On his election to the Governorship Mr. Gaston absolutely relinquished his practice and gave his undivided attention to the duties of his office.  He had been quite unable to devote his customary labor to the benefit of his law partnership and the good of their clientage during the two years that he was Mayor of Boston.

When he retired from the executive chair it is said that he had neither a “case” nor a client.

He took offices in Sears Building and it was not long before he was again enjoying a large and lucrative practice.  In 1879 he took into partnership C.L.B.  Whitney, Esq.; and last year William A. Gaston, Esq., was admitted to the firm.

An imperishable chain binds Ex-Governor Gaston to the bright side of the history of the Commonwealth.  His life and its renown are one and inseparable.  Such is the inevitable result of a life that has ever been linked to honorable endeavors and principles.  So thoroughly identified with, and endeared to, her best interests, it is difficult to believe that Massachusetts can claim him by adoption only.  In private life Mr. Gaston is all that can be desired.  He is quiet, and remarkably modest and unassuming.

He enjoys the delightful home quietness away from his labors.  But what little time he has for such enjoyment!  He seems to love work.  How he has performed so much of it is a wonder, although it is well known that he inherits and enjoys remarkable powers of endurance.  Among his favorite authors are Scott and Burke.  He is temperate, refined in his habits, has the manners of a perfect gentleman, and deserves the blessed fruits of a well directed life.

* * * * *

Reminiscences of Daniel Webster.

By Hon.  George W. Nesmith, LL.D.

The following is a copy of a letter originally addressed to Rev. Mr. Savage of Franklin, N.H.  The original is dated October 10, 1852, fourteen days before the decease of Mr. Webster.  It was dictated to his Clerk, C.J.  Abbott, Esq.  It was the same letter that gave rise to the humorous anecdote, so well related by Mr. Curtice in his Biography of Mr. Webster, vol. 2, page 683.

We now present this letter to the public to show how worthily one of the last days of Mr. Webster was employed.  In this case he presented a Peace Offering to old friends, which proved effectual in preventing a severe litigation and consequent loss of money and friendship: 

     “Marshfield, Oct. 10, 1852.

     My dear sir:  I learn that there is likely to be a lawsuit between
     Mr. Horace Noyes and his Mother respecting his father’s will.