[19] His name may be swallowed up in the great number of names of persons writing for beneficent purposes, but Elbridge S. Brooks has fulfilled his ideals, and done a work in this generation whose influence will never perish. To write a book of influence is the greatest contribution a man can make. Mr. Brooks wrote forty such books. The memory of Elbridge Brooks is one that “will smell sweet and blossom in the dust,” as one who helped and blessed mankind.
Address by Rev. Mr. Pierson
Rev. William H. Pierson, pastor of the church, spoke interestingly of the life and character of Mr. Brooks. ‘Mr. Brooks,’ he said,has done an intellectual work of great value to mankind. He knew, as many do not dream or imagine, something of the burden, the care, and anxiety of intellectual toil, and also of the joy and pleasure of its success. His death seems untimely, and sometimes we ask why should he be stricken down. Though his years seem cut prematurely short, his life was well lived, and his work well done. He sought to inspire in the young the great deeds of those who have gone before. How nobly he did his work! I fear he put too much of his strength into it. Still, through his volumes he speaks and will speak to the young for generations. He was brave, patient, sensible, and lovable in the disappointment that came with the loss of sight and broken health.The following hymn, written by Sam Walter Foss, was then sung by the congregation:—Dead he lay among his books,
The peace of God was in his looks.
