Page:Men of Mark in America vol 2.djvu/480

402 upon this subject in congress. A Southerner by birth and residence, and one whose ancestors have been for several generations prominent people in the South, he has had the best possible facilities for studying the race problem as it presents itself in that section today. He admits that the situation is very grave; but while he does not attempt in any way to apologize for the wrongs that have been committed or for the evils that now exist, he holds that the South is fully able, and is more than willing, to do its duty by the black man in every respect. He would limit the elective franchise, not, however, from any prejudice against color, but in order to promote the welfare of the people at large. He holds that no man has a right to vote. In his view the franchise is not a right but a high privilege, which if enjoyed at all should be conferred by the state, and which the state has the right to limit in any reasonable manner it may choose. He is not a believer in the social equality of the two races, but he insists that before the law their personal and property rights should be precisely the same. In his efforts to overcome prejudice and to lead Northern people to see the conditions which prevail at the South, and thus to promote a kindly feeling between the people of the two sections, he has been to a certain degree successful. In regard to the tariff, Mr. Williams holds very decided opinions; and in his speeches upon this subject his views are presented with clearness and force. He has made a careful study of economic principles, and of trade conditions throughout the world; and upon these points he is one of the best informed of our public men. In theory he believes in free trade, and he would advocate the adoption of this policy if the other leading nations of the world would do the same; but until there is a change on their part, he does not regard as desirable so radical a departure from our present protective system. He believes that a middle course between a high tariff and absolute free trade should be chosen. In the house he is known as the "champion of reciprocity."

In the case of Mr. Williams the inheritance of wealth was not an obstacle to success. On the contrary, it proved of great assistance, as it enabled him to study in the best educational institutions and gave him the advantage of European travel. He owes much to his ancestry. The loss of his parents while he was very young was a serious misfortune; but it was mitigated by the fact that his guardian was deeply interested in his welfare and cheerfully acceded to his wish to obtain a liberal education and to enter the legal profession.