Page:Life of Isaiah V Williamson.djvu/130

112 he himself had for many years enjoyed his friendship and confidence. He was a man of the quiet sort, rarely seen in Court, having a lucrative law practice in administering large estates, and thoroughly conversant with the real estate business, knowledge which proved most valuable in the future work of the board.

John Wanamaker had for years been closely attached to Isaiah Williamson. A strong affection had gradually developed between the older and the younger man, revealing mutual humor, and sympathetic points of view, especially regarding efforts in behalf of "the boys." The subject of industrial schools for boys was the occasion of many and long conferences together. His confidence in Wanamaker showed itself in more ways than one. Sometimes when they sat together at some board meeting or public assembly, he would whisper: "Thee will speak for me, as well as for thyself, John, at this meeting."

A preliminary meeting of the Trustees was called for November 24, 1888, in this form:

"A Meeting of the Trustees to be appointed under