The Montgomery advertiser., 1901-06-15

man philosophy and human experience. [ consider not this demonstration or your esteem as bearing any personal significance I take to myself no such tribute as that But that demonstra- ton was nothing If 1t was not de- monstfation for the splendid character or the man who had just been the recipient of the highest honors which that Convention could bestow.
 He loved the people and sought to live that he might serve them. The people of the State had committed an important trust to his care. He there fore struggled to fight disease that he might perform the duties involved in that trust.
 His death was not the result of im- prudence. He had to keep on with his task to live at all. This Is why he remained at his post during the ses- sion of the Legislature. Faint from the assaults of disease, and weary from continued effort, yet he could not com init to others much as he had conf dence in their integrity and trusted them, the work which trusting people had placed in his hands. He read or had read to him every bill which re- Quired his signature He could take no risk in matters of that sort. This was why he left the place to which he had gone in search of health and strength and returned to the State that he might be present at the meet Ing of the Board of Trustees having In it's charge the most important edu- cational interest under the care of the State. He knew of the complaint that the school had been a sufferer from too much political control and he deter mined to show that so far as he was concerned that the charge was without any just foundation. Duty, duty was his watchword.
 Governor Sanford was ever moved by the desire in all cases to do what was right. That he might do what was right he sifted every matter brought to his attention, irregularities in administration in court of justice high or low. If right were invaded he sought to see such rights protected. If he was slow in reaching conclusions 1t was because he wished to make thorough investigation into each case brought to his Jurisdiction.
 We are not surprised, therefore, that he made splendid record in the few months of his administration. He was a Christian statesman and he con- sidered all matters from that stand point. He was moved to nothing from selfish motives. He had no political debts to pay nor any political revenge to take. His one question in each case was What is right?' When he found out the right then he followed that whatever might be the consequence even to those who were his best friends.
 Such an administration must have a wholesome effect on all who succeed him in office. He did not do his work In vain. That work, as Governor Jones prophesied, must have its influence on far-off times It will be some time be- fore the small politician will be at the front again.
 "He was above all things a Chris tian. This made him interested in all reform movements. He could not oc- cupy neutral ground when principle was at stake. He could not fail to serve the cause of religion and moral ity, and looked upon those with sus- picion who sought to divorce religion and politics. His pure character would not permit him to throw off responsi- bility to his God for his conduct in any relation. The State had no reason to be afraid of him on that account. For 1t is true now as it has ever been, that righteousness exalteth a nation. And when the righteous rule the people will rejoice.
 His fine conduct in the canvass he
 
 so well was such as to command the respect of all. He said concerning his opponents. For my opponents I have nothing but words of the highest es- teem and friendship. For soms Of them have entertained those feelings during the years gone by, and at the inception of this friendly controversy, I announced to them that nothing should happen. caused by my act or word, to mar or dim that friendship.
 "He was never unmindful of loyalty to Christ That loyalty was shown in his speeches. in his walk and every where. Ladies could listen with pleas ure to his splendid eloquence and had no fear of being offended by any lan- guage he might utter. It is not always so.
 "His death was a scene of triumph. Duty was the last word he uttered. The ruling spirit was strong in death Face to face with death he had no fear. His loved ones have splendid herit- age in his character and life."