New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1898-12-29
JUSTIN s. MORRILL,.

With the death Of Justin S. Morrill,, In the
eighty-ninth year of his age and the forty
fourth Of his unbroken service In one branch
of Congress or the other a unique, impressive
and powerful figure passes from the stage of
American politics. In point Of continuous ten
ure Mr.. Morrls record easily surpasses that
Of any other member Of either house since the
foundation Of the Government; while to few.
even of the most brilliant and famous Of Con-
gressional leaders, has 1T been given to play
as substantial and important role as fell to
him in shaping and moulding American legis-
laton-a role which has lasted from early in
the fifties to the very verge Of the new century.
1t has often been said that one Of Mr.. Nor
fills pet ambitions was to carry his term OF
uninterrupted service beyond the limits reached
and set by Benton and Macon. If this be true,
the venerable statesmans wish was fully real
lied, for he not only eclpsed all previous rec
ords. but established a new one, which Is likely
to stand for many generations.
The fame of the Vermont Senator will not
rest, however. on the mere length Of his ser
vice. The influence which years Of experience
In the two houses brought him was reinforced,
even TO the end Of his career, with an indus
try, an intelligence and Il vlgor Of judgment
which made him power to be reckoned with
in all the varied processes Of legislation.
Framer of the Morrill, Tariff act In the House,
be became identified more closely than any
other single legislator In either branch with the
development Of that theory Of tariff protection
which has lain at the base Of all our customs
legislation since the Civil War. Mr.. Morrill's
influence on all tariff, revenue and financial
legislation was pronounced and constant
Though In later years yielding some Of his
Finance Committee burdens to younger shout
ders-those of Senators Aldrich and Allison
the venerable chairman did his part In every
important controversy over either tariffs or
coinage and no measure Of consequence was
acted on without careful scrutiny and copious
criticism from him. Up to the end his speeches
on revenue and financial questions were looked
forward to as most refreshing incidents In the
tedium Of debate, for he retained always the
power to amuse as well as convince, and he
never took the floor unless he had thought out
some fresh and pungent Illustrations or coined
some witty phrases to point the shafts Of his
more solid argument
His most absorbing care was Of course, for
questions OF tarir and finance: but he had
many other legislative interests at heart, and
bis memory will be associated. perhaps, as
much with certain Of these as with the Morrill,
Tariff act itself 1t was he for example. who
suggested and secured the passage OF the Nor
rill Agricultural College Endowment Dii-a
measure which dedicated certain portions OF
the public lands In each State to the support
Of colleges In which agriculture should he
taught. Out Of these grants-since supplement-
ed both by the States themselves and the Gen.
ernl Government whole system OF state
agricultural colleges has grown and among
others Cornell University stands a testimony to
the wisdom Of his plan. The Library Of Con-
Erexs n another monument to his patience In
dusty and public spirit Others. OF course,
share with him the credit ct carrying through
.Aka great enterprise, but as chairman Of the