Glass. Book. /^KETCHES 1 ^(31 LIFE AND CHARACTER IN LOUISIANA, THE PORTRAl'rs SELECTED PRINCIPALLY FROM THE // BENCH AND BAR, BY A MSMBEK Of THE BW OKISAHS BAR, NEW ORLEANS: FEKGUSON fc CROSBY, PUBLISHERS. 1847= PREFACE. The Sketches published in the following little work, appeared originally in the columns of the Bee and Jefiersonian, over the signaturo of " W.". At the request of •some of the friends of the author, who esteemed them (jjerhaps too flatteringly), as worth preserving, they haTe been extended, revised and collected in their present form. Im- perfect, it is feared, and incomplete, the amusement of a few hours of leisure snatched from other, and more engrossing pursuits, embracing by no means all among the lead- ing members of the Orleans Bar, they are presented to the public, with the hope that they may aot prove entirely iinacceptabk. SKETCHES. Unrivalled as is the Crescent City as the seat of Commerce, it is a subject of pride to the observing citizen that genius, eloquence, art and science are here raising temples where votaries may worship and acknowledge the present deities. It is the intention of the writer to sketch with a critical pencil some of our most distinguished orators of the Pulpit and members of the Bar. Mov- ing himself in an undistinguished sphere, he will scan, with an unpredjudiced eye, tlie world around him — he will invoke the spirit of truth, that she may cover him with her clear, transparent veil, that virtue may shine forth in all her blessed loveliness, and vice find no shelter upon a page where the writer would seek to liold a mirror up to nature. HENNEN AND MAZUREAU. The old silver-haired counsellor — the rftan of authorities — the erudite linguist — the learned repository of lore, whether legal philosophical, or scientific — the sciolist — the sage — the courteous gentleman — the worldly man — the friend and instructor of young and aspiring men — the aristocrat — the democrat — the ad- mirer of distinction, Wealth and power — the man of unbounded industry — the trustworthy friend — the fond and uncompromising parent — this man, Alfred Hennen, centres in himself such strange extremes, that it becomes almost im- possible to draw a faithful picture. As a mere advocate we discover little that places him above the ordinary jiractitioners at our bar ; yet long experience and observation of the laws and usages of his adopted State, give him a decided superiority, and render him a most valuable and desirable counsellor. His manner as a speaker is good, and calculated to hold the attention of his auditors. His aspect is venerable and pleasing ; the picture of strong, healthy, and temperate old age. Few mea excel him in courtesy of manner, few are more agreeable in conversation. Pe- culiarly addicted to questioning youth, this custom forms a striking trait of his manner in every day life ; his conversation abounding in questions, whether associated with domestic concerns, or business out of doors. He has been, ;md still is. I beliove. a 2'reat roll'^ctor nf books and manuscripts, and to one of n SKETCHES, the most extensive law libraries iiitJie city, addt;. probably: tbe groateit collec- tion of old authors, edition upon edition, useless or otherwise, to be found in the South. Mr. Hennen has, through a long life, set an example of total abstinence. To this cause we may greatly attribute his success in life, the accumulation of a handsome property, and the respectable position he holds in our city. Advo- cate as the writer is, of the cause of temperance, he cannot forbear pointing to this gentleman, as a shining example of its practical effects. So noted has Mr. Hennen become in this respect, that he has received from Father Matthew the most honorable token ever conferred by the great Irish reformer, upon the distinguished advocates of this noble cause. We may further state, in this connexion, that Mr. Hennen appears to be a man of exemplary piety, and strict in his attendance upon the ordinances of our holy religion. I remember him some time since, as an examiner of young candidates for admission to tlie bar, and as quite a bug-bear to them, from his intimate acquaintance with the institutes of Justinian. As a lawyer and a gentleman, he is an ornament to the city he has made his home, and deserves worthy and lionorable mention in these Sketches. We pass, in the second place, to an intellectual giant, who for years has been one of the choice and leading spirits at our bar — Etienne Mazureau. It would be difficult to select two men more unlike in character or abilities, than Hennen and Mazukeau, journeying, as they have been, side by side on the same route. As Attorney General, Mazureau has not, as yet, seen his superior in Louisiana. Appointed to this post, by several successive Governors, he seemed to hold by a certain prescriptive right, the high office, to which he brought a talent and industry that will ever entitle him to the respect and admiration of his contemporaries. Roselius and Preston have since thrown around the Attorney Generalship so much of dignity, have worn their honors with so much distinction, that we cannot place them in a rank below Mazureau. They have all done well and worthily, and it shall not be my task to lessen any of them by drawing invidi- ous comparisons. Mazureau is not now what he has been. Tn>jn fail ct magiia gloria Tro- janorum. Though still we observe in his intellectual displays, much of that majesty of diction, splendor of imagery, and force of gesture, which made him once unrivalled, as an orator, in our courts, yet the fire of youth has, in a measure, passed av/ay ; and the great lawyer, the brilliant, persuasive, and convincing advocate, yields before tlie approach of age; he yields, but in yield- ing, we )iote majesty in the decline^ and we ?till admire the grandeur of an intellect unclouded — unob.'^curod. SKETCHES. 7 This advocate appears to the best advantage in his own language, tliougli even in English, he excels as a speaker. Few among us possess a greater share of intellectual culture, few are more agreeable in conversation. In the past history of Louisiana, anecdotes of distinguished men, the legends of our early day, politics, law, and science, MAZUREAt; is a mine of intellectual wealth. One of the old lawyers, who survive to us from the school which em- braced an Ellery, a Porter, a Livingston, a Moreau Lislet, Mazureau is a link which connects us with many in the past — great, distinguished, illustrious. Would you desire evidence of his acute logic, his profound knowledge of the law, and his power of working conviction, read for yourself the reported case of Gravier et al. vs. Livingston et al., in Martin's Old Series. A native of France, though for many years a citizen of Louisiana, Mazureau is one whom I feel proud to acknowledge as a worthy man, and a great one. Hennen and Mazureau. — We see few points of resemblance, many of con- trast. The bar owes much to both. They have lived through the infancy of the great State, they have contributed to its prosperity, and may they participate in its renown. Mazureau, both as legislator and advocate, has his name connected with the history of our State. He has gained for himself fame as a great lawyer, and should be placed not second to Grymes, in all the quali- ties that contribute to form the distinguished civilian, the nice, discriminating reasoner. GMMES AND PRESTON. John R. Grymes stands among the the members of our bar, as in times past, first in skill as a logician, ready in the command of authorities, choice in the terms he employs to express his meaning ; grave, calm, dignified, parliamentary in manner and in gesture. Advanced as he is in years, he still maintains his supremacy and povi^er at the New Orleans bar. In figure, he is tall, spare and well formed, and exhibits the appearance of a young man in many respects ; nor does he seem to have lost, in the progress of years, the activity of his step, or the vigor of his frame. In dress, he still appears as the younger members of the bar, and associates with all on equal terms. Previous to his appearance in any cause, he may be observed walking with calm and measured step in the court room, lost in thought, and apparently unobservant of all that is passing. He reminds me of an old Roman, as he often thus moves by, with a countenance lit up with expression and intelligence, though so calm that one would hardly sup- pose the subtle advocate was weaving, at the moment, some difficult web to en- snare an adversary. Mr. Grymes is by no means an eloquent man, in the usual meaning of the term, though his mamier is impressive and earnest, and would be perhaps, oratorical, if he feared not to depart, by such a course, from the end he has in view, of convincing by force of argument. The civil law, in all its in- tricacies, seems to liim as familiar as household words, and in his hands points out distinctly and correctly, the links of the chain by which it holds together the various relations of life among us, in one harmonious whole. Wonderfully cool and cpUected, as an advocate, this gentleman never stiffers himseK to be disturbed, either by judge or opponent ; but ever calm, he faces his adversary, and hesitates not to meet undauntedly every species of opposition. An unconquerable firmness, that approaches a stronger quality, characterizes this counsellor. There are some who have tried to imitate this audacity, but they have learnt to their cost, that however permissible in him we describe, it is sometimes not unattended with danger, in men of less nerve and consideration. He is probably at this time over sixty years of age, though he would not, I am convinced, be taken for more than forty-five. He is occasionally facetious, and indulges himself sometimes with ludicrous dryness, at the expense of some of his confreres. An instance occurs to me of a mere play upon words, which I heard of some months since. A gentleman who lias long presided in our Crim- inal Court, (when known by that name), was on one occasion at a loss to cik SKETCHES. 9 the name of a cape ; lie hesitated for some time, the word cap-cap-cap, trembled on his lips, when our facetious counsellor came to his aid, with the following : " Le juge, je pense a besoin de cap-a-citer.'''' Kjeu d'esprit, so well timed, could scarce be conceived. Another anecdote I have heard, characteristic of Mr. Grvmes. Called on one occasion to attend to some legal business for a man of noted wealth, not far from New Orleans, he received an invitation at the same time to breakfast. His client being a very abstemious man, offered his visiter the same fare that he himself was accustomed to, to-wit : a bowl of bread and milk. Our advocate, not altogether accustomed to so primitive a diet, arose and taking his hat bade his host good morning ; at the same time advising him, that after he had taken break- fast, he would again have the pleasure of waiting upon him. Nor could the dismayed millionaire prevail upon the worthy counsellor to depart from his determination. Isaac T. Preston next presents himself to us as worthy of a place by the side of this great lawyer, though widely differing from him. Mr. Preston is in many respects, an eloquent man ; yet far inferior to his brother, William C. Preston, of South Carolina, in the graces of the orator. I have often hung with delight upon the words that fell from the lips of the younger brother ; and in the beauty of his metaphors, in the elegance of his gestures, in the enthusi- asm and warmth which glow in his language, he ranks, I think, first among living American orators. If our Preston labors more ; if he has greater diffi- culty in pouring forth his thoughts ; if he cannot illustrate, with the beauty and imagery, which delight the ear and charm the sense, he can yet breathe forth, in strong, forcible language, his sentiments ; he can come home, readily, to the com- mon mind ; and a close observer of men, he can sometimes touch, with a master hand, the springs of action. Mr. Preston's profound knowledge of the law, his long experience, and well known industry, point him out as one eminently fitted for the highest judicial station. As a statesman, as a politician, as a man, there are few more influen- tial among us — few more worthy of confidence. A social man, his house the abode of hospitality, the true Virginian, in recognizing the courtesies and amcEnities of life, Preston has many friends to admire, many to love him. He bears in his features, the stamp of the honest man — one alive to the wants of others ; a soul of truth, generosity and nobleness. His is not a mind attuned to the order, the system, the regularity of Grymes. If he wants these, he is at the same time more original, more a man of the people. Singular that botli these men should be democrats. Republicanism is stamped in the countenance of Preston, and aristocracy in the features of Grymes. We see in one, a man built in a heavy mould, features coarse, heavy — an expression almost indolent ; 10 . SKETCHES. in the other, one who must have been in youtli eminently handsome ; still well" proportioned and elegant — the perfect picture in manner and appearance, of an old Roman patrician. Pkeston is a good lawyer, anxl an able advocate ; has filled some of the first offices of the State, and may, perhaps, still stand in a more advanced position. Grymes need not desire more eminence than he has now ; for the fame of a great lawyer, and undoubtedly he is first at a bar where there are many great advocates, is, in my estimation, the ultimatmii to which an American citizen may aspire. The honors of the State are tlie gift of others ; this species of greatness is the achievement of the man. CARLTON AND CANON. We have not in New Orleans two individuals more worthy of note than these", and we place them together under the impression, that in the nature of their pursuits, and in the cherished objects of their lives, there is something of a congenial spirit. A native of France, his ea,rly life, crowded v/itli singular adventures and romanticincidents,the first portion of Canon's life was passed upon the ocean. As the citizen of Louisiana, the legislator, the lawyer, and the writer, I allude to this interesting gentleman with pleasure and satisfaction. In contemplating a character of such various attainments, of such worth and excellence, while proud of my subject, I yet feel my inability of doing it entire justice. Judge Canon is apparently some fifty years of age, and is rather below the middle height. His features are expressive and animated, his complexion dark, hs eyes black, piercing, and restless. Intelligence of a high order is stamped upon a countenance at once engaging and striking. Speaking En- glish as well as his mother tongue, he employs indifltrently, the one or the other, as suits his auditors on the occasion. .\s a mem.ber of the State I-egislature, he vras tlic active., energetiC; businer?;; sKi-:'r(i]i>. 5 J Viiau. Ever occupied in liaslening forward import-ant measures before the House, he was a man of influence to whom others looked up, as the worthy Tidviser, the safe and politic statesman. While speaking, he was always lis- tened to with respect and attention, his harangues ever abounding in sparkling sentences, facetious allusions, and apiMsite illustrations. As a lawyer, he is acute, discerning, and thorough. No man is better capa- ble of disentangling the subtle webs with which special pleading so often sur- round litigated cases. Industry, assiduity, research, that know not fatigue, characterise tliis excellent specimen of the legal school. Not eloquent, he is yet the close reasoner, the interesting advocate. A long, useful, and prosper- ous career has at length conducted him to the Bench ; a goal which his worth, talent, and ability so richly merit. Nor can the judicial tribunals of Louisiana boast of a better man— a more accomplished and upright Judge. He is a forcible and lucid writer. His legal articles are replete with acumen und research, bearing ever the impress of a vigorous intellect. Without, how- ever, limiting himself to legal topics, he writes with elegance upon any sub- ject, whether literary or scientific. Judge Carlton next draws tiie attention. A worthy m^an, and further, an elegant wi'iter, a close reasoner, an excellent judicial magistrate. The early career of this venerable and accomplished gentleman, was very different from that of the young sailor. Canon. It was one, that the character since acquired by him as a civilian and jurist considered, should be the theme of encourage- ment to many a young man among us. He commenced the world as an in structor of youth, and in this occupation continued until advised by a friend to seek another more congenial to his talents. He soon became a worthy and successful lawyer. Early he turned his attention to the translation of Las Siete Pariidas, the principal Spanish Code, long in force in our State, and with the assistance of Moreau, gave to the bar an elegant version, which is still regarded as valuable. Carlton was finally raised to the Supreme Bench, and presided there for some time with distinction. Judge Carlton is still fond of literary pursuits, and devotes much time to them. His " Eight Days in England" is regarded as an excellent production, and has been highly complimented on the other side of the water, by as good a judge as Sir Robert Peel. Peculiarly fond of rustic scenes, he still adheres to the romance of his youth. Though he sees, one would suppose, little in our flat country to remind him of the beautiful scenery of his native State, yet he is still a lover of forest scenery, however tame, however wanting in the picturesque. Bordering upon one of our prettiest villages, on the banks of the Bogue Falaya, the old Virginian has cut paths through the forest in all direc- tions in manv a labyrinthine maze, and here, I learn, he was wont often to repair. 12 SKETCHES. A beautiful taste is that that leads the mind to solitude, which, the ambitious hopes of life accomplished, is welcomed as a friend, as a solace ! As a speaker, Carlton is still in some degree interesting. His discourse abounds in anecdotes and pleasing illustrations. Still eloquent with his pen, his lips should be sealed. Judge Carlton is a great admirer of the heau sexe, and is, I believe, much of a favorite, from the politeness of his manners, and the elegance of his con- versation. A preux chevalier, he is a worthy pattern to many younger men. The Judge is above sixty years of age, though still possessed of many of the graces of youth. It is not my intention to delineate the contrast be- tween the two interesting characters I have faintly depicted. Essentially dif- ferent in physical and mental organization, there is only a certain congeniality of pursuit that brings them together in this .relation. We leave tliem both "with regret, and wish the limits of our sketch permitted us to be more full and explicit. SOULE AND ROSELIUS. I select, in my present number, two of our advocates most unlike in the character of their minds. One of these men stands prominently forth as an orator ; graceful, impassioned, forcible ; the other a plain speaker — a man of many words, and yet correct, strong and full of hard common sense. I have heard Soule in the Legislature, in the Convention, and in Court. In his own language he stands now unrivalled at the Orleans bar, and even in English, though we see him restrained, cramped by a fearfulness of neglecting grammatical rules, he yet holds a distinguished place among our best'speakers. He has all the fire of the French revolutionary orator — all the force of the American character. Growing up in the midst of institutions tending to quicken every element of greatness, he has well used the talents entrusted to his keeping. To distinction as a debater, as an eloquent advocate, he adds a^l SKETCHES. 13 the requisites of an able lawyer, and the erudition so necessary to one wlio would shine in a civil law court. His striking and noble appearance attracts the eye of the stranger, and one feels curious always to discover the name of one, whose mein so powerfully arrests the attention. He is about the middle height, his eyes dark and pier- cing, his hair raven black, and worn long and upon his shoulders, his age, per- haps forty. His countenance, in a state of repose, is handsome and mild in expression ; when excited by passion or stirred by enthusiasm, it is as speaking and eloquent a face as I ever saw. Nature has done much for him, and he has not declined the assistance of art ; but so well does she conceal her favors, that we attribute every gesture, every movement of the orator to the first and best author, Nature. Mr. SouLE is a prominent member of the democratic party in New Orleans, and was recently called to represent his adopted State in the Senate of the United States. The future seems to promise still more for him, or even all that he may demand at the hands of his fellow-citizens. He is a native of France, and left that country, it is said, in consequence of his having, in a public print, too warmly advocated popular rights. The many years he has passed in the United States, have so identified him with the interests of the country, that he seems no more an adopted citizen. The gentleman we have mentioned in connexion with him. Christian Ro- sELius, Esq., has been, in every sense, the architect of his own fortunes. Rising from an inferior station of life, contending with every disadvantage, he now stands at the very head of the Orleans bar. The poor redemptioner struggling with poverty in a land of strangers ; his very labor for months, anothers ; without friends, toiling along the rugged paths of adversity, ignorant of the smiles, the joys of love, of friendship or of home, overcomes all difficul- ties, overleaps eveiy obstacle, and arises by his own unassisted exertions to be- come a leading citizen, a distinguished advocate, an Attorney-General. Here is a career without example in our annaLs ! Here is an example of what energy, poverty, privation, and perseverance can do for him that will endure even unto the end ! RosELius is an excellent scholar, and an adept in several languages. He has no superior at our bar as a lawyer, and, in his share of business, has few or no equals. In his disposition, he is munificent to a fault, and has given more, perhaps, to his friends, than he has put into his pockets ; for though his business is heavy and extensive, yet he is far from being rich. As a speaker, he is forcible, though, perhaps, a little tedious ; and, in the effort to excel as an orator, he sometimes forgets that eloquence is not his forte. He is, however, a clear and effective reasoner. never loses sight of his artrnmcnt in the searcli 14 SKETCHES. after elegant expressions, or in rouiiding off srnootli and silver-toned periods. His rough and hardy exterior indicate well the rugged character of a mind, which is made to meet obstacles and overcome them, better fitted for sturdy combat, than smooth and honeyed encounters. RosELius is a whig in poitics, and a highly esteemed member of his party. He is one made to adore any station however elevated. To him the cause of education owes much, as he has been most forward in establishing schools, and in seeking the improvement of the rising generation. Few men are his superiors in the gifts of conversation. He has a mind well stored with useful and interesting facts. In the treasure houses of history, in the walks of science he is perfectly at home, and few among us can surpass him in felicity of expression, or facility of illustration. Liberal in his views, elevated in his sentiments, despising chicanery and deception, in all its forms, he is the useful, high-minded, and truly worthy citizen. We bring not these men together for the purpose of comparison ; we seek in vain for resemblance. The very contrast, has associated them together in my mind. As men, they are among the most enlightened and influential of our city, and have neither of them yet entirely fulfilled the mission for which they are destined. THE BROTHERS OGDEN AND CONR/lD. A. N. Ogden, the lawyer, par excellence, of the three brothers, is rather Blight in figure, though well proportioned. Regardless of political distinction, he has devoted himself with untiring assiduity to his profession. The venerable Judge Matthews, we have understood, considered him as among the first in promise, at our bar. He is, indeed, every inch a lawyer. He is modest and unassuming; never putting liimself forward, or seeking the notoriety, which more shallow men so ardently covet ; and preferring tlie name of counsellor to that of judge, he has on one occasion declined a seat tendered lum on the Federal Bcncli, SKETCHES. 15 As a speaker, he is chaste and elegant. His words are ever appropriate ; and his ideas, especially in legal matters, flow as it were uncalled, and in per- fect accordance with his subject. A quick observer of what is expected, he never speaks without effect, and never wearies his hearers by wire-drawn ar- guments, or long-winded speculations. This gentleman has a pleasing, ex- pressive countenance, and is easy in his carriage and manners. He is probably about thirty-eight years of age. R. N. Ogden can scarcely be said to rank on an equality with his elder brother. He has, however, obtained some character as a lawyer, and has pre- sided with credit and distinction, in the Second Judicial District Court. I remember an instance of his presence of mind that is really worthy of note. At the time when our adventurous and talented fellow-townsman, George W. Kendall, fell into the hands of the Mexicans, in the ill-starred Texan expedition, a mass meeting, it will be recollected, was called at Banks' Arcade. Seldom have we seen a more crowded assemblage. Seldom, even in New Orleans, is the ear saluted with a more perfect Babel of human voices, than then and there resounded through the spacious hall. Confusion worse confounded, was the order of the evening. Several had addressed the multitude with doubtful success. Ogden comes forward. In vain does he try to speak. With rare presence of mind, he raises his hand and points to the star-spangled banner, that waved above his head. Words were superfluous. The American banner that had been insulted, trampled on, thus appealed to, spoke to the hearts of that multitude a more thrilling language than the music or thunders of oratory. Portentous stillness, for a brief moment reigned — and anon, shouts, fierce and deafening, shook the arched and lofty hall — tlie ready response to so eloquent an appeal. The younger brother, is a member of the lower House of the State Legisla- ture. He is a prominent member ; an easy, though not an eloquent speaker. Much younger than either of his brothers, he holds at the same time, a credita- ble position in the State, and is already a lawyer of much promise. It will not be inappropriate, for me to introduce in this article, three other brothers, who are also members of the Louisiana bar. The name of Conrad, is a distinguished one in this State, and those bearing it are not unworthy of careful and studious mention. Yet, I must not so far depart from the plan of these sketches, as to weary my reader by too diff"use a notice. Frederick, the oldest of the brothers, while a member of the State Legisla- ture, served with distinction and ability. After a cai-eer at our bar, worthy of eulogium, he left the profession, and is now enjoying amid rural scenes, otium cum dignitaie. Conrad was a good civilian, and an able advocate. He is the frank, open-hearted friend; and the accomplished man of tlic workl. le SKETCHES. The second brother, Charles, is some forty-three years of age, and is a mart of remarkably polished and elegant manners. He served creditably in the State Legislature, and from this body was elected a Senator of the United States ; a distinguished honor, and one which we may very well conclude, he merited* Though not remarkable for eloquence, Charles Conrad is a fluent speaker. Far from being a great lawyer, his talents, both as civilian and advocate, are far above mediocrity. The younger brother, Francis, is at present, in the lower Hon se of the State Legislature, and proves himself a worthy and useful member. As a lawyer, he is not without claims to respect. I am induced in this connection, also to recall one, who, some years since, was a companion of mine in study ; a youth of shining talents and bril- liant expectations — a brother-in-law of Judge Ogden, and the son of one of our oldest and best citizens. Ill-fated Nicholson ! Thine was the elegance of form, the sweetness of manner and character, the expressive and animated countenance that attracted the eye, while they touched the heart. In the open- ino" bud of thy young promise, thou wast snatched from the arms of friendship, the caresses of a tender parent, the loving embraces of a beloved sister. Had thy life been spared,- thou wouldst have been an honor to thy native State ; already thou wast the pride of thy family. Ambitious after excellence, thy ac- quirements were beyond thy years. Industrious, laborious, polished in thy man- ners, agreeable in thy intercourse with others, thou wast a mirror for him who sought to be loved, who aspired after honor. While yet a stranger, I regarded thee with a brotherly affection ; when an associate, I wore thee in my heart of hearts. Let affection pause for a moment, and pay to thy memory a brief tribute, unworthy though it be, to one who, had he been spared to us, might have added a distinguished name to those that already adorn our bar. " Ostendunt terris hnnc tantum fata neque ultra. Esse sinunt — . Manibus date lilia plenis : Purpureos spargam flores animamque nepotis, His saltern adciimulem donis; et fungar inani » Munere!"' WILDE AND PRENTISS. Both bf these gentlemen have brought from other States great reputations. They have not grown up with our city, but have come here, where they trust, perhaps, to outshine our advocates. They will discover, however, that the field of competition is not an uncontested one ; that the men who wear the honors of the greatest, the noblest of professions, in New Orleans have won them legiti- mately, and not without severe toil and application, and they must wait as others have done before them. And yet are these men welcome aniong us. They are not common, every day comers, but men of learning and attainments. The first has crowned his brow with wreaths of poetry ; has gathered laurels as a writer ; has lived for years in Italy, among the " great of old" ; has made his voice heard in the halls of Congress. The second has culled the choicest flowers from the gardens of literature ; has been endued by Mercury with his most valued gift, eloquence ; has won applause in legislative hallsj and has gained renown in another State as an advocate, and as a lawyer. Wilde* is verging towards sixty years of age ; is pleasing as a speaker, *Tliis talented scholar, profound lawyer and accomplished gentleman, fell a victim to the yellow fever, the past summer. In him, the legal profession in Louisiana, experienced an irreparable loss, society, a void not easily fdled. Recently called to fdl the chair of ('(institiuioual Law in the Law Department of the University of Louisiana, it will be dJIlicult 1(1 replace him. The angel of the pestilence, in snatching away a character so estimable, gave a fearful wound to friendsliip- — to affection ; for many were the friends this gentleman had secured, many the hearts he had endeared to him. With a nature attuned to the finest sympatliies, with a character full of all excellencies, with a mind cultivated to a high degree, abounding in the lore of the past, an author of no mean abili- ties, a poet, a, lawyer, an advocate — ^Richari) Henry WilJje combined in himself rare qualities — great elements. It was the study of his life to perfect a nature nobly endowed by a kindly Architect, nor did he arrive far short of the end of his being. This noble old advocate, who had won such golden opinions during the brief period that records his name among the members of the Louisiana bar, is no more. Those lips, on which dwelt so much of eloquence, which breathed ever kindness, are closed in death. The spark- ling witticism — the ready repartee, will from them be heard no more. The eye of mild- ness, intellect and genius, is closed in death, the noble form, that characterized a noble nature is now mingling with the sod. In this, we have seen tlie fellest, the most cruel stroke of the fearful scourge that visited New Orleans the present season. Meetings have twice been called, by both bench and bar, in New Orleans, to rendei" suitable honors to his memory. This is well — such citizens should be lionored. They should be held up as models of imitation, their worth appreciated, their names pro= iiouuccd with admiration and respect. 3 j8 SKETCH F.N. though far I'rom eloquent; is facetious, hiunoroiis, autl witty. Ho ih tali and noble in aspect, and possessed of a fine, intellectual countenance. His hair is " silvered o'er by time," and worn long. His general appearance is, upon the whole, strikingly elegant and indicative of the man of the world. It is difficult to pronounce what his attainments may be as a civil-law lawyer, but it is more than probable that while in Itahv collecting materials for his " Life of Tasso," that he drank often and deeply at the fountains of the civillaw. Living in the midst of institutions that ages have consecrated, under its influences it is not likely that a man of his intelligence and observation would neglect such an occasion for embuing himself thoroughly with the lore of the civil lavi-. Prentiss is quite a young man — certainly not more than forty. He lias a noble countenance, a fall expansive brow*, and very pleasing and e>:pressive features. He is a fine speaker ; full of sparkling metaphor, and elegant com- parison. His language, abounding in the choicest ftgvu-es of rhetoric, flows clear and pure as a mountain stream, and with almost equal rapidity. There is no hesitation ; no want of ideas, or words in which to clothe them. Li tlio poli- tics of his party, he is entirely at home, and speaks like an oracle. I have never heard him at the bar, but doubt not his ability as an advocate, though he cannot yet have much experience as a civil-law lawyer. Mr. Prentiss is a native of Maine, but has been for many years a citizen of Mississippi, where he commenced liis career as a teacher of j'oiith, though even- tually gaining in that State much celebrity as an advocate. Some two years since, I believe, he became a citizen of New Orleans. He Is an agreeable com- panion, and very courteous in his manners. Both Messrs. Wilde and^ Prsn- Tiss appear to be consistent politicians, and tnie to the party which claims them. As whigs, they are strong partisans, and bold heralds upon the watchtowers of whiggery. They come among us old in reputation, and one of them young in years, but must be regarded as new and mitried men, who have yet to show how far they will prove worthy of their adopted State. We could not pass over these gentlemen, in these sketches of our bar, though we should do httle justice to many, not so distinguished, and as yet unreferred to, did we not award them a far higher place in our list, as Louisiana lawyer.s, than to these new-comers. Ijaw is a great and jealous divinity, and tliey who worship her must leave all other arts behind them, and devote themselves entirely, untiringly at her altar. How far the pursuits of various elegant arts and the cultivation of literature tend to form the able lawyer, w'e cannot tell, but should- consider such pursuits as greatly at variance with black letter lore, or the icriHen reason, wrapped up in the antique folios of the old jurists ; and yet we have numornus authorities: to prove that liberal and elegant arts arc often combined SKETCHES. jg witii great leo-al eruJitiun. Unuumbered arc tlie o.xainplos in the liistory of EnglifjJi jdrisprudonce, and also in the coinls of France. Great, indeed, however, mnst be the mind which can divest itself of the gorgeous and elegant robes of fiction and poetry, and be clothed at once in the dull, musty, and unattractive apparel of the bar. It is only an uncommon and versatile genius that can win applause in both of these distinguished walks of life at the same time ; a Bacon, an Erskine, a Mansfield or a Brougham. Our section of country is not yet old enough, I think, to permit of our boasting such as these. He, in particular, who grows up in this Western country, finds him- self obliged to become acquainted superficially with such a mass of things, that it is difficult to be perfect in any one pursuit. If he does, however, excel in any particular profession, as in the law, he must be but a mere dabbler in other things — at any rate, 1 would greatly tlistrust that man, as a lawyer, who would permit political ambition, literary pursuits, or the dissipations of life, to withdraw him too often from worship in the courts of Themis. mms AND DAyD)SON. Men perfectly unlike in the cliaracter of their minds, form the subject of the present sketch. Jones is a Virginian by birth, Davidson a Mississippian, Holding a distinguished position among the lawyers of our piney-wcod settle- VTients, and Jong personally known to the writer, I shall strive to sketch with a correct and impartial pencil, men whom I not only highly esteem, but whoin I respect for their talents and attainments. Judge Jones studied law with his uncle in his native State, but was not admit- ted there, 1 believe, at the bar. His career commenced in Louisiana. Industri- tius, persevering, early thrown upon his ow-n resources, he first commenced ins struggles with the world, as a teacher of youth. This was some tliirty-five years since. He joined the army in 1814, and was stationed at the navy yard (n the Parish of Ht. Tannnanv- At tlic close of tlio war. we find him for some 20 SKETCHES. time a teacher ia the town of Covington ; next sent to represent his parish iti the Legislature, and upon his return appointed Parish Judge, in which office he continued fourteen years. He was sent a second time to the Legislature where after serving two years he was appointed Judge of the Eighth District, in which office he continued eleven years, and until the establishment of our present constitution. Now, at the age of some sixty years, he has returned to the bar, bearing with him some thirty years' experience both as a lawyer and~a judge. Possessed of little brilliancy, his attainments are of tliat solid charac- ter which rendered him eminently worthy of the offices lie filled. Litegrity witliout blemish, a love of justice without partiality, liave ever marked his career as a judge. Call him an honest, upright, and just dealing man; he wants no better eulogium. Slow in rendering his decisions, he thorouglily studied his cases, and few of them, comparatively, have been reversed. Though a good lawyer, he claims little right to the name of advocate. Just, clear, and logical in his arguments, he yet possesses few, if any, of the graces of the ready speaker ; and although he states his views with accuracy, and in good language, yet he lacks the ability of enforcing his arguments with rhetorical art, or with the elegance of the practical declaimer. Judge Jones is about the middle height; is pleasing in his address, and wins the regard of all who know him intimately. In his conversation he is instruc- tive and interesting, and his wide experience of men and things renders him a wise and valuable counsellor. His industry, economy and attention to business have brought him wealth, while his character and manners have secured to Iiim the love and respect of a wide circle of attached friends. In the bosom of a lovely family, lie grows old amid all those blessings with which a worthy career ever surrounds the honorable and excellent citizen". In politics Judge Jones is a whig, and warmly attaclied to his views. With- out seeking distinction, he seems rather disposed to decline than run after the honors of political life. In religion ho is liberal, and without being attached to any sect, is yet a firm and conscientious christian. Thomas Green Davidson is some forty-two years of ago. About the mid- dle height, possessing features full of expression and intellect, Col. Davidson cannot fail at once to impress the stranger with interest and attention. Ilis con- versation is remarkable for wit and vivacity ; and few, if any, surpass him in the faculty of telling a good story well. Of lively fancy and imagination, the liappiest imagery, the choicest and most apt expressions are ever at his com- mand. He adapts himself at once to his auditor, and to the occasion, and is never for a moment wanting to himself or his subject. Strong in his attach- ments, violent in his dislikes, he at once secures numerous friends and makes Itittor enemies. Some twontv venrs a resident of Louisiann. ho lias served SKETCHES. 21 vvitli lioiior in both Honsos of the Legislature, and in the outset of his career, was for a time Register of the Land Office in the Parish of St. Helena. lie was a strong and efficient member of the Legislature, and particularly while Senator, exercised an important influence upon the councils of the State. Yet, it is rather as a lawyer of "the Piney Woods," that I wish to speak of this gentleman. Among the advocates of the Florida Parishes he shines pre- eminently. Without great legal attainments, without the erudition arising from careful study, the annorum viginti lucrubraiiones, spoken of by Lord Coke as essential to forming the deep and thorough lawyer, without a liberal education, without the study of the models so requisite to acquiring perfection in the orator's art, Col. Davidson stands unrivalled in his section of the State, as the forcible tleclaimer, the eloquent advocate. Give to him a worthy subject, sketch for him the outlines fairly, and the various strong points, and throw it into his hands, few men can then surpass him in the rare and beautiful ornaments, the splendid and tasteful imagery, the strong and bold features and colorings, with which he will immediately invest it. The noble edifice arises, as it were by magic, under the plastic hand of the artist. Grand and powerful, when his subject requires it, his bold Grecian physiognomy expressing almost as much as the words that fall from his lips, his gesture admirable for grace and fitness, this advocate is an orator indeed. Conviction, persuasion, cannot fail to follow his appeals. I speak of him as I have heard him, in a great criminal case, where the life or death of an unfortunate man depended upon the result of the eloquence of the advocate. Yet, not in such cases alone, does he excel. Facetious as eloquent, humorous as forcible, abounding in anecdote and illustration, I have seen the court, jury, and bar carried away completely by his manner, and convulsed with most unseemly laughter. I have known but one advocate who could compare with him in this respect, James L. Petigru, of Charleston, South Car- olina ; one, who in the learning of the law and in eloquence, has few equals in the United States. Col. Davidson excels as a speaker, and this not at the bar alone. As a politi- cal speaker, he stands deser\'edly high. He is capable of filling with honor political station, and of representing with zeal and efibct, the wants and wishes of constituents. Democratic in his sentiments, he is the bold and uncompro- mising champion of the people's rights, and is not one to swerve from their in- terests. Fearless as eloquent, Davidson will never be found wanting in their cause. We have spoken of the want of resemblance between the gentlemen we have this day attempted to sketch, and if we have properly drawn the outlines of their characters, it will be needless to dwell upon this contrast ; a few words, however, and I close. 22 SKETCHES. Jones i.s tlio LoUev lawyer, Davidson the belter advocate. The retired, qtiiet, and unassniiiiuy inaiiiiers of the one, contrast most strongly with the ready, as- piring, and captivating manners of the other. The first is fond of attention and respect, and yet does not seem to covet it ; the second is fond of praise and ap- ])Iaiise, demand.^ them as a, right, and tlirows himself in their way. Judge Jones has but little more to desire in tiii^ world : but little more to ac- quire ; Col. Davidson desires much, and would acquire mure — much more than he pt)ssesses. The first is frugal and economical, while the latter is lavish, careless, and expensive. The man who abounds in authorities, vv'ho studies with care his cases, who manages with strictness every formula, every point that may redound to his advantage, contrasts strongly Indeed with an advocate who, regardless of authority drawn from books, takes human nature as his guide, extracts large from the open volume, which he has carefully perused, neglects quirks and forms, and seizes only upon strong points, which he uses witli cifect, despite of the authorities arrayed against him. A score of years and much reading may have given the one a wider experience of the past, a more profound knowledge of things, but the other, a keen searcher into the motives of men, their passions, their prejudices, their desires, has by mingling among them, by observation, made already a proficiency which strikes out thi^ difference of age, and places the two nearly on an equality. COLLINS AND DURANT. No bar in the United States, presents advocates better worthy attention than, ■ours ; whether we consider those who are new men, and have rapidly arisen to honor and distinction among us, or those who have long engrossed the business of the courts. There is no profession, where, to climb the heights of honor, a man is obliged to master such fields of knowledge. Without referring to an intimate acquaintaince with law, both civil and common, what lawyer of emi- nence anions us. who is not versed in one or more languages besides his own ? SKETCHES. 23 How, oUicrvvi«(.>, would ho be enabled to acquire a lliorouMh kiiowk'doc of the laws of our State, or even to practice with success in our cijurts ? Whoever ventures u])on an extended practice, without such inibrniation, in New Orleans, will frequently suffer in contest with those who have not, in other respects, a tithe of his talents or abilities. I have already had occasion to remark, that the pursuit of elegant literature, was common with many of our leading advocates. Noble, indeed, the ambition, which is not satisfied with a mere knowledge of forms — the dry details of couits — the abstract principles of law — but which seeks for excellence in those arts which tend to form the persuasive, instructive and eloquent advocate. Thomas S. Cijllins, though but a little above tliirty years of age, has ac- quired for himself, jnuch distinction for ability as a lawyer. Not remarkable for eloquence, he is still the warm and earnest advocate. Without peculiar ele- gance, as a speaker, he yet excels in the use of the most appropriate language, and in that truthful manner calculated to win conviction, and to impress favora- bly, both judge and jury. As District Attorney, and afterwards as Judge of the .Superior City Court, he won for himself the confidence of the community, a;nd the respect of the bar. The honest man, the excellent citizen, the sincere friend, and the safe advocate, all are found combined, in this truly excellent young man. Industrious, studious, and attentive, Collins prepares thoroughly his cases, and is never found wanting in any of the knowledge or authorities necessary for explaining to the best advantage the cause he advocates. Few members of our bar are better able to furnish advice to younger attorneys upon the practical duties of their profession, and few are more solicitous in meeting kindlv such inqui)-ies. Collins is- 11 little above the middle height, ;md has handsome and pi'epossessing features. Dark hair, eyes, and complexion, indicate a Creole origin, and his accurate and elegant mode of expressing himself in tlie French and English idioms also declare his birth-place, the soil of Louisiana. Elegant manners and address mark in him t!ie man of the world and the well- bred gentleman. I should not omit to mention that.this advocate is very agree- able as a social companion, lively, fanciful and witty ; though t!ie observer may note in his countenance the lines of thought and an expression of gravity and sadness that chase with rapidity from his features the eiFects of the liveliest sally. Collins is a man Avho possesses numerous friends, and stiil further the faculty of preserving them. Of pure life and manners, he stands forth ;i worthy model for respect and imitation. Thomas J. Durant, Esq., remarkably distinguished as the architect of jiis own fortunes, has risen with unprecedented rapidity to one of the most("li'\ufoj who niiglit hiue won even the proudest laurels of SKETCHES. 25 the civilian, under a little patronage, is often compelled to resort to other pur- ■suits to obtain, perhaps a bare subsistence. It is nevertheless true, that many among us, little gifted by nature, have risen to distinction merely by means of untiring industry and perseverance, while many again, however fostered by patronage, and possessed,' too, of promising talents, yielding to dissipation, tothe vices and temptations of our city, have lost caste, character and health, and iiave fallen almost beneath contempt. One virtue is not sufficiently practiced by our older advocates. Talent, in younger members of the bar, is not encour- aged by them as it should be. Seldom do age and experience take the young aspirant by the hand, and lead him forward in the paths of honor and distinc- tion. If ever done, it may be attributed to favoritism, i-ather than to a desire to enceurage merit. PIERCE AND M^CALEB. In abilities as a counsellor, in attainments as a lawyer, this gentleman ranks 'among the first at the Orleans bar. Though without the oratorical talents of Soule, the noble simplicity of manner of Preston, the profound legal acquire- ments of Roselius, the weight and dignity of Grymes, the subtle acumen of Janin, or the nen'ous logic of JMazureau, Pierce merits worthy rank among ■them as the comprehensive reasoner, the ready lawyer, and the learned civil- ian. No one, whether advocate or lawyer, has received a larger share of ^patronage ; nor can any one doubt for a moment, his ability as a counsellor, or his skill in questions where deep research and subtilty of intellect are requisite. ■Few in New Orleans can claim a larger amount of professional confidence, •and few are more worthy of it. Without great elegance as a speaker, he is concise and close in argument. Never wandering from his subject, he invariably discusses it with vigor and ability. His profound knowledge of the law, and his inductive faculties, admi- rably adapt him for judicial station. Few lawyers have a larger experience of 4 26 SKETCHES. banking institntione, if we may judge from the fact of his having appeared bo often in court in cases connected with these peculiar interests. Already elevated to the high office of Secretary of State in Louisiana, Pierce may still be considered an aspiring man, and one ambitious of noble and honorable distinction. Mr. Pierce is verging towards or quite fifty years of age. Features manly and prepossessing, set off a figure above the middle height. His maimer in his intercourse with others, is off-hand and careless, and mark peculiarly the frank man of the world. His reading has been varied and extensive, and in his tastes he is the polished and elegant scholar. Appointed a United States District Judge, under the administration of Presi- dent Tyler, it is not difficult to form an estimate now, of Judge McCaleb, in that capacity, nor to pronounce with accuracy upon his legal attainments. When we consider the wide extent of his jurisdiction, and the importance of the causes frequently brought before his tribunal, it might be esteemed super- lative praise, to say that he was in every respect equal to his station. Without claiming for him great judicial abilities, we may yet award him good talents as a Judge. Possessed of a clear intellect, unblemished integrity, and dignified manners, he must ever win to himself the respect and esteem of the bar. If he be not the profound lawyer, the deep and subtle reasoner, he yet brings to the bench an industry and a research, which make him the safe Judge, and a love of justice that renders him worthy of entire confidence. We will not say that in the courts of the United States, there are not many men more profound, as jurists — many more deeply versed in international, maritime and revenue law ; but we doubt if there are any that surpass him in purity of motive, or in the justness of their views. McCaleb is a Mississippian by birth, and received his education, at Yale College. A polished and beautiful writer, his style is florid, it is true, but replete with elegance. Tall in stature, the lineaments of his countenance are eminently handsome, and express mildness, benevolence, and amiability. Dig- nified without coldness, friendly without permitting undue familiarity, manliness, elegance, bonhommie, are striking characteristics. In associating with him, we discover that his heart is warm, and that he is easily susceptible to the gentler sympathies of our nature ; a gentleman, in every sense, and without profession, a christian, in word and deed. McCaleb's is a character that one loves to dwell upon, for it is far from being of every day occurrence. In any station, such a man would possess friends ; judicial ermine never clothed a man more just, or more worthy of respect and confidence. It gives me pleasure to note, in passing, that this accomplished scholar and elegant jurist has been receiotly appointed to tJic- chair of Admiralty and International Law, in the law department of tlie Louisiana University. Pierce — McCaleb. — We are a little surprised that we have placed two such unlike characters in juxtaposition. We know not how to compare them, how to trace resemblance between them. The one, as a lawyer, is immeasura- bly superior to the other. The sturdy legal counsellor doubtless prefers black- letter lore to the belles-lettres, while we should suppose the Judge's taste would incline him to the study of literature. There are those that regard with indifference the traits of the finest picture, the noblest piece of statuary, or the most beautiful work of imagination that ever blessed the eye, or charmed the fancy of an artist. We do not believe this of either of the characters of which we speak, for both of them, we doubt not, are keenly alive to the pleasures of taste. We are of those who love to discover in the civilian a cultivated and refined taste ; nor do we believe that Story, Duponceau, and Legare, were the less great lawyers, in their devotion to literature and elegant arts. The study of such arts softens the character, and renders it the more susceptible to the warm emotions of love and friendship. Great abilities, unaccompanied by such possessions, must ever remain wrapped in coldness and unapproachable frigidity. BENJAMIN AND HUNT. Benjamin is emphatically the Commercial Lawyer of our city, and one of the most successful advocates at our bar. He hails, I think, from South Carolina, and holds a deservedly high place among the members of his profession. He is remarkable for the vivacity of his features, his sparkling and intelligent eyes, the perfect neatness and elegance of his costume, and the finished courtesy of his manners. He is rather below the middle height, though well propor- tioned. From his appearance, he would scarcely be taken for a student, though perhapp, as industrious a man as there is in the city, and to be found at liis office 28 SKETCHES. early and late, never neglecting business for social enjoyments, or the calls of pleasure. Mr. Benjamin is a man fitted to adorn any circle, however distin- guished for elegance or refinement, and yet, at the same time, we find him the severe and untiring devotee to his profession. As a speaker, he is calm, collected, forcible, though sometimes a little too rapid in his elocution. His voice has a silvery, mellifluous sweetness, and seldom jars upon the ear, by degenerating into shrill or harsh tones. His style is distinguished for its conciseness, and close adherence to the matter in hand- He never goes in search of flowers or metaphors, and yet, when occasion ofters, uses them with skill and appositeness. His manner and gesture are graceful and finished ; his language the purest and most appropriate English. To his many scholarly acquirements he adds the French language, which he' speaks with fluency and elegance. In his converse with the world he is social and agreeable, and, I believe, generally admired and liked by those who know him intimately. Mr. Benjamin is by birth, and as his names imports, an Israelite. Yet how far he still adheres to the religion of his fathers, I cannot tell, though I should doubt whether the matter troubled him much. In his politics, he is a whig, and one of the lights of the party in this city. He is, too, if I mistake not, something of a writer, and has contributed his quota to the literature of the South. I have not had an opportunity to peruse any of his productions ; yet feel satisfied that they would do him honor, pattern as he is of elegance and industry. It has been remarked by a very close observer, that the best idea of a man's character is derived from the perusal and study of his literary produc- tions. We must, however, take other data here, for it is very evident that Mr.. Benjamin seeks rather the distinction of being a thorough and accomplished lawyer, than that of a literary man or politician. In busmess he is ever ready,, never for a moment at a loss. This readiness, this activity of mind, are the fruits of labor and of study ; he has not been a close student for nothing. Mr. Benjamin cannot be more, certainly, than thirty-six, and yet deserves a niche among the veterans of our bar. I dwell long upon this picture, as I thinlc it may be studied with advantage by young practitioners who seek distinction in this noble profession, the only approaches to which are through paths of toil and vigil. Randal Hunt next engages the attention ; a man of decided talent, and an able speaker, though widely differing from him we have been sketching. He is apparently some forty years of age. His countenance is frank and open. Without being handsome, it is yet prepossessing. He is an accomplished man of the world, and very much of a gentleman. His courtesy of manner is, however, overcast by an air of us;^iimpfion — of aristocracy, f;ir from pleapino'. SKETCHES'. 29 There is a little too much consciousness of superiority in him to be altogether tolerated by us who live in a land so democratic. Hence, should Mr. Hunt at any time prove unpopular, he may attribute it to this cause. Simplicity of manner and of character, can never be separated from true greatness. The proud success of Mr, Hunt as a lawyer, an advocate, and a legislator, may account for this self-exaggeration. We are ourselves, from our knowledge of the man, disposed to consider the above peculiarity rather as a fault of manner than of character. That it is a peculiar trait, no one can doubt. In conversation, Mr. Hunt speaks slowly, and with a measured stress on every word, as though ever in search of the choicest terms of the king's English, It is the same when speaking in pubUc, until he becomes fully engaged, and then his language flows with ease, and we cease to observe any effort in the search after choice terms, or rhetorical figures. Randal HurtT, we have said, is an able speaker ; he is at times really eloquent, and wins deserved applause. He does not, at the same time, always discriminate with sufficient care, being sometimes as eloquent in matters of small moment as when great objects are at stake. We have heard a good, nay, more, a great speech, from Mr. Hunt, while in the State Legisla- ture, but were less pleased with him when addressing a whig meeting. In the one, his views were noble, commanding, patriotic — wliile in the other, they were involved, ambiguous, unstatesmanlike. In the one, he was great ; while in the other, he was the mere party man — aimless, objectless. In the one, the man of ideas — cogent, forcible ; in the other, the man of mere words — a violent current, "full of sound and fury, signifying nothing." As a jury lawyer, Randal Hunt is among the first at this or any other bar. He is strong, powerful, and should always remember that this is his proper sphere ; the one where he was intended by nature to shine, and where he is in truth, the brilliant man and the orator. Composure, coolness and perfect self-possession characterize tlie manner of Benjamin, while Hunt, in his fondness for display, is more excited, more passion- ate, more energetic. With Benjamin, every word has a meaning, every expression is german to the matter. With Hunt, there is more art, more apparent efTort, more words. Notwithstanding these differences, the style of both is equally smooth, Benjamin, regardless of flowers, though plain, is yet elegant ; while Hunt never fails to inlay with pearls, to embroider with flowers, whatever work he has in hand, and to complete his periods with the choicest, most appropriate, and most euphonious terms. The peculiar department of law to which the^younger counsellor has directed his attention, has probably con- duced to the severity of his style, and the plain businesslike features by which it is characterized ; wiiile Hunt, srireading his researches over n wider field, 30 SKETCHES. imbued with a knowledge of the law in its various departments, whether cruni- nal, civil, or the law merchant — is more full, more various, more interesting. Mr. Benjamin, in his peculiar walk, is the best lawyer of the tvv^o, and the most attached to his profession from the love of it. Mr. Hunt aims, we should tliink, greatly more at political distinction, though we should not be in the least surprised, if the younger counsellor got the start of him. Industry and energy of character alike mark both of these advocates. Both Carolinians, and bearing from that chivalrous State her high and noble pride of honor and distinction, they have made for themselves names in Louisiana, and are destined, if we mistake not, to attain higher places than they have yet achieved in their adopted State. PENN AND DOWNS. In leaving for a brief period those of our city, who deserve honorable mention in my sketches, I have selected two prominent men, who hold a high place in the hearts of Louisianians, for their worth, talents, and superior abilities. Intimately acquainted with the first, I have learned to admire him for his intel- lectual endowments, to love him for his high social and moral qualities. My acquaintance with the second is more limited; yet, perhaps, sufficient to enable me to describe him with some accuracy. Martin G. Penn is well known as the present Judge of the Eightli District of this State — Mr. Downs as the United States Senator who will represent us in the next Congress. Judge Penn is some forty-two years of age; is possessed of a commanding mein; a strikingly intellectual countenance; features remark- ably handsome, once eminently so; piercing black eyes, full of expression and of intellect; a figure tall, well made, and muscular. " A combination, and a form indeed, Where every god liath seemed to set liis seal. To give the world ^fsuranee of a man." SKETCHES. 31 He is a native of Virginia, and of a family, too, of distinction ; his father having served in various political stations of honor and of trust, in the Old Dominion. He removed to Kentucky when the subject of this sketch was very young, and finally to this State. In the vicissitudes of fortune, so common with old families in our country, the old Virginian lost his all ; and young Penn was early thrown upon his own resources. Though the heir to no fortune, yet the father bequeathed him what was of more value than money. He inherited a fierce spirit of independence ; a determined will ; integrity of purpose ; a force of character that could trample on every obstacle, with which grim adversity can obstruct the path of the aspiring and ambitious. The early mis- fortunes of his family had prevented him from enjoying the advantages of education, which is usually the pride of families who hail from the State of Thomas Jefferson. Yet what was this to the young man who was determined to succeed— to revive in his person his family name and honors ? While but a carrier of the mail through our piney-woods settlement, the young man carried with him his Blackstone, his elementary law books, over which he studied often by torch- light, after a fatiguing ride in his arduous employment, and thus stored his mind with valuable principles for future use. It was on one of these occasions, that stopping in Feliciana, he met with our present Governor, then a young lawyer, who, surprised at the answers the mail carrier gave to some of his questions, was led to inquire into his history, treated him with encouragement and politeness, and invited him to his house. This was the commencement of an intimacy that has never since ceased between these distinguished men. Studying law thus, when he could steal a moment from other pursuits, he finally presented himself to Judge Martin, who having examined the young aspirant, gave him the requisite certificate of admission to practice law in our courts. He established himself in Covington ; and soon found for his active mind, abundant employment. His majoi'ity is scarce concluded, when he is elected to the Legislature ; where, his youth being considered, he accquitted himself with much distinction. From that moment to the present, his career has been continually one of credit and of honor. The nephew of Martin Gordon of this city — a name long known in the annals of true, honorable, unshrinking democracy — Martin Gordon Penn has ever been in the foremost rank in the same good cause, and has never, for a moment, forsaken the rights or the interests of the masses. His life thus far, has been one continuous example of the triumphs of talent — the true and most honorable wealth of the young American. The poor boy, who once cut and corded wood for his livelihood, in St. Tam- many Parish ; who played for years tlic part of a mail carrier — has again and 33 SKETCHES. awain, since, been a representative in both houses of the Legislature ; lias filled the department of State Engineer, and now occupies a highly honorable and responsible station, with credit and distinction. Without soliciting, nor yet declining the trust, he was called by the voices of his fellow-citizens of the Seventeenth Senatorial District, to represent them in the State Convention, convened for the revisal of the Constitution ; and it is worthy of note, that most of the objects of reform stated in his address to his constituents on that occasion, became eventually the policy of the State. Among the rest, freedom of suffrage, the abolition of property qualifications for the holding of office, election of all State officers, from the highest to the lowest, the duel clause, and others of less importance.* As a speaker, he is strong, eloquent, and persuasive ; as a lawyer, ready, accurate, and learned ; as a writer, not without claims to respect, as his late published charge to the grand juries of the Eighth District evinces, which is both an able and an eloquent document. As a social companion, I have seldom, if ever, met his superior. As a friend, he is one to be entirely trusted, adhering to those worthy of confidence with string-s of steel. Strong in his prejudices, firm in what is right, he is not easil}^ moved from his resolves. Whatever his * The following passages are extracted from Mr. Penn's printed address to the voters of the Seventeenth Senatorial District, previous to his election : " Gladly would I yield the task of representing you, to abler and more com- petent hands ; but having been solicited in a manner that leaves me no alterna- tive, I shall briefly unfold to you my views and opinions in regard to the powers of the Convention, and the cardinal principles which shall govern me in the event of my election ; and leave the issue in your hands, with the most unqual- ified assurance that I have neither solicited, nor will I decline the responsibility of becoming your agent, in the transaction of the solemn and important duties before us." " I hold all attempts to regulate the qualifications of a voter, by the amount of his property, of the taxes he pays, to be a libel upon the patriotism of an American citizen ; and hence, shall sirenuously advocate the extension of the riglit of suffi-age to all free ivhite maJe citizens of the United States, of twenty- one years of age, with twelve months residence in the Parish or District in which he ofl"ers to vote." " I shall advocate the abolition of all property qualifications for office, believing as I do, that the only qualification which should be required, in addi- tion to that of being a voter, consists in being capable, honest and faithful to the Constitution." " I am in favor of the election of all public agents, from the highest to the lowesi., directly by the people, and that too for a limited period." " I am in favor of inserting a clause in the Constitution, requiring all public officers to subscribe an oath, before entering upon the duties of his office, 'that he has not been engaged, either as princijjal or second, in any duel, since the adoption of the Constitution ; nor neither will he be, during his continuance in office." SKETCHES. -:5 station, (and i know of none in this State, however hiyh, to wiiicii he woulti not bring lionor,) he would be true to his friends, his principles, and the people. Sr.cli is Martin G. Penn, as I have known him, and such is the voice of all who know him intimately. I should not forget, that from constitutional necessity, as well as from princi- ple, he is a true disciple of temperance, and has made many disciples of those around him, both by precept and example. He is a true believer of the blessed faith of our Saviour, and if I mistake not, an avowed follower of the iaith of the devout Wesley. His house is the abode of hospitality — ever open to liis friends, ever open to the stranger. In the bosom of a charming family, ho i;^ one of the most indulgent and beloved of parents, the most affectionate of husbands. GBneral Dowjjs is a native of Tennessee, and was in part educated at Tran- sylvania University. He is built in a heavier mould than the gentleman above alluded to — has, however, a prepossessing countenance, a manly presence, stongly marked and intelligent features, and is about the same age as Judge Penn. He has passed the chief portion of his life in Feliciana and in the Parish of Ouachita, where he early acquired distinction as a practitioner at the bar. Devoted much to politics, he has repeatedly served in the Senate of Louisiana — was the predecessor of the present talented incumbent in the office of District Attorney of the United States District Court — a distinguished member of the late State Convention — and now a Senator of the United States. In politics he is a strong partisan, radical in his views — a firm pillar of democracy. As a speaker, though I cannot claim for him elegance of manner or of gesture, he is yet strong, persuasive and convincing. He addresses himself not so much to the eye as to the understanding. Tliough I have heard him when, notwithstanding a certain ungainliness of manner, he was, in truth, eloquent. As a lawyer, he is profound and well read. As a writer, he is not without distinction. I am describing no common, every-day man ; but one of strong, original pov/ers of mind, and unusual force of character ; a man fitted to breast the storms of life, and not made for the calm smooth current. As a speaker, Downs would suffer greatly in comparison with Penn. He has neither the clear utterance, the musical voice, nor the elegant gesture characteristic of the latter. Nor does he possess features equally expressive and winning. Penn, too, is more enthusiastic in his character than Downs •, more poetic in his thoughts ; his language abounding far more in imagery. They are both close reasoners, though I am inclined again to award the palm to Penn ; far less full, nor in his argument covering so wide a space as the Senator, but more clear, more pointedi more convinciii'i. Pknn's talcn! lies 5 3-1 SKETCHES. greatly in analysis, in separating the parts of a subject, and giving to eacli its true bearing and character ; v^aile Downs is more synthetic ; he brings together, from the most diverse quarters, apposite arguments, forcible illustra- tions, but is not equally happy in moulding thorn into form and beautiful propor- tions ; though, perliaps, he may be possessed of a mind more full than that of the Judge. Give to each of these gentlemen the materials, and Penn would raise the fairest and most tasteful structure, each part duly proportioned, and violating no rule of art ; Downs would raise one more massive, more unwieldy, and less beautiful. The classical education of Downs gives him an advantage ovei" Penn, rendering him more accurate, and more correct as a writer, though his nature does not admit of his seasoiiing his style with as much life and vivacity. It is doubtful which of these gentlemen is the warmer politican. It is certain that both are far-sighted, keen observers of tlie times. No political fact in the history of our country, having important bearing upon public aiFairs, but has been observed and noted by both, and as advisers in such matters, I know none in the State on' whom one may lean with more perfect ronuder.ce. Both are ardent friends ; both strong in their prejudices ; both bold in tho avowal of their sentiments. Both adopted sons of Louisiana, she may well be proud of them as citizens. Both have seen adversity in its roughest aspect, and h' Sdent and unraovetl. WATTS AND COHEN. I travel often over tlie same field, and difficult, indeed, I find it, to preserve that perfect individuality, which is desirable in my portraits. Sketches sucli as mine can possess few of the attractive features, which pertain to the jiortraiture of men, who have illustrated their lives in the pursuit of arts and arms : llio warrior who lias gained renown on the field of battle — who has *'.\|ii)-'-- il iu;iy be n^grettcd. vet tbi^ signs of the tiiiierJ plainly 38 SKETCHES. •declare, that a few more years passed away, and we shall lose from among us the silver-tones of Andalusia, and the musical and beautiful voices of Provence. The Iberian and the Frank are the founders of the Creole family ; nor have the chivalrous spirit, the pride and reserve of the first, nor the vivacity, tiie elegance and the gallantry of the second, become extinct in their descendants. The raven hair, dark piercing eye, the bronze complexion, the slight and agile form, the quick, excitable disposition so peculiar to the children of a tropical clime, still remarkaljly distinguish the Creole of Spanish origin : while the soft blue eye, the fair liair, the blonde complexion, the form of Iieavier mould, the voluptuous countenance and indolent gait, declare the more inunediate descend- tint of the Frank. Intermarriage has, however, so often taken place among the different branches of the Creole races, that often in the same family we may note the distinctive characteristics of both. A third class still exists — descendants of the Anglo-Saxon and Creole — whose distinctive features it would be difficult, indeed, to describe, forming, as they do, the transition link which connects, in Louisiana, those termed Americans, witli those who may be ■considered of the ancien regime. It is said that the Creole has little of the enterprise — little of the activity and force of character peculiar to the more hardy, and more heavily moulded «ons of the Nortli ; tliat he is a devotee of pleasure, despising toil as plebian ^and imworthy of the gentleman ; that he seeks office, not so much from duty to the country, as from vanity, and a belief that office in Louisiana is his right — his hereditary legacy. He is said to prefer the frivolous to the noble ; to delight rather in dress, in equipage, and in applause, than in solid and useful posses- vsions ; that, in short, it is, at present, a degenerate race, and destined eventually to rank second, only, among us. To disprove such assertions, it shall be my task to seek examples to the contrary, and, if possible, to show that Louisiana has much to boast in her Creole population. I introduce in the present sketch a Creole of the Island of Guadaloupe, and u Franco-German of the Rhine. In the first, I find the heau ideal of the Creole lawyer — ikiB man of quick and ardent temperament — the eloquent and impas- sioned decla^mer — the subtle logician^the courteous gentleman — the lively and sparkling humorist — the strange embodiment of whim and caprice — the imaginative, anecdote-abounding and choice convivialist — a woman for fancies, a man for feeling — a strange compound, in which mingle unnumbered ingredi- i.'nts both of good and ill — an instrument so quaintly devised tliat it must be touclied vi'itb a nia>^ter hand to avv^akcn the harmony ol" all its chords. In the second, I find a very diffijrent individual indeed ; a man of exceedingly bustling and restless ])ropensities, combining, if it be possible, the obstinacy of opinion, ;ind tlie heaviness of juind of the German, with the accunstu and subletv of SKETCHES. S9 tdo Frencliniali ; a man of decided talent — laborious, fctudioiis, deep-searching ; an energetic, voluble, but not eloquent advocate ; a man of large practice, and holding a position among the leaders of our bar; the true German student in research, in the variety of liis attainments, and in his indefatigable attention to business. Jams is about the medium height, thick set and vigorous, with features expressive of intelligence, though while in a state of repose, not remarkable for vivacity ; an Israelite, I believe, yet like the elegant and accomplished advocate, Benjamin, if still adhering to the faith of his fathers, no violent sectary. He must be near or quite fifty years of age ; though a temperate life preserves on his features the signs of a period less advanced. He belongs to a numerous class among us, who unite in themselves the characteristics of Creole, Frenchman and American. In bim, however, I think the Frenchman predomi- nates. No party man — he moves on ever within the bounds of his professioW, and has thus become wealthy. And certain it is, that the lawyer in Louisiana who will keep aloof from political strifes and party contests, must ever arrive at the same results. I will not say how far such a course comports with the duty of an American citizen; it is, however, doubtless a most politic one. Janin has acquired reputation' as a lawyer ; as a man of honor and probity ; and these acquisitions I hesitate not to say, are above political distinctions, however elevated, as the last are often among us conferred unworthily, and the former never can be, but must ever wait upon desert, professional ability, and moral honesty. Preaux is above the middle height, and possesses a countenance full of vivacity. His eyes are black and piercing, his hair dark, and complexion deeply bronzed. It is as speaking a face as I ever saw — the features wonder- fully restless and expressive. He is some forty years of age, and has been a, practitioner at the bar in Louisiana above fifteen years. I have spoken of him as an eloquent declaimer ; he is something more ; his manner is excellent, his gestures appropriate, and his language, in his own tongue, pure and elegant, and in English, not without claims to considerable grammatical accuracy. He cannot by any means be called a great lawyer, though he holds a very respecta- ble rank, and one which might be still more elevated, if laying aside a certain levity of disposition, he would be ever the dignified advocate. Chasten severely such a character as that possessed by Preau::, cultivate to the utmost such legal abilities, and you have a combination easily moulded into greatness. I have described, or attempted so to do, two individuals who stand- deservedly high at this bar. If I have failed to do them justice, the will has not been wanting. It is uncertain how far my sketches hitherto may tend to elevate the- character of the advocate in Louisiana ; thout;'li I do not hc;Mt:itc to avow thai 4U SKETCItli.S. sucli is in part llie ubject ior wliicli I write ; I'or surely, tlie holding- up of a worthy advocate to the attention of our numerous bar, and descri!)ing his merit;; to the best of my ability, cannot be wholly without its beneficial effects. No character, in my opinion, is more elevated than that which goes unscathed through the temptations, the dangerous and besetting temptations to which the lawyer is continually exposed. The very fact that the client often fears to trust his property in the hands of an advocate, because numerous examples are on record, (not out of Louisiana either,) of the shameless and infamous manner in which immense sums have been retained by piratical and dishonored counsellors, has stamped an indelible stio-ma upon the profession, and rendered what should be the highest and noblest of all characters, a bye-word for all that is grasping, shameless and corrupt. Yet are there splendid exceptions, men of too much pride to stoop to sucli purposes, and who in the pursuit of their profession display ever the purest and most exalted virtues. "Law," says the eloquent Hooker, "has its seat in the bosom of God, and its voice is the harmony of the world." How noble, how elevated should be the character of the man who acts as its inter- preter ! What a position is his, who stands mediator between its mercy and its veno-eance ! With what grand and exalted power that man is invested, who stands forth the vindicator of the rights of a fellow-citizen ; the protector of innocence ; the guardian of the oppressed ! Give to a man of high moral tone of thought — of unblemished integrity and splendid talent, such a position, and you have before you a character of stirring interest and sublime power, to which no other profession can present an example, or find object of comparison.'^ * It is to the writer of these sketches, subject for regret, that leisure does not permit him to pursue farther at this time, the notices of oiu- bar. He finds himself compelled to iiass over many, no less the pride than ornament of the profession in Louisiana. At a ftUure day, lie trusts to return to the subjecl— to take also a retrospective glance at thoiip. wlio have passed away from among us — tjie old law^'crs of Louisiana. Tlie writer would remark also in passing, that he has omitted one name in tliis little volume, which appeared among the early imblished Sketches. This character was placed then by j7?r//, and it would depart too much from the present plau to have given it insertion. SUPREME COUHT JUDGES. EUSTIS, HOST, KING AND SLIDELL. EsTiBiATiJfG as I do, the character of the man appointed to wear the judicial robes of office — having, in my mind, a standard of the noble and excellent qualities requisite thereto — unblemished reputation — entire disregard of popular applause — firm and nnwavering purpose of doing what is right — freedom from prejudice — unbounded disinterestedness — a mind ever prepared to reconcile the contending claims of justice and mercy — a thorough and well digested knowledge of the laws and usages of society — a clear head — a pure heart, I know scarcely how to venture upon the path which lies before me, when I would touch, with a critical and faithful pencil, the traits of those who preside in this Court. We look in vain for a Matthews, a Porter, or a Martin, while we admit that we have good, conscientious, and talented men occupying the Supreme Bench. RosT is a native of France, and in early life, if I have heard his story cor- rectly, served in the Peninsular campaigns under Napoleon. He came when very young, to Louisiana, and settled at first in the parish of Natchitoches, whence he was sent to the Senate of this State. In 1839 he was appointed, with EusTis, Judge of the Supreme Court. They, however, remained tlien but a short time upon the bench. Rost has a countenance peculiarly marked with lines of thought and intelligence ; the utmost acuteness sits conspicuous upon his features — restlessness and uneasiness, an expression peculiarly searching, are also appparent in his lineaments, indicating clearly the character of a mind active, keen and intricate. Rost appears to be some fifty years of age, and possesses many of the characteristics of a good Judge — inductive faculties, highly cultivated habits of close research, industry, zeal and legal knowledge. He is eminently fitted by such qualities, for the station he occupies. Judge Slidell is a native of New York — has, however, been a citizen of New Orleans about twenty years. Long a practitioner at the bar, and at aVery propitious time, he was remarkable successful in his profession. The predc- (5 42 SKETCHES. cesser of Col, Bailey Peyton, as United States District Attoniej', he served, also, one term in the Senate of Louisiana. Slidell is well known to the bar as the industrious collator, in connection with J. P. Benjamin, Esq., of the Digest of the late Supreme Court Decisions. Called at an early age to preside as one of tlie Judges in our most illustrious tribunal, it is easy to see that he has brought to the station much legal lore, a logical mind, and industry of untiring character. This gentleman has remarkably handsome features, and is prepos- sessing and winning in his manners and address ; one who wins respect, and at the same time deserves it. Chief Justice Eustis is a man of experience and a good lawyer. The second time appointed to a seat on the Supreme Bench, he must be something more than a common-place character. This gentleman is a native of New England, though he has been many years a citizen of New Orleans, where he has filled numerous offices of trust and honor. Judge Eustis is a man of extensive and elegant acquirements, a good linguist, and a ripe scholar. There are few among us possessed of the attainments in elegant literature, and in science which are peculiar to this gentleman. He can claim little distinction as a speaker ; being neither iluent nor eloquent. You may lind little fauh with the matter, though mucli with the manner. Eustis is not a man of quick perceptions; he grapples, however, strongly with what is abstruse, and, if slowly, yet finally renders the subject clear and distinct. Retakes time to arrive at conclusions, and proceeds thereto through intricate paths, for he is anything but the clear straight-forward reasoner. His decisions are, howevei', marked by very considerable clearness, precision and ability, and appear to have been carefully and studiously digested. Judge Eustis is about the middle height, is dignified in his address and manners, and v.hile upon the bench these are characterized by calmness and self- possession. Simj)licity of manner, courtesy towards the meanest, and a due and proper respect for the feelings and failings of others, must ever accompany true greatness of soul. Exalted station in a republic like ours, divested of these, may impose upon the weak and unthinking, but will ever effect the sensible and observing man, as the attributes of a mind but little conversant with true greatness. Superciliousness and assumption under, such circum- stances become peculiarily striking and ofiensive, and it is greatly to be hoped that such traits are attributed unjustly to the man I sketch. Judge King next claims attention — a man of very difierent order, both mental and physical, from Eustis. Above the middle height, his countenance expressive of mildness rather tlian firmness, he attracts the stranger, and at once elicits his confidence. The close observer sees little in his features to indicate the man of very fupevior r ndowmentr, though the fact of his having SKETCHES. 4S presided long, with applause and distinction, upon tJie District Court Benclx, speaks highly for his worth and talents. In private life, he is loved and re- sj)ected for his virtues, and is a perfect gentleman in his manners ; of noble sentiments and unblemished character, whether upon the bench or at the bar, he has ever won the esteem of his fellow-citizens. The gentlemen presiding upon the Supreme Bench are by no means inferior men. In character and acquirements they, however, afford among themselves great contrast. I am induced in this connection, to allude to the Hon. Henry A. Bullard, who has so long presided in the Supreme Court, and who has recently returned to his place among the practitioners of our bar. This time-honored jurist, states- man and advocate, to whom the jurisprudence of Louisiana owes so much, has been twice upon the Supreme Bench of the State, served many years since in the Legislature of the United States, and, while Roman was Governor, acted as our Secretary of State. Not less an accomplished scholar than a profound lawyer, of those recently upon the Supreme Bench, (not including Martin,) he was doubtless first in talents and judicial attainments. Much devoted to literary pursuits, he has been long known as a forcible and classical writer, and a man of elegant literary tastes. As an example of his style, his late eulogy upon his old blind friend Judge Martin, may be cited as a production of much elegance and finished taste. Eminently instructive now as a speaker, this gentleman has been in his younger years, an eloquent and forcible advocate. As a Judge, his decisions have ever been characterised by industry in search of authorities, and a lucidness of style, highly creditable to the scholar and the lawyer. Judge Bullard is a native of Massachusetts. He is a man of middle height, his features have been once handsome, and are still pleasing. He is, probably, sixty years of age. Agreeable as a social companion, he is respected, if not loved, by all who know him intimately. In regard to the members of our Supreme Court, as compared with the last, I would say, that there is no one, at present upon the bench, who may in the extent of his legal lore, compare with the old blind Judge — no one, who sur- passes the veteran Bullard in elegant attainments, or profound knowledge in the civil law. Taking the entire bench, it is a decided improvement upon the past. There is more energy, more industry, greater efforts to finish the immense business which every year increases in this tribunal. Their task is not. perhaps, so difficult as in times past. The men w'ho have Jixpil the law in this State, have cleared away the rubbish — have established metes and bounds — Martin, Porter, Matthews, and Derbigny have decided on almost every important matter arising under our peculiar system of jurispru- 44 SKETCHES. dence. Hence the task of our present Court is comparatively easy ; henc3 it is that even mediocre abilities may serve to meet the requirements of this Court. There may have been in the old Court, want of energy, want of industry, and want of that concert necessary to the performance of their arduous duties ; yet I must mention, in conclusion, one incident in my recollection, redounding to their eternal honor — that when one of their number had subjected himself to the suspicion of being the corrupt magistrate, the violator of tlie law — had committed crime and trampled honesty under foot, the veterans who had so long presided in this Court, who had so long maintained the majesty of the laws, refused to sit with their brother Judge, until he had purged the ermine of justice from the foul stains resting upon it, in his person, or until he had retired from the seat he had dishonored. NEW-ORLEANS DISTRICT COURT. STRAWBRIDGE AND MCHENRY. Judge Strawbridge, who presides in the Fourtli District Court of New Orleatis, is a native of Maryland, and was in early life devoted to mercantile pursuits. He came to Louisiana some twenty years since, and was appointed at one time to a seat upon the Supreme Bench, though he soon resigned this elevated station. Judge Strawbridge is very much of a lawyer, and very much of a man ; eccentric in his manners, though respected and loved by those who know him intimately. He is a man of much plainness, little fond of ostentation or display. He does not easily become acquainted; is slow in giving his confidence, but is the sure friend, never expressing more than he feels, or than he means to abide by. As a Judge, he is considerate, conscien- tious and just ; a man of little brilliancy, but of varied and solid attainments. He presides with dignity, and preserves the respect of those who wait upon his Court. In times past, Judge Strawbridge has been fond of company, and convivial in his habits and manners. With the advancement of years, this love of society has diminished, and in the midst of his family circle he seeks his chief enjoyments. The Judge is a man of acute intellect, nice perceptions and singular readiness. The business of the Fourth District Court is heavy, and it requires in its presiding officer, a man of great industry and discernment ; one thoroughly versed in mercantile law. In Judge Strawbridge I find higher qualities still. Habits of deep research, much experience and observation, and a determina- tion to do right, characterize this excellent Judge and accomplished man. He receives from the position he occupies not more honor than he confers upon it. Judge Watts, to whom I have elsewhere alluded, it will be recollected, preceded him as Judge of the Commercial Court. Judge Grima, a Creole lawyer of old standing in New Orleans, gained to himself no little distinction while Judge ot the Court at present presided over hy John McHenky. As deputy lo Attorney General Maziirean. ho arqiiired- 46 SKliTCllliS. honor by his zeal and ability in the performance of his duties. We find him next in the Legislature, and thence appointed to judicial station. After acting^ for a considerable time as presiding .Judge of the City Court, (where among other decisions, he rendered one involving an important question in regard to one of the chief sources of our city revenue,) he was transferred to ,the Criminal Court Bench. In this post he continued several years. There is a great trial on record as having taken place during this period ; one which excited at the time an extraordinary interest — -that of the three Spaniards, Naratchez, Sorero and Fernandez, for the murder of Mayorquino. This (jase called forth the chief talent of the bar, and during its many days continuance, numerous questions were decided by the Judge, exhibiting much research and knowledge of his profession. Seldom has such a record of crime and iniquity been unrolled to public gaze than was shown in the career of these three Spaniards ; and, perhaps, no cause of greater magnitude finds place npon the records of this Court. Leaving the bench, Grima was appointed a Notary Public, and returned to his practice at the bar. He is a lawyer of no little research ; a man who possesses a large circle of friends ; a worthy type of creolism. Rather the counsellor than the advocate, he is one whose opinions are respected ; whose advice is sought in great causes ; whose name is often found ujjon the records of the Supreme Court. The veteran Canonge long presided upon this triljimal. This gentleman deserves honorable mention for his legal attainments, and the vigor and ability with which he performed duties more arduous and harassing than those pertaining to any other tribunal in New Orleans. The profound lawyer and able advocate, Isaac T. Preston, was appointed his successor — resigned, however, the office, a few months after his appointment, displaying while Judge, his usual talent, zeal and industry. A long and familiar acquaintance with Judge McHenry, the gentleman at present presiding in this Court, leads me to form a very favorable estimate of his character as a man, and his fitness for the station as a jurist. He wins respect by the courtesy of his manners and his untiring assiduity and attention to his official duties. Integrity, unwearied zeal and industry, qualities so essential to a worthy judicial magistrate, peculiarly pertain to him. Civil causes in his Court are quickly disjxjsed of, and without the provoking delays too often attending litigation. Before this tribunal so man}^ and so various causes are brought ; there is, too, so much business of an harassing and trivial nature, that we cannot wonder that at times it tries the patience of the Judge, and that it is difficult for him always to preserve that calmness and temper so essential to a good magistrate. SKETCHES. 47 The Criminal, or First District Court, as it is well known, la frequented by younger members of the bar ; those just commencing their career — the petti- fogger — the fag end of the profession. A judicial magistrate in a Court which holds cognizance of all crimes, great and petty, against the majesty of the laws, harassed by annoyances of various kinds, must be more than human, if his equanimity be not occasionally disturbed. As a field, however, for the aspiring young lawyer and tlie gentleman, this arena is not without its advantages ; and to such, the Judge with that discernment so peculiar to him, accords every courtesy and every aid that lies in his power. Occasionally, too, this tribunal becomes the theatre for the display of the most brilliant talent of our bar. Great cases where life and death are at stake, elicit the public attention and draw out the giants of the profession. It is then that the influence and bearing of the Judge become of serious imi)ortance ; and I hesitate not Jo say, that, at such times, McHenry is not wanting to the high station he occupies. I would describe this gentleman's jiersonncl — ^but who is there that knows not McHenry? With a form almost gigantic, towering above every other at this bar ; of intelligent, though far from handsome features ; courtesy of manners approaching to excess; kindness, mildness and benevolence, stamped upon his countenance ; slow and thoughtful in his conversation, and composed and dignified in his address — such is the man that at pre-ent presides in the F.rst District Court. CANON, BUCHANAN AND KENNEDY. Kennedy is a young man, the youngest on the Orleans District Court Bench, but is a clear-headed, dignified and worthy officer ; one well fitted from erudition as a lawyer, self-possession as a man, and unbounded courtesy of manner, for judicial station. A young man, and yet old in legal knowledge — & young man called to hold one of the first ofiices of the State, and yet not 48 SKETCHES. puffed up by his elevation. Kennedy is slow in his decisions, proceeds witli great caution and consideration, and is conscientiously correct. It would not be easy to impose upon this g^entleman, so anxious is he to understand fully the matter in hand before pronouncing his op nion. Kennedy is not a man of mere legal acquirements, but a fine belles-lettres scholar — a man of much reading and cultivation. He has travelled in foreign countries, and has cultivated his taste in the study of the masterpieces of the old world. He speaks with fluency several modern languages, and yet so simple is he in his manners, so modest and retiring in his disposition, so little anxious for display, that he must be well known to be at all appreciated. Slight in his figure, tall and well-formed, with a countenance expressing the gentlest character and most affectionate impulses, Kennedy wins upon the stranger, and at once creates confidence and esteem. His predecessor, Maurian, with great practical abilities, a mind well stored with the lore of the civil law, long experience and untiring assiduity, not a little adorned tlie station he filled. In modesty equal, in retirement of manners similar, these gentlemen differ greatly in their character as judges. The Creole of St, Domingo, older in years and experience, had served a long noviciate. If surpassing him in the knowledge of forms and details of the profession, Kennedy is at least as quick in pronouncing his decisions. Honored as a man, respected as a lawyer, there are few that have performed official duties like his, with more equity or'more estimable reputation than Maurian; and in again returning to the bar, this veteran brings with him an elevated and highly respected character. As a legislator, as a judge, and as man, he is a fine commentary upon the capability and worth of Creole character, when directed to noble and honor- able pursuits. As I have allud 1 to Judge Canon at length in another article, I would only remark at present, in passing, that, as a judicial magistrate, he seems ever desirous of awarding justice, excessively tenacious of order and method, and that he can be facetious, and often is so, without compromising the dicrnity of his station. The agreeable, facetious and courteous Canon, stands in many respects alone at this bar, and is a striking embodiment of excel- lencies of mind and purity of purpose. His predecessor, Joachim Bermudez, a Creole of St. Domingo was a man of fair though not brilliant abilities, though eminently fitted for the station he occupied. Judge Buchanan has presided for many years where we now find him — preserving his position longer than any other Judge in New Orleans. This in itself speaks loudly for his capacity and his fitness for judicial station. He SKETCHES. 49 has long secured the confidence of the bar, and of his fellow-citizens by the accKrircy and correctness of his decisions, and the care and research he has broiig-ht to them. He studied the law in the oflice of Isaac T. Preston, and early distinguished himself as an advocate. He is a man o" very superior and varied attainments, and apart f -om the law, has devoted much attention to literature and science. A clear, terse and viciorous writer, his decisions do him honor as pieces of elegant composition. Versed in several languages, he brings to the bench ?, kind o," knowledge pecaharly valuable, and which enlarges much tlie sphere of his usefulness. In conversation he is agreeable, sententious and humorous. Somewlmt pre- judiced in his views, he yet is, upon the bench, the impartial and considerate Judge, and one who has the esteem of the profession. His p-edecesso.-, J udge [iOwis, well known to numerous o" the older members of the bar, presented a very different character from that of Buchanan, iji a legal point of view. That old Judge possessed warm ond kinr'I v feelings, noble and j^ene 'ous sentiments. The heart in him was stronger than the head. The man got far th'' better of the lawyer. (iOWis never had an enemy ; for to him frieinlship was the wine of life, and his very existence depended upoii the draughts he drank. The law of kindness was written on every day's record of his life. You will say, perhaps, that sucli ?. man was not fitted for his high station ; that Lewis presided ill at p. bar, which boasted a Livingston, p Duncan, a Moreau Lislet, a Porter, a Deibigny, and an Ellery ; on the contrary, they loved the good ohl man too well to take advantage of his kindly feelings ; they respected their characters too highly as advocates, to forget what was due to the station he occupied. The annals of that day remain to be told. In them, the lyro at our modern bar might find many an exariiple of that high principle and chivalry, that pride of caste, which gave once to the French advocate his nobOity of character, and threw around him such dignity and power. In reading the reported cases of those days, one is struck witli the research, the information and the subtle logic displayed by these old counsellors and adv icates. Impudence now too often usurps the place of firmness ; a desire of fees has pushed aside sensibility to princijile, Jiauteur of manner masks the ancient pride of character peculiar to the advocate. Ignorance and want of common sense exalt themselves above modesty, diffidence and real ability. " The chastity of honor, which felt a stain like a w;ound," does )iot, as in times of old, clothe our noble profession. Th(ise times, the lawyers of our early day, reuiain to be portrayed. They require the hand of a master. It is an easier task to paint the living than the dead. 7 THE PULPm CLAPP AND SCOTT. The stranger in New Orleans, in considering the moral tone of society, is led to suppose its standard among us as far from elevated. Wbellier this be the factor nol, I do not undertake to determine. At a distauce, in the north- ern and eastern cities, such is its reputation. If an apparent disregard for certain utas'cs ihat are wont to I^e deemed sacred, be ground for this opinion, may-be, that such a view of things has some basis on which to rest itsc'f. It does not, however, follow, that becanse immorality is more open la its manifes- tations, that there is more of it here ihan elsewhere. The constant influx of population and its transient character, may have its influences in removing the restraints which exist in older cilies. and nnder a more settled foi-m of society ; bu5 itiry'ght be perhaps easily demonstrated, that if, in New York, in Philadel- phia, and in Boston, the apparent tone of morals is higher, through the influence of public opinion, yet, that under the curtain of secrecy, there is quite as much immorality there, or more than with us. Human nature, in civilized life (to use a common aphorism), is pretty much the same every where. Under the cloak of hypocrisy, vice may ea-ily conceal itself; and I suppose it will be conceded that hypocrisy is hot morality. New Orlean.s should not be accountable foi- the vices and immoralities of its Iransicnt population. Numerous are the examples of those who come among us fi'om abroad, removed as they imagine, from the restraints which control them at homo, strangers in the midst of our society, v\-ho in want of pastime and of friends, fall into dissipated habits. The isolated position of this numerous class of oui' population, is the true cau,-e of their excesses, and should not be attributed to the immoral character of our noble city. Go among our people who belong to the elite, go among our merchants, our professional men, and go if you please among the middle ranlTs. and, trust me,, if you go to seek probity, honor, scorn of every thing mean or little, generous sentiments, friendly feelings, the heart of sympathy, and true charity, the SKETCHES. 51 highest traits of the rehgious and the moro.l man, you will find tliem here as elsewhere ; and filially, go to our clergy, and you ^vill find piciy, indepen- dence, bo'dnoias in the cause of tlicir great Maritcr, and coiirtige in contending with vice and immorality in every form. Tiie gentlemen whose names I liave placed at the head of iliis notice, rank li"-t among the clergy of New Orleans ; and perhaps 't wonhl be difficult to find in the United Sti^tes, two men wiio more adorn the cie'-ical jHofession. They are both original thinkers — both men who have studied deeply into the springs of liuman action. Both have learned to apply the philosophy taught in books to the philosophy of liie. Students of njinre, they h:ive marked the workings of God in the outward luiivci'se — the ve._tingi!ished. His audience is large a)id continually on the increase. In private lile he is the agi'eeahle man of the world, and possesses an easy flow of conversation, without ever '• over-stepping the mcjuesty nf nature." In his addresses to tlie young, he is peculiarly iuterestiug. I had the pleasure of hearing him on one occasion some months since, and was particuhirly struck with the facility ho possessed in imparting religious trut'i* to the young mind, and wi;h the gentleness of his manner, so winning and capiivaling to childhood. Dr. Hawks, I wonld remark, in passing, is the recently appointed President of the University of Loiii.-iana. The Rev. Mr. Mullen nc:l dnivvs our attention as the most eloquent Cafhohc divine in onr ciiy. Mr. Mullen is associated in our mind hoth as priest and layman. One of the hierarchy, and one (mo t clearly) of the people. Bold, strong, and original, lie bursts upon his auditors in language at oi)ce chaste and pev^picT^ous — a natu^.i] orator, displaying little or no art. ALhletic in frame, lai-ge and muscular in his proportions, he reminds one of the stalwart priests of olden time, who put on the armor and cuirass and Vv'ent fortJi to do b.i.ttle ^or the cro-s. He is rough wiihal, and in iu's invectives against vice and cime, he is sometime^ grand, always forcible. Bishop England was a man versed in all the lore of ancient and modern times; he brought his illustrations from the records ol' the vvhole past. Sub- liine in his fliglits, he seemed iiTscued with the spirii of the divine Dante, and painied tlie future world of Vae y^'ickcc?, so fearfully, so truthfully, tliat a cold shudder would slrakc the frame and tC3 rcr be depicted on the countenace of his auditors — the v.'orld ol the blest so gloriously, so glowingly, so beautii'uliy that the spirit would seem to di diiin the bonds that confined it, llie eye^ distil tears of heart fell joy and rapiiire. Bishop England was indeed an orator, gretit, sublime, thrilling! It were a sin lo liken Mullen will) such a giant in eloquence and intellect, and yet tliere is some little resemblance between the two. We cannot tell exactly in wIkJ — it may be simply in physical or- tranization. Bir^hop England ever vai^^ed the thoughts from earih to heaven, comparing with MassiJlon In splend™-, with Fletcher in grandeur, and with Bossuct ill eloquence. Father Mullen, a thousand times move contracted in his rano-e of tliougbt, seizes upon the presentfor ill. 's! rations — the vvorld around him; a close observer of men, their passions aad their desires, he inveighs poainst their avarice, their meanness, t'leir worldliness, and tlieir petty vices, fearlessly, eloquently. He is by no means a common man, and one, who, if we mistake not, is destined yet to wear high honors in the Catholic church. SKETCHES, 55 The Catholic portioji of our population is larger, probably, than that of any otiier, and embraces_most, if not all, the Creoles of this State ; and may it continue to raise up sons of the church worthy of bearing tlie cross— men who will speak what') liey coni:eive to be iJie iruih, energetically, fearlessly- We like this trail in Father Mu.llcn, as we always like tl'e bold deijiocratic spirit, whether under the cowl of the monk, or breaking forth from the hps of one of the secular friends of the people. WOOLDEIDGE, NICHOLSON AND CROSS. How [cw there ai-c endowed wUii qnaKties fiiting them fur spiritual advi.-ers and cotin~e!lors? How many eml>racc "a profcssioji (or which mi1iire never intended them ? In \ny estimate of tlie -linisters o^ our holy religion, I have in my mind so elevated a standard; and I see so I'cw that begin to compass my ideal, that I al'.r.o^L fear to veuLiire upon the ta^k that lies before rae, 'c-t I may really undervalue veiy superior abilities. To believe in the counsels of men, their lives must be exemplary — must be pure and unspotted. To insiriict or persuade, they must be possessed of very supe^-ior attaiiimcnts. To touch the heart, or move to action, they should be endowed with eloquence, tliey should undei'stund thorougiily ijie natui-es to which tiiey appeal. Their knowledge Siiouldbe as wide as the universe, lor they .-peak of God. The kiw of kiod- noss should ever dwell upon thel>' lips, for benevolence is the great virtue of Deity. Gentleness, the most beautiful trait of tiic meek and lowly Jesus, should mark tlieir intercourse with their i'eliow beings. Fenelon, Obeilin, Choverus and Channing, have been beautiful examplars of the spirit that shouM ciiaroctcrize the true teacher of religion. In them, the fancy may easily trace for itself sweetness of temper and of manner, faces clothed in benignity anti smiles, the eye of hope and trust. The same beautiful traits combined with fervent zeal and devout enthusiasm, one may imagine as existing also in a 56 SKETCHES. pre-eminent degree in Priestly, Whitfield and Fletcher. Yet how few there are in our day, that begin to exemplify in themselves the characteristics that so nobly adornei' these great servants of the cross. I have selected Mr. Wooldridge as one wort])y to l)e portrayed, for the gentle- ness, the excel'ence of his character and the purity and trutli of his life : and ]\Ir. Nicholson, p far more brilliant pulpil orator, a man greatly loved and admired, more showy in his qualities and more given to display • nnd lastly, Mr. Cross. Wesley, the foimder of the simple and beautiful faith of the Methodists, would not be ashamed of this young preacher, who brings to the service of the sanctunry a liberal and highly cultivated mind, talent of no ordinary caste, simplicity of character and of manner, and enthusiasm void oi fanaticism. Ml*. WuoLDKrDGE is a native of South Carolina, and a graduate of Columbia College, in that State. He was for many years a Professor in the College of Jackson, and finally, if I mistake not. President of that Institution, ile was during the first pe-'od of his life, a follower of the faith of Wesley, and a clei-gyman in that evangelical church. Finally, yielding to hin convictions, he enibraced the doctrines of Channing a,s the rule of life. The thinkino- man and the scholar. Wooldkidge chose to bring his reason to the oracles of God, and believing tliat man's highest faculties were made to bo employed in the investigation of the truths of religion, an in other things, he rose from his studies the Unitarian Christian. He preaches but seldom, yet his discourses are cliaracterizedby a depth of thoug-ht, of originality and comprehensiveness of topics that mark the mind of native strength and purely classic education. Not having any church of his own. th's gentleman has been compelled to engage in secular pursuits, and is well know in iVew Orleans as the efficient and able assistant of the present incumbent of our Post Office. Mr. Wool- DRI33GE is an elegant writer, and has published one work on education of high literary merit. Mr. NicHOLSOK has been bug known as the Pastor of thf Poydras street Church. As a preacher of Methodism, he acquired a high reputation foi his eloquent delivery and varied acquirements. He has recently entered the folds of Episcopacy, and wd] doubtless prove to that sect a valuable auxiliary. His discourses abound in illustrations, and he is himself, tlie very embodiment of enthusiasm. Among our pulpit orators, he deserves a truly elevated position. The spiriluelle, breathes in all his words — fire from the altar burns upon his lips. His voice is full, clear, sonorous, his gestures elegant and finished, and his manner, interesting and in good taste. In his person, handsome, in his conversation, easy and agreable, Nicholson is generally a favorite — generally popular. SKETCHES. 57 In Cross, whom 1 introduce as a type of pure Methodism, I find also many traits of excellence. For myself, I am no sectary ; whoever in spirit and in truth worships the benificent Author of nature, whether in the great temple of the universe, every where proclaiming- God's presence — in his own soul, full of the voices of divinity — in the magnificent and loftily-arched cathedral, adorned with saintly images and aristocratic pomp ; or in the simple meeting-house, raised by as simple hands to the worship of the spirit of the universe, that man is my brother, and I have for him, 1 trust, that charity which is religion. Religion, we are told in sacred Vv^-it, comes in the still small voice — it speaks to us in the revelations of the inner spirit — in the soft and gentle harmonies of nature. In the certainty of her presence in the soul, it is not wonderful that the heart breaks forth in songs of gladness — in loud clamors of joy. Those were the halcyon days of the church, when the eloquent Whitfield, the devout Wesley, awakened in the multitudes that sought them in the fields, those songs of gladness — those loud shoutings, that testified to their faith and their hope. When the worlding laughs — the reviler scoffs at the Methodist foi- his clamor and his shouting — celestial charity should instruct him that God alone looketh into the heart of man, that God alone knoweth, if this people worship in spirit and in truth. Cross is a native of England, has, however, spent the greater portion of his life in this country. Some thirty-four years of age, his acquirements are very great. Filled with the spirit of devotional enthusiasm, and having a fine com- mand of language, his ideas flow with rapidity, and seize ever favorably upon the popular ear. As the pulpit orator, he is interesting, full and persuasive. By no means master of the human heart, yet much of an observer of men, he appeals forcibly to their sympathies, their passions, and their prejudices, nor are his appeals without effect. As a contributor to the more elevated periodical literature of the day, as the author of the life of the popular Welch preacher, Evans, and the translator of his eloquent and vigorous discourses, Cross has given an example of diffuse, finished and elegant writing, highly creditable to his head and heart. In conversation, he is easy and agreeable, remarkable for the simplicity and sincerity of his manner and his eagerness to please. As a poet, he is not without his claims to respect, and in the lighter kinds of compo- sition greatly excels.* There is nothing in his personal appearance particularly striking, though the more you become acquainted the more he wins upon you. * In the early annals of Louisiana, there is abundant material for poetry, though as yet but few have seized upon it. In very early times, a Creole descrihed in verse, the lieroism of the Indian Chief, who, in the absence of his son, surrendered himself to the avenging while man, and was sacrificed to his barbarity, more fell in those days than that of the savage himself. Tliis, with one other, a juvenile production of T. W. Colli.xs. Esq., are the only dramas of our early history, told in verse, and the first has long since perished, though the legend still remains. Our early history is one succession of romances. The 68 SKETCHES. In comparing these three gentlemen, I would remark t!iat the first presents a great contrast to the other two. Wooldridge is qniet and composed : Nichol- son and Cross, warm and animated. Wooldridge, possessed of little imagina- tion, arrives at conviction through force of reason. Nicholson and Cross, poetic, fanciful, and fall of the ideal, aim at the feelings, and seldom fail of reaching them. Wooldridge, in his gesture, is calm and collected ; Nicholson, rapid, ardent, graceful ; Cross, easy, elegant, emphatic. Wooldridge, in his style is plain, natural, and diffuse ; Nicholson, ornamental, logical, and artifi- cial ; Cross, clear, full of illustration, and concise. In the first, the river flow- ing slowly, though in fall current, through the cultivated valley ; in the second, the pellucid streamlet, fringed with flowers, dashing rapidly onward in uninter- rupted course ; in the third, the mountain current, broken at times by the beau- tiful cascade, and hastening on, through peopled vale, through mountain passes, to a frll and quiet sea. The three were educated in Wesley's school ; the last, only, has adhered to the teachings of his great master. In the first, there is more cultivation, more sincerity, more patience ; in the second, more brilliancy, more warmth, more vivacity; and in the last, more simplicity, more energy, more versatility of talent. Wooldridge has ceased to be ambitious ; Nichol- son would climb the loftiest height to be gazed on by the crowd below ; nor is Cross, I believe, void of the sin by which the angels fell. The first is content, satisfied with his lot ; the second never will be, I believe, until he wears the mitre ; the third, in the midst of literary pursuits and a crowd of admirers, would find his element — would be perfectly happy. Wooldridge has mingled with the world, makes little distinction between priesthood and laity ; Nicholson knows little of the first, save what he has read in books, nor is Cross much his superior in this respect. Wooldridge manifests in his actions, that man was made for the business of life and for the world — not for the cloister or the counting of beads. Nicholson, attaching himself to the hierarchy, loses the achievements — the adventures of Ponce de Leon. De Soto and La Salle are, tlie finest subjects for epic poetry. No pen has yet described in immorlal verse tlie heroism of those v^'ho perished martyrs to Spanish cruelty — of Villere, and of her, noblest and most devoted of women, his wife ; nor the valor of that bold rover Rousseau, who in his little brigantine, attacked an overwhelming force of Spaniards at Pensacola and cap- tured their fort. These are but a few of the subjects that might claim the attention of the true poet. Ours, too, is a clime, like Italy, one that excites the liveliest passions — the food for verse. It is a land where woman reigns in ten thousand phases of truth and loveliness — and she has ever moved the first chords of the Poet's lyre. Nor is Louisiana totally without her bards. Mrs. Da Ponte, Mrs. Dinnies, and Mrs. Cross, have given us Bome exquisitely beautiful poetry. Strawbridge, Gould, Canonge, Howard, the eccentric Van Dalsen deserve perhaps even more than a passing notice. I know not to whom we are to attribute a recent production by '"Nemo of Louisiana." The verse however, is smooth and musical, the sentiment beautiful, and as a short production, I have seen uothing like it emanating here. The writer .--hould be someUiiiig more than a mere fugitive poi't. SKETCHES. 5i» lesson that mingling amid the cares and struggles of life would afford liim, nor can he experience the temptations to vice, (the proudest triumphs of virtue in him who overcomes them) that in his discourses he teaches others so eloquently to avoid. Cross, in the simplicity of his peculiar faith, in his gentleness of manner, and his intei'course with the world, manifests in himself a spirit mild amiable and truthful. Modesty, charity and truth ; love, faitli and hope ; sin- cerity, piety and enthusiasm, alternate in the three, and find in all striking exemplification. MSTmSUISMED MEIV OF LOUISIAM. JOHNSON, GAYAHRE AND ELMOEE. I SELECT on the present occasion as subjects for my sketch, a Louisianian of Anglo-American descent, a Creole oi Louisiana, and a native of South Carolina. Isaac Johnson was born in the Parish of West Feliciana, some forty-three years since. He has lived always in his native State — never, indeed, having passed its limits. Popular and beloved at home, in the exercise of the most beneficent virtues, he has reversed the scripture maxim "that a prophet is not v/ithout honor, save in his own country and and among his own Idn." Rising in rapid succession through the various military grades of Colonel, Brigadier General, and Major General, he had but one higher step to mount in the noble profession of arms in his native State, and that he has attained. Civic honors have not the less illustrated his career. We find him at one time representing his Parish in the State Councils ; appointed at the early age of thirty-one, to the highly responsible office of Judge of the Third District of the State, and honored while serving in this capacity, by Governor Mouton, with the distinguished appointment of Secretary of State. This position re- tained but a short time, he is re-appointed Judge of the Third District ; is selected on account of his legal attainments, to preside in the Criminal Court of Appeals ; and finally, called by an overwhelming majority of his fellov/- citizens to the first post of dignity and trust in his native State. In all these oftices he has shown himself fully equal to the trusts reposed in him ; active and energetic in the discharge of his legislative duties, thoroughly impartial as a Judge, and, in military affairs, evincing his abilities by the high grades in which he has served. As a lawyer, we have the best reasons for knowing that he was learned and acute ; as a jurist, profound and well-read ; as a speaker, lie'is easy, grace- ful, and ' eloquent — his gestures appropriate, liis language chaste and forcible, SKETCHES. 61 shountling In clear illustration and brilliant metaphor : in his style as a writer elegant, concise, and severely correct, without superabundance of ornament. Johnson is tall, well-formed and muscular, and looks as though nature had made him to wear the robes of office. Dignity, benevolence, the most exalted virtues, sit enthroned upon his majestic mien, and his well known character, both in public and in private, do not belie the external developments. He lives, when in retirement, some two miles from St. Francisville, in a beautiful retreat, where nature and art combine to rear a home that tells of the elegance of the tastes and the love of rustic pleasures, which belong to the proprietor. In this home, hospitality has planted her blessed influences, and the free heart and open hand, characteristic of the southern planter, alike manifest their cheering presence. William A. Elmore has been residing nov/, for many years in this city, engaged in the practice of his profession. He is a man of large proportions, and possesses a countenance mild, agreeable, and calculated to win confidence. Mr. Elmore is probably some thirty-seven years of age, dignified in mien and figure, and, in his intercourse with others, easy and agreeable, thougli retiring in his manners. This gentleman's experience at the bar can scarcely place him on a level with the eminent lawyers and advocates who preceded him in the high office of Attorney General. As a speaker, however, he is collected and self-possessed, his language abounding in well-selected terms, and ideas clearly set forth, never overstepping the bounds of moderation; neither warm nor enthusiastic, without brilliancy, yet at the same time com- manding attention by the perspicuity of his arrangement and the appositenes.s of his illustrations. A man of excellent heart and noble sentiments, he wins the regard of those who know him intimately, and wears his honors without pride or ostentation. Chakles Gayaere I have long known, and speak of him with the confidence of intimate knowledge. A little above the middle height, he is slight in his proportions, though at the same tim.e manly and well-formed. He is probably forty years of age. His manners are easy and elegant, and calculated to win ftie esteem and confidence of the stranger. In conversation he is pleasing and interesting. Upon his brow are impressed the lines of tiiought and intelligence. He has shown himself an elegant writer in various walks of literature, but chiefly as the historian, far excellence, of his native State. Clearness and elevation, characteristics that should ever pertain to productions devoted to the historic muse, are peculiar to his style. He ha? already compiled from the most authentic mem.orials and given to the world, two volumes of a work that promises not less renown to the author than advantage to the State, clothed a? it is in the fairest liabiliments of elegance and truth. C-2 SKETCHES. Elected, years since, a representative in the lower house of our State Legis- lature, he established for himself a worthy and distinguished reputation, touch- ing no subject which he did not illustrate, and engaged in no measure of public interest which he did not advance. Chosen a United States Senator by tho Legislature, he never served, though the honor pertains to him of having proved himself, in the eyes of his fellow-citizens, worthy of the trust. Absent for some years in France, (in consequence of the precarious state of his health,) he returned two years since to the land of his birth. While devotinf himself to a useful and patriotic work, he was a second time called to a seat in the House of Assembly ; and, finally, his well-known abilities considered, received his present distinguished and responsible appointment. Gayarre traces his lineage through a long succession of eminent men connected with the early history of our State At his house you will find him surrounded by many choice productions of the painter's art, chiefly family portraits, which exhibit in their selection a refined and cultivated taste. This penchant for the art is truly to be admired, as tending greatly to elevate the character. A statue, a picture, preaches a discourse more powerful than that of the pulpit, if it remind the observer of a character once the living model of virtue, nobility of soul, grandeur of intellect, unshaken patriotism. If, in such connection, I may be permitted to allude to an ancient people, I would say, that it was the statues of illustrious ancestry that surrounded the young Roman in his "almighty city," that gave to him the patriotic and magnanimous characteristics, which have ever since been tiiemes for the poet, and the admiration of all whose feelings are alive to valor or to virtue. LANDUY AND FARRAK. Our Lieutenant Governor, and the late Speaker of the House of Represent tatives form the subject of my present sketch. The former of these gentlemen is a Creole of Louisiana — the latter a native of Kentucky. Col. Farrar counts some thirty-seven years ; Mr. Landry somewhat more. The President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, both exercised thsir duties in a dignified manner ; and the acquaintance of the latter with parliamentary usages, gave him in his responsible position,_pecuiiar claims to respect. They are both courteous in manner, and easy in their address, and are gentlemen in every sense of the word. Mr. Landry is above the middle height, is possessed of an agreeable counte- nance, a manly and athletic form, expressive and prepossessing features — is mild in his manner, and apparently of remarkable evenness of temperament. He has lived much in retirement, and it would seem, prefers its repose to more active scenes. He has, however, served in both Houses of the Legislature, and has never hesitated to maintain tlie principles of democracy — never, for a moment, swerved from the cause of the people. His family interest is a great one, and his name is found in many parishes surrounding that of St. Landry, though he may be considered as first among its representatives. He is a good though not an eloquent speaker. His style and manner are dignified and commanding, and he is one whose influence is felt, both on account of his superior intelligence, and the justness of his views and sentiments. Mr. Landry is a sugar planter, and a man of wealth. He has never known adversity, but has always sailed along the calm current of existence. Not ambitious of distinction, his talents have yet served to elevate him in the eyes of his fellow-citizens ; not aiming at high station, he has not refused it when within his reach. As a Louisianian, he deserves distinguished mention, as a true representative of a large portion of our citizens. A member of one of the oldest Creole families, he has not degenerated from his ancestry, but holds a worthy and honored place in the esteem of his countrymen. Col. Farrar has regular and decidedly handsome features — he is of the middle height, and a little inclined to corpulency. His countenance is 64 SKETCHES. remarkably expressive, and bears tlie stamp of good nature, and every amiable quality. The fullness of the lips denotes voluptuousness, and at the same time a generous spirit. It is, on the whole, a striking physiognomy, and one which prepossesses agreeably the stranger, and at once creates confidence. A graduate of Transylvania University in its palmiest days. Col. Farrar possesses a classic taste, and a highly cultivated intellect. Hence, his style of writing and conversation is chaste, elegant and correct. He is an attractive and eloquent speaker, possessing great command of language and abundant stores of imagery. Calm, energetic ; deliberate, rapid ; pointed, versatile ; practical, fanciful ; he interests and holds captive the attention. His gestures, his features, all conspire to add force to tlje words that fall from his lips. A great admirer of poetry, he has himself cultivated the Muses with no ordinary success ; his productions in this department breathing a refinement of sentiment and a beauty of imagery that are worthy of note. As a social companion, he is not less the life of the convivial circle, than of the coterie where sweet woman reigns. The sparkling repartee, the joyous anecdote, the good-humored witticism, are the charms which render him ever acceptable as a companion, agreeable as a gentleman. Refinement, elegance, varied accom- plishments^-the chief traits that adorn the higher circles of life — have in Col. Farrar a representative of no common order. There is, too, in his manner, an ease, earnestness, and truthfulness, that fail not to attract and win upon the stranger. Few men possess a wider circle of friends, and no man is better calculated to keep those acquired. He established himself early in Mississippi as a lawyer, and was very suc- cessful, having a large and profitable practice. He is an excellent Constitu- tional and Admiralty lawyer ; indeed, if I do not greatly err, has few superiors in our city in these departments of the law. Early devoting himself to political life, he served for ten successive years in the Legislature of Mis- sissippi, and thus acquired that experience of Legislative proceedings which have so recently elevated him in this State. He has been a resident of Louisiana some eight years, devoting himself to his profession. Col. Farrar is a strong whig, not a partisan, but a firm and unshrinking follower of the Clay school of politics. I have thus selected from the Legislature, two citizens who deserve men- tion on account of the large space they at present fill in the public eye. Their careers are but commenced, and I doubt not that they may yet climb Ftill liigher in public estimation. Be talent ever properly honored in a country li];e ours ! Let pretenders, the fire-flies of our summer atmosphere, pass away like those ephemeral existences — but merit, true merit — be it ever honored ! The Etructures that mental exertion raises, are more durable than SKETCHES. 65 those of brass and marble. Augustus Caesar boasted that he found Rome built of brick, and left it a marble citj^ ! The Roman might have made a more splendid boast, had he known that after times would have consecrated his reign, as the Ax-,gust?n age of letters. The works of the master spirits of those times survive, while the monuments of the architect have crumbled into dust. Let Americans in the youth of their magnificent republic, honor eloquence, poetry, literary taste. They elevate — they refine. They are the true monuments of a people's greatness ; and however manifested among us, should be greeted with honor and respect. WALKER AND SLIDELL. Joseph Walker now holds the office of State Treasurer. He was born in tlie city of New Orleans, some sixty-one years since, of poor yet highly res- pectable parentage. He owes the acquirements he possesses, the elevated position he has occupied for some twenty-five years past in his native State, to his own unassisted and untiring energies, having been, in every respect, the self-made man. He is of large proportions, tall, well made and muscular, and possessed of a mild and agreeable countenance. His manner is cordial, win- ning and peculiarly acceptable to the stranger. Interesting and animated in conversation, in convivial scenes he is the life of his party, and abounds in gaiety and humor. General Walker has been several times elected a mem- ber of the upper and lower House of our State Legislature, and presided with distinction over the late Convention called to amend the Constitution of the State, the highest and niost honorable position he has ever filled. General Walkes. has cv ;: r-izintained the principles of the democratic party. In him, the State possesses a scrupulous and conscientious officer — one, who, without brilliant abilities, possesses many of the characteristics of the statesman. Without th(* advantage* of a liberal education, he has yet -9^ 66 SKETCHES. stored his mind with numerous interesting and valuable attainments, is fluent in the French and Spanish languages, and at home in the politics of his party. A lover of his State, he studies her prosperity and renown, and deserves well at the hands of his fellow-citizens. Without conceding to him any extraordi- nary capacities, I must yet award him traits of honesty, kindness of heart, indomitable perseverance and energy of purpose. John Slidell is one totally different in the elements of talent and character. He holds an elevated position in this State, and may be considered as one oi the principal leaders of the democratic party. A native of New York, he has been a resident among us some twenty-five years. A man of superior abilities, he has received every advantage that a careful and liberal education can be- stow. Arriving in New Orleans poor and friendless, he has accfimiulated immense wealth, and exercises an influence wielded by few in the State. A lawyer by profession, thoroughly versed in the law in all its departments, he has been among the most successful of our practitioners. Ready, concise and convincing, he excelled as a speaker, without being possessed of the fire, the force, or the energy of the orator. Slidell in conversation, is reserved until excited, and then no man is more prolific in ideas, in flow of language, in anecdote and in tact. Shrewd, deep-searching and strong-minded, you may attempt to deceive or oven-each him, but you must be possessed of strong abili- ties, indeed, if you out-Herod this Herod. Slidell was appointed United States District Attorney, under General Jackson's administration, served repeatedly afterwards in the lower House of the State Legislature, and, while a member of Congress, was selected by the present Chief Magistrate of the United States, to act as Minister Plenipotentiary and Envoy Extraordinary to Mexico; With what tact, talent and discernment, he acquitted himself in this delicate diplomatic mission, (the most important one, perhaps, ever undertaken abroad by an American statesman,) the recent history of the country has sufficiently demonstrated. Suffice it to say, the name of Slidell has become honorably associated with a most interesting period of his country's history. W'hile alluding: to his career in Congress, I should not omit to mention the part taken by this gentleman in obtaining the remission of the fine laid upon the old Hero of New Orleans. If for nothing else, he may appeal to that, and claim for himself honor at the hands of Louisianians. This character, with many excellencies, abounds in contradictions. Seidell accumulates more, spends more, and wastes more, than any man in New Or- leans. While apparently yielding you his confidence, and securing yours, he walks quietly, composedly, into your affections, and gains every thing he wants wthout loss to himself The man ot liberality, the spendthrift,, the economist,- SKETCHES, 67 appear to combine in his composition. What shall we say to such a character ? — and yet, I fear not to present it to those who know intimately the man. Slidell has been legislator, lawyer, financier, diplomatist ; nor has his career, by any means closed. Higher distinctions await him; nor is there any station in his adopted State that he may not hope to reach — no one that, with his superior abilities, he may not fill with honor. I have heard him termed the unscrupulous politician ; and yet, I could point to examples of the highest and noblest disinterestedness, that .would quickly give the lie to the assertion — and in his intercourse with the world, to many an instance of liberality and kindness. I am again induced to admire the aristoc- racy of John Slidell — an aristocracy which simply separates pride of char<- acter, and an innate confidence of superiority, from the vulgar and would-be aspirants after public notoriety — from public characters of little brains and little hearts. John Slidell is the last man to treat proudly or v/ith pursy arro- gance, the man with the hard hand, tlie man who toils for his daily bread. In his intercourse with gentlemen, he is a gentleman. I wish to accord him no higher claims to respect. John Slidell must be quite sixty years of age ; possesses expressive and rather handsome features, strongly indicative of the character of the man. About the middle height, with a figure tending to corpulency, his mien is one to attract attention, though it may fail at once to impress favorably the stranger. We may speak of energy in man ; of it, he is the very embodiment. Of mental power, his rise, progress and history, is a noble commentary. Sli- dell's, however, is by no means, a faultless character, but a superior one, iij truth, and one destined to leave some traces on the march of time. MCDONOUGH, TOURO AND CALDWELL The dissimilarity of character apparent in the men who form the subject of my present notice, is striking in the extreme. I hesitate when selecting such men for portraiture, yet trust that I may succeed in stamping upon my page, likenesses not entirely at variance with the oririi^ : = McDoNOUGH is a native of Baltim.orc — lo. :":r. he has now resided in Louisiana for more than forty years, and must he .trying towards his fourteenth lustre. Commencing life in New Orleans as a merchant, he was success- ful in business. After some years of provident arid industrious exertion, he purcliased the place where he now resides. Here he devoted himself profitably, for a time, to the cultivation of the sugar cane. For many years past, however, he has been engaged in the making of brick, in which he employs a large force. Purchasing landed property, with its rise in value he has become immensely rich, and is doubtless, at tiiis moment, the wealthiest man in Louisiana. His riches may be computed by millions, and consist cliiefly of lands and houses, in New Orleans, in Algiers, in different Parishes of the State, and in Mississippi. With McDoNOUGH, the colonization system has been quite a hobby — and he has been the means of sending many negroes to Liberia. I mean not to subtract one tittle from this gentleman's merits in these transactions, but can easily understand that in the emancipation of his slaves he has received a full equivalent. It is clearly demonstrable, that the slave who toils as a statu liber, the impelling motive of liberty controlling his exertions, will be more active and energetic in his master's employ, and will accomplisli more, mucli more, than without £"'h motive. He labors more steadily, is more useful to his employer, and does more- in a given time. Point me to a single ac^ cf generous disinterested benevolence in the career of this millionaire ; point 'io a single act which speaks of the beneficence of wealth and vast possessions — a single Abbot L?.wrence donation to any great charity, et eris mihi magr.ns Apollo I Something mcse than half a century since, a rich flour merchant in one of our eastern cities was taking a mornirig's walk along the suburbs. He passed SKETCHES. 69 a. group of boys in the neighborhood of a brick-yard busily engaged in play. A lively, bright-eyed lad caught his attention. The rich man stopped and beckoned him to approach, and upon questioning him, Vv'as pleased with his sprightly manners and his intelligent answers. He soon learned liis name, and that his father was in very moderate circumstances. " Tell your father, my boy," said he, " to send you around to my counting-house to-morrow, and I will make a merchant of you." Sure enough, father and son were the next day at the appointed place, and the boy was left with the kind and benevolent patron. He proved -a second fatiier to tlie boy thus adopted — educated him to the business of a merchant's clerk, and laid, by his kindly instructions, the basis of his fortunes. Years roll on — the boy becomes a man, leaves the city of his birth, and ventures his bark, laden with the choice gifts of his benefactor, into the troubled seas of the new and growing West. He prospers — grows rich — becon^es a millionaire. ■H * * * * Let the reader accom.pany me again to the place designated, in search of the kindly benefactor of that boy. The years that had heaped up for him his millions, had for the flour merchant brought reverses. The chances of trade, unfortunate speculation, ruinous projects, snatched from him his golden stores. The merchant jirince became a bankrupt. He lost his all, and in the evening of his life found himself dependent upon the cold charities of the world. The home of his pros- perity, of his riches, of his honest name, became for a time hateful to him. He had heard of the good fortune of his former ward — of the boy he had in the season of his prosperity raised from penury and educated to the wavs of business — to whom he had imparted the first elements of wealth — he heard the story of his successes, of his immense riches. The old man left his home and sought in the Southwest the uch millionaire. You v.'ill say that such a friend, such a benefactor, was welcomed — was received as the long absent, still beloved — that a grateful return was made him — that the millionaire could not have done less than have bestowed upon him half his fortune. The aged, poverty-blighted benefactor, it is to be hoped, made not his appeal in rain. I pursue no further the record. It is not my purpose to enter into a detailed notice of the old man, Judaii TouRO. He is a native of Newport, Rhode Island ; some seventy-three years of age, and an Israelite. A merchant here, almost since New Orleans had exist- ence, TouRO has devoted his life to the uses of trade. Immensely rich, he is little attentive to the hoarding of wealth. He moves on in the even tenor of his way, a philanthropist, working in silence and in secret — not living in vain — 70 SKETCHES. a Hoioard in his charities, and benevolent works — a man in the noblest senso of tlie term — one, of whom it may be truly said : "Not enjoyment and not sorrow. Is his destined end and way; But to act — that each lo-morrow Find him farther than to-day." The name of James H. Caldwell has been rife on the tongues of men, for the last thirty years. He is by birth an Englishman — his age some fifty- four years. Connected with the old City Council, and since the division of the city into municipalities, he has served some thirteen years as an alderman ; and while chairman of the committee on streets and landings, was greatly instrumental in carrying into erFect the building of tlie wharves and the paving of the streets. His connection with various gas companies for some years past, is a dis- tinctive feature of his career. At one time the very soul of the Gas Company in New Orleans, (if we may ta.ke the liberty of granting that a corporation has a soul) — to Caldwell is due the chief agency in ligliting our city. In Mobile and in Cincinnati he has been busy in the same objects, and is so still, though less extensively than formerly. In this city, a stockholder where he was once a proprietor ; in Mobile, controlling this important business ; and he has recently, with the same energy that actuated him in his younger years, entered upon a contract for lighting the city of Lafayette. Caldv/ell had at one time interest sufficient to obtain from the Legislature a bank charter, under the auspices of which arose the Gas Bank. Industry in various useful and honorable pursuits, had made him rich ; but his Dank, volatile as the essence that gave it name, carried off on the wings of the wind his hundreds of thousands. Bitterly, doubtless, did this active and energetic, man regret that he had embarked his treasures in a craft so frail, rotten and rudderless. His agency here was the one great fault of his life, irreparable, irremediable. In public improvements. Caldu'ell has been ever active, ever moving. A million of dollars would be a small computation to mark the sums expended in this city through his agency in such objects. Caldwell's connection with the drama of the South and West, has given the principle coloring to his life ; and he may be considered as its legitimate founder in this western country. From his earliest youth devoted to tlie Thespi- an art — an enthusiast in his view of the beneficial influences exerted by pure and correct dramatic representation, he gave himself up for years to the managing tind tlie building of theatres — di?;plnying; himself no mean talent in ths SKETCHES. 71 histrionic art. Petersburg, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Natchez, Nashville, Mobile, New Orleans, owe the existence of their first theatres to this active, energetic and enterprising man. .In New Orleans, however, the chosen home of Caldwell, we find the greatest efforts made by him for the introduction of the true and legitimate drama. To this point, by his munificent and splendid ofi*ers, he attracted the chief actors in tragedy and comedy in America ; and it is on record, that for sixteen nights the celebrated Cooper received from this wealthy manager the enormous sum of $3,333. If in New Orleans any true dramatic taste exists, the credit is due to him who attracted hither the great masters of the art. No one can doubt the beneficial effects of the pure drama upon society — and in introducing the means of creating a refined taste therein, Caldwell doubt- less felt that he Was doing good service to the country and to his own name. The magnificent pile that he erected in this city, the pride of the Southwest, was burned to the ground in 1842, and in its ruins the energetic proprietor buried half his fortune. The tinsel sceptre he had held so long, fell trom his hand and has passed to others, " no heir of his succeeding." Caldwell lived in an ideal world for years, surrounded by his kino-g, queens, knights and -parvenues ; yet he never seems for a moment to have forgotten tiie bustling practical world in which lie played his part. Wonderfully versatile in his mind and character, Caldwell is endowed with singular and most opposite talents ; a perfect mechanic — he served no appren- ticeship ; the author — the actor — the literary man — he experienced not the advantages of a liberal education ; ever planning, ever projecting — he is no visionary enthusiast. He works for the present and for future generations , and yet is a man of many and various fancies — an excellent adviser in public affairs. We shall find him the safe and useful legislator. Such a man as Caldwell will not work at the capitol for nothing ; he will accomplish before he retires from the body, some great work for his beloved city ; perhaps secure water navigation between lake and river — the sure and certain means of destroying the hateful pestilence in New Orleans. Nous verrons. He who studies men and their lives, cannot but be surprised at the variety of traits which distinguish our race. As in the countenance, we find no two who agree in lineaments, so it is with character. In my first, I trace the saving, acquisitive man, who accumulates his millions and lives poor in the midst of affluence — spends no more than what is sufli- cient to meet tlie necessities of life ; and knows little of the pleasures of charity, or employing while he lives to beneficent and useful purposes, the wealth he amasses. In the second. I find one wjio in accumulating wealth, casts his eves around 7i SKETCHES. in search of worthy objects on whom he may bestow liberally of his abundance ; who, himself, uses to philanthropic purposes his stores, and trusts not his executors; who marks, himself, the proper objects for his beneficence; who visits the fatherless and the widow in the season of their adversity and adminis- ters to their wants ; who gives to the public library his thousands — to the cause of patriotism his ten thousands ; who lends to the good and active servant of our holy religion, his churches, his means of ministering to the people ; who seeks out suffering talent and neglected genius, and through his aid brings to lio-ht their elevating and ennobling productions — their creations and discoveries ; who is seldom or never seen in his charities ; who raises around him., Iking, monuments of praise, and in death, will create a void among the benefactors of his race. In m.y third, I find one who labors for the public more than for himself; who, in every movement of his life, displays a utilitarian spirit ; who projects public improvements and carries them to successful issues ; who, while regarding the useful and the beneficent, looks also to the enjoyment of his lellow-citizens — supplies festivals, games and amusements, and finds therein his own profit and gratification ; who works for his own fame while he seeks to elevate others ; who is neither spendthrift in his means, nor contracted in his schemes of benevolence. The favored worshipper of Mammon; the priest in the temple, who ministers in charity to those whom fortune forbids to approach the walls ; the man who seizes upon the images and scatters them abroad — Midas in his touch— Howard in his philanthrophy ; and for the third, I find not for so versatile a character suitable object of resemblance or comparison. PETERS AND DIMITIIY. The career of the eminent citizen, merchant and financier, Samuel J, i'ETERS, I regard as peculiarly worthy of notice. For more than a quarter of a century a resident of Louisiana, he owes his present distinguished position to his energy of character, and his untiring and persevering spirit of enterprise and industry. He came to Louisiana poor, and witli nothing to recommend him to notice or regard save a letter of introduction, wliich secured him a clerkship in one of our mercantile houses. Active, early obtaining the confidence of his employers, strictly devoted to his duties, "the boy ptoved himself the worthy father of the man," whose influence is now felt in every part of our city ; whose wealth, the sure return of good habits and careful providence, has become immense ; whose voice, politically speaking, is ever heard with respect by the party to which he belongs, and whose character, in a moral point of view, secures him even the esteem of violent opponents. Peters is a whig, and a strong one ; a bold partisan, an uncompromising politician, a tower of strength to his party in New Orleans. His personal appearance is striking, his manners winning and agreeable, and his attain- ments very considerable. In his manly figure, his full bust, his handsome and regular features, one reads much in his favor before knowing him. The lineaments of his countenance are expressive ; the intelligent eye, the broadly expanded brow, the tout ensemhle cannot escape the notice of the most careless observer, as bearing in them character — something above the common order of men. It may not be uninteresting to trace to his birth-place, the man I describe, and to allude to his ancestry. Mr. Peters was born in Canada. His grand- father and father were natives of Massachusetts. In his adherence to high church principles and to the royal authority, the former was compelled to leave the colony. In lieu of lands lost in his native State, he obtained from the English government a grant in Canada ; the son of the elder Peters went . to take possession of these, and while there, the subject of this narrative was born. I would mention also, in passing, that the grand-uncle of Mr. Peters 10 74 SKETCHES. was the celpbrated Hugh Peters, of puritan memory — a bold republican, who \va!= counted among the regicides, and lost his life upon the scaffold. The stock is a good one, and I mention it because I am not one of those who de- spise family names or family distinctions. As a member of the Council, Mr. Peters, when called into debate, is a clear, concise and effective reasoner. Whatever he proposes for consideration, is listened to with attention and respect. As a financier, he is pre-eminent, and it was in detecting an inaccuracy to a large amount in the treasury reports of the city, in 1829, that he first made known to the community his financial talents. His is a restless disposition — ever projecting, ever forwarding plans for public benefit, and for private advantage. Intrigue avails the subtle con- triver, where popular opposition or the will of faction exerts its sv/ay. The man who is never wanting to his own, has the faculty of securing the con- fidence and the purse of the dominant party. The Florida war, the jNIexican war, both measures of democratic policy — the last begun, carried on and sustained under democratic rule — have proved to this merchant sources of fortune and of wealth. They have proved crucibles, in which the provident and subtle alchymist has cast his supplies, and received in exchange golden eagles. The City Bank was chartered in 1830. For seventeen years, backed by monied influence, by the command of heavy capital, the President of this institution has never faltered in his progress. How he has used his powers, I stop not here to consider. New Orleans may point to this gentleman as to one of the chief movers in its march of prosperity, during the last twenty years. To him it owes many of its most important and valuable improvements. Chiefly instrumental in dividing the city into municipal sections, in the one where he resides, he has been peculiarly active. The noble edifices, the well-paved streets, the pros- perity of its system of public instruction, the admirable municipal arrange- ments there existing, all evince the activity and energy of this noted alder- man. It is true that the municipal revenues have scarce kept pace with the advancement made in public improvements ; that a heavy debt has been in- curred, and that there is a spirit abroad, which does not admit of the present generation anticipating the revenues of posterity ; yet whatever may be the views of the writer upon these topics, he cannot but admire the enlightened spirit, which in the present moment, looks forward to the prosperity, improve- ment and happiness of a future generation. Where a wasteful expenditure is observable, where improvements of a public nature are shown to be useless and expensive, tending solely to display, where there is in public works a want of that careful construction which tends to permanence, it becomes the SKETCHES. 75 frientl of his country to watcla the projectors witli a jealous eye, and to see that tlie money taken from the people by taxation, is properly and wisely expended. I will not say that Mr. Peters has in every instance shown himself a strict titilitarian ; yet I cannot but speak highly of the improvements in the Second Municipality, in a considerable degree attributable to his influence. Mr. Peters is a close calculator. It is certain that while looking to the advancement of his section of the city, he has taken good care of his own interests ; that ho has enriched himself — has become wealthy ; yet I have never heard his fiercest opponent say that this has been at the expense of others. The beautiful system of Public Instruction that prevails in his section of the city, owes much to the enlightened efforts of this gentleman, though it should not be forgotten that other influences were at work in the first instance, and that the project then found opposition in Mr. Peters. Glendy Burke, Esq., if I mistake not, first advocated the measure in the Legislature, and finally Mr. Peters came into the plan. When the measure became a popular one, then it was that this gentleman threw his influence into the scale.* * The following strictures upon this passage, we take from the columns of the New Orleans Bulletin: " A writer in the Bee of Saturday, gives a vigorous, and in many respects, a correct sketch of our fellow-citizen. Samuel .T. Peters; but in one state- ment he has done that gentleman such singular injustice that we cannot re- frain from noticing it. He states that : 'The beautiful system of Pubhc Instruction that prevails in his section of the city, owes much to the enlio-ht- ened efforts of this gentleman, though it should not be forgotten that other influences were at v/ork in the first instance, and that the project then found op()osition in Mr. Peters. Glendy Burke, Esq., if I mistake not, first advo- cated the measure in the Legislature, and finally, Mr. Peters came into the plan. When the measure became a popular one, then it was that this gentle- man threw his influence into the scale.' " It is evident that ' W.,' who doubtless makes this statement in the belief that it is correct, was not a resident of New Orleans at the time of the adop- tion of the public school system. Had he been, he would probably have Imown that it liad been a favorite jroject of Mr. Peters' for several years, that in 1840 Mr. Peters visited the public scliools of the Northern and Eastern cities, and procured thence and from Europe all the necessary information on the subject; that soon after he, Mr. Peters, v/ith the lionorable Mr. Baldwin, the present Recorder of the Second Municipality, and Aldeim.an Yorke, drew up the identical school bill, which was presented to the Legislature by Mr. Burke, who was also at that time a member of the Council. Mr. Burke, we know, was also an original and active friend of the school sysfera, and performed his part with unquestionable zeal and ability. The bill, through his eftbrts and those of others in the L'-'gislature. friendly to the 7G SKETCHES. T?io MunicijDal Library, at this time one of the most valuable and well- selected in the United States, (containing some 6000 volumes,) in being carried to its present prosperous condition, in the mode by which the monies and con- tributions sustaining it, are collected, and in its interesting connection with the children of the Municipality, owes, its very existence to Mr. Peters. Again, the system of wharfage, by which immense sums are secured to the city, in the way of revenue, owes principally its origin to the exertions of this member of the Council. . But it is time that I draw this sketch to a close. In noticing an individual who holds so large a space in the public eye, I am aware of tlie difficulty of my position. I know that it is no easy matter to reconcile the prejudices of opponents or the admiring plaudits of friends. I have sought to steer clear of both, and have taken my course in media via. Unprejudiced myself, and aiming solely at the truth, I have sought to do justice to the man I describe. It is a character of opposite and singular elements. I find in him incompara- ble tact and shrewdness ; a merchant of liberal and wide-reaching views, the useful citizen, the strong partisan, tiie man never forgetful of self-interest, cause, became a law, and laid the foundation of our public school system — but to Samuel J. Peters is pre-eminently due the honor of having projected , and, by his efforts and influence, of having firmly established his system, which is now so promising of invaluable benefits to the peo])le of Louisiana. " We speak advisedly on the subject of the school system in the Second Municipality, as we were at the time perfectly familiar puid cognizant witli its origin and progress, and were in the original Board of Directors that or- ganised and first put the machine in motion. We were also well acquainted with th ! views and exertions of Mr. Peters on the subject, and know that it received his cordial support; even though, at the time, it added not a little to the then existing embarrassments of the finances of the Municipality. "It has been before attempted to deprive Mr. Peters of the credit of having first projected our public school system, but " W."' is the first who has ventured to assert, that that gentleman was opposed to it until it hud become popular. "We advise "W.," in future, to be more certain of his facts, when they assail the character of citizens whose eminence may induce sketches from his prolific, and, at times, not too scrupulous pen. "Before closing, we would only further observe, that Mr. Peters gave to the S3fstem his able and effective support, both in and out of the Council — its triumphant success is chiefly to be ascribed to the untiring devotion of Re- corder Baldwin and the citizens who, with iiim, have constituted the Board of Directors. "The services of Mr. Baldwin, from the time he was appointed President of the Board, down to the present time, can hardly be sufficiently estimated — they have been unremitted and invaluable, and will ever be remembered with gratitude by the community, and not tho less so, that they have been entirely gratuitous.'' SKETCHES. TT the close observer, the powerful controller and mover of the thoughts of other men, the intriguant, the model of energy and perseverance without compass, one difficult to fathom, often intricate in his projects, working secretly his course towards great results ; one whose friendship is not easily gained, and whose enmity is bitter, irreconcilable ; a man of good name and ancestry, who has yet made himself; one who "Trusts 110 future, liowe'er pleasant, Lets tlie dead past bury its dead, Lives ever in the living present." and plays no mean part in its varied scenes. The Superintendent of Public Schools in this State is no ordinary man. In intellect, gigantic; in abilities, first among our literary men; with a taste highly cultivated, and a mind full and richly stored with the treasures of history, of art and of science, Alexander Dimitry is the Creole of Louisiana who now ciiiefly adorns our city annals. He has studied languages, not for the purpose of simply knowing them, but for the legitimate object of using the happiest expressions as the vesture of his ideas. He has read history, not so much to accumulate facts, as to bring the experience of the past to bear upon the present. Differing from most men, whose lives have been spent among books he has brought the observation of the sages of the past, as well as his own, to the study of mankind, and in this he is an adept. A close and vigilant observer, a single act — a movement — a word — a glance, in his fellow-man, is an index of character, and through these, he reads the individual. It is the single bone or fossil of Cuvier, by which the artist traced the habits, mode of life, and character of one of a living or extinct tribe of animals. Formed in a heavy mould, with a large head, low forehead, shaggy eye-brows, black hair and eyes, dark complexion, features large and far from handsome, there is someting pecu- liarly striking in his whole appearance. You would easily select him among a thousand as a man of extraordinary characteristics of mind. Some forty years of age, he has passed only a small portion of his life at home. In Philadelphia, in Washington, this man has been worlcing, studying, advancing. Appointed by President Van Buren, Secretary of the Board of Commissioners upon Mexican claims, he exhibited liis ability as an interpreter of languages, his knov/ledge of international law, and national treaties, and proved himself, to those associated with him, a politician of nice tact and policy. Peculiarly the friend of the working classes, productions have emanated from his pen, v,-hich,had no revolution ever taken place in America, had been «78 SKETCHES, sufficient to have worked one — productions of suTiciAit force to make arisfo" cracy tremble in its strongholds, however encircled by its guardians, pride, wealth and power. Dimitrt is not the pretty writer ; he is not the mere searcher after elegant expressions — it is not dignity on stilts — ^the far-sought image — the fine-turned period — Gallic glitter — Addisonian sweetness — it is none of these. Burke, in his fullness and his beauty ; Milton, in his massive- ness and majesty of diction ; Carlisle, in his spirit-tones of truth and grandeur ; Leggett, in his logical force and living strength ; Jefferson, in his true Ameri- canism and political wisdom ; Channing, in his perspicuity, his vi^or and his truthfulness, have all been models with Dimitey, and at times he approaches the masters whom he imitates, Witli all his cultivation of mind, with all his stores of learning, in the multiplicity of books he has perused, of acquirements he has made, divested of all these, he manifests himself the bold original thinker — not the mere retailer of the thoughts of other men. Should I be called to select a man from among us in advance of his times, I would point to Alexander Dimitry as being, emphatically, that individual. With political tact, talent and providence, that few can boast, he has not in politics sought distinction. The great system of public instruction — a field for the efforts of the utilitarian, for the philanthropist, for the friend of his country — has for him greater charms than tlie ambition ot shining in legisla- tive halls, or wrestling with the giant intellects that control the aflairs of our country. He works on in a sphere, which, if far less brilliant, yet offers to a mind busy in working the good of the country, in presei-ving inviolate our noble institutions, a purer spring of utility and of pleasure. If it be true, tiiat upon the diffusion of education among our citizens, and especially among the rising generation, depends the permanency of our insti- tutions, then, it is to the enlightened promoter of this beneficent object — to the man whose whole soul, eloquence of language antl strength of mind are wrapped up in tliis philanthropic movement, that we should accord deserving praise. Dimitry is a democrat, as is well known ; a man of the people, and rising from them ; a striking and interesting example of the elevating influ- ences of our peculiar institutions ; an orator and a scholar who has made him- self distinguished, and made, too, a character fitted to adorn any station. As a lecturer. I have not seen his equal in Louisiana. As a speaker, he is strong, bold, and convincing, uttering his sentiments in clear, conclusive termiS, and in vigorous and massive sentences — not a word too mucli, not a word less than is wanted. His speeches partake greatly the character of his style ot writing. He abounds in metaphor, but in metaphor ever jg-^j-main to the matter. The tones of his voice arc full, commanding. !?or;orn'i:5 : bis gestures, elegant and S K E T c; H E S , 79 finished ; his declamation, a laodel for an elocutionist. There may be a little art, and yet I believe him a bold student of nature. Ridicule and sarcasm — keen and terrible weapons in the hands of tlie skil- ful — are with him as playthings. When necessary, he can use them ; and upon whom they fall, they come as the blighting, withering frost upon the green pasture. With a faculty possessed by few, he makes application of the past to the present — a keen observer of the times, he is at home in every move- ments of the political world, and the events passing around him. Politics, law, history, religion, metaphysics, are elements in which he lives and which he has made his ovv'n. Singular, that one thus endowed, thus cultivated, has never devoted himself to either of the great professions — that such a mind should make literature its sole pursuit. I have described one, emphatically, of the people : a man who must ever be popular with them, for his sympathies are entirely in accordance with the struggling masses ; a man bold, original, energetic ; of elevated mind and character ; ambitious, if you please, but ambitious of honorable distinctions ; an orator a man of tact, of close discrimination, a far-seeing politician, one who, in the depth and extent of his attainments, resembled Hugh S. Legare, of South Carolina; in his vigorous style and subtilty of arguments, compares with Brownson, of Massachusetts ; one who has done little as yet that is known — for his time is in the future— a man, who, whatever path he had chosen, Avould have achieved a name, and a gi-eat one. GOUDON AND MARIGNY. In tlie character of the old republican, of the firm supporter of measures having for their sole object the country's good ; of the man disregarding self- interest, the desire of office, the smiles of power, or the claims of ambition, (if, in attaining these, he trampled under foot preconceived notions of right;.) of him who has clung to the constitution of his country, ever asserted prin- ciples he deemed as tending to the benefit and elevation of the masses — in a character like this, there is something so noble and interesting that one loves to contemplate, while he may fear his inability to portray it, with a correct and truthful pencil. An interesting incident occurs to my mind, which, as having considerable influence upon the after career of Gordon, will serve appropriately to intro- duce this gentleman to my readers. Leaving, at an early age, his native State, he travelled for the purpose of establishing himselt through this western country. Upon his route, he stopped at Knoxville, Tennessee. While sitting alone in the receptiono-oom at the hotel, a tall thin man with dark hair and eyes, entered the apartment, and threw liimself upon a chair. Si ruck with his appearance and mien, young Gordon noted him with attention. Shortly after a couple of men came in, and soon a Controversy commenced between them and the stranger, which becoming violent and angry proceeded to blows. The gentleman would have been overpowered had not young Gordon, too chivalrous to permit such unfair play, such odds against one man, darted upon one of the assailants. Vigorous in strength and activity, he shortly mastered him, nor was it long before the stranger had disposed of his antagonist. " To whom," said the stranger, turning to young Gordon, " am I indebted) for this timely and magnanimous aid ?" "My name," replied the young man, "is Martin Gordon, of Chesterfield county, Virginia." "And mine," said the stranger, "is Andrew Jackson — there is my hand, and with it my heart ; and if ever at any time hereafter, you require the aid of a friend, count upon him to whom you have rendered this great service.'" SKETCHES. 81 And from that hour to tlie day of his death, tlie hero of the Chahnette — the stout republican, the man who never forsook a friend, or spared an enemy — liept the word he had pledged to the young Virginian. In the hour of pros- perity, in the season of adversity, they were friends — friends that sought of each other mutual aid, advice and instruction. When I consider that I write of liim who was the intimate friend of Jackson — who, however great his failings, I count as one among the gi'eatest men who have adorned the annals of our country's history, I feel more tjian proud of my subject, and full con- fidence that, armed in the bold spirit of republicanism, I shall not fail to portray some, at least, of the lineaments of Map.tin Gordon. Gordon established himself as a merchant in the Crescent city, near half a century since, in connection with a brother of Henry Clay. Active, indus- trious and energetic as a man of business, he prospered for a time, but at length experiencing some reverses, he left mercantile life and was appointed Clerk of the old Distrist Court of New Orleans. Many of the older men> bers of the bar will remember with what zeal and ability he discharged for more than twenty years, his duties in this department. The books, the ar- chives of the Court of that period, are a standing memorial of the exactitude and industry displayed in this office by Mr. Gordon, during the closing period of which he acted as President of the New Orleans Navigation Compan}^, for many years after, and until appointed Collector of the Port of New Orleans. This last office he held four years, and upon retiring from it was appointed Superintendent of the Mint, the building of which splendid edifice, now an ornament of our city, was entrusted to him by Government. This last ap- pointment closed his public life. Upon a splendid fortune, the accumulation of many years of industrious exertion, he retired to private life, bearing with him the esteem of numerous friends, and the respect of all who love probity, honor, and pride of character. As early as 1797, Martin Gordon took his position as one of the republican party — as a firm supporter of the policy afterwards known as that of JefFerscJn. Long the leader, the father of democracy in Louisiana, to him the party ever looked for guidance and advice. He was a worthy leader, for he was an honest man. He was a strong one, for he had a mind of his own, unconquer- able energy and strength of character. He never shrunk from the avowal of what he knew to be right, and with the impetuosity of the heroic Jackson, never hesitated to throw himself into the front fire, where principles were at stake. Gordon vir insciens timoris, maluit esse, quam videri bonus, is a motto timt might be inscribed upon his tomb. Detesting meanness in all its forms, he would hold no intercourse with those who stooped to its degrading influences. Tlic man of frank heart and pure mind, he liateJ hypocrisy, and once foiuid 82 SKETCHES. in any man, from that moment ho could hold no intercourse with Martw Gordon. Adversity came at last to try a character that had ever basked in the smiley of fortune and of prosperity. The wreck was a terrible one. The desolating storm bore all away, save honor, pride of character, and the unyielding will. The ingrate, the worthless parasite, the hollow friend, forsook the noble craft. Yet still it sweeps on, calm, unyielding. Seventy-five winters, though tliey have brought the chills of age, have not withered the feelings of the heart. The kind, the hospitable old Virginian, still lives. In the memory of the past, and in the prosperity of his country, he feels the delight that renders old age happy and content ; nor has he lost even yet, the vivacity and humor, the wit and fondness of anecdote, that characterized his youth. The arched and lofty hall that time has covered with its ruins, still tells to the fancy the story of other and more prosperous days — of the fete, the dance, of joy and mirth — the frowning battlement, the moss-grown tower tell of con- test and of strife. Fourscore years, in the life of man, may tell a tale of like comparison. General Jackson in the closing period of his life, came occasionally to New Orleans, and while here ever tarried with the old friend of his youth. There is something truly touching in the record that on his last visit to our city, these old men, on the verge of the grave, kneeling together prayed at the same family altar. They had completed their pilgrimage. The ambition of life, its cares, its toils and its struggles, the strifes of party, no longer affected the veterans. The friends met foi- the last time — the hero of seventy-four, the patriot of seventy, embraced for the last time. The final farewell spoken, it was then that they supplicated the great Friend of the human family to unite them in the mansions of the blest beyond the grave. " Lives of great men— all remind us, We can make our lives sublime, And departing, leave behind us Foot prints on the sands of time. Foot prints, that perhaps another. Sailing o'ejr life's solemn main, A forlorn and ship-wrecked brother, Seeing, may take heart again." Had the old Creole, Bernard Marigny — Rip Van Winkle like — gono to sleep in 1805, and awakened in 1830, he would have found himself the wealthiest man in Louisiana — worth not less, at this time, probably, than twenty millions of dollars. In 1805, he was emancipated, being at that time some SKETCHES. 83 eighteen years of age. He has devoted himself to tlie pursuit of wealth, with miser-like zeal, though caring no more for money than the veriest spendthrift in the land. Ever full of speculations, fortune has seldom smiled upon him, nor has he been endowed with that virtue, which in Midas, turned every thing he touched to gold. He has considerable property — may, perhaps, be accounted wealthy. It may not be too much to say, that Bernard Marigny has expended, in various ways, more money than any man now living in Louisiana. Marigny is good looking, a little bent with years, about the middle height, his eyes piercing, black and restless. The man who eats with his fingers, dis- carding the luxury of knives and forks ; who, in his address, is hasty, forward' and regardless of ceremony ; who sings, at all times, in and out of season, whether on the steamboat, at table, or in the counting house ; has, in times pust, been " the glass of fashion and the mould of form, a mirror in which our young men dressed themselves." In that day, when the Creole held the prece- dence in court and hall, young Marigny was among the first, the leader of the dance, the very soul of mirth and merriment. At our saturnalia, at the ball, the opera — none more distinguished than Marigny. I shall not enter upon his private history ; suffice it to say, that in early life he married the daughter of Governor Morales, who bi-ought him a princely fortune. Eccentric — peculiar in his manners and character, it is a picture difficult to portray — one to which I find it impossible to do anything like justice. He has exerted great influence upon his contemporaries — to the Creoles, has been a model — nor has the influ- ence that attended the youthful Marigny departed from the present genera- tion. The family of Marigny is the oldest in the State. Three of his lineal as- cendants lie buried within the walls of our old Cathedral. The monument tells of high honors, of noble distinctions. His three immediate ascendants were all chevaliers of the order of St. Louis — honors which they divided with princes. They were men who adorned the early history of Louisiana, and figured among her statesmen and her warriors. Bernard Marigny still, I believe, cherishes the memory of his noble ancestry ; he clings to titles of honor, to the insignia of rank, as youth clings to its first love ; and yet, sine© he was old enough to take part in politics, in every change of party or of faction, he has adhered to the democracy. This old Creole has ever been among the leading politicians of the State ; has twice unsuccessfully run for the gubernatorial chair; has repeatedly served in both houses of the Legislature ; has been President of the Senate ; served as a member in both conventions called for making and revising the Siate Constitution ; and has filled numerous official stations of trust and honor. S4 SKETCHES. I would mention, in passing, that MAniGNY, witii three other veterans, the Hon. Henry Bry, for many years Judge in the Parish of Ouachita, and at one time superintendent of pubhc works ; tlie Hon. Henry Johnson, our present Senator in Congress ; and General Morgan, of St. Tammany, a time honored and noble relic of the early days of Louisiana — alone survives' of the members of the Convention that framed the old Constitution. Marigny alone, of these vete- rans, had the singular honor p^nd distinction of serving his State on these two occasions. While Marigky was as yet a loy, a stranger cf illustrious port and bearing, from the old world, sought his father's hospitality, and long sojourn- ed beneath his roof. He was one who, proscribed at home, a wanderer and a fugitive upon the earth, had sought the asylum that young America held out to the victims of tyranny and proscription. Providence seems to have sent him among us, to observe the prosperity and beauty of onr institutions, that, at a future day, he might dispense, as far as practicable, their blessings to thirty millions of the human family. From the elder Marigny, this noble stranger received more than hospitality — money to meet his wants and to bear him on liis waj^ Years passed on, a revolution came, and the illustrious fugitive was raised to the throne of his ancestors, a Repviblican King — one richly taught in the schools of adversity, of poverty and of danger. Young Maeignt, recalling the time when the Duke of Orleans had been his father's guest, and the bene. fits conferred upon him by his family, sought the Court of France. The King of the French received the young Am^erican with distinguished honors and with that respect, which, in the old world, is awarded to princes alone, (for in the sight of Louis Philippe every true American was a native born princej Marigny, amid tlie blaze of royalty, the insignia of rank, forgot not, we may suppose, the past history of his ancestry — their title to a place among the French nobility, but remembered, doubtless, with still greater pride, that he was an American, one of a great nation, whose title to honors rests on talent, en virtue, on devotion to their country and her institutions. Republicanism, in its godlike simplicity, may laugh at tlie pomp of royalty, and point with manly pride at her institutions so void of form and display, yet royalty manifested in such a prince as Louis Philippe, had, v/ithout doubt, its attractions for Bernard Marigny. Pride, on this occasion, must have found place in the bosom, both of tlie Royal Prince and tlie simple Republican. The latter was in thepreselice of a powerful monarch who was under obligations to his family ; the former, surrounded by all that may aggrandize the heart o^ man, could not but remember that the American had known him in adversity' m want, suid a fugitive. SKETCHES. 85 Maricny excels as a public speaker, is full of fire and fimcy, and cannot but arrest the attention and bold the hearer captive. Aboundino- in o-esture sparkling with witticism, and biting with sarcasm, bringing before his auditor the past with all the truthfulness and reality of events now passing, he pos- sesses all the enthusiasm of his race, and is an admirable specimen of the Creole orator. Mirabeau, ever ready, ever true to the present thought of the multitude, by a word restrained, by a word moved to action. Twenty years ago, Mariony, in the influence he possessed, in his sway over our Creole popu- lation, might, in the above respects, have compared favorably with that greatest of the revolutionary orators of France. At present, still retaining much of the fire of his youth, his eloquence, though of an uncommon and superior order, falls unheeded upon the ear, and has ceased to influence or control. Marigny is active, restless, ever projecting, never finishing. He is ambi- tious of political sway, fond of applause, simple, unostentatious. It is sur- prising when one observes the career of this eccentric man, to see how many parts he has played upon life's theatre. With prospects, such as seldom attend the young man in entering upon his career in America; the heir to immense wealth, of illustrious family, and a finished education — to what a heio-ht of greatness he might have aspired. When Creole influence was at its acme, some twenty-five years since, Marigny was among the first of our youno- men, was esteemed, respected and beloved. With a liberal and careless hand he dispensed favors about him, and spent a princely patrimony. He did not like Martin Gordon, make his own fortune, nor did he know like him the value of money, nor how to employ it beneficently. The treasures that a century's industry had amassed, pleasure, chance, and a bounty that could scarce be call- ed liberality, have dissipated. Gordon did not spend his fortune himself — but Marigny can now summon to his fancy the ghosts of departed millions, that he himself has sown to the winds. As a moral picture, I know not the charac- ter in Louisiana so worthy of study and contemplation as that of Bernard Marigny. Louis Philippe, Santamar, (the unhappy victim of Mexican bar- barity,) Julian Poydras, ane numerous others, cluster around his ng,me and give to this true embodiment of Creolism an interest that makes the writer loth to quit his subject. I leave him, and leave him with the wish tha.t he had better improved the advantages of education ; that he had better used the gifts of fortune ; that he had been one to whom the present generation of Creoles that is passing, and the one pressing upon their steps, might point as to au example of moral grandeur — of exalted character. ERRATA, Page 14, 5th line, for poitics, resid politics. " " 6th line, for adore, read adorn. " 23, 11th line, for Thomas G. Collins, read Thomas W. Collins. " 48, 19th line, for surpassing him, read Maurian excels. " 55, 22d line, for exaraplars, read exemplars. " 56, 36th line, for spiritiielle, read spiri/ncl. " 57, in note, for T. G. Collins, read T. W. Cullins. " 72, 6th line, for christian, read active. *' 77, 2d line, for compass, read compare. U) t LBAg?9