Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1900 edition. Excerpt: ... E have seen how the advent of General Knox into the community where he had fixed his residence was regarded as an event of moment. The natural expectations of the people of Thomaston were not disappointed. The dominating personality of the retired soldier and statesman very soon exerted a pervasive influence in every activity of the country, whether social, industrial, political, or religious. His was a commanding figure, and the ample generosity of his house set the pace, as it were, for those whose social life even distantly imitated his own. His multifarious enterprises gave employment to a host of men, quickened the pulses of trade and commerce, and stimulated the productive energies of a considerable stretch of sea-coast. His positive opinions and zealous public spirit gave him a preponderating influence in the politics of the time; and in all matters pertaining to the maintenance of religious ordinances and beneficent organisations, Knox's hand and Knox's name were always foremost. The death of such a man meant the withdrawal of an energising force from the concerns of a thrifty and growing community. The end of his useful career, which came to his neighbours and fellow-citizens like a sudden calamity, fell on the 25th of October, 1806. The General inadvertently swallowed a small fragment of chicken bone, which, lodging in the intestinal system, caused mortification and death. In the midst of his mature years, his strenuous labours were abruptly discontinued; the inventive brain and diligent hand rested from their labours. General Knox's funeral took place on the 28th of the month, and was celebrated with military honours. After services in the mansion, a long procession, headed by an artillery company, a company of cavalry, and...
