The public ledger. [volume] (Maysville, Ky.) 1913-1968, 1922-01-16
WASHINGTON LETTER.

Washington, Jan. II. Especial
Correspondence -Senator Boies Pen
rose had an extraordinary career, and
since only an extraordinary man can
have an extraordinary career, it is
worth while to take note Of some OF
the characteristics of the recently de-
parted leader OF the Senate.
In his youth Penrose took the worit
in general, and his own work in par
ticular, seriously. AS student in
both elementary and secondary
schools he worked hard, and stood
near the head Of his class when he
was graduated from Harvard, This
could not have been achieved without
personal effort and self denial. ITO
learning there is no royal road-alike
the peer and peasant must elm to her
abode"
Having completed course in law
Penrose chose public life as career
and entered upon that with the same
concentration he practiced in his
studies at college. Eelected to the
Pennsylvania House of Representa-
tives at the age of "a he served so ac-
ceptably that after two years he ives
elected to the state senate where he
server ten years.
While still member of the state
senate, he was elected to the United
State Senate, beginning his service in
the latter body in 1897. His death a
few days ago closed life Of 81 years
in the public service - all in elective
offices. During this period he found
time to serve his party as chairman
of the state committee two years, as a
member of the National Committee IL
years, and to attend and take an active
part in four national conventions.
Although physically unable to attend
thee invention of 1920, his interest in
that important gathering vas not
lacking. He was in constant tele-
graphic communication with friends
at the convention hall. This indom-
table spirit resulted in his death, for
in the last few months he disregarded
the advice Of his physician and ap-
piled himself to matters of national
legislation instead OF seeking the rest
he needed.
Among the peculiarities Of his ma
ture may be noted his wide reading OF
newspapers as means of ascertining
public opinion yet his absolute re-
fusal to reply to any newspaper crit
icism or Misrepresentation. Although
appreciating the great value Of news
papers he never sought newspaper
PUBLICITY. He engaged in no outdoor
sports. took no physical exercise,
sought no diversion. even in the the
alter. In recent weeks he had confess
ed that he believed his neglect of open
air exercise a mistaken policy and ex-
pressed the intention of changing his
habits as soon as he regained suffi-
cient strength. While other men found
diversion and recreation in evenings
at cards of social enjoyment. Penrose
found his diversion in the pages Of
his well-chosen books. His well-stored
mind made him ready and effective
debater as we'll as an able legislative
leader. but his concentration undoubt-
edly shortened his life. He died at the
age Of 81.
The public record of Penrose needs
no mans commentator or defense.
When popular election of senators
was established Penrose and his rec
ord we're made the issue in state |
Penrose went on the stump |
and personally presented his record |
before the people of his state. He was
reelected by ay vote of two to one
over his leading opponent. polling
practically as many votes as both OF
his opponents combined. In 1920 he
was reelected by plurality of 6O0,-
700. After such popular verdicts. other
comments are superfluous.