WM. H. VANDERBILT.
A Builder instead of a Destroyer of Public Values.—His 355
Respect for Public Opinion on the Subject of
Monopolies.—His first Experience in Railroad
Management.—How he Improved the Harlem Railroad
Property.—His great Executive Power manifested in
every stage of advance until he became President of
the Vanderbilt Consolidated System.—An Indefatigable
Worker.—His habit of Scrutinizing Every Detail.—His
Prudent Action in the Great Strike of 1877, and its
Good Results.—Settled all misunderstandings by Peace
and Arbitration.—Makes Princely Presents to his
Sisters.—The Singular Gratitude of a
Brother-In-Law.—How he Compromises by a Gift of a
Million with Young Corneel.—Gladstone’s idea of the
Vanderbilt Fortune.—Interview of Chauncey M. Depew
with the G. O. M. on the subject.—The great
Vanderbilt Mansion and the Celebrated Ball.—The
Immense Picture Gallery.—Mr. Vanderbilt Visits some
of the Famous Artists.—His Love of Fast Horses.—A
Patron of Public Institutions.—His Gift to the Waiter
Students.—While Sensitive to Public Opinion, has no
fear of Threats or Blackmailers.—The Public be
Damned.—Explanation of the rash Expression.—The
Purchase of “Nickel Plate.”—His Declining Health and
Last Days.—His Will, and Wise Method of Distributing
200 Millions.—Effects of this Colossal Fortune on
Public Sentiment