These things can be said of the ten thousand.

We want to know the thoughts and the resolves of the soul which made him a marked man above his fellows and which begot strong influences for good and great works, and if none such can be unfolded then drop the man out of sight, with a "_Requiescant in pace"_ engraven upon his tombstone.

Few deserve a biography, and to the undeserving none should be given.
If it be permitted to speak of self, I might say that to Father Hecker I am indebted for most salutary impressions which, I sorrowfully confess, have not had in me their due effect; the remembrance of them, however, is a proof to me of the usefulness of his life, and its power for good in others.

I am glad to have the opportunity to profess publicly my gratitude to him.

He was in the prime of life and work when I was for the first time brought to observe him.