Staunton spectator. [volume] (Staunton, Va.) 1849-1896, 1869-04-13

At the meeting OF the St. Louis, MO-, Bar
which adopted resolutions in reference to the
death of Judge Bates, Judge Matt. r. Cullen,
formerly of this place, delivered the following
tribute to the memory of that distinguished
jurist: aez3 azd .a ee-
Mr.. Chairman, the death of Judge Bates
brings to my heart more than usual pain. l
feel that the members of the bar have lost a
valuable friend and ornament, and the country
an honest citizen.
But, sir, to me personally, our loss revives
most grateful memories. When some years
younger, / arrived in this city to enter upon the
duties of my profession, | sought the acqualnt-
ance of the deceased, whose reputation for great
private worth had been familiar to me. l soon,
from association, not only learned to admire but
love his beautiful christian character. | found
him towards the younger members OF the bar
ever willing to extend the hand Of friendship
and aid them in their struggles, and most earn
estly and tenderly did he warn them of the
dangers which surrounded them, and glowlngly
portray the record which at last would crown
persistent and honorable endeavor. He was
one of the senior members Of the bar VINO prof
fered me the land Of kindness when an unknown
youth, and his words of cheer made lasting
impression on my heart and encouraged me to
continued and more strenuous effort. From his
presence [ never withdrew without feeling /
had been exalted and substantially benefited
by the conversation. A few years after my in
PRODUCTION to Judge Bates L was cut down by
rheumatism and confined to my room for sever
al months He recognized my isolated condl-
tion, and in the kindest and most parental man
ner, generously proposed that | should become
an intimate of his family until recovered, which
he thought would not be for a long period
Feelings of dehcacy prompted me to decline his
unsel6sh and practical friendship. Yet, sir, my
heart was melted by the offer, and | appreciate
to this moment, in the fullest extent, the tender
sympathy which it declared. On another oc-
casion, sir, | had the opportunity of knowing
the nobility and gentleness of his nature. After
the late war [ returned to this city to commence
life once more. While niany new friends gath
cred around me to lend their aid in advancing
my interests, my soul was gaddened by a visit
from Judge Bates He met me cordially, press
ed my hand warmly and seated himself by my
side. After recovering from his tatigue-for he
was very feeble-he remarked in his bland and
winning way. Well, sir, [ am truly glad to see
you back. You have been a bad boy, but we
will not discuss that now. And then his eye
kindled with feeling, and he expressed himself
in terms freighted with encouragement and
kindness without the slightest reproachful re-
ference 10 our pOll1cai ulHeroLceS L Sildii ever
remember that interview with pleasurable emo
tion His conduct was the more acceptable be-
cause In striking contrast with that Of many
who were in political and cid personal affinity
with me, and with that Of others who made
commerce of their patriotism, and it taught me
the beauty and utility OF mutual forbearance-
especially on political questions.
Now, sir, having dropped a leaf on the grave
Of my friend as token of my affection, [ can
only hope that his example and virtues will be
initiated by u.s.