_Question_. What is Mr. Conkling's place in the political history
of the United States?
_Answer_. Upon the great questions Mr. Conkling has been right.
During the war he was always strong and clear, unwavering and
decided. His position was always known. He was right on
reconstruction, on civil rights, on the currency, and, so far as
I know, on all important questions. He will be remembered as an
honest, fearless man. He was admired for his known integrity. He
was never even suspected of being swayed by an improper consideration.
He was immeasurably above purchase.
His popularity rested upon his absolute integrity. He was not
adapted for a leader, because he would yield nothing. He had no
compromise in his nature. He went his own road and he would not
turn aside for the sake of company. His individuality was too
marked and his will too imperious to become a leader in a republic.
There is a great deal of individuality in this country, and a leader
must not appear to govern and must not demand obedience. In the
Senate he was a leader. He settled with no one.
_Question_. What essentially American idea does he stand for?
_Answer_. It is a favorite saying in this country that the people
are sovereigns. Mr. Conkling felt this to be true, and he exercised
what he believed to be his rights. He insisted upon the utmost
freedom for himself. He settled with no one but himself. He stands
for individuality--for the freedom of the citizen, the independence
of the man. No lord, no duke, no king was ever prouder of his
title or his place than Mr. Conkling was of his position and his
power. He was thoroughly American in every drop of his blood.
_Question_. What have you to say about his having died with sealed
lips?
_Answer_. Mr. Conkling was too proud to show wounds. He did not
tell his sorrows to the public. It seemed sufficient to him to
know the facts himself. He seemed to have great confidence in
time, and he had the patience to wait. Of course he could have
told many things that would have shed light on many important
events, but for my part I think he acted in the noblest way.
He was a striking and original figure in our politics. He stood
alone. I know of no one like him. He will be remembered as a
fearless and incorruptible statesman, a great lawyer, a magnificent
speaker, and an honest man.
--_The Herald_, New York, April 19, 1888.