Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly volume 11.djvu/240

226 hindrance to him, doubtless, on many occasions; yet in the long run it brought him respect and honor from all who knew him. The simplicity of his nature made him credulous and trustful on one side and unselfish on the other. But was it a real fault?

Only eight days before he passed away a dinner was given to Judge Williams, on his eighty-seventh birthday. It was attended by a large number of citizens of Portland, who were anxious and eager to pay this tribute to one whose life has honored us all, and has shed lustre on the State of Oregon. The speech he delivered on that occasion, for feeling, beauty, simplicity, grasp of our history and of the life of our state and common country, with addition of its appropriateness to such an occasion, was a marvel to all who heard it. A report of it was printed; but the reported copy fell infinitely below the impression it made on those who heard it. Such a speech, but a few days ago, from lips now forever silent! Whence are we, and what are we?

But a great man is a seed. His life, his character, his influence, cannot be erased from the sum and soul of the world's life and history. Though lost from the daily walks of men, the beneficence of such a life as that of Oregon's greatest man will be an expansive force forever; and its influence hereafter, even to those not brought directly within its recognizable sphere, will be a moving inspiration by its indirect and resultant power, forevermore!