Rensselaer Republican, Volume 25, Number 33, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 13 April 1893 — HISTORIC MOMENTS. [ARTICLE]

HISTORIC MOMENTS.

The Death of John Quincy Adam* t» Z~T~ the Capitol at Wuhinfto*. Hon. Robert C. Winthrop, in bis description of the death of Hon. John Quincy Adams, which fe printed in Scribner for March, says: Mr. Adams rose impulsively-'-I had . almost said impetuously—with a paper in his outstretched hand, exclaiming with more than his usual earnestness and emphasis: “Mr. Speaker! Mr. Speaker!” The reiteration rings again in iny ears as I write these words. Bat before he could explain his object or add another syllable, his band fell to his side and he sank upon the arm of his chair, only saved from dropping to the floor by being caught by the member nearest him. An exclamation was almost instantly heard: .“Mr. Adams is dying!” Business was at once suspended and the excitement and confusion which ensued can better be imagined than described. More than two hundred representatives in all parts of the hall and from all parts of the country were seen rising from their seats and pressing forward toward their beloved and revered associate, almost as if it were in their power to reverse the will of God and rescue him from the power of the great destroyer. Few persons of equal eminence—or of any eminence—have been distinguished by such a presence at their death-scene. Fortunately there were several physicu ns the members of the House. Dr. William A. Newell, afterward the Governor of New Jersey, had tie seat immediately in front of Mr. Adams, and~ took the lead in repressing the throng, securing air for the sufferer, and rendering all the medical aid which was possible. He co-operated with others in removing Mr. Adams on a sofa in the rotunda, and thence, with no delay, at my earnest instigation, into the Speaker’s official chamber. “This is the end of earth.” was heard from his lips, as he fell, or when he was placed on the little eoueh which was hastily prepared for him, with the addition, as was alleged, “I am composed,” or “I am content.” But all signs of consciousness soon ceased, and he lingered, entirely insensible, until 7:15 o’clock on Wednesday evening, the 23d.