Lincoln; A Typical American - An Address by Thomas W. Cridler at the Banquet of the Union League Club of Brooklyn, February 12, 1901 #247057

I can not hope to say much that is interesting or anything that is new or that will materially enhance the name and fame of that great man. All this has been said years ago — said by abler men in their own novel and inimitable way. The official record proclaims it; history records it. There is, there fore, little concerning Lincoln that the world does not know and nothing that it does not justly admire. A few thoughts, however, suggest themselves; and, if your patience will bear the strain, I will endeavor to give expression to them. It is not my province to even briefly review the life of Lincoln. That would be a useless task, quite out of keeping on such. An occasion, sincethese details are well known to you as to all patri otic Americans. Indeed, save Washington alone, the world at large (to which Lincoln belonged in its broadest sense) is more familiar with his life, his character, and his career than with those of any other American who ever lived.