Glass _ Book -50 65th Congress) 3d Session I HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES /Document \ No. 1860 EDWARD EVERETT ROBBINS (Late a Representative from Pennsylvania) MEMORIAL ADDRESSES DELIVERED IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES SIXTY-FIFTH CONGRESS THIRD SESSION Proceedings in the House February 16, 1919 Proceedings in the Senate January 27, 1919 PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING WASHINGTON 1919 E UU4- fa s7 ot d 9 m 28 J923 AC- TABLE OF CONTENTS Page. Proceedings in the House 5 Prayer by Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D 7 Memorial addresses by — Mr. Thomas S. Crago, of Pennsylvania 9 Mr. Henry W. Watson, of Pennsylvania 16 Mr. J. Hampton Moore, of Pennsylvania 18 Mr. Henry A. Clark, of Pennsylvania 21 Mr. John M. Rose, of Pennsylvania 23 Mr. William H. Stafford, of Wisconsin 28 Proceedings in the Senate 31 [3] DEATH OF HON. EDWARD EVERETT ROBBINS Proceedings in the House of Representatives Saturday, January 25, 1919. Mr. Moore of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, for the Penn- sylvania delegation it becomes my sad duty to announce the death of our colleague, Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, and in that connection I send up to the Clerk's desk to be read the following resolutions. The Speaker. The Clerk will report the resolutions. The Clerk read as follows : Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Roreins, a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. Resolved, That a committee of 34 Members of the House, with such Members of the Senate as may be joined, be appointed to attend the funeral. Resolved, That the Sergeant at Arms of the House be authorized and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carrying out the provisions of these resolutions, and that the necessary expenses in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent fund of the House. Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. The question was taken, and the resolutions were unani- mously agreed to. The Speaker. The Clerk will announce the committee. The Clerk read as follows : William S. Vare, George S. Graham, J. Hampton Moore, George W. Edmonds, Peter E. Costello, George P. Darrow, Thomas S. Butler, Henry W. Watson, William W. Griest, John R. Farr, Thomas W. Templeton, Robert D. Heaton, Arthur G. Dewalt, Louis [5] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins T. McFadden, Edgar R. Kiess, John V. Lesher, Benjamin K. Focht, Aaron S. Kreider, John M. Rose, Andrew R. Brodbeck, Charles H. Rowland, Bruce F. Sterling, Henry W. Temple, Henry A. Clark, Henry J. Steele, Nathan L. Strong, Earl H. Beshlin, Stephen G. Porter, M. Clyde Kelly, John M. Morin, Guy E. Campbell, Thomas S. Crago, Mahlon M. Garland, and Joseph McLaughlin. The Speaker. The Clerk will read the additional reso- lution. The Clerk read as follows : Resolved, That as a further mark of respect this House do now adjourn. The resolution was agreed to; accordingly (at 3 o'clock and 41 minutes p. m.) the House adjourned until Sunday, January 26, at 12 o'clock noon. Tuesday, January 28, 1919. A message from the Senate, by Mr. Waldorf, its enroll- ing clerk, announced that the Senate had passed the fol- lowing resolutions : Senate resolution 430 Resolved, That the Senate has heard with profound sorrow the announcement of the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Rorhins, late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. Resolved, That a committee of seven Senators be appointed by the Vice President to join the committee appointed on the part of the House of Representatives to attend the funeral of the deceased. Resolved, That the Secretary communicate a copy of these reso- lutions to the House of Representatives. Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased the Senate do now adjourn. And that the Vice President, under the second resolu- tion, had appointed Mr. Penrose, Mr. King, Mr. Overman, Mr. Warren, Mr. Baird, Mr. Thompson, and Mr. Knox as said committee on the part of the Senate. [6] Proceedings in the House Monday, February 3, 1919. Mr. Crago. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent for the present consideration of the following, which I send to the Clerk's desk. The Speaker. The Clerk will report it. The Clerk read as follows : Mr. Crago asks unanimous consent that Sunday, February 16, 1919, be set apart for addresses on the life, character, and public services of the Hon. Edward E. Robbins, late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. The Speaker. Is there objection? There was no objection. Sunday, February 16, 1919. The House met at 12 o'clock noon and was called to order by the Speaker pro tempore [Mr. Butler] . The Chaplain, Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D., offered the following prayer: Eternal God, our Heavenly Father! That God, which ever lives and loves, One God, one law, one element, And one far-off divine event, To which the whole creation moves, We thank Thee that the door of the holy of holies is ever open to Thy children, where they can commune with Thee, find inspiration to guide them in the duties of life, consolation for their sorrows, solace for the loss of loved ones, and everlasting hope. We meet here to-day in memory of four great men who wrought on the floor of this House for their constituents, their respective States, and the Nation they loved. May those who knew them best speak from their hearts, that their records may be left in the archives of the Nation [7] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins they loved; that others may read and be inspired with patriotism and devotion. Comfort those who knew and loved them with the eternal hope that sometime, somewhere, they shall meet them in a land where partings shall be no more and love shall find its own; and everlasting praise be Thine, through Him who demonstrated that life is stronger than death. Amen. The Speaker pro tempore. The Clerk will report the next order. The Clerk read as follows : On motion of Mr. Crago, by unanimous consent, Ordered, That Sunday, February 16, 1919, be set apart for ad- dresses upon the life, character, and public services of Hon. Edward E. Robbins, late a Representative from the State of Penn- sylvania. Mr. Crago. Mr. Speaker, I present the following resolu- tions which I send to the Clerk's desk and ask for their immediate consideration. The Speaker pro tempore. The Clerk will report the resolutions. The Clerk read as follows : Resolved, That the business of the House be now suspended, that opportunity may be given for tributes to the memory of Hon. Edward E. Robbins, late a Member of this House from the State of Pennsylvania. Resolved, That as a particular mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, and in recognition of his distinguished public career, the House, at the conclusion of the exercises of this day, shall stand adjourned. Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the Senate. Resolved, That the Clerk send a copy of these resolutions to the family of the deceased. The question was taken, and the resolutions were unani- mously agreed to. [8] MEMORIAL ADDRESSES Address of Mr. Crago, of Pennsylvania Mr. Speaker: In the closing days of the last session of a Congress which will go down in history as probably the most momentous Congress in our Nation's existence we pause for a few hours to record our estimate and appreciation of the life and public career of one of our number who in the very midst of his public service and days of usefulness answered the summons — lights out; rest; eternal rest. Col. Edward Everett Robbins, a Representative of the twenty-second district of Pennsylvania in the Sixty-fifth Congress, who had been reelected as a Member of the Sixty-sixth Congress, died at Somerset, Pa., Saturday, January 25, 1919. Owing to the fact that I have enjoyed a personal ac- quaintance with Col. Robbins extending over a period of more than a quarter of a century, I have deemed it proper to embrace in my remarks a short record, giving dates, where possible, of some of the important events in his life. Col. Robbins was born on a farm near Robbins Station, Westmoreland County, Pa., September 27, 1861. His father was Joseph Robbins and his mother Margaret Christy Robbins, whose ancestors had settled there dur- ing the early years of the existence of Westmoreland County. He spent his early life on his father's farm, at- tending the public school. Later he attended the Elders Ridge Academy, the Indiana State Normal School, and Washington and Jefferson College, from which college he graduated in the class of 1881. At the time of his death he was a trustee of this famous institution of learn- [9] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins ing. After graduation from college he took a course in law in the Columbian Law School, New York, and then entered the law office of John F. Wentling, one of the most prominent members of the Westmoreland County bar. A few years later he was admitted as a member of this bar, where he practiced the profession of law until the time of his death. Soon after his admission to the bar Mr. Robbins began to take an active interest in politics, and soon was made the nominee of his party for district attorney. He was a Republican, believing thoroughly in the principles and policies of his party. In 1888 he was elected a member of the Pennsylvania State senate for the regular term of four years, and here he may be said to have begun his political career. After completing his term as senator he resumed the practice of law, but in 1896 he became the nominee of his party for Representative in Congress from what was then the twenty-fifth district and was elected a Member of the Fifty-fifth Congress. From this time until he was again elected to Congress, in 1916, he always took an active part in political affairs and during the campaigns was often called upon to preside at meet- ings and make addresses for his party and its candidates. In 1916 he was nominated as the Republican candidate in the twenty-second district, composed of the counties of Westmoreland and Butler, and was elected to that office by a large majority. Soon after taking his seat he began to take an active part in the work of this body. He was constant in his attendance at the sessions of the House and followed closely all the matters under consideration. He was ever alert and active, watching every bill which could in any way affect his district and State. His knowl- edge of the people and the business interests of his dis- trict made it possible for him to render efficient service; and few Members worked longer hours and gave greater [10] Address of Mr. Crago, of Pennsylvania thought to their duties than did Col. Robbins. He was renominated as his party candidate for the Sixty-sixth Congress without opposition and at the general election was elected by a largely increased majority. In 1887 Col. Robbins enlisted as a private in Company I, Tenth Regiment, National Guard of Pennsylvania. In 1889 he was appointed by Col. A. L. Hawkins as quarter- master of the regiment, with the rank of first lieutenant; it was while serving in this capacity during the Homestead strike in 1892 that my personal acquaintance with Col. Robbins began, and this acquaintance and personal as- sociation has continued all these years. In 1894 he was appointed quartermaster of the Second Brigade, with the rank of major, on the staff of Brig. Gen. John A. Wiley. While serving in this capacity he answered the call of the President in 1898 and reported with his brigade at Mount Gretna, Pa. When the Pennsylvania National Guard was mustered into the service no officer above the rank of colonel was mustered in, and as a result the brigade and division staff officers were not taken into the Federal service. Gen. Wiley was, however, later commissioned by Presi- dent McKinley as a brigadier general of Volunteers, and Col. Robbins, then a Member of Congress, offered his serv- ices and was commissioned as captain and assigned to duty as quartermaster of the First Brigade, Third Division, First Army Corps, Chickamauga, Ga., on the staff of his old brigade commander, Gen. Wiley. He was promoted to major and sent to Porto Rico, and later to Cuba as quartermaster of the U. S. transport Seneca, and served in Porto Rico and Cuba until the end of the war. Soon after being mustered out of the United States service, when the National Guard of Pennsylvania was reorgan- ized, he was appointed quartermaster general of the Penn- sylvania Division, with the rank of colonel. In this posi- [11] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins tion he served for several years, and then severed his connection with the National Guard and, while alwajs interested in military affairs, he never again took an active part as a member of any military organization. Being admitted to the Westmoreland County bar in 1886, while holding public office and positions of trust in business affairs, Col. Robbins continued the practice of his profession, and at the time of his death was a member of the law firm of Robbins & Wyatt. That he was held in high esteem both as a man and a lawyer the senti- ments expressed by the speakers at a meeting of the Westmoreland Bar Association attest. Judge Cope- land said of him: He lived an active, deedful life, and died while yet the future beckoned to him with the alluring promise of future work and success. He had the good fortune to be born in the country. The distractions of the town and city are there lacking, and a boy thus becomes acquainted with himself and becomes sensible of the great mysterious world within himself before the attractions of the outer world make their appeal to him. He practiced law, served in the State senate, served twice in Congress, had experi- ence in military life. He was engaged in the coal business, the banking business, and numerous enterprises, and in all he strenu- ously sought to excel. Mr. Albert H. Bell said of him : That 35 years of rather close association with him, beginning in our student days, had cemented a friendship between us that neither political differences nor the most heated conflicts in pro- fessional life had ever weakened. This intimate, early association with Mr. Robbins gave an insight into his inner life and character which has rescued me from the error of misjudgment of him and has kept the taper on the altar of our friendship burning with steady light at times when he was assailed by the fiercest storms of his political and professional life. He had a mind of fine natural endowment. He could perceive quickly, assimilate readily, reason correctly, and reach convictions that he could express with force and vigor. He was a man of tire- less industry. [12] Address of Mr. Crago, of Pennsylvania The practice of law by one who gives his whole life to it is not always attended with great financial returns, and thus it is that many practitioners of the law turn their thoughts to some line of business which promises greater financial returns. Living in a section of the country rich in mineral wealth, chiefly bituminous coal, and being as- sociated closely with men engaged in the production of coal, Col. Robbins became interested in coal mining and bought much undeveloped coal land. To this work he brought that same energy and perseverance which had brought him success in other lines, and he succeeded in accumulating a sufficient amount of wealth to make it possible for him to live well and maintain a family in every comfort, and this phase of his life made his work in Congress a pleasure, for while he continued some of his business connections they were so organized that he did not need to give them much personal attention, and he thus could give himself unreservedly to the work of Con- gress. He was a Presbyterian in his religious affiliation, being a member of the First Presbyterian Church, of Greens- burg, Pa. He was vice president and director of the Safe Deposit & Trust Co., of Greensburg; a member of the Westmore- land Country Club, the Americus Republican and the Athletic Clubs of Pittsburgh, and the Elks Club of Greens- burg. The history of Westmoreland County, Pa., is rich with important events of our development as a Nation. In marking locations and preserving the evidences of this early period the people of the county have taken a great interest. In this work Col. Robbins took an active part, and on different occasions he has made historical ad- dresses in dedicating memorials erected to mark the loca- tions where events of world moment happened more than a century and a half ago. [13] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins Col. Robbins had been practicing law for ten years, had served in the State senate of Pennsylvania for four years, and had established at least a State-wide reputation when he was married, in 1896, to Luella Stauffer Moore, of Greensburg, Pa. To this union two sons, Edward E., jr., and William M., were born. Both the sons and Mrs. Robbins survive Col. Robbins and mourn the loss of a father and husband whose home and family were to him a constant joy and a place which ever had for him the real meaning of the word " home." His domestic life was ideal, and, after all, when we recall the triumph in busi- ness, in politics, in social life, and all the other activities of society, the one place where there is perfect accord, where there is real happiness, where life is really lived, is the happy old-fashioned American home, where, free from the struggles, safe from the flings and stings of those with whom we have contended, a man can plan and pur- pose for those he holds most dear and know that in that charmed circle every heart beats in sympathy with his own, and there he can renew the strength which carries him through life's never-ending struggle. To-day we mourn the loss of a trusted associate taken away in the full vigor of life, when for him there seemed to be in store many years of useful service. His family can hardly realize that the one to whom they looked for guidance in every crisis is no more. Business men, pro- fessional men, strong men in every walk of life mourn his departure and realize that he filled a place, gained by his own indomitable energy and will, which will be diffi- cult to fill. Here in the presence of death all enmity and discord cease, and through the gloom men look out on life with a new realization that no one can know nor foretell the hour when through the twilight and the dark we swiftly pass from this to endless life. [14] Address of Mr. Crago, of Pennsylvania Citizen, soldier, business man, statesman, father, hus- band, friend, the record is written and well written; and on memory's altar will ever glow a wealth of love and affection for one who through life was loyal to home and country and measured up to the full stature of man. How well he fell asleep! Like some proud river widening toward the sea; Calmly and grandly, silently and deep, Life joined eternity. Gone, the light and glory of the day, Here, the solemn silence of the night, There, the faith that ever leads the way, Faith which visions endless light. [15] Address of Mr. Watson, of Pennsylvania Mr. Speaker: We assemble to pay tribute to our col- leagues whose lives were closely linked with the war Con- gresses and who recently passed from human mystery to Divine understanding. Each in his way performed his duty as he believed to be right, each rendered valuable service to his country, each left affectionate recollections in our hearts. I speak more particularly of my friend and fellow col- league of Pennsylvania, who faithfully and conscien- tiously represented his district in formulating the laws of our Republic. He was a student of economic questions, familiar with the polite literature of all ages, a man of acute knowledge of the industries of his State, which he jealously guarded, a learned lawyer of wide experience, a banker of keen perception, a soldier who rendered important military service to the Nation during the Spanish War. Life in the abstract is one chain fettered together by human conception — men die but their minds live, thus civilization moves onward. There is no limit to the intel- lectual development of the human mind; the mind is God's will, the mind never dies, thus society progresses through the unbroken chain of the mentality of man. Men are singled by nature with positive powers to evolve new thoughts, new ideas for the benefit of the world, leaving in their wills a heritage to all mankind. Why one is born to power and another to live in obscurity is a secret that rests with Providence. Edward E. Robbins was an indefatigable worker; his mind was being daily repaired by diligent application. [16] Address of Mr. Watson, of Pennsylvania He had strong logical powers and exercised them in de- bate. He studied legislation with attention and deep thought. He had high regard for virtue. His opinions were mastered by lofty ideas. He gave his talents in the interest of the public good for peace and concord. Simplicity always prevails in a noble nature. This trait of character governed his policies. He swayed an influ- ence of leadership. Thus recognized, he was called to positions of trust in the religious, social, political, and business activities of his home town. He had the welfare of the Government at heart, never wavering from his convictions. He was a patriot persuaded by truth and reason. We are born to die, then live again immortal in the kingdom which has no end, a kingdom of glory and of peace. So our colleague passed on to immortality. 116942°— 19- [17] Address of Mr. Moore, of Pennsylvania Mr. Speaker: An early training in western Pennsyl- vania, where he was born, rounded out at the Columbia Law School, in New York, equipped our colleague, the late Edward Everett Robbins, on return to his home in Westmoreland County to practice law. The young man had been a member of the bar for the short period of two years, however, before the people sent him to the State senate of Pennsylvania. There is no better stepping stone to the councils of the Nation than that afforded by the State legislature. Well grounded, both in theory and practice, with the experience which one must necessarily acquire in the senate of the second State of the Union, it was logical that the aggressive young lawyer and State senator should advance to the Congress of the United States. This he did upon election from the old twenty- first district, now the twenty-second, in 1896. He was 35 years of age when he reached this body. That was before the Spanish-American War. It so happened along with his other activities that Mr. Robbins had taken a deep interest in the affairs of the National Guard of Penn- sylvania. He enlisted as a private in the famous Tenth Infantry in 1887, and aided in the upbuilding of that or- ganization, the personnel of which has figured so credit- ably in the war in Europe, until 1894, when he had at- tained the rank of major. We have often heard with patriotic pride of the Muhlen- bergs and the Bakers, who having been in Congress when war broke out departed from these legislative halls to don the military uniform for active service, and it is a source of gratification to-day that we can point to Mem- bers of the present House who yielded up their service [18] Address of Mr. Moore, of Pennsylvania here for actual service at the front. It is no less a matter of satisfaction, exemplifying the patriotic alertness of our departed colleague, to know that he is entitled to rank with those who made this noble sacrifice. At the outbreak of the Spanish-American War, in 1898, he quit the Fifty-fifth Congress to enter the military service as a volunteer. I shall not give in detail the record he then made, except to say that in various capacities, his useful- ness and serviceability constantly increasing, he held on to the end of the war, being mustered out as a major. Subsequently, in 1900, the governor of Pennsylvania con- ferred upon him the rank of colonel and made him quar- termaster general of the National Guard of Pennsylvania. Col. Robbins returned to Washington for the Sixty-fifth Congress. He had devoted himself during the interim to his law business, to mining, and banking, and other com- mercial pursuits, for which he seemed thoroughly well adapted. It was apparent upon his reentering Congress that the intervening years had broadened his mind and increased his power to serve the people. He was here when a state of war was declared against Germany. His practical experience with respect to army organization gave to his views upon such war problems as came before the Congress a special significance. To some extent also he specialized upon mining problems, particularly those relating to the fuel supply and the acquisition of minerals needed for war purposes. He was a student of all legal problems. It was his practice to watch bills relating to the judiciary and to methods of procedure in the courts. Probably no Member devoted himself more assiduously to Supreme Court opinions as they affected the interpretation of statutes. It was notice- able that Col. Robbins was jealous of the integrity of the lawmaking power. Mr. Speaker, in this great body of 435 picked men, com- ing as they do from every corner of the Nation and repre- [19] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins senting views sometimes so divergent as to excite our special admiration of the national unity which prevails, it is difficult for one man to advance far ahead of his fel- lows. It is only by the closest application and the strictest adherence to details and to duty that this can be done. Those who have risen in influence and leadership have not ordinarily done so through mere popularity; nor is ability without application the talisman. Col. Robbins evidently knew all this as a result of his earlier experience in the House. It is not clear that he aspired to leadership, but it is known to all his surviving colleagues that he was gradually attaining a position amongst his fellows here that commanded their respect and confidence. His industry and his attainments counted for much, but his close study of details, the thoroughness with which he went at his work, the regularity of his attendance, the readiness with which he participated in debate, all tended to prove that he was one of the strong men in council and that the day was not far off when he would be recognized as one of the Nation's leaders. But, Mr. Speaker, as we have so often observed, it is not for us to question the taking off of those of our colleagues who are called in their prime. In the case of Col. Robbins, whom we knew so well and esteemed so much, we may w r onder, we may even ask, if there be another who can fill his place. Our hearts may be heavy with the thought that what was builded so high in our hopes for him is so suddenly and so ruthlessly shattered. We may sympa- thize with the bereaved ones and let out to them the emo- tions that afflict our souls. This we may do as a duty we owe to the memory of our colleague, to those he loved, and to ourselves. But we can not overcome the inevitable. We must " carry on," even as did our lamented colleague, doing the best we know how, serving faithfully as he did, until " taps " sound for us as they did for him. [20] Address of Mr. Clark, of Pennsylvania Mr. Speaker : Edward Everett Robbins was born, reared, educated, lived, worked, and passed away in the State. of his nativity, Pennsylvania. The hurrying months have come and gone until the circle of two years has been well- nigh completed since first we met here. Meanwhile death has invaded our membership all too frequently, and but recently it has " laid its pallid hand upon the strong man " and the strong man "is fallen and the flashing eye is dim." Whenever a friend or a relative is taken away men are accustomed to pause for a short time from their daily activities, some mourn in silence, some give expression to the sad sighing of their hearts in words of sorrow that fall from their lips, and some there are who for a moment reflect upon the significance of birth, the meaning of life, and the mystery of death. And yet the problem remains unsolved. Whenever a colleague or an associate or one who has attained distinction passes away there rises a duty which the living owe to the dead. In the discharge of that duty, solemn as it is, we are met here this day. Edward Everett Robbins was my office neighbor. He came from my State. He was my associate upon the floor of this House. He knew many of my acquaintances. We have strolled the streets of this city together at different times. We have exchanged views upon important pend- ing legislation and on varied subjects. He was my friend. I grew to know the man, his methods, his purposes, his opinions, and his worth. His education, his wide range of duties in civil life, his military experience, his participa- tion in the halls of legislation of his State and his country gave him a great fund of information of inestimable value in equipping him for the serious work upon which he entered when this Congress convened. [21] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins He brought to the investigation of any subject under consideration a trained mind. His arguments were logi- cal, forceful, his statements concise, and his judgments sound, his mental processes were rapid, his industry in- tense, his integrity was unquestioned, his character above reproach, and that, after all, is the best asset a man can have. He was resolute and firm in his convictions. His reputation was not confined to the boundaries of his own district; it extended far beyond. He was a most potent factor in the deliberations of the House and a command- ing personality therein. His voice, his wisdom, his judg- ment, and his experience will be greatly missed in the solutions of those perplexing and vexing military, eco- nomic, and social problems which have already risen above the horizon of our national life. Some men like so to live that when they have gone they will be held in loving remembrance by those whom they have left behind; some there are who like so to work that when the last dread summons comes they may know that the influence and the results of good deeds wrought here may be projected far into the future. Our colleague has secured both of these. He lived as though he were to die to-morrow, and he worked as though he were to live forever. His labors are finished, his life is ended, the door was open, he crossed its threshold; he is absent but not forgotten. [22] Address of Mr. Rose, of Pennsylvania Mr. Speaker: This day has been set apart to pay tribute to the life and character of Edward Everett Robbins, late Representative from the twenty-second congressional dis- trict of Pennsylvania. My acquaintance with the deceased extended over a period of many years, beginning with our student life in Washington and Jefferson College, from which Mr. Rob- bins graduated in the year 1881, and later was selected as a trustee of that institution, and was such at the time of his death. At no time was there a suggestion of a difference in our friendly relations. Following his graduation from Washington and Jef- ferson College, he took a special course in the Columbia Law School, of New York City, and was admitted to the bar of Westmoreland County in the year 1886, and shortly thereafter enlisted in the National Guard of Pennsylvania as a private in Company I, Tenth Regiment Infantry, and subsequently was engaged in the Spanish-American War, doing service in Porto Rico and Cuba, and because of special and noteworthy service rendered was advanced to offices of trust and honor in his command and gained and maintained the confidence of all who were under his authority. The death of Congressman Robbins marks the first among the Members of Congress who served in the Spanish-American War. My association with Mr. Robbins following his gradua- tion was at no time close, and for that reason I do not have first-hand knowledge of the many political struggles through which he passed in his native county before his recognition as one of the leaders in the party of his choice in the section of the State where he resided. [23] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins He was engaged in every political contest of note in his city and county and always contended earnestly and openly for the candidate of his choice and made all of his fights in the open, and as a result bitterness was engen- dered at times, but through it all my friend always ob- served the amenities of life and emerged from every con- test with his record for fairness maintained. My first association with him, after our graduation from college, was at Harrisburg, Pa., at the time of his election as senator by the voters of his native county in the year 1888, and I observed his course with a great deal of in- terest, as he early evinced an aptitude for legislative work and gave every promise of being further honored by the people whom he served. His ability soon carved a place for him and brought early recognition from his large con- stituency, who at a later period showered him with yet greater honors. In the year 1896 he was elected to the Fifty-fifth Con- gress and at that time showed great familiarity with the tariff legislation of the country and was engaged in many colloquies upon the subject of the tariff with the Hon. John Dalzell, one of the acknowledged leaders in the lower branch of the Congress at that time, and in all of which Mr. Robbins lost nothing by comparison. He left the Fifty-fifth Congress to aid his country in the Spanish-American War, and, upon being mustered out, resumed the practice of the law in Greensburg, Pa., and achieved high distinction at the bar of his native county, a bar which is admittedly one of the strongest and best in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. His clientage was large, and we find him taking part in many of the leading cases which occupied the attention of the courts of his county and in the appellate courts of the State. In addition to the arduous duties devolving upon Mr. Robbins as a lawyer, and in which profession he was a [24] Address of Mr. Rose, of Pennsylvania pronounced success, he was also signally prosperous as a coal operator, banker, and financier, and enjoyed great popularity among the people of his native county, a popu- larity gained by close application to his duties, fair deal- ing, and a profound sense of honor. His private and public life was above reproach, an in- heritance which can not be measured in words, and which should and will be highly prized by his immediate family and those acquainted with his appreciation of a high sense of duty and rugged honesty. His zeal and energy were unbounded, and as a mark of esteem and confidence in his integrity and lofty purposes he was chosen to succeed himself in the Sixty-sixth Con- gress by a majority decidedly pleasing and gratifying to him and his many friends. To the work of the next Con- gress he had planned to devote all of his time and effort, and it is not too much to say that with the splendid record already made and the work done by him during the ses- sions of the present Congress he would have taken his place among the acknowledged leaders in this branch of the Congress. Unless unavoidably absent Mr. Robbins was always found in his seat at every session of the Congress, and gave the closest attention to every bill brought before the House for consideration, and showed a familiarity with the merits or demerits of any proposi- tion which claimed the attention of those of you who have seen long service in this branch of the Congress. Leaving Washington for the last time he made known his plans to me, and I gained the impression from his con- versation that he was free from all physical ailments and that he would return on the following Monday and apply himself even more energetically to his work as a Member of Congress than had marked his career up to that time, a condition almost unthinkable to those who were closely associated with him during the sessions of the Sixty-fifth Congress. [25] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins All of his well-conceived plans were frustrated, how- ever, for while awaiting trial of a case in which he was personally interested in the courts of Somerset County, Pa., he was stricken with the then prevailing disease of influenza, and although attended by the most skillful physicians that could be procured succumbed within one week to the ravages of the dreaded malady and gave up his life in the midst of brilliant achievements and with every promise of added laurels to the splendid record already made and gaining even greater honors than those already bestowed upon him. Our friend passed from us as suddenly as a star falls, so usual and yet so startling, A flash of the lightning, a break in the wave, Man passes from life to his rest in the grave. In his death we are reminded that — The thoughts we are thinking our fathers would think, From the death we are shrinking our fathers would shrink; To the life we are clinging they also would cling, But it speeds from us all, like a bird on the wing. The Members of the present Congress are familiar with his activities on the floor of the House. He was deeply interested in all public questions. He was at all times alive and alert and intensely active in all legislation affect- ing the people, and especially the soldiers of any of the wars in which this country was at any time engaged. He was a hard-working, painstaking legislator, his mind was keen and alert; his perceptive qualities were of a high order, his diction well-nigh perfect, and he was no mean antagonist to the army of ready, forceful debaters who have seen long service in the House. He had a fine com- mand of the English language and was making rapid strides to a commanding position in the work of the lower branch of Congress. He was a close student of govern- mental affairs and was a strong, consistent opponent to any form of extravagance, and it is but fair to say that he [26] Address of Mr. Rose, of Pennsylvania enlisted his splendid qualities in any movement looking to the betterment of the conditions of the people of the country. He was fair, yet outspoken and fearless; cou- rageous to a degree, yet never questioned the motive of his antagonist in any controversy in which he was engaged. He strongly favored equal service from all citizens and had no patience with those enjoying our rights and our liberties, our schools and other institutions in times of peace, with the privilege of protection and the right of gaining a fortune under our form of government, and yet unwilling to share the burdens thrust upon us during the stress of war. Against such conditions he was unalterably opposed, and allowed no opportunity to pass wherein he could denounce a system which would tolerate or counte- nance such anomaly, as he conceived it. Who will say that he was in error in taking a position so high and patriotic? He was in great demand as a public speaker throughout the congressional district which he so ably represented, and but a few days before stricken with his last illness was well received in a public address made before the firemen of his home city when a flag which was pre- sented to them by Mr. Robbins was unfurled. For his charitable acts he will be long remembered. He has left behind him a large circle of friends to mourn his loss. As one of the committee selected to attend the funeral services of the late Representative Robbins in Grecnsburg, Pa., I desire to note that the large concourse of people present on that occasion was a sure evidence of profound sorrow and realization of a great loss, so that I feel justi- fied in presenting his life as an example of true American manhood and worthy of emulation by all who love pa- triotism, righteousness, and truth. May he rest with his fathers in the peace he has earned. [27] Address of Mr. Stafford, of Wisconsin Mr. Speaker : It is not hyperbole of phrase but well de- served that of the many men whom I have known in the past 16 years representing the Keystone State in this House none gave greater promise of distinction than our late colleague, whose memory and work we assemble here to- day to honor. No death has shocked the House so generally as that of our dear friend Robbins. Only a week before he left here for the last time I had yielded time to him in general de- bate. He left here in apparent good health. No intima- tion that he was not in the best of health had reached us. Then came the sad news that appalled us all. Robbins in the brief span of one term had won a for- ward place in the work of the House. This position was of his own creating. His aptitude for and willingness to follow the details of legislation brought him this reward. As a manifest of the regard in which he was held, I wish to cite a conversation had about 10 weeks before his death with one of the leaders of the House in which I suggested the need of having a strong Committee on Expenditures in the next Congress to investigate the contracts and expen- ditures of the Government during the war. My friend Robbins was suggested as having the ability, the courage, and the willingness to undertake this exacting work. I heartily concurred that he would make an exceptional chairman. So many men come to Congress and are content in giving attention to the needs of their districts and to vote on measures that are presented from time to time. Not so with Robbins. He regarded service on the floor as of the first importance. He was in active attendance, no mat- [28] Address of Mr. Stafford, of Wisconsin ter how minor the legislation, contributing his best judg- ment through debate and by amendment to the subject before the House. And the greater surprise is that he worked so faithfully and earnestly though he had a com- petence that would have inclined the average Member to a life of ease. His essential strength was in having good business judg- ment as well as a trained legal mind. Rarely are Mem- bers so favorably equipped. His wide experience made him valuable on the floor and in committee during the consideration of the great business problems continually arising. Fluent in speech, ready in debate, full of valuable knowledge, in one brief term his training and willingness to work brought him distinction in House affairs. With the House under the control of the Republicans in the coming term, he was destined to gain further renown and distinction. The House and the country can ill spare such a con- scientious, earnest, and faithful public servant. I liked him much. He was an honest coworker, I am saddened when I think I shall not see his genial countenance again. Mr. Crago. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members who desire to do so may have the privilege of extending and revising their remarks in the Record on the life, character, and public service of the late Member from Pennsylvania, Mr. Robbins. The Speaker pro tempore. Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none. Then, in accordance with the resolution previously adopted, the House (at 5 o'clock and 20 minutes p. m.) adjourned until Monday, February 17, 1919, at 11 o'clock a. m. [29] Proceedings in the Senate Monday, January 27, 1919. A message from the House of Representatives, by J. C. South, its Chief Clerk, communicated to the Senate the intelligence of the death of Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania, and transmitted resolutions of the House thereon. Mr. Penrose. Mr. President, I ask that the resolutions received from the House of Representatives on the death of Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania, be laid before the Senate. The Vice President. The Chair lays before the Senate the resolutions from the House of Representatives, which will be read. The Secretary read the resolutions, as follows: In the House of Representatives, January 25, 1919. Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. Resolved, That a committee of 34 Members of the House, with such Members of the Senate as may be joined, be appointed to attend the funeral. Resolved, That the Sergeant at Arms of the House be authorized and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carrying out the provisions of these resolutions, and that the necessary expenses in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent fund of the House. Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolution's to the Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. Resolved, That as a further mark of respect this House do now adjourn. [31] Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins Mr. Penrose. Mr. President, I offer the following resolu- tions, which I send to the desk and ask for their adoption. The resolutions (S. Res. 430) were read, considered by unanimous consent, and unanimously agreed to, as follows : Resolved, That the Senate has heard with profound sorrow the announcement of the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Robeins, late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. Resolved, That a committee of seven Senators be appointed by the Vice President to join the committee appointed on the part of the House of Representatives to attend the funeral of the deceased. Resolved, That the Secretary communicate a copy of these reso- lutions to the House of Representatives. The Vice President, under the second resolution, ap- pointed Mr. Penrose, Mr. King, Mr. Overman, Mr. Watson, Mr. Baird, Mr. Thompson, and Mr. Knox the committee on the part of the Senate. Mr. Penrose. Mr. President, I move as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased Representative that the Senate do now adjourn. The motion was unanimously agreed to; and (at 4 o'clock and 55 minutes p. in.) the Senate adjourned until to-morrow, January 28, 1919, at 12 o'clock meridian. Thursday, February 20, 1919. MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE A message from the House of Representatives, by J. C. South, its Chief Clerk, transmitted to the Senate resolu- tions on the life, character, and public services of Hon. Edward E. Robbins, late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. [32] • b\ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS II | III II ill II 1 II '1 , " II III II II 013 744 591 8 %M Vaili v v ta-ic- i-ca