Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1914 edition. Excerpt: ... THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JEFFERSON DAVIS. With unaffected distrust to meet the demands of such a great hour as this, I rejoice to be again on the beautiful campus of my Alma Mater and to have the opportunity of bringing a message to the young men of my country. And as this commencement day chances to be the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of Jefferson Davis, the most illustrious citizen whose name ever adorned and enriched the annals of Mississippi, I have had the temerity to select his "Life and Times" as the theme of this hour's discussion. To paint that majestic man's full-length portrait or adequately portray the qualities that gave him greatness and the virtues that make him immortal I cannot; but, with you, I can reverently sit at his feet and listen to a story that will stir within us many noble aspirations and cause us to seek more diligently the old paths of manly honor and high endeavor. My purpose is not to indulge in extravagant or indiscriminate eulogy, but, if possible, to give a judicial estimate of a great man who was the most commanding figure in a fierce and eventful national crisis. It shall be alike removed from unreasoning censure and unreasonable praise. We need not deify Mr. Davis, nor disproportionately exalt the pedestal on which the genius of history will surely place him, in order to An address delivered at the University of Mississippi on June 3, 1908. ADEQUATE APPRECIATION show adequate appreciation of his noble character and splendid genius. On the other hand, the use of bitter invective and lurid superlatives about this man of destiny may evidence literary ingenuity and partisan malignity, but it can nevermore command the respect of patriotic, thoughtful students of our national history. The days of...
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