Democratic Sentinel, Volume 1, Number 39, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 9 November 1877 — Gov. Morton’s First Attack of Paralysis. [ARTICLE]

Gov. Morton’s First Attack of Paralysis.

It was in the fall of 1865 that the late Gov. Morton was first prostrated by the insidious disease that finally proved fatal. His attack is thus described by himself : “During the latter part of the summer and first part of the fall of 1865, I felt an indisposition to read or study. I didn’t care to read so much as a newspaper. My mind felt dull and clouded, and I found many little things escaping my memory. I was confused easily, and took little or no interest in what was going on about me. Even the duties of the State no longer engaged my close attention. These feelings continued until the 10th 'of October. I never shall forget the air was crisp, and I walked a very long distance. In the evening I retired somewhat fatigued, but in other respects apparently in my usual health. The next morning I woke early, but as I attempted to get out of bed I discovered I was unable to lift my limbs. Again and again I made the effort, when it suddenly flashed through my mind that I was paralyzed. I felt little pain, but from my hips downward I was unable to move myself.” But the strangest part of the story is to come. His mental activity had returned. “My head seemed as clear as a bell, and involuntarily I recalled to mind incidents which I had forgotten, although previously I had charged my memory with them.” So sudden and complete was the work of this subtle disease for five years the powers of his mind and body had been taxed to their utmost, and it is not strange, perhaps, that a person of his build should be thus attacked. It is said that his father suffered as a paralytic in his later vears, and that an aunt was similarly stricken. It is probable, therefore, that the disease was latent, but in considering the powerful, muscular frame which he inherited from his mother, whom he greatly favors, it is doubtful if he would ever have been prostrated had his labors been less severe and protracted.