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dition of things. In accumulating his wealth, he co-operated in the great improvements of the day, and never sought to build up his own property by breaking down, or injuring, that of others.
"Though Mr. Whitney was not conspicuously liberal to objects wholly benevolent, yet he generouly contributed to the erection and support of the late Rev. Dr. Alexander's church, in which he worshipped, and of church for the soldiers on Governor's Island, erected by the efforts devotion of Rev. Mr. McVickar." His intimate friends know that he subscribed largely, though almost always anonymously, to many other religious and charitable institutions and objects. "His charities were dispensed with system and studiously without show; and the judicious provision he, for a long time, has made or several dependent relatives and friends, attests his thoughtful and affectionate regard for the wants and welfare of others.
"In his social and friendly relations, be was a pleasant and profitable companion. Those who have sat with him in a Board of Directors, cheerfully testify to his urbanity, and his intelligent and mature opinions on the subjects discussed, mingled writh pleasant vivacity and humorous anecdotes, and the decided, though tolerant, opinions which he formed on every subject.
"Possessing an extensive knowledge of the transactions and actors of the present century, especially in the city or New York his biographical memories of the eminent men who have departed this life during the last fifty years, were copious and discriminating, and full of eventful interest. His narratives of this kind, and remarks on the progress of local improvements in the city of New York and the country at large, added much to the charm of his familiar conversation. These, with the amiability and cheerfulness which also characterized him, made him an agreeable, as well as most valuable, associate and friend; and when he formed his friendships, they were firm and truthful to the farthest extent. His memory will he cherished in sweet remembrance by those with whom he had such a free and confdential intercourse, for they found in him the useful citizen and the genial companion in the public and private walks of life. His name will occupy a lofty niche in the columns of the wealthy dead; but particularly in the circles in which he was most active, will his ahsence long be felt with melancholy regret; while their agreeable associations with him will ever animate the hearts of relatives and friends with most affectionate emotions."
Mr. Whitney was a short, spare man ; remarkably vigorous in mind and body, down to the moment of his death, scrupulously neat and unpretending in his dress; courteous, urbane, and modest in his marnner; devotedly attached to church, home, and family; accurately informed in an matters connected with commercial enterprise in its larger sense, and therefore well acquainted with geographical discovery, and the development and political economy of new countries; passionately fond of natural
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