Rensselaer Republican, Volume 27, Number 44, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 9 July 1896 — WILLIAM MC KINLEY. [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

WILLIAM MC KINLEY.

William McKinley became a national character when, in 1861, a little more than 17 years old, he .enlisted as a private soldier in defense of his country. The record of the war shows the impression he made upon those w(io came in contact with him. His manliness and courage attracted attention. In action he was alert and vigorous, in manner cordial and considerate. His mind was strong, clear and comprehensive, correct in judgment and energetic in expression. The physical and mental qualities which then won confidence and distinction have been illustrated and confirmed by his subsequent career. In public and private life, in social and official relations, he is genial and sympathetic. A master in debate, he carries conviction mainly by the earnestness, sincerity and directness of his thoughts and by uniform courtesy toward his opponents. Patriotic by birth, by association and by* copviction, the glory of his country and the welfare oMts people are the touchstoneof his principles and his conduct.’By this standard he gauges opinions, measures and men. / Conservative, yet liberal in his views, he welcomes criticism and shows the same regard for the opinions of others that he claims for his own. He is conscientious and laborious in forming, and candid .n expressing, his conclusions. He is efficient and courageous in maintaining the right and in rebuking wrong, but without malice or prejudice. He is unswerving in devotion to duty, affirming by the dignity of his bearing his own self-respect, and commanding the respect of others. He presents a signal example of the best type of the American citizen in public service. The traits which distinguished the soldier boy on the battlefields of Virginia and Maryland marked also the young lawyer in Stark County,, Ohio; the private citizen in domestic and social life; the statesman In committees and in debate framing and advocating measures for the public good; the chief magistrate, of his native State, exercising power and clemency; the leader in national conventions, refusing for himself honors believed due to others: the popular camaplgn speaker, Inspiring men with confidence and enthusiasm; the polished orator, exalting in glowing words, heroic deeds and memorable events, or with earnest expressions advancing tiie cause of religion and education. Born of the people, every fiber of his being thorough# American, rising step by step at the summoift of Mis fellow men to higher and higher stations, never falling to respond to the hopes of his friends to do honor to the positions to which he was chosen; recognized in all parts of the country as a leader In whom confidence was never tplsplaced; In external features noble and commanding: in intellectual and moral constitution of unsurpassed Integrity, sagacity, purity and strength; an Ideal embodiment and an indefatigable advocate of Republicanism; honored by’ all men, even by his antagonists, and loved by4he people everywhere, William McKinley stands forefront of American statesmen. ’ ,