Rensselaer Republican, Volume 14, Number 49, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 24 August 1882 — The Earl of Chatham. [ARTICLE]

The Earl of Chatham.

William Pitt closed an extraordinary career in the most distressing poverty. His last appearance in public was when be left a sick bed to speak upon the motion to acknowledge the independence of the United States. On this occasion he appeared wrapped up in flannel bandages, and showing clearly the ravages of illness. He was listened to with deep respect, and continued his speech amid the most profound silence. Scarcely was it completed when he sank back in the apoplectic fit from which he never recovered. He died at his house in Putney, near London, alone, neglected and in misery. None of his family or friends were with him. A friend who was sincerely attached to him, hearing of his illness, rode from London to see him. Arriving at his house he rang the bell, but no one came. Dismounting, he made his way to the hall door, ana rang repeatedly. Still there was no response. Entering the house, he wandered from one deserted room to another, until at last he discovered Pitt on a bed, dead and utterly neglected. It is supposed that such was his poverty that he had not been able to pay his servants, and that they had absconded, taking with them all they could. The nation paid his debts, gave him a public funeral, and provided for his famHy.— N. Y. Mail.