Historical and Biographical Record of Douglas County, Illinois (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1900 Excerpt: ...hand plucks those who seemingly can least be spared. With the spirit of frankness we say it is always so, for when, perchance, one of less degree is claimed for that bourne of eternity, there comes as a belief, it seems to us, virtue and merits forgotten and unheralded like the still, undisturbed repose of true worth, magnified, it may be, by hidden generosities of our nature, suddenly drawn upon in all of the intensity of deep-seated sorrow, and through the gloom see, as bright lining, the nobler elements of the true man. This custom is not of mere form, but of deep merit; an opportune time for contemplation of true worth and true manhood, yielding fruitful lessons for the present and enduring thoughts to guide us on into the otherwise obscure and unknown future. So the dark pall of death brings the white-winged dove and proclaims the brightest subjects. To-day we make no draughts upon our charity in speaking of the subject of the resolutions which I have the great honor on behalf of our living brothers to present to this court. W ell we know and realize that to your honor personally our words of praise and commendation will meet with a hearty response. Around the lifeless form of Charles W. Woolverton has been drawn the mantle of death, and we raise the veil with reverence to look upon his life and character with words of truthfulness to speak of him. Knowing the youthful struggle with poverty, and ambition of the American boy of Illinois birth, we see his elastic form and reliant journey up the steps of learning, and while possibly chiding his hard lot, side by side with his more favored companions, with determined mien, nerved by the opposition, he marches alongside his competitors with longing hope of ultimate success. As year quickly follows year we f...