than ordinary interest. Alas, the grim reaper, who is no respecter of person- ality, saw fit to remove our colleague upon the threshold of a greater usefulness, and we are left to mourn his loss. His death was dramatic. Just a week before the elec- tion, on October 30 last, in the midst of a hotly contested campaign, when the attention of his county and district was centered upon his every movement, the end sud- denly came. Instantly his city was plunged into profound [37] Memorial Addresses: REPRESENTATn^E Connell gloom. Flags flew at half-mast, shops were closed, the ordinary avocations of citizens were discontinued, thus showing the entire respect in which Mr. Connell was held alike by his partisans and by those who were po- litically opposed. At the memorial services, held at St. Mary's Church, crowds found it impossible to obtain admittance. Mr. Connell's life in Washington was but typical of his entire career. Born into humble circumstances, he progressed ever into constantly greater spheres of useful- ness. Every step of advance was earned by faithful serv- ice. His life and the great success that attended him speak eloquently of the genius of American institutions. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that leave to print upon the life, character, and public services of Mr. Connell be granted for five legislative days. The Speaker pro tempore. Is there objection? There was no objection. adjournment Then, in accordance with the resolutions heretofore agreed to, at 4 o'clock and 6 minutes p. m., the House adjourned until to-morrow, Monday, February 17, 1913, at 12 o'clock noon. [38] Tributes [From the Poughkeepsie News-Press, Oct. 31, 1912.] HON. R. E. CONNELL'S SUDDEN DEMISE PLUNGES CITY INTO PROFOUND GRIEF SAD EVENT ELICITS TRIBUTES OF RESPECT AND SYMPATHY FROM COWORKERS IN PUBLIC LIFE, STATESMEN, JURISTS, AND JOUR- NALISTS SKETCH OF HIS LIFE. Richard E. Connell, Congressman of the twenty-first district, and for 23 years editor of the News-Press, was found dead in bed by his wife yesterday morning at 7.40 o'clock. Death had claimed Mr. Connell while he was asleep, and when his wife called him, in order that he might be ready for the automobile that was to take him to Middletown at 8 o'clock, she believed that he was sleeping peacefully after a hard night of campaigning. He had returned home at 2 o'clock in the morning, after deliv- ering five speeches and riding 45 miles to his home. When he entered the house he was in his usual happy frame of mind. He bade Mr. Hawkey, his chauffeur, a happy good morning, and told him to be sure to be on time. When he entered the house his wife heard him and spoke to him. He answered cheerfully and joked about his youngest daughter, Catharine, being asleep in his bed. " I won't disturb her," he called to his wife; " she's tired, and I'll go to the small bedroom and sleep." " But you're tired and must have your own room," answered Mrs. Connell, whereupon she awakened the daughter, and Mr. Connell joked with her as she left his room, expressing regret that she should have been disturbed. He fell at once into a deep sleep. About 6 o'clock Mrs. Connell heard him sneeze twice, and remarked to another of her daugh- ters that " papa must be awake." He had requested to be called in time that he might be ready at 8 o'clock to meet Mr. Hawkey's automobile, and when 7.30 o'clock came and there was no sign of his having awakened, Mrs. Connell went to his room and called to him. [39] Memorial Addresses : Representative Connell There was no reply to her summons. Then she shook him,, and still he did not reply. Then she laid her hand on his fore- head, and its coldness sent a thrill of apprehension through her. Again she shook him and there came no reply. Hurriedly she threw up the shades and was struck by the pallor of his face. Again she called him, but he did not answer her. Then, thor- oughly frightened, she called the other members of the family, and at once they realized that in the night death had come into their midst. Death, ever relentless and cruel, respecting not the ties of family or friends, is a sad and solemn thing, come when and in what form it may. But there are occasions when it is as start- ling as it is sad, because of its suddenness and the prominence of its victim. We stand appalled when one in the midst of an energetic and useful life, and for whom we expect many years of devotion to the public weal, is in a moment called from his activities by that summons which none may disobey, at a time least expected and which to human view appears to be the very meridian of existence. The announcement that the Hon. Richard E. Connell, Repre- sentative in Congress from this district, had died at his home early Wednesday morning was received with bated breath and tremulously, sorrowfully passed from lip to lip, while some sought corroboration by renewed inquiries, as if hoping that it might not be true. HIS SUDDEN DEATH Mr. Connell retired nearly an hour after midnight Tuesday, apparently in his usual health but feeling soireewhat tired, intend- ing to go to Middletown, Orange County, Wednesday morning. At about 7.40 o'clock a. m. his wife went to his room to call him, and found him dead in bed. The cause of death was heart disease, according to the state- ment of Dr. John N. Bassin, who was hastily summoned, but whose services were in vain, the struggling spirit having burst the walls of its clay tenement and winged its flight. Mr. Connell, as is well known, was serving his first term in Congress, and had made a record that secured him a hearty and unanimous renomination, with full prospect of reelection. He had been very active in the present campaign, and was sent by the national Democratic committee to speak in Vermont and Maine previous to the State elections in September. [40] Tributes IN THE HARNESS During the past month he had been addressing meetings in his own congressional district, taking in several places daily and speaking at each. On Tuesday, the day preceding his death, he spoke at Lake Mahopac, Patterson, and Towners in the afternoon and at Carracl and Brewsters in the evening. He had intended to go to Middletown, Orange County, Wednesday, to meet Hon. William Sulzer and make an address there, and speak again in the evening at the opera house in this city. EARLY DAYS Richard E. Connell was the son of the late Richard and Ann Phelan Connell, who came to this country from Ireland in 1846. Richard was born in Poughkeepsie, November 16, 1857. He at- tended St. Peter's parochial school and the public schools until he was 13 years of age, when he went to work to support his mother, who was a widow with several small children. His employ- ment was at labor on the old P. & E. Railroad. Later he learned carriage painting in the shop of Streit & Lockwood, and after- wards was an attendant at the Hudson River State Hospital. While at the latter place he became prominent in amateur theatri- cals, his talents in this direction leading to frequent demands for his services at social and public affairs. While there he began taking an active part in politics and became a forceful speaker. One of his speeches at Hyde Park attracted the attention of the late Maj. James W. Hinkley, who soon afterwards employed Mr. Connell as a reporter on the News-Press. His industry, intelli- gence, and fidelity soon won promotion, and in a few years he became managing editor, which position he held until April, 1911, when he commenced his duties in Congress. HIS journalistic work Richard Edward Connell was a lucid, convincing writer and was versatile withal, frequently dashing off gems of poetry and fanciful sketches worthy of celebrated authors. His limited school education was supplemented and replenished by much reading, keeping informed on current events, and with his many duties, and none neglected, he found time for literary culture that fitted him for companionship with learned professors and talented students. [41] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell He was a Democrat as a matter of principle, and worked hard and faithfully for the advancement of the party of his choice, using all honorable means to win success, which he believed would in due time come to those worthy to have it. In 1896 he accepted a nomination for Congress against the late Hon. John H. Ketcham, when there was no hope of success, and in 1898 and 1900 was an unsuccessful candidate for member of assembly, in each case making a sacrifice for the benefit of the party he loved. In 1907 he was appointed inheritance-tax appraiser and held that ollice two years. He was police commissioner for three years. In 1910 he was elected to Congress by a plurality of 517 over the Hon. Hamilton Fish, Republican; Mr. Slater, the Prohibi- tion candidate, receiving 677 votes. CHARACTERISTICS Mr. Connell was frequently called on to make orations on the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and for schools, colleges, literary societies, religious and other organizations. He had a clear voice, spoke fluently and eloquently, the best efforts being entirely extemporaneous. A strong feature of Mr. Connell's character was his love of and pride in his family. On his return from a journey, or an absence of only a few hours, the first thing after entering the office was to take the telephone and talk to his wife and children, though he might be going home in a short time. He was the champion of the soldiers of the Civil War, and never lost an opportunity to honor them and render them any service in his power. His work in securing pensions for deserving veterans is well known and has endeared him to all the boys in blue. It was largely due to his efforts in connection with Gen. Sherwood that the last liberal pension bill was passed. His record in Congress, especially his speech on the admission of the two new States of Arizona and New Mexico, was pro- nounced one of the best orations and arguments ever made on the floor of the House of Representatives. DEVOTED TO FAMILY His family consists of his wife, who was Mary E. Miller, his daughters, Mary, Anne, and Catharine, and a son, Richard. Mary graduated from Vassar College, and Richard is studying in Har- [42] Tributes vard College. During the sessions of Congress the son was his father's secretary. To them heartfelt sympathy is extended in the sorrow we all share. In religion he was a Catholic, a communicant in St. Mary's Church, and faithful to his every duty. He was a member of the Royal Arcanum, Knights of Columbus, and the Order of Elks. In disposition he was a man to win friends and to hold them. His fellow workers, who knew him probably best of all, are of only one mind in proclaiming their loyal and earnest friendship for him. TRIBUTES POUR IN Tributes which have poured into the city, some addressed to the stricken family and others to the News-Press, every hour since the news of Mr. Connell's death became curent, are almost Nation- wide in their scope, and there is no mistaking their being sincere. Foes in the political arena were among the first to come for- ward and acknowledge their real feelings of admiration for the man as a man. Judges of the highest tribunals in the State, municipal officers, associates in Congress — men in every walk of life — joined in the tribute of sorrow. [From Edmund Piatt.] Nothing had ever occurred either in years of strenuous news- paper rivalry or in political rivalry to interrupt the course of my friendship with Richard E. Connell. That we were rival candi- dates for the same high office this year made no difference. He was not a man who could for a moment think of cherishing any personal feeling against an opponent. As a newspaper writer Mr. Connell was painstaking, just, and accurate. He early de- veloped a faculty for writing and for getting hold of news that attracted attention, and he had no equals in Poughkeepsie in ex- pressing human sympathy or in depicting incidents in which pathos was a leading feature. His own sympathetic, generous nature and his broad experience, which had brought him much into contact with the unfortunate, prompted him to write from his heart. Let no one think that Mr. Connell's success, that his attainment of his ambition to serve his country in high office, was the result of luck or chance. As a young man, when he had to work hard, [43] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell he spent his spare time studying the history of his country and in other profitable reading. He learned the art of public speak- ing, and when opportunity came to attain a position of promi- nence he was ready. There never was a more genial, companionable man, a better friend, or a more generous opponent than Richard E. Connell. [From Editor Brown, editor Enterprise.] I have always thought very highly of Richard E. Connell. He rose from the humbler walks in life by the sheer force of his character. He had ability of a high order, he was true to his convictions, and he was true to his friends. He made a good record in Congress. He was a fine Representative for the people of this district; he was entirely worthy of the high honor that came to him in his election two years ago. It is a great loss to any community when such a member of it passes away. He closed his career in the middle of life, and we must all regret that he was not spared to continue a work for which he was well equipped and well adapted. [From Mark C. Du Bois.] In preceding Mr. Connell a few months on the News-Press, to which he came, if I remember, in 1887, I was familiar with his work and his personality from the start of his journalistic career and with the main incidents of his advancement in politics. Mr. Connell was equally facile as a writer and speaker. In him were combined the poetry, romance, wit, and sentiment of the race that rules the world. Always proud of his Irish descent, Mr. Connell had just reason for his pride, for in him were combined all that is best of those qualities that have brought fame to Irish statesmen, orators, poets, writers, and soldiers the world over. Out of every reverse and discouragement Mr. Con- nell always caught a gleam of humor that made all around him smile. Every success elicited a bit of philosophy that made all of us think. [44] Tributes At social gatherings where a song or story were needed to promote the pleasure and interests of guests Mr. Connell was always willing to use his talents for the pleasure of others. He gladly prepared speeches and spoke extemporaneously at hun- dreds of gatherings where the only reward for his time and trouble was the consciousness that he was doing the best he could to serve others. It is very sad to realize that this brilliant man has been taken away from his family who loved him so devotedly, and to whom he in turn gave his whole life to help, to comfort and protect; that he has been removed from his friends, who trusted, admired, and respected him; and that he lived such a short time to enjoy the success which came to him after a worthy career of many years of hard work. I join with the editor of the News-Press and others associated, like myself, with Mr. Connell in journalism to lay my tribute to his memory before the world. He was a good and useful citizen, a credit to his country and his friends, an honor to his family, and a fine example of the best in humanity of character, genius, and achievement. What Mr. Connell achieved was over ob- stacles that few could have faced and overcome as he did. I deeply regret his death. [Arthur A. Parks.] The sudden death of Congressman Richard E. Connell falls as a shock in this community. Occurring without any premonition in the midst of an ardent political campaign in which he had both a personal and professional interest, the sense of fitness seems disturbed and the balance of sympathies deranged. Mr. Connell's eloquence as a speaker on political subjects brought him a reputation and a demand which broadened his own scope of vision and enlarged the man. Rising from the ranks by his own efforts he attained a success far in advance of the usual lot in both business and politics, and his loss will be felt in all of his sphere of usefulness. We extend our sincere sympathy and condolence to the family and friends of Mr. Connell in this hour of their bereavement. [45] Memorial Addresses: Representath-e Connell [Judge Keogh.] New Rochelle, N. Y., October 30. Hon. Joseph Morschauser, Supreme Court: I am shocked beyond expression at the terrible news contained in your telegram of the death of Richard E. Connell. May I ask you to convey to his family, on my behalf, my deepest and sincerest sympathy in this hour of greatest affliction? He was a man of sterling ability, a true friend, and a brave and honorable adversary. Martin J. Keogh. [Judge Hasbrouck.] Faithful to his beliefs, loyal to his convictions, striving to be and to do right, he pursued his straight course until he won the high position he held, as well in the esteem of all who knew him as in the Government of his country. From a boy driving a dump cart on the construction of a railroad right of way to a leading Representative of his party in the House of Congress is a far step, but that was the breach closed by " Dick " Connell through his natural intelligence. He had absolutely no extraneous help, but conquered appar- ently insurmountable obstacles. He was wholly self-educated, but thoroughly well educated. A filial son, a devoted husband and father, a true friend — he will be missed and mourned by many. His memory will long be cherished and his career should long be remembered as an example and stimulus for emulation by the youth in this country of magnificent opportunity. [William W. Smith.] I could have cried this morning when I heard of Mr. Connell's death. I counted him as one of my very best friends. I hardly know what to say in the way of a tribute to him. I am still stunned by the knowledge of his death. Mr. Connell was, indeed, a man of rare ability. His attain- ments were gained wholly through his own elforts. I have watched him ever since I have known him. I know that he established in Congress a name that will not soon die. [46] Tributes [Augustus B. Gray.] In the death of Richard E. Connell I have lost a friend of many years and one who when engaged in the necessary conflicts engendered by different political affiliations never deviated from the fine sense and high standard of clean political methods which characterized his whole public life. [Edward E. Perkins.] The sudden death of Richard E. Connell has been such a shock that I can scarcely find words to express ray feelings. There has been during my time no man in public life in Dutchess County whose character, personality, and achievement have made a more lasting impression upon the community. From humble origin he rose to be our ablest orator and a national figure. His life's ambition was to be a United States Congressman, and we of the Democratic Party may be thankful that we assisted him in accomplishing his purpose. Had he lived until November 5 I believe the people of this district would have reelected him triumphantly. My heart goes out to his little family, who usurped and enjoyed all of the love and affection that his big heart contained. The Democracy of this district is bereft of a powerful character by the death of Richard E. Connell. His life, however, has been a beacon to light the way of American youth to the achievement of high purpose and to the accomplishment of laudable ambition. [Democratic county committee.] Whereas we have learned of the death of Hon. Richard E. Con- nell, Congressman from this district and the nominee of the Democratic Party for reelection, and under circumstances that make his passing away a particularly sad affliction to the mem- bers of his family and friends and a great loss to the Demo- cratic Party, of which he was an esteemed and respected leader: Therefore be it Resolved, That we, the members of the Democratic county committee of Dutchess County in meeting assembled, do extend to his family our sincerest sympathy in this their hour of afflic- tion; and be it further [47] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell Resolved, That this committee pay tribute to the splendid character, sterling integrity, and magnificent purpose that have always been manifested in his work as a citizen and an oflicial. Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to the family of Mr. Connell, spread upon the minutes of this meeting, and published in the newspapers. Poughkeepsie, N. Y., October 30, 1912. William C. Albro, Poughkeepsie. Thomas J. Comerford, Poughkeepsie. William S. Ketcham, Dover. [Chamber of commerce.] The following resolutions were passed by the chamber of commerce Wednesday night upon the death of Hon. Richard E. Connell: " The chamber of commerce is again called upon to express its profound grief and regret because of the death of one of its members, Hon. Richard E. Connell, and wishes to place on rec- ord its high estimation of his character. " His genius and energy as a man and citizen are shown in the success that has always accompanied his private undertakings, and his work for his city and his district in the congressional body, where he represented both so worthily, remains as a monu- ment to his greatness of heart and qualities of statesmanship. His fine characteristics as a friend and associate, his courtesy and charm of manner, made all who knew him his loving friends. He was most loved and respected by those who best knew him, and no better testimony of his character can be found than his ability to retain the good will, interest, and friendship of his neighbors. He has now entered upon those great rewards in the hereafter which are received by the just and the good: Be it " Resolved, That in the death of Hon. Richard E. Connell not only this chamber of commerce but also the city of Poughkeepsie and the twenty-sixth congressional district of the State of New York have lost a valued and respected Member and Representa- tive whom we shall all miss and whose passing we shall pro- foundly regret. Be it further " Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be delivered to the family of the late Hon. Richard E. Connell and also published [48] Tributes in the News-Press of the city of Poughkeepsie as the expression of the profound regret of the chamber of commerce, of which body he was so valued a member. "Dated October 30, 1912. " E. D. GiLDERSLEEVE, President. " E. E. Perkins, Vice President. " C. W. H. Arnold, Vice President. "T. R. Beal, " P. C. DOHERTY, " H. S. Reynolds, "D. W. Wilbur, " Executive Committee." [William H. Frank.] This is the worst blow I've had in years. Why, we were boys together and friends all our lives. 1 wish to express my deepest sympathy for his dear family; they were the dearest thing in life to him. I'll never forget his tender solicitude for Mrs. Connell and the children when we all went out in my yacht for a sail up and down the river. He knew every hill and town — the history of each— and it was a most beautiful and touching thing to witness their love for him. No; I simply can not say the things I would like to say. We have all lost a prince among men. [Prof. S. R. Shear.] The death of Hon. Richard E. Connell comes to me as a dis- tinct personal shock, an irreparable loss. I had learned to know him well and to esteem him highly. He was and will continue to be a splendid example to every boy in our city. He believed that life is like a road; a splendid place in which to travel, but a very poor place in which to sleep and dream. Speaking as a schoolman, 1 may say that his educational creed was briefly as follows: " Reading is important, but readiness to perceive and to per- form are vastly more so. Literature is valuable, but largeness of 12266°— 13 * [49] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell life and loftiness of purpose are invaluable. Penmanship is good, but perseverance is better. Drawing is useful, but without diligence no one can be worth while. Science is only a sup- plement to sympathy, and history but lays the foundation of hon- esty and uprightness." Reverence for God, faith in humanity, chivalric regard for women, respect for true manhood, sympathy for age and for helplessness, fidelity to public trust, hatred of cant and insincer- ity, stood forth in his every life relation and marked him as a man well calculated to stand before kings. His was the vicarious life. He was willing to spend and he spent. His heart went out to all humanity, and in striving to lift those about him he towered immeasurably toward the lofty ideals created by himself for his own guidance. He was an honor to our city, a true friend, a noble specimen of God's handiwork, and in his going we are left the poorer. His memory will be a constant benediction, a fragrance that neither time nor eternity can dissipate. [Spencer Sladden.] The following unique tribute is from an associate of 11 years: Dear old friend of mine, I would not and I could not believe the prints to-day when they told me you were gone; but to-night, as I stood by your bier and held your cold hand and spoke to you and you answered me not, I knew it was all too true. And as I stood there, dear old friend and comrade, our 11 years together hurried through my mind in a panorama of happy memories. But why should I, now that you are gone, tell those who can not appreciate that which meant so much to you and me, the things that were so dear to us in common? They would not and could not understand the things that to you and me held such a world of meaning. Who of all the hundreds that mourn you could ever understand the joys and sorrows that were ours— the joys and defeats that we met and conquered together in those happy days gone by, never to return again? But, dear old friend, your victories meant more to me than to all those you knew so well, because we had met defeat and had been crushed by it together more times than those of to-day will ever stop to remember. [50] Tributes And to-night, as my mind builds bridges back over memory's playground to the happy days that have gone never to return, memory's fires burn brightly and light the path that you choose to open. And so, dear friend of mine, I say good night and God bless you, and I know the world will be better and brighter for your having lived in it, and if there is a lovelier life to come we know that your presence there before us will help to add a gleam of sweetness and sunshine to the pathway of those who are left to follow you. So once again, as one who knew better than all others your cherished hopes and desires, your sorrows and your joys, I say good-by, dear friend, friend of mine, and may God bless and light your way to eternal happiness. [E. D. CTildersleeve.] I considered Mr. Connell a very dear personal friend. What I liked best about him was his great love of his home. His eager pursuit of truth and knowledge made him intelligent and competent to serve his country in the several oflicial stations in which he was placed, and he proved himself both efficient and faithful to his trust. His life was exemplary and consistent; he was wise in counsel, and his endowments of mind and heart commanded our highest esteem. We should all be thankful to our Heavenly Father for the gift of such a man, one so worthy of our love. But we should not complain, for he has finally been summoned from the field of conflict to the rewards of the con- queror, leaving to his family a legacy, not of lamentation, but that of a good name, which shall ever abide in our memory. I will close with a clipping I have kept in my Bible for many years — a poem written by Mr. Connell himself on the death and burial of McKinley, entitled " McKinley's Grave": Near two little mounds at Canton, At rest till the judgment day. Asleep with his little children. As if weary of work, of play; We bid him good-by forever As back to the strife we go; How sweet are the years with children None but the blessed know. [51] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell The king in his tomb of marble. Or high in the hall of fame, May seem to rest in grandeur That trappings and stones proclaim; But sweeter the grave in Canton Where rests our beloved to-day. At rest with his little children. Asleep till the judgment day. [First memorial ser\'ice. ] The first organization to call a memorial meeting for Mr. Con- nell is the Church of the Good Shepherd, in Newburgh. An element of pathos enters into this matter. Mr. Connell was to have addressed the men of the church on Friday night, November 1, at 7.30 o'clock, at their smoker. The meeting will be held, but it will be turned into a memorial for the late Congressman, who was well known to the members and very popular with them. [Other tributes.] Further tributes from ex-Senator Newbold, Madison R. Aldrich, John K. Sague, Louis P. Haubennestel, D. W. Wilbur, C. N. Arnold, John A. Hanna, Isaac Sherrill, and others were received. The bereaved family received many telegrams of condolence. Among them were the following: [Telegrams.] Monroe, N. Y., October 30. Mrs. Richard E. Connell: Just learned of the death of your distinguished husband. I have lost a dear friend, and in your sad bereavement I send you and all the family my heartfelt sympathy. William Sulzer. [52] Tributes New York, October 30. Mrs. Richard E. Connell: I am terribly shocked, and assure you that I sorrow and sympa- thize with you, and regret extremely that I am not well enough to leave my room. Franklin D. Roosevelt. New York, October 30. Mrs. Richard E. Connell: Accept my sincere sympathy in your bereavement. Mr. Con- nell will be greatly missed in Congress and by his many friends. Francis Burton Harrison. New York, October 30. Mrs. Richard E. Connell: Sincere sympathy in your sorrow. Dutchess County has lost a loyal son. Francis G. Landon. New York, October 30. Mrs. Richard E. Connell: Please accept my deepest sympathy. Your great loss is shared by all who knew your husband. Perry Belmont. Catskill, N. Y., October 30, 1912. Mrs. Richard E. Connell: I extend to you my deepest sympathy in the death of your husband. He was my valued friend, and I share with you in large measure your sorrow in this affliction. Clarence E. Bloodgood. funeral SATURDAY The funeral arrangements were completed late Wednesday evening. Services will be held at the house at 9.45 Saturday morning and at St. Mary's Church at 10.30. Many out-of-town clergymen will be present at the church service. Mrs. Connell is completely prostrated by the terrible blow. [53] Memokiai. AuDHESsts : I^i;i'kf;sent.\tive Connell Richard E. Connell, jr., who was studying in Harvard, was summoned through a telegram which stated that his father was ill. He arrived in Poughkeepsie at 8.16 p. m., and only learned the tragic news when he arrived at the family home. [Editorial from Pougiiltecpsie News-Press.] HICHARD E. CONNELL Richard E. Connell was one of the most conspicuous examples of the self-made man that this community has known in a gener- ation. His public and private life was clean from start to fin- ish. That is a splendid thing to be able to say of any man, but it is not suiEcient to say of Mr. Connell. He chose early and de- termined to seek knowledge in order to become a factor and a force for all that is good and worthy and righteous among his fellows, and in the face of crushing odds he succeeded, and so well that his sudden taking away causes genuine sorrow and regret. He had long ago achieved a fair measure of success in this locality as an educator, writer, and champion of what he thought was right, but his crowning success came when he was made a Congressman and was given a bigger field. There he had already made splendid progress, and tliose same qualities which have caused him to be respected at home had marked him for distinc- tion abroad. It is entirely fair to say that the people of his dis- trict, irrespective of party, were proud of him, and it was a fine thing that his life of toil and endeavor was so richly rewarded. He was proud to be sent to Congress, of course, but his ambition was not political. It was to give to his children that which had been denied him; and by doing his evident duty day by day he lived to learn that sometimes people reward right purpose of mind and faithfulness to principle. Along those lines came Mr. Connell's success. As he himself would write of another note- worthy man, " His whole career typifies American opportunity." " American opportunity! " How Connell proved those words. He wrote many comforting words in this newspaper to those in sorrow. We wish now that we could comfort his sorrowing ones as he has ours. We can only say simply that we are sorry our friend is dead. [54] Proceedings in the Senate Thursday, December 5, 1912. A message from the House of Representatives, by J. C. South, its Chief Clerk, communicated to the Senate the intelligence of the death of Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a Representative from the State of New York, and trans- mitted resolutions of the House thereon. Mr. Root. Mr. President, I ask that the resolutions of the House of Representatives on the death of the late Representative Connell may be laid before the Senate. The President pro tempore. The Chair lays before the Senate resolutions of the House of Representatives, which will be read. The Secretary read the resolutions, as follows: In the House of Representatives, December 2, 1912. House resolution 716 Resolved, Ttiat tlie House of Representatives lias heard with profound sorrow of the death of the Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That the Clerk be directed to communicate these reso- lutions to the Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. Mr. Root. Mr. President, I offer the following resolu- tions, which I send to the desk, and ask for their present consideration. The President pro tempore. The Senator from New York offers resolutions, which will be read. [55] Memorial Addresses: Representative Connell The resolutions were read, considered by unanimous consent, and unanimously agreed to, as follows: Senate resolution 402 Resolved, That the Senate has heard with deep sensibility the announcement of the death of Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of those Representatives (Hon. Richard E. Connell, of New York; Hon. Carl Carey Anderson, of Ohio; and Hon. George H. Utter, of Rhode Island) whose deaths have been announced the Senate do now adjourn. Thereupon (at 6 o'clock and 5 minutes p. m.) the Senate adjourned until to-morrow, Friday, December 6, 1912, at 12 o'clock m. Monday, February 17, 1913. A message from the House of Representatives, by J. C. South, its Chief Clerk, transmitted to the Senate resolu- tions of the House on the life and public services of Hon. Richard E. Connell, late a Representative from the State of New York. ■9 [56] ^r'ary of congress 013 787 427 A li!;^?^''^ OF CONGRESS I UMiina mllMMmil ,„,„ 013 787 427 1 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 'M:f liiiALiillil,, I '^ 013 787 427 1 M