New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1873-01-24
OBI1 UARY.
WILLIAM CASSIDY.


William Cassidy editor Of The ALBANY Ar
gus died. Yesterday Of Inflammation OF the stomach.
after about five days illness He was the son OF a
tradesmau. and born in this state in 1874 He was
graduated Union College ana in 1870 at the age OF 20
he entered the field Of journalism He wrote at that
time for TIE Plqindeasr and RoUghHe,oer both pub
lished in Albany.
III 1911 The AH0s founded IN that city by Vance &
Wendell as the organ Of the Barnbarners ana in 1913
Mr. Cassidy became its editor In connection with Henry
H. Van DYKE. In that position lie speedily acquired q
reputation for ability earnestncss, and energy He
found resOiutc opponent in The argus the old organ
Of the Democracy. established in 1913. and then sup
porting the Hunkers, by far the stronger faction The
fortunes of Tie AHas prccarous, but the young
anu keen editor gave it all has energies, ami 1t fought
vigorous battle.
In those days he labored long and hard Wiling
often poor table, amid the confusion and turmoil OF
the compOsin groom his articles brised with the sharp
points and caustic wit for which no has always been
famous. The battle at its hight in 8iS when Cass
was the candidate of the regular Democracy ana Van
Buren, was the nominee Of the Barnbmners. When the
two factions had thus partially destroyed each other
the conflict ceased and in 1856 The Atlas and Argus were
united under the latter Mr. Crosowel had retired
some before. and Mr. Cassidy became editor Of The
argus, and continued so until his death.
Beside his position editor, Mr. Cassidy exercised
great influence in the councils of the Democratic party,
and was intimate terms with its leaders and his social
genial disposition made him numerous friends. When
MI Cagger died. he succeeded him Secretary OF the
State Committee, and evinced good judgment and keen
prescience.
His contemporaries have regarded Mr. Cassidy as I'M
douttedly the abiest Democratic editor in the country
lie was at "a w.t. scholar. and politician. His
subtle gift not simply that Of taen;-t was genius
Joined with the finest taste and the best culture IL made
him Of the most accomplished and brilliant men Of
his times.
he hnst nh a n
His composition had an attic severity, chaste finish,
and a cleaning brightness which commanded the ad
miration Of those whom it assailed. He had an
extraordinary faculty of condensed expression. Rarely
undertaking prolonged logical argument ho rather
flashed his reasoning in comprehensive statement, in
surprising point or in deft suggestion.
His pen had the edge Of Damascus blade. He could
cut to the quick with single stroke, and with little
sentence Leave sting which would rankle for years
This quality sometimes made him seem rancOrous when
there was nothing Of bitterness his heart-when the
thrust nothing more than fine intellectual fence
Mr.. Cassidy had eninently social nature. He
loved the social circle. the shining light Of that
In which he moved. As o cOnver5atiOnast he was uu-
equaled His thought sparked with flashes OF wit aud
gems OF thought.
His generous character was indicated in his well
remembered article the death of LinOOn-dashed of
in the first hours after the of the assassination and
fragrant with feeling But in the social circle this was
real kindness OF his genial nature.
There touch OF asperiy. II the leader seemed
and sharp, Its Impression here dissolved In sun
shine Ia that field Mr. Cassidy peculiarly fascinat-
ing His wit aud knowledge and culture made him tho
chief hgure.
Mr. Cassidy seemee indifferent 70 official hOnors. His
career that of the political editor. He helped to
make and unmake He lifted Others from Obscurity
10 renOwn but he sought none Of tho honOr5 OF public
station for himself
For 30 years he has been prominent figure in the
politics OF State, but the only public position he held
of member OF the Constitutional Convention OF
his loss
Mr. Cassidy very popular in Albany, and his death
has caused general regret His funeral Will take place
Saturday from his late residence at H. aud from the
Cathedral at 1850 O'Clock. In the House a committee
appointed to draw up appropriate resolutions OF re-
greet aud the Senate after eloquent tributes from Rs
politicians aql Democrats, adjourned Out OF respect D
Mr. cassidy memory