James A. Garfield was a man of indefatigable industry and
vast information. He seemed constantly possessed by an intelligent
curiosity in regard to all subjects. He had a tenacious memory.
Its stores were always ready at hand for his use on all occasions.
There has been no man in public life in my time, except Charles
Sumner, who was always so glad to render any service in his
power to literature and science. He was a great friend of
the Congressional Library, and helped largely to increase
its appropriations. I got his powerful aid in procuring the
purchase of the Margry papers, at the instance of Parkman,
the historian.
During Garfield's service in the House he was the leader
of its best thought. Everything he did and said manifested
the serious, reverent love of excellence. He was ever grave,
earnest, addressing himself only to the reason and conscience
of his auditors. You will search his speeches in vain for
an appeal to a base motive or an evil passion. He was remarkably
independent in forming his judgments and inflexible in adhering
to them on all grand and essential questions.
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