I studied directness
of expression by a frequent intercourse with men of business, and
examined, with the nicest urgency, the particular characteristics
of those of my own profession who were most remarkable for their
plain, forcible speaking. I say nothing of my studies of such great
masters in discourse and philosophy, as Milton, Sliakspere, Homer,
Lord Bacon, and the great English divines. As a model of pure English
the Bible was a daily study of two hours; and from this noble well
of vernacular eloquence, I gathered--so I fancied--no small portion
of its quaint expressive vigor, its stern emphasis, its golden and
choice phrases of illustration. Never did a young lawyer go into
the forum more thoroughly clad in proof, or with a better armory
as well for defence as attack."
"You did not fail, sir?" exclaimed the youth with a painful expression
of eager anxiety upon his countenance.
"I did fail--fail altogether! In the first effort to speak, I
fainted, and was carried lifeless from the court-room."
The old man covered his face with his hands, for a few moments,
to conceal the expression of pain and mortification which memory
continued to renew in utter despite of time.
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