Evening Republican, Volume 59, Number 98, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 16 May 1917 — A Distinguished American. [ARTICLE]

A Distinguished American.

- .Dying when (he did, Mr. Joseph H. Choate rounded out a distinguished career in a way that he might have chosen. In recent weeks he has emerged many times from the retirement which advanced age and feebleness made necessary and has spoken patriotic words on public occasions. He took part in the welcome extended to the English and French missions and expressed his satisfaction . that his country was to participate in the struggle for the cause of democracy. Mr. Choate ranked as a great lawyer and as a man of powerful intellect. In professional circles many anecdotes are still afloat relating to the skill with which he won his cases and his witty sailies in court are classics among lawyers, though he long since withdrew from legal activities. His calling did not absorb all his energies and he always man 1 - fested an interest in political affairs. He was a republican, but was too broad minded to be a rigid party man. His wit and social qualities marie him popular outside of his profession, and when he was made ambassador to Great Britain by President McKinley, the choice was approved by a.ll who knew Mr. Choate. The selection proved to be a happy one. He not only gave satisfaction in a diplomatic capacity, but by lecturing bn American institutions he helped to strengthen the bond between England and the United States. Mr. Choate was one of the great Americans of his time and his memory will be honored.