Glass -£lqH; 1 X 64th Congress) 2d Session J HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES /Document I No. 2142 MICHAEL F. CONRY ( Late a Representative from New York ) MEMORIAL ADDRESSES DELIVERED IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES QF THE UNITED STATES SIXTY-FOURTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION Proceedings in the House March 2, 1917 Proceedings in the Senate March 2, 1917 PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING l^-ZfcH^ WASmNGTON 1917 V/v o« or ^. FEE 21 igjg TABLE OF CONTENTS •• Page ^ Proceedings in the House 5 ^> Memorial addresses by — i* Mr. John J. Fitzgerald, of New York 5 k Mr. James R. Mann, of Illinois 6 .' Mr. Murray Hulbert, of New York 9 Mr. John J. Eagan, of New Jersey 29 Mr. George W. Loft, of New York 30 Mr. William S. Bennet, of New York 6,32 Mr. Isaac Siegel, of New York 35 Mr. Champ Clark, of Missouri 37 Mr. Daniel J. Griffin, of New York 38 Proceedings in the Senate 41 f3] HON.I-nCHAEi F. CONRY DEATH OF HON. MICHAEL F. CONRY Proceedings in the House Friday, March 2, 1917. Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, it becomes my sad duty to announce the death of Hon. Michael F. Conry, a Repre- sentative from the State of New York. Because of the unusual condition of the public business at this time it is impossible to ask the House to adjourn out of respect to his memory. But it is proposed that recess be taken for a brief time as a mark of our esteem. Mr. CoNRY was just finishing his eighth year of service in this House. He had won the respect and the admira- tion of all the Members for his diligence, his industry-, and for the manly qualities that characterized him. Taken ill but a few days ago, much to the sorrow of his many friends, he rapidly grew worse, and died but a brief while ago. It will not be possible, Mr. Speaker, to ask that a time be set aside during this session of Congress to afford Members an opportunity to pay trilnite to his memory. So that Members maj' have an opportunity to pay suit- able tribute to his public services I ask unanimous con- sent that all who desire may extend remarks in the Record to the memorj^ of the deceased for 15 calendar days. The Speaker. The gentleman from New York asks unanimous consent that all Members have the privilege of jjrinting remarks on the life, character, and public serv- ices of Mr. CoNRY in the Record for 15 calendar days. Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none. Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Conry's loss is keenly felt by his colleagues from the State of New York and by [5] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry many other Members who were closely associated with him in the House. Laboring, as he did, under severe physical disability, eveiyone admired the courage with which he attended so faithfully to his duties. All, I am sure, entertain the deepest sympathy for his widow and children, who have lost so devoted and faithful a husband and father. Our country has lost a devoted and faithful servant; we have lost a loyal friend. Mr. Mann. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield? Mr. Fitzgerald. Certainly. Mr. Mann. As it is not likely, as the gentleman has stated, that there will be any opportunity for Members, except by printing in the Record, to express their opinion respecting Mr. Conry and his public services, I desire to say now that Mr. Conry had earned and had received the respect and all affectionate regard of all the Repub- licans in the House. Of course it goes without saying that he had the same in reference to the Democratic Members of the House. I think there were few men in the House for whom the Members entertained a higher personal regard than for this man, who, overcoming physical disabilities, always had a smiling way about him which endeared him to everj'body who met him. Mr. Bennet. Mr. Speaker, will my colleague yield to me for just a sentence? Mr. Fitzgerald. Yes. Mr. Bennet. What has been said by my colleague [Mr. Fitzgerald] and by the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Mann] expresses so fittinglj' the feelings on both sides of the aisle that I have no desire or intention of attempting to add anything to it, except to say that it voices the feel- ings of the entire delegation from the State and county from which our colleague came. [6] Proceedings in the House Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, I oft'er the following reso- lutions. 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. Michael F. Conry, a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That a committee of 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 tlie deceased. Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a vote on the resolutions. The Speaker. The question is on agreeing to the resolu- tions. The resolutions were unanimously agreed to. The Speaker. The Clerk will report the next resolution. The Clerk read as follows: Resolved, That as a further mark of respect, this House do now stand in recess until 8 o'clock p. m. The Speaker. The question is on agreeing to the resolu- tion. The resolution was unanimously agreed to; accordingly (at 7 o'clock and 7 minutes p. m.) the House stood in recess until 8 o'clock p. m. The House reassembled at 8 o'clock p. m., on the expi- ration of the recess. The Speaker. The Chair announces the following com- mittee to attend the funeral of the late Representative CoNRY. [7] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry The Clerk read as follows: Mr. Fitzgerald, Mr. Caldwell, Mr. Flynn, Mr. Dale of New York, Mr. Maher, Mr. Griffin, Mr. Riordan, Mr. Loft, Mr. Farley, Mr. Dooling, Mr. Carew, Mr. Patten, Mr. Hulbert, Mr. Bruckner, Mr. Oglesby, Mr. Smith of New York, Mr. Driscoll, Mr. Gallivan, Mr. Tague, Mr. Gallagher, Mr. Taggart, Mr. O'Shaunessy, Mr. London, Mr. Hicks, Mr. Rowe, Mr. Swift, Mr. Haskell, Mr. Chandler of New York, Mr. Siegel, Mr. Bennet, Mr. Fairchild, Mr. Dunn, Mr. Treadway, Mr. Danforth, Mr. Mott, Mr. Park, Mr. Piatt, Mr. San- ford, and Mr. Husted. Saturday, March 3, 1017. Mr, KiTCHiN. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Commit- tee on Ways and Means I present the following resolution. The Speaker. The Clerk will report the resolution. The Clerk read as follows : House resolution 551 Whereas death has again invaded our ranks and removed from the scene of his earthly activities our friend and colleague, the Hon. Michael F. Conry, of the State of New York: Resolved, That in his death we experience a keen sense of personal loss. As a Member of the House for four terms, and many years a member of this committee, he discharged at all times with distinguished ability and patriotism the duties devolv- ing upon him; Resolved, That in his death the House and the committee have lost a wise, diligent, patriotic Member and the district he repre- sented a citizen and a public servant devoted at all times to high ideals and prompted by those lofty purposes and motives which make for the very best tj'pe of American citizenship; Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be spread upon a page of the record of this committee to be set apart for that purpose, and that a copy of the same be presented to the House by the chairman of this committee for printing in the Congres- sional Record; and Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions appropriately en- grossed be transmitted by the clerk of this committee to the family of the deceased. The Speaker. Without objection, these resolutions will be spread upon the record. [8] MEMORIAL ADDRESSES Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York Mr. Speaker: Michael Francis Conry has gone to his last reward. No more shall we hear his sweet voice along the corridors and through the tunnel leading from the House Office Building to the Capitol humming the refrain of "Genevieve," "Mother Machree." "The End of a Perfect Day," or a song composed by himself upon the trip made by a congressional party to Honolulu last summer — all his favorites, with which he always sought to ease each be- labored step, never knowing, as he expressed it, what it was to be without pain, as he attempted to hurrj"^ along in the performance of his duty, which he discharged with unerring fidelity to the trust reposed in him by an ad- miring constituency. Born at Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870, of poor but respected parents, when but a boy working in the coal mines Conry met with an unfortunate accident, in which his ankles were crushed, rendering him a cripple for life, thus preventing him from pursuing further that occupa- tion. But it gave him the unlooked-for and unexpected opportunity of attending and being educated in the public schools of his native town, following which he taught school for seven years, and then entered and worked his way through the University of Michigan. Graduating from that institution in 1896, he received the degree of bachelor of laws, and began the practice of law at Scran- ton, Pa. Mr. Conry was too modest and unassuming to take more than a conscientious pride in his own success, yet too proud to complain of any misfortune. [9] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry Probably few of his colleagues ever knew he had once been nominated as the Democratic candidate for, and, upon the face of the first returns, elected to Congress from the State of Pennsylvania, but the certificate was subsequently issued to his opponent. Thereafter Mr. Conry moved to and took up the practice of law in New York City, where he soon attracted atten- tion as an orator of marked ability. It was but natural that one of his humble origin, always considerate of the welfare of the toilers, should have allied Mmself with the Democracy of Tammany Hall, in which he became an ardent and enthusiastic colaborer and at- tained deserved popularitJ^ After serving for two years as an assistant corporation counsel of the city of New York he was elected to the Sixty-first, Sixty-second, Sixty-third, Sixty-fourth, and Sixty-fifth Congresses, and at the time of his death was a member of the Committee on Ways and Means. Mr. Conry was a man of great intellect and a diligent student; he possessed the talent to analyze an intricate problem until he had mastered its evei-y detail, and acted onl}' after the fullest deliberation; and while not so active upon the floor of the House as many of his colleagues, due to his physical infirmities, his counsel and advice were eagerly sought, and he gave a great deal of attention and deep thought to pending legislation, and his influence was a potent factor in its consideration. Aside from his atten- tion to tariff and revenue matters which were originated in the committee of which he was a member he found time to organize and practically lead the successful oppo- sition on the Democratic side to the Clarke amendment to the Philippine bill, upon the termination of which, after a continuous session of 13 hours, on May 1, 1916, he suf- fered a physical collapse which compelled him to take to his bed for several weeks, and which he prophesied " was [10] Address of Mr. Htlbert. of New York the beginning of tlie end." He also delivered a carefully considered and well-prepared speech in support of the retention of the pneumatic postal tubes in New York, which is but one e^^dence of his readiness and eagerness to promote or protect the interests of the city of New York, which he in pai-t and so ably represented, whenever it became an issue. During my brief service in Congress we had become warm personal friends, inseparable companions, and I never knew a more considerate, faithful, and devoted friend. And friendship is the rarest and sweetest flower that grows in the garden of life; its soil is the human heart; it is planted by honest thought, nurtured by tears of sym- pathy, and kept alive by the breath of good wishes. Any- one who possessed the friendship of Congressman Conry, and they were legion, might have applied the acid tests of a chattering tongue, a wind of adversitj-, a bit of good fortune, or a breath of slander, only to find that it was untarnished by any or all. It was pure gold. My heart goes out to his wife and three little daughters, who have lost a devoted husband and loving father, while not only the people of the fifteenth congressional district but the city. State, and Nation have lost a statesman in the hour of our countiy's peril. Though I was one of the last to leave his bedside when his spirit had taken its final departure, I shall never be able to realize that he is other than " absent," for such a noble character as his but echoes : There is no death. The stars go down to rise upon a fairer shore And bright in heaven's jeweled crown They shine forevermore. And ever near us tho' unseen The dear immortal spirits tread, For all the boundless universe is life. There are no dead. [11] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry I include the following newspaper articles on my late- colleague, Michael F. Conry : [From the Washington Post, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Death of M. F. Conry — House H.^lts Session for Hour When News is Received — At Work Until Last Week — Succumbs at Providence Hospital from Heart and Kidney Trouble — De- mise May Mean Republican Organization of Next House — Was Tammany Hall Man The House stopped work for an hour yesterday when announce- ment was made of the death of Representative Michael F. Conry, from the fifteenth district of New York. After an illness of six weeks of kidney and heart trouble Mr. Conry died at Providence Hospital here shortly before 5 o'clock in the afternoon. The body will be taken to New York to-day, and funeral services will be held in that city next Tuesday. Mr. Conry, prominent in the affairs of this Congress, had been elected to succeed himself in the next House. He was a Democrat, and the vacancy created by his death may result in an advantage that will give the Republican side the necessary single vote required to organize the House and elect a Speaker. Mr. Conry was rounding out his fourth consecutive term in the House. He was 47 years old. He was a native of Shenandoah, Pa., and in his youth, following the occupation of a miner, sus- tained an injury that lamed him for life. He taught school for seven years and afterwards studied law in the Michigan Univer- sity. He is survived by a widow and three daughters. In the House Mr. Conry' was regarded as the leader of the New York delegation. He was known as the closest friend of Charles F. Murphy, chief of Tammany Hall. He was a member of the Ways and Means Committee, and until last week, though ill, worked hard with his colleagues in connection with the framing of the revenue bill and other legislation. [From the Washington Evening Star, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Representative Conry Dies at Hospital Here — New York Mem- ber III Only' a Week — Funer\l Services Tuesday' — House PAY'S Its Respect Representative Michael F. Conry', of New York City, died at Providence Hospital yesterday afternoon after an illness of a [12] Address of Mr. Hllbert, of New York week. Funeral services will be held in New York City Tuesday. Mr. CoNRv had been aware of an approaching illness for several weeks, but had continued at his work up until the time it was necessary for him to go to the hospital a week ago. The physi- cians found he had a combination of heart and kidney trouble. His death was announced to the House late yesterday afternoon by Representative Fitzgerald, of New York City. As the announce- ment came at a time when the public business of Congress was in a congested condition, all the House could do in respect to the late Member's memory was to recess from 7 to 8 o'clock. Repre- sentative Mann and Representative Bennet made brief speeches, in addition to Representative Fitzgerald's remarks, telling of their admiration for Representative Conry's many line qualities. LOOKED UPON AS LEADER The New York Member was especially valuable to the Ways and Means Committee and was looked upon as a leader in the New York City delegation in the House. As it was known he was one of the closest friends to Charles F. Murphj-, the head of the Tammany organization, Representative Conry's political advice was considered valuable. His work in Congress was of the quiet kind, as he rarely made a speech. How- ever, he exercised great influence, and his death will make a great gap in the power of the Democratic organization in the House. He had been reelected to the next House, which would have made his fifth consecutive term. He was 47 years old, born in Shenandoah, Pa., in 1870. His first work was in a coal mine; later he became a teacher, and then attended the University of Michigan, graduating in 1896 with a degree of bachelor of laws. His practice in New York City brought him into prominence, and he became assistant corporation counsel of that city, a post he held for two years. He was elected to the House first for the Sixty-first Congress and for the succeeding Congresses with large majorities. A wife and three children survive him. [From the Washington Herald, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Representative Conry Succumbs to Malady — " Tammany Hall " Congressman Dies at Providence Hospital Michael F. Conry, Democratic Representative of the fifteenth New York district in the House, died at Providence Hospital here last night of kidney trouble. [13] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry He had been ill only a few days, although his health had been bad for several years. He was 47 years old, and is survived by a wife and three children. Representative Conry was one of the leaders of the so-called Tammany group of House Democrats. He had been in Congress for eight years, and had been reelected to the Sixty-fifth Congress. His death materially lessens the Democratic chances to control the next House. The House, despite the congestion of legislative business and the short time remaining for work, took an hour's adjournment last night out of respect to the memory of Representative Conry. Representatives Fitzgerald, of New York; Mann, of Illinois; and Bennet, of New York, paid glowing tributes to the dead Member. The body will go to New York to-day, and a congressional com- mittee will attend the funeral, to be held Tuesday. [From the Washington Times, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] If House Does Sing, 'twill Be a Tribute — " Mike " Conry, Genial, Sweet-Voiced Congressman, Dies as Session Ends — ■ Led in " Good-by " Songs — Members Recess in Midst of Tasks When News of Death is Told [By Theodore Tiller.] Probably there'll be a song or two in the House of Representa- tives late to-night or in the early morning hours as this session passes into history. In the lower body there is generally a let- down of business just before the gavel falls, and, somehow, the fellows begin to hum an old-fashioned tune, the chorus swells, and soon half the membership is singing. It is the mellowing influence of the time for good-bys, the relief from overwork, an outcropping of the sentimental among men who are soon to break pleasant associations, and who at heart are still just boys. But if they sing to-night there will be a missing voice — and that is why this story is written. " Mike " Conry — genial, whole- souled, lovable " Mike " Conry — is dead, or has " crossed over," as Uncle Joe Cannon, who dislikes the word " death," would say if he were writing a story about the passing of a colleague. [14] Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York VOICE CLEAR, HEART TENDER In former years Congressman Conry has been there to sing as the last hours of a Congress slipped by. He had a voice as clear as a bell and a heart as tender as a child's. He was lame — was " Mike " Conry — but he'd limp toward the well of the House and soon you'd hear him above the rest as his tenor would blend in harmony with other Members who had good voices and sang with feeling under the thrill of good-by scenes. "Auld Lang Syne," "Tenting To-night," "Old Black Joe," " Suwanee River " — the old favorites, with sometimes a verse of " Home, Sweet Home " — were among the songs they sang, while CoNRY-'s voice keyed true to every note. Or perhaps they'd sing an Irish ballad — something that carried one back to the memories of green hills and clear lakes, to blue- eyed lassies, to cottages where old-fashioned mothers crooned the lullabies that have always put little children to sleep, and to a little isle whose national heart has been as big as the great out-of-doors. " MIKE " CONRY STIRRED And then, too, " Mike " Conry's voice was heard above the rest, but it had a sort of quaver in it and his eyes had that far-away look that comes when one's feelings are deeply stirred. Maybe the Members of the House will not get a chance to sing at all before the adjournment comes sine die. But if Conry were here he'd want them to, and now he is dead and the body is on the way to his New York home " Mike " Conry would not have them refrain from song because of that. This story might have been told in a few words — but the writer felt it was worth a bit more than that. In these final hours of an epochal session of the National Legislature it can not be amiss to turn a moment from practical things and record that sentiment still exists, that there is not a Member of the House who doesn't miss Michael Conry to-day, and that if the songs of yesterday are sung again some of his colleagues will seem to hear once more the lead of Conry, of New York. HOUSE SHOWS spirit Persons who have never seen the end of a session in the House of Representatives probably can not appreciate what adjournment means to the Members of the lower body. In the Senate there is 92438«— 17 2 [15] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry ^ ' always dignity, real or assumed. The farewells are grave, matter of fact, although doubtless sincere. In the House the scenes are entirely different. House Members somehow are closer in their friendships. The complexion of the lower Chamber is constantly changing. Men come and go every two years. The leader of to-day may be the vanquished of to-morrow. But during his term he has formed friendships that are as true as steel and associations that are hard to break. Final adjournment in the House is much like the graduation day in a high school or a college. The young fellows assemble in class for the last time. Each one knows that never will they all meet together again. New faces are sure to appear and old faces are certain to be missed. It is a breaking of the ties that bind. So with the House of Representatives, with its membership that comes " close from the soul of a great people." The end of busi- ness comes, the tension is relaxed. Members are saying good-by — perhaps for a day, perhaps forever; and then away over in a corner a song is begun, a hush falls over the crowded galleries, the membership joins in, the Speaker withholds the gavel, there is no word of reproof, and moisture dims the eyes of those who appreciate the note of pathos in it all. Thus they have sung in the past and thus they will sing in the future. But " Mike " Conry's voice will never lead them again. NEWS OF DEATH COMES " Mike " Conry, beloved of every Member of the House, died last night at Providence Hospital. The end came quickly, unex- pectedly. The House stood in recess for one hour when the death was announced by Congressman Fitzgerald, dean of the New York delegation. The crush of legislation prevented a longer recess, but the tribute of the House was none the less sincere. Tears stood in the eyes of Mr. Fitzgerald as he told his colleagues that Michael Conry had answered the final roll call. Should they sing as the sands of the Sixty-fourth Congress run low, there'll be a tribute to Conry in that, and there'll be proof once more of the fact that the mabers of national law have in them the touch of sentiment that makes us all alike. [IC] Address of Mb. Hulbert, of New York [From the New York Herald, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Representative Coxry Dies — New York Democratic Member Kept Up Congress Duties to the Last Washington, D. C, Friday. Representative Michael F. Conry, a Democrat, of New York City, died here to-day from kidney and heart trouble, from which he had been suffering acutely for about a week in Providence Hospital. Mr. Conry was 47 years old. He was born at Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870. He studied law in the University of Michigan and was graduated in 1896. He was married and had three children. Mr. Conry served two years as assistant corporation counsel of New York and had just been reelected to his fifth consecutive term in the House of Representatives. Mr. Conry was regarded as the real Democratic leader of the New York delegation. He was the only New York member of the Ways and Means Committee. It is said that he was the closest friend of Charles F. Murphy, of Tammany Hall. He has been a conspicous figure in the House of Representatives ever since he began his service in the Sixty-first Congi-ess. During the present session, when the fight over the retention of the pneumatic-tube service in New York City reached its climax, Mr. CoNRY' was one of the foremost advocates of retention of the tubes. Mr. Conry, although ill, remained at his post in the fore- front of the struggle which finally resulted to-day in the retention of the tubes, the Senate having agreed to the conference report, which now sends the bill to the President for his signature. The death of Mr. Conry- was announced in the House about 7 o'clock. Because of the unusual pressure of legislation a final adjournment was not taken, but on motion of Representative Fitz- gerald, of New York, the House, out of respect, took a recess. The body will be taken to New York and the funeral will be held Tuesday, March 6. [From the New York Journal of Commerce, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Congressman Conry- Dead — New York City- Representative Passes Away- in Washington Washington, March 2. Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- cratic Member ©f Congress for four terms and reelected for a fifth, [17] Memorial Addresses: Representative Cgnry died at a hospital here late to-day after a long illness from kidney trouble. He was 47 years old. In spite of his failing health he had been at the Capitol quite regularly until last week, and as a member of the Ways and Means Committee had worked hard in connection with framing the revenue bill and other legislation. A native of Shenandoah, Pa., Mr. Cgnry in his youth was a miner, and in following that trade sustained an injury that lamed him for life. He leaves a widow and three daughters. [From the Brooklyn (N. Y.) Times, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Congressman Michael Conry Dies — Representative from Man- hattan FOR Four Terms — House Adjourns Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- cratic Member of Congress for four terms, died yesterday in Providence Hospital, Washington, of heart and kidney trouble. He was New York's Democratic member of the Ways and Means Committee. The House adjourned for an hour yesterday in respect to Congressman Conry's memory. Because of the im- mense legislative pressure the House did not follow its usual custom of adjourning early. Mr. Conry was born in Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870. He taught school, was a newspaper reporter, a public accountant, and then studied law in the University of Michigan, graduating in 1896. He came to New York and formed a law partnership with Edward D. Dowling, with offices at 280 Broadway. For two years he served as assistant corporation counsel, and was nominated for Congress for the first time in 1908. Representative Conry's death may have an important effect on the political situation in the House next session. The Democrats and Republicans elected 215 Members each, with 5 independents. Next session the Democrats will have but 214 votes. [From the New York American, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Conry Dies; G. 0. P. Grip on House Tighter — DEMOca\TS Now Lack Four Votes Necessary for Majority Control in Speaker- ship Fight — Urge Whitman to Hurry Special Election — Republicans Claim Enough Votes to Elect Mann Washington, March 2. Congressman Michael F. Conry, of the fifteenth New York dis- trict, died after a lingering illness at Providence Hospital, this city. [18] Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York The news of Mr. Conry's death was communicated to the House bj' Representative Fitzgerald, of New York, who spoke feelingly of the late Congressman's life and services. Minority Leader Mann and Representative Bennet, also of New York, joined in a tribute to the departed Member. A recess of the House was taken as a mark of respect. Mr. Conry's death makes the third to occur among the member- ship of the present session. Samuel J. Tribble, of Georgia, and David F. Finley, of South Carolina, died earlier in the session. SERVED FOl'R TERMS Mrs. Conry and one of her daughters have been in Washington for about two weeks. The other two children — Katherine, 9, and Clair, 7 — have been with the family of J. V. Kiely, at No. 116 East Fifty-fourth Street. They knew that their father had been ill since Wednesday, but were not told of his death. Michael F. Conry was born in Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870. He was educated in the public schools of his native town, and afterwards taught school for seven years. He was graduated in 1896 from the University of Michigan, receiving the degree of LL. B. He entered the legal profession, and was for a while an assistant corporation counsel of New York. He was elected to the Sixty-first, Sixty-second, Sixty-third, and Sixty-fourth Congresses. The body will be taken to New York to-morrow by Mrs. Conry, and the "funeral will take place there Tuesday morning. Speaker Clark named a committee, including the New York delegation in the House, to attend the services. [From the New York Times, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Congressman Conry, of New York, Dies — Democratic Member FROM the Fifteenth District a Victim of Bright's Disease — Alters Division in House — Two Parties Were Equally Di- vided IN Next Congress — Special Election Necessary Washington, March 2, 1917. Representative Michael F. Conry, of the fifteenth district of New York, died here this afternoon at 5.30 o'clock at Providence Hospital. At 7 o'clock the House was officially informed of the death of the New York Member, and a recess of one hour was [19] Memorial Addresses: Representati\t Conry taken in respect to his memory. The congestion of legislation so near the end of the session prevented an adjournment of the House. Aside from the shock felt in the House over the sudden death of Mr. CoNRY, there was concern to-night over the political effect of a vacancy in the House membership because of the possibility of an extra session of the Sixty-fifth Congress. The Democrats and Republicans of the next House are evenly divided, with five independents holding the balance of power. The death of a Member on either side gives an advantage to the other should an extra session become necessary. The Republican governor of New York has authority to call a special election to fill Mr. Gonry's seat, but Members here can not predict when such an election will be held. Mr. CoNRY had not been in the best of health for several weeks, but was able to be in the House last Monday. He was taken to the hospital that day and rapidly grew worse until he became un- conscious to-day. Bright's disease is said to have been the cause of his death. Word came to Mr. Conry's colleagues this after- noon that as a last resort physicians were attempting to draw the poison from Mr. Conry's system by the " sweating process." The body of Representative Gonry will be taken to New York to-morrow, but the funeral will not be held until next Tuesday. The congressional committee which will be named to attend the funeral will go to New Y'ork on Monday evening. Representatives Hulbert and DriscoU, of New York, and Coady, of Maryland, were at the bedside of Representative Conry when he died. Mrs. Conry and one daughter were also present. Mr. Conry leaves two other daughters, who are attending school in New York. Tears were in the eyes of Representative John ,T. Fitzgerald, dean of the New York delegation, as he announced Mr. Conry's death to the House. " Owing to the unusual condition of the public business," said Mr. Fitzgerald, " it would be impossible to hold memorial services before the end of the session." " In the circumstances," said Mr. Fitzgerald, " it is impossible for the House to adjourn, but in respect to the memory of Mr. Conry the House will stand in recess. Mr. Conry' was finishing his eighth year as a Member of this body. He had won the respect and admiration of all his colleagues because of his up- [20] Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York Tightness, his industry, and his manly qualities. The loss of Mr. CoNRY will be keenly felt by all the Members from the State of New York and all Members of this House. " Laboring as he was under severe physical affliction, everyone admired the courage and fidelity with which Michael Conry attended to his duties, and everyone, I am sure, feels the deepest sympathy for his wife and children." Representative James R. Mann, the Republican floor leader, said: " Mr. Conry earned and received the respect and affectionate regard of all the Republicans of the House as well as the Demo- crats. There have been few men in the House for whom Members entertained so high a personal regard as for this man. Despite his physical disabilities he always had a smile and a way about him that endeared him to everybody." Representative William S. Rennet, a New York Republican, said: " WTiat has just been said expresses fittingly the feeling on both sides of the House regarding Mr. Coxry. I could add nothing but to say it voices the feeling of the entire New York delegation and the House as well." [From the New York Sun, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Represent.\tive M. F. Conry Dies; House Le.\d to G. O. P. — New York City Congressm.\n Succumbs to He.\bt and Kidney Diseases Washington, March 2. Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- cratic Member of Congress for four terms and elected for a fifth, ditd at the Providence Hospital here this afternoon of a compli- cation of heart and kidney diseases. His death may have an important effect on the political com- plexion of the House in the next session. The Democrats and Republicans elected 215 Members each, and there are five inde- pendents. If an extra session is called, the Democrats would now be represented by only 214 votes, as it is not likely that Mr. Conry's successor will be elected until the November election. Even if a special election were arranged, it could not be held for 30 days. [21] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry Mr. Conry represented the fifteenth New York district, which is strongly Democratic; so his successor will almost surely be a Democrat, but until his successor is elected the Republicans will have one vote more than the Democrats. Mr. Conry carried on to the last one of the most courageous fights against ill health and death itself that the House has seen in years. He was the real leader of the New York Democratic delegation, and was New York's Democratic member of the Ways and Means Committee. He had been in ill health for several years, but had refused to permit this to interfere with his important legislative duties. This session he has insisted upon attending every meeting of the House when legislation of importance to his State or party was under consideration. He was there not only to give his vote but to fight in behalf of the measures he advocated. He led the fight for pneumatic postal tubes for big cities when he should have been in bed. The result was a series of physical collapses from the start of the session. He finally collapsed last Friday after a tremendously active day for a man in his condition. Because of the immense legislative pressure the House did not follow its custom of adjourning early in respect to his memory, but a recess was taken from 7.10 until 8 o'clock this evening. The body will be sent to New York to-morrow and burial will be on Tuesday. Mr. Conry leaves a widow and three daughters. Mr. CoNRY was born in Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870, and was educated in the public schools there. He taught school, was a newspaper reporter, a public accountant, and then went to the University of Michigan to study law. He was graduated in 1896. He returned to New York and formed a law partnership with Edward D. Dowling, with offices at 280 Broadway. He was assist- ant corporation counsel for two years and in 1908 was nominated for Congress for the first time. He was elected then and at each succeeding election. [From the New York World, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] New York Congressman Dead in Capital — M. F. Conry Suc- cumbs TO Kidney Trouble — May .\ffect Democratic Balance in the Next House Washington, March 2. Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- cratic Member of Congress for four terms and reelected for a [22] Address or Mr. Hilbert, of New York fifth, died at a hospital here late to-day. after a long illness from kidney trouble. He was 47 years old. In spite of his failing health, he had been at the Capitol regu- larly until last week, and, as a member of the Ways and Means Committee, had worked hard in connection with framing the revenue bill and other legislation. A native of Shenandoah, Pa., Mr. Conry in his youth was a miner. In following that trade he received an injury that lamed him for life. He is survived by a widow and three daughters. The death of one of the Democratic Members elect may have an important effect on the political complexion of the House in the Sixty-fifth Congress. The Democrats and Republicans elected 215 Members each, and there are 5 independents, on whom depends which party shall organize the next House. If an extra session were called, the Democrats probably would go into the organization fight only 214 strong. Members of the New York delegation believe that a successor to Representative Conry will not be elected until November. Elec- tion of a Democrat then would restore the even balance before the regular December session. Representative Conry, active in Tammany councils, was from a safely Democratic district, the fifteenth. The body will be taken to New York to-morrow by Mrs. Conry, and the funeral will take place there Tuesday morning. Speaker Clark named a committee, including the New York delegation in the House, to attend the services. The House this evening, in Committee of the Whole, voted for the widow of Representative Conry •?7,500. [From the New York Tribune, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] Congressman Conry Dies at Washington After Long Illness — Death May- Have Important Effect on Sixty-Fifth Congress Washington, March 2. Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- cratic Member of Congress for four terms and reelected for a fifth, died at a hospital here late to-day, after a long illness from kidney trouble. He was 47 years old. In spite of his failing health, he had been at the Capitol regularly until last week, and, as a member of the Ways and Means Committee, had worked hard in connection with framing the revenue bill and other legislation. [23] Memorial Addresses: Representati\-e Conry A native of Shenandoah, Pa., Mr. Conry in his youth was a miner, and in following that trade sustained an injury that lamed him for life. He is survived by a widow and three daughters. The death of one of the Democratic Members elect may have an important effect upon the political complexion of the House in the Sixty-fifth Congress. The Democrats and Republicans elected 215 Members each, and there are 5 independents, upon whom depends which party shall organize the next House. If an extra session were called, the Democrats probably would go into the organization fight only 214 strong. The body will be taken to New York to-morrow by Mrs. Conry, and the funeral will take place there Tuesday morning. Speaker Clark named a committee, including the New York delegation in the House, to attend the services. [From the New York American, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] Congressmen and 400 Mail Carriers at Conry Funeral — Father Alexis Eulogizes Popular Representative, Calling Him a Martyr to Duty Four hundred letter carriers, whose cause was long championed by Congressman Mich.\el F. Conrv, hurried through their morn- ing deliveries yesterday to take a little time to attend his funeral. They were among the most sincere mourners of the Congressman who often aided them. Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by other priests, celebrated a solemn high mass of requiem in St. Stephen's Church, in East Twenty-eighth Street. A large delegation of Members of the House, headed by Speaker Champ Clark and two Members of the Senate, attended. Fellow Representatives present were Griffin, Maher, Riordan, Loft, Farley, Dooling, Patten, Carew, Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, Bruckner, Bennet, Oglesby, Piatt, Driscoll, Smith, London, and Caldwell, of New York; O'Shaunessy, of Rhode Island; Eagan, Scully, and Hamill, of New Jersey; Morin, Liebel, and Farr, of Pennsylvania; Gallivan and Trcadway, of Massachusetts; Taggart, of Kansas; Gallagher, of Illinois; Small, of North Carolina; and Lonergan, of Connecticut. Others from Washington were United States Senators Robinson, of Arkansas, and Shafroth, of Colorado; Robert Gordon, Sergeant [24] Address of Mr. Hilbert, of New York at Arms of the House; P. .1. Haltigan, reading clerk of the House, and most of the Tammany district leaders. Father Alexis eulogized Mr. Conry as a martyr to duty. The burial was in Calvary Cemetery. The pallbearers, all personal friends, were E. D. Bowling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. Cruise, and Judge J. L. Walsh, of the city court. The Elks, of whom the Congressman was a member, held services Tuesday night. [From the New York Tribune, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] Michael F. Conry Buried — C.vpitol Deleg.\tion at Funer.vl of Represent.\tive Solemn high requiem mass was held in St. Stephen's Church yesterday morning for Representative Michael F. Conry, who died in Washington last Friday. Bishop Patrick J. Hayes was the celebrant. Several Senators and a delegation from the House, headed by Speaker Champ Clark, attended. The church was draped in mourning. The center was reserved for the Washington delegation. There were many city officials present. Intimate friends of Mr. Conry acted as pallbearers. They were E. D. Bowling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. Cruise, and Justice J. L. Walsh, of the city court. Others present were United States Senators Robinson, of Arkan- sas, and Shafroth, of Colorado; Representatives Fitzgerald, Griffin, Maher, Flynn, Riordan, Loft, Farley, Booting, Patten, Carew, Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, Bruckner, Bennet, Oglesby, Piatt, Bris- coll. Smith, London, and Caldwell, of New York; O'Shaunessy, of Rhode Island; Eagan, Scully, and Hamill, of New ,Tersey; Morin, Liebel, and Farr, of Pennsylvania; Gallivan and Treadway, of Massachusetts; Taggart, of Kansas; Gallagher, of Illinois; Small, of North Carolina; Lonergan, of Connecticut. Four hundred letter carriers also attended. In Congress Mr. Conry had been a champion of the postmen. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery. [25] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry [From the Brooklyn (N. Y.) Eagle, Wednesday, Mar. 7, 1917.] Last Tribute to Conry — Champ Clark Among Those at Repre- sentative's Fl'xeral Before a large assemblage, including many public men, Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by a number of priests, celebrated a solemn high mass of requiem to-day in memory of the late Repre- sentative Michael F. Conry, who died in Washington last Friday. The services were held in St. Stephen's Church, on East Twenty- eighth Street, Manhattan, and interment was in Calvary Cemetery. A delegation from the House of Representatives, several United States Senators, and local officials who had known the deceased Congressman all his life were present. Personal friends acted as pallbearers. They were E. D. Dow- ling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. Cruise, and Justice J. L. Walsh, of the city court. Speaker Champ Clark attended. The Congressmen who accom- panied him as members of the official delegation included Fitz- gerald, Griffin, Maher, Flynn, Riordan, Loft, Farley, Dooling, Patten, Carew, Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, Bruckner, Rennet, Oglesbj', Piatt, Driscoll, Smith, London, and Caldwell. [From the New York Herald, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] Mass of Requiem for M. F. Conry — Speaker Clvrk Attends Services in St. Stephen's for the Late Representative Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by several priests, yesterday in St. Stephen's Church celebrated a solemn mass of requiem for Representative Michael F. Conry, who died in Washington last Friday. The services were attended by a large assemblage of distinguished men, including a delegation from Congress headed by Speaker Champ Clark. Personal friends who acted as pallbearers were E. D. Bowling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, Michael J. Cruise, and Justice J. L. W'alsh. The church was draped in mourning. [From the New York Sun, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] Many Congressmen at Conry Funeral — Speaker Clark Heads Delegation — 400 Letter Carriers Also Attend Champ Clark headed a delegation of Congressmen who attended funeral services for the late Representative Michael F, Conry in [26] Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York St. Stephen's Roman Catholic Church, in East Twenty-eightli Street, yesterday. The Speaker has attended only one other funeral in recent years, but his regard for Mr. Coxry was such that he felt compelled to come to New York on this occasion. With him were 21 other New York Representatives and several from other States, as well as several United States Senators and many city officers and friends of Mr. Conry. Personal friends, acting as pallbearers, were E. D. Dowling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. Cruise, and Justice J. L. Walsh, of the city court. More than 400 letter carriers, whose fight for better working conditions Mr. Coxry championed in Washington, entered the church when they had finished their early morning deliveries. Among others present were Robert Gordon, Sergeant at Arms of the House; P. J. Haltigan, reading clerk of the House; John R. Voorhis, grand sachem of the Society of Tammany; and most of the leaders of Tammany Hall. Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by a number of priests, cele- brated a solemn high mass of requiem. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery. [From the New Y'ork Times, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] M\NY Mourn M. F. Conry — Spe.\ker Cuvrk and Congressional Delegation at His Funeral Speaker Champ Clark and a delegation from the House of Representatives and two Senators attended the funeral services here yesterday of Congressman Michael F. Conry, who died in Washington on Friday. Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by a number of priests, celebrated a solemn high mass of requiem in St. Stephen's Church, East Twenty-eighth Street. The interment took place in Calvary Cemetery. At the conclusion of the religious part of the services the Rev. Father Alexis, a missionary of Hoboken, referred to the career of Air. Conry, to his many acts of charity, and said the late Congress- man had died a martyr to duty and to his country. Personal and political friends of Mr. Conry filled the church. Among them were 400 letter carriers and post-office employees, whose welfare had always been a subject of consideration in his public work. The delegation, headed by the dean of New Y'ork Representa- tives, John J. Fitzgerald, of Brooklyn, included Congressmen r27" Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry Griffin, Maher, Flynn, Riordan, Loft, Farley, Dooling, Patten, Carey, Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, Bruckner, Bennet, Oglesby, Piatt, Driscoll. Smith, London, and Caldwell, of New York; Eagan, Scully, and Haniill, of New Jersey; Morin, Liebel, and Farr, of Pennsylvania; Taggart, Kansas; Gallagher, Illinois; Small, North Carolina; Lonergan, Connecticut; and O'Shaunessy, Rhode Island. The Senators were Robinson, of Arkansas, and Shafroth, of Colorado. Mr. CoNRY. who represented the Democratic lifteenth district, lived at 141 East Twenty-sixth Street. [28] Address of Mr. Eagan, of New Jersey Mr. Speaker: Michael F. Conry has answered the final roll call. America has lost one of its best citizens; this House one of its ablest Members, one of its noblest charac- ters; the fifteenth congressional district of New York a conscientious, hard-working Representative; his col- leagues in this House a steadfast friend; and his sorrow- ing widow and children a devoted husband and father. Membership in this great body has its responsibilities and cares, but it also has its compensations. One of the greatest of these is the opportunity to have known men like Michael F. Conry. My Friendship for Mr. Conry be- gan the moment I was introduced to him, and it ripened as I grew to know more and more of him. The memory of the friendship will live in me as long as life lasts. Though suffering constant and intense pain as the re- sult of an accident while working as a boy in the coal mines of Pennsylvania, his disposition was as cheerful as his voice was sweet, as his heart was tender and true. In- stead of harrowing others with his physical ills he seemed to forget them completely, and lielped many of us by his sunny disposition and his all-pervading good humor to forget our imaginary troubles. To know Michael F. Conry was indeed to love him. In his death I have suffered the loss of one of the best and truest friends I have ever had. [29] Address of Mr. Loft, of New York Mr. Speaker: My late colleague and friend, Michael F. CoNRY, has answered the final roll call, and it shall be my last act as a Member of Congress to pay a fitting though brief tribute to his honored memory. His was a lovable character, which, after all, is the very essence of manhood. He might have been sad, discon- solate, and even sullen, and his physical infirmity would have successfully plead any human indulgence for his frailty; but he disguised pain with a smile, fought nobly and bravely under a handicap which would have driven a man who did not possess his character to despair, and not only found comfort and happiness but spread it wherever he went. He had served four consecutive terms in the House, and had been reelected for a fifth term, which demonstrates the regard of his constituents and the esteem in which he was held bj^ them. And it was well deserved. He was a man of deeds, always ready and anxious to help those who sought his service. His attitude in this respect is typical of the lines penned bj' Sam Walter Foss: Let me live in ray house by the side of the road And be a friend to man. A man who could and did appreciate the consideration shown him, he was the most considerate man toward others it has ever been my privilege and pleasure to asso- ciate with. It seems to me as if he began each day with a firm determination to adhere to the motto : To thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man. [30] Address of Mr. Loft, of New York He has lived a life and won a fame among his fellow men the knowledge of which should be a consolation to his widow and their three beautiful children. God bless and comfort them, and may tlie soul of our beloved colleague rest in peace. 92438°— 17 3 [31] Address of Mr. Bennet, of New York Mr. Speaker: "We beseech Thee for the soul of Thy servant Michael." Gravely and softly the good bishop said it, yet as a man asking that for which he had an as- sured right. We in the pews who had known Michael F. CoNRY knew that this prayer would be granted. Our late colleague had lived the life wliich leads to certain salva- tion. It had been a solemn and beautiful service. The symbolic mass, the rich music, and then the impres- sive eulogy by the black-robed Jesuit father. All that he said we knew to be true. " It is given to all men once to die," said he. But to liim the death of the righteous was triumph, not tragedy. We recognized this fidelity of his description of Conry as a man who had been true to him- self, to his family, to his country, and to his God, and who had really shortened his days by attention to the public service. And for whoin was this eulogy? In whose honor were Senators of the United States and 30 Representatives in Congress, headed by their honored Speaker, gathered? Were the mitered bishop, the princelj^ monsignor, and the reverend clergj' gathered to do honor to wealth and hereditary power? Did six personal friends bear on their shoulders one who living had enriched them by his largess? None of these natural assumptions is true. The sweet flowers, tributes of affection from real friends, blossomed for a simple Irish lad. The life of Michael F. Conry is one of solid satisfaction to those who knew him, and a tribute to our country's op- portunities. Not yet 50, he had risen by his own talent, [32] Address or Mr. Bennet, of New York ability, and exertions from a breaker boy in a coal mine to be a leader in the National House of Representatives. He had triumplied over grievous physical injuries. Years ago an accident in a coal mine had lamed him for life. The accident that ended his career as a miner turned him to the profession of the law and success on a wider field. He had triumphed over a great apparent injustice. Nominated for Congress as the representative of his fel- low workmen of Scranton against a man of great wealth and power, the nominee of both leading parties, he ap- parently won, even over such great odds. He was not seated in the House. Disappointment neither soured nor spoiled him. Leaving the city of Scranton he came to New York City and soon was in Congress under circumstances wliich made leadership inevitable and place and service secure. His judgment was serene and sound. Whenever a question came up which affected New York City, every one of us, sooner or later, asked " What does Mike Conry think about it?" He was on the most distinguished com- mittee of the House — Ways and Means. Happy in his beautiful home life with wife and children; surrounded by a wealth of friends, both within and without the circle of his kinsmen; daily more powerful in his party councils. Then disease struck him down. All last summer wc saw him failing; this winter we noted his waning strength. And then he was gone. In the whole membership of the House he left not a sin- gle enemy. He had done his duty, he had fought his fights, but he fought fair and left no bitterness. To his family he will always be a fond recollection, for he was loving and true; to his friends a tender memory, for lie was staunch, sympathetic, and helpful; to the Irish people, of whom he was proud to be one, a notable example of a true Irish- man; to the church of which he was a faitliful member, a source of justified pride. [33] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry This was the man for whom the bishop prayed and the eloquent priest delivered the eulogj^ of truth, sympathy, and power. This was the man whom statesmen honored and whom friends mourned. He had lived and loved, toiled and served; had seen good fortune and bad; had looked the great of the earth in the face unafraid, and had been proudly of the plain people. So they who honored him were wise, and they who mourned him were well advised. For he, thus hon- ored and thus mourned, had been a greater than prince or potentate. He had lived and died wholly and com- pletely a true, loyal, and honest man. [34] Address of Mk. Siegei., of New York Mr. Speaker: In the death of Representative Michael F. CoNRY the city of New York has lost a vahiable public servant, and the Nation at large will miss one who gave to it the best that was in him. Although onlj' 46 years of age, in the prime of life, and with a future most promising, he exercised and wielded a power far greater than most men acknowledged during his lifetime. Few men from the city of New York in Con- gress have given deeper and more thorough consideration to the important questions of the day; and, on account of his physical condition, he spent the major part of his time in research work. It was due to his personal and untiring eflorts that the Philippine bill, which would have brought shame to the cheeks of the American people in years to come, was beaten. Michael F. Conrv first saw the light of day a I Shenan- doah, Pa., on April 2, 1870. After following the vocation of school-teacher for seven years, he graduated from the University of Michigan in 1896. He then commenced the practice of law as an assistant corporation counsel in the city of New York, and the people of New York City, recog- nizing his ability, made him a Member of the Sixty-first, Sixty-second, Sixty-third, and Sixty-fourth Congresses, and then reelected him to the Sixty-fifth Congress. He was one of the best read men in the House, could tell and always enjoyed a story about himself, and had a wit and humor about him that endeared him to all wlio came in contact with him. He loved men for what they repre- sented from the point of culture and education. He neither had nor worshiped wealth. He was patriotic in [35] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry the fullest sense of the term. He cherished America, the same as an infant loves its mother. He exemplified true home life in every way. He was devoted to his wife and children, and in their company he found rest and pleasure. If the accumulation of wealth constitutes success, then he was a failure. But to my mind, Mr. Speaker, he was truly successful, both as a public and patriotic servant and also as a loving father and devoted husband. He was a living exemplar of the man described in the poem " Suc- cess," by Henry Victor Morgan : SUCCESS I hold that man alone succeeds Whose life is crowned by noble deeds. Who cares not for the world's applause But scorns vain custom's outgrown laws; Who feels not dwarfed by nature's show. But deep wiihin himself -doth know That conscious man is greater far Than ocean, land, or distant star; Who does not count his wealth by gold. His worth by office he may hold, But feels himself, as man alone, As good as king upon a throne; Who, battling 'gainst each seeming wrong, Can meet disaster with a song. Feel sure of victory in defeat, And rise refreshed the foe to meet; Who only lives the world to bless. Can never fail — he is success. [36] Address of Mr. Clark, of Missouri Mr. Speaker: " It is appointed unto men once to die and after tliat the judgment." The rule is universal, inexor- able. Our good, kind-hearted, industrious, able, and patriotic friend and fellow servant, Michael F. Conry, was no exception. Death took him while he was yet a young man, and he is sincerely mourned by all who knew him. He was a peculiarly lovable man. He was capable, 'level headed, and prompt in the discharge of duty. He was a rising man in the House. I was first attracted to him by hearing him sing old-time songs and hymns. He was blessed with a highly musical voice of much beauty and pathos. I began calling him to the chair when the House was in pacific frame of mind and he presided with grace, dignity, and fairness. I encouraged him to study parliamentary law, which he did successfully. One day I asked him if he thought he could pilot one of the great appropriation bills through the Committee of the "Whole House, and he replied that he thought he could if I would risk him — which I did. He performed that onerous and difficult task to the satisfaction of all. By practice, study, and observation he became a good presiding officer. He was not a frequent or prolix speaker. His style was clear, harmonious, forceful. He was the soul of courtesy, ti'ue as steel, firm as a rock. No man ever did him a kind- ness that he did not repay. His death is a loss to his State and to the Republic — inexpressibly sad to his multitude of friends. [37] Address of Mr. Griffin, of New York Thursday, March 8, 1917. Mr. Speaker: Under the permission granted by the House to extend my remarks I insert in the Record an article appearing in the Washington Times of March 3, 1917, written by Mr. Theodore Tiller, one of the brainy newspaper correspondents who daily communicate to the world the doings of this great legislative body. He, like his colleagues in the press gallery, see men come and go in public life, and recognize immediately sterling qualities of heart and mind. His eloquent article is a sincere tribute to the late Hon. Michael F. Conry, Member of Congress from the fifteenth New York district, the most beloved Member of the Sixty- fourth Congress, an able legislator, a brilliant member of the Ways and Means Committee. The article is as follows: [From the Washington Times, Mar. 3, 1917.] If House Does Sing, 'twill Be a Tribute — " Mike " Conry, Genial, Sweet-Voiced Congressman, Dies as Session Ends — Led in " Good-by " Songs — Members Recess in Midst of Tasks When News of Death is Told Probably there'll be a song or two in the House of Representa- tives late to-night or in the early morning hours as this session passes into history. In the lower body there is generally a let- down of business just before the gavel falls, and, somehow, the fellows begin to hum an old-fashioned tune, the chorus swells, and soon half the membership is singing. It is the mellowing influence of the time for good-bys, the relief from overwork, an outcropping of the sentimental among men who are soon to break pleasant associations, and who at heart are still just boys. But if they sing to-night there will be a missing voice — and that is why this story is written. " Mike " Conry — genial, whole- [38] Address of Mk. CiIuifin. oi- New York souled, lovable " Mike " Coxrv — is dead, or has " crossed over," as Uncle Joe Cannon, who dislikes the word " death," would say if he were writing a story about the passing of a colleague. VOICE CLEAR, HEART TENDER In former years Congressman Conry has been there to sing as the last hours of Congress slipped by. He had a voice as clear as a bell and a heart as tender as a child's. He was lame — was " Mike " Conry — but he'd limp toward the well of the House and soon you'd hear him above the rest as his tenor would blend in harmony with other Members who had good voices and sang with feeling under the thrill of good-by scenes. "Auld Lang Syne," "Tenting To-night," "Old Black .Toe," " Suwanee River " — the old favorites, with sometimes a verse of " Home, Sweet Home " — were among the songs they sang while Conry's voice keyed true to every note. Or perhaps they'd sing an Irish ballad — something that carried one back to the memories of green hills and clear lakes, to blue- eyed lassies, to cottages where old-fasliioncd mothers crooned the lullabies that have always put little children to sleep, and to a little isle whose national heart has been as big as the great out-of-doors. "mike" conrv stirred And then, too, " Mike " Conry's voice was heard above the rest, but it had a sort of quaver in it and his eyes had that far-away look that comes when one's feelings are deeply stirred. Maybe the Members of the House will not get a chance to sing at all before the adjournment comes sine die. But if Coxry were here he'd want them to, and now he is dead and the body is on the way to his New York home " Mike " Conry would not have them refrain from song because of that. This story might have been told in a few words — but the writer felt it was worth a bit more than that. In these final hours of an epochal session of the National Legislature it can not be amiss to turn a moment from practical tilings and record that sentiment still exists, that there is not a Member of the House who doesn't miss Michael Conry to-day, and that if the songs of yesterday are sung again some of his colleagues will seem to hear once more the lead of Conry, of New York. [393 Memorial Addresses: Representati\t Conry HOLSE SHOWS SPIRIT Persons who have never seen the end of a session in the House of Representatives probably can not appreciate what adjournment means to the Members of the lower body. In the Senate there is always dignity, real or assumed. The farewells are grave, matter of fact, although doubtless sincere. In the House the scenes are entirely different. House Members somehow are closer in their friendships. The complexion of the lower Chamber is constantly changing. Men come and go every two years. The leader of to-day may be the vanquished of to-morrow. But during his term he has formed friendships that are as true as steel and associations that are hard to break. Final adjournment in the House is much like the graduation day in a high school or a college. The young fellows assemble in class for the last time. Each one knows that never will they all meet together again. New faces are sure to appear and old faces are certain to be missed. It is a breaking of the ties that bind. So with the House of Representatives, with its membership that comes " close from the soul of a great people." The end of busi- ness comes, the tension is relaxed, Members are saying good-by — perhaps for a day, perhaps forever; and then away over in a corner a song is begun, a hush falls over the crowded galleries, the membership joins in, the Speaker withholds the gavel, there is no word of reproof, and moisture dims the eyes of those who appreciate the note of pathos in it all. Thus they have sung in the past and thus they will sing in the future. But " Mike " Conrv's voice will never lead them again. NEWS OF DEATH COMES " Mike " Cokry, beloved of every Member of the House, died last night at Providence Hospital. The end came quickly, unex- pectedly. The House stood in recess for one hour when the death was announced by Congressman Fitzgerald, dean of the New York delegation. The crush of legislation prevented a longer recess, but the tribute of the House was none the less sincere. Tears stood in the eyes of Mr. Fitzgerald as he told his colleagues that Michael Conry had answered the final roll call. Should they sing as the sands of the Sixty-fourth Congress run low, there'll be a tribute to Conry in that, and there'll be proof once more of the fact that the makers of national law have in them the touch of sentiment that makes us all alike. [40] Proceedings in the Senate Friday, March 2, 1917. A message from the House of Representatives by D. K. Hempstead, its enrolling clerk, communicated to the Senate the intelligence of the death of Hon. Michael F. CoNRY, late a Representative from the State of New York, and transmitted resolutions of the House thereon. The President pro tempore. The Chair lays before the Senate resolutions of the House of Representatives, which will be read. . The Secretary read the resolutions, as follows: In the House of Representatives of the United States. March 2, 1917. Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of the death of the Hon. Michael F. Conry, a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That a committee of 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 carr}'ing 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. Resolved, That as a further mark of respect this House do now stand in recess until 8 o'clock post meridian. Mr. Hitchcock. Mr. President, the Senate having been informed of the death of Representative Conry, of New [41] Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry York, I move that, out of respect to his memory, the Senate take a recess until 10 o'clock in the morning. The motion was unanimously agreed to; and (at 12 o'clock and 40 minutes a. m., Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917) the Senate took a recess until 10 o'clock a. m. [42] i ^ t LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 013 787 435 • • ■::■:::;•::::;; 1 1 ii: iiiii '. w Mmmiiiiii ■miinmimmi