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404 The honorary degree of Doctor of Laws has been conferred upon him by the University of Mississippi and by the South Western Baptist university.

He was married to Betty Dial Webb, October 2, 1877. They have had eight children of whom seven are now living. Mr. Williams is a member of the Masonic Order, and of the Elks. In politics he has always been identified with the Democratic party. His religious connection is with the Protestant Episcopal church of which he has long been a member.

The success of Mr. Williams, both as a member of the house and as a party leader, has been due to scholarship, industry, quickness of apprehension, sagacity, and executive ability. He has studied men as well as books. He has been very successful in his efforts to bring forward members of the house who can be made especially useful in strengthening the party organization and carrying out its policies. His high character and unquestioned sincerity are important factors in his influence over men, and have won for him the respect and confidence of congress and of the public without regard to partisan relations. He has proved himself a capable and an efficient leader as well as an accomplished citizen.