THOMAS PYM COPE. In all countries, the character of the great and good has been deemed a part of the public fame; and nations which have derived political or pecuniary advantage from the talents and labors of their distinguished citizens living, have put in a claim to the posthumous credit of those men, as if a portion at least was to escheat to the benefit of the commonwealth. No form of government has ever excluded such a claim, because no form of government, however bad, has been enabled to repress the virtues, or diminish the generous ardor of those who, marked by Providence with high special gifts, will work out for themselves a path to fame, by directing their powers in such pursuits as tend, by multiplying individual good, to promote public benefits. Just in proportion as the government of a nation tends toward true republicanism, is the proper fame of the individual appropriately available to the mass; and as the popu lar voice has more and more weight, the character of each individual becomes more and more important to the whole; and society at large feels and expresses the deep interest which it has in the conduct and fame of any citizen who, by talent, enterprise, and virtuous devotion to an honorable calling, and the prompt and willing discharge of civic and social duties, acquires extensive fame, and sustains, with appropriate bearing, the dignity of his acquired position. Hence the great propriety in this country of respect to the memory, and affectionate gratitude to the persons of those who distinguish themselves by successful efforts in any of the professional walks of life, or in the various de partments of business and trade. Each effort, it is evi |