Page:The Curious Republic of Gondour, and Other Whimsical Sketches.djvu/153



Queen Elizabeth said, “Oh, I would give my kingdom for one moment more—I have forgotten my last words.”

And Red Jacket, the noblest Indian brave that ever wielded a tomahawk in defence of a friendless and persecuted race, expired with these touching words upon his lips, “Wawkawampanoosuc, winnebagowallawsgamoresaskatchewan.” There was not a dry eye in the wigwam.

Let not this lesson be lost upon our public men. Let them take a healthy moment for preparation, and contrive some last words that shall be neat and to the point. Let Louis Napoleon say,

“I am content to follow my uncle—still, I do not wish to improve upon his last word. Put me down for 'Tête d'armée.'”

And Garret Davis, “Let me recite the unabridged dictionary.”

And H. G., “I desire, now, to say a few words on political economy.”

And Mr. Bergh, “Only take part of me at