If Mr. Holls, whose death I so deeply deplored, were alive to-day and a delegate to the forthcoming second Conference with his chief, Andrew D. White, I feel that these two might possibly bring about the creation of the needed International Court for the abolition of war.  He it was who started from The Hague at night for Germany, upon request of his chief, and saw the German Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Emperor and finally prevailed upon them to approve of the High Court, and not to withdraw their delegates as threatened—­a service for which Mr. Holls deserves to be enrolled among the greatest servants of mankind.  Alas, death came to him while still in his prime.

The day that International Court is established will become one of the most memorable days in the world’s history.[57] It will ring the knell of man killing man—­the deepest and blackest of crimes.  It should be celebrated in every land as I believe it will be some day, and that time, perchance, not so remote as expected.  In that era not a few of those hitherto extolled as heroes will have found oblivion because they failed to promote peace and good-will instead of war.

[Footnote 57:  “I submit that the only measure required to-day for the maintenance of world peace is an agreement between three or four of the leading Civilized Powers (and as many more as desire to join—­the more the better) pledged to cooeperate against disturbers of world peace, should such arise.” (Andrew Carnegie, in address at unveiling of a bust of William Randall Cremer at the Peace Palace of The Hague, August 29, 1913.)]

When Andrew D. White and Mr. Holls, upon their return from The Hague, suggested that I offer the funds needed for a Temple of Peace at The Hague, I informed them that I never could be so presumptuous; that if the Government of the Netherlands informed me of its desire to have such a temple and hoped I would furnish the means, the request would be favorably considered.  They demurred, saying this could hardly be expected from any Government.  Then I said I could never act in the matter.

Finally the Dutch Government did make application, through its Minister, Baron Gevers in Washington, and I rejoiced.  Still, in writing him, I was careful to say that the drafts of his Government would be duly honored.  I did not send the money.  The Government drew upon me for it, and the draft for a million and a half is kept as a memento.  It seems to me almost too much that any individual should be permitted to perform so noble a duty as that of providing means for this Temple of Peace—­the most holy building in the world because it has the holiest end in view.  I do not even except St. Peter’s, or any building erected to the glory of God, whom, as Luther says, “we cannot serve or aid; He needs no help from us.”  This temple is to bring peace, which is so greatly needed among His erring creatures.  “The highest worship of God is service to man.”  At least, I feel so with Luther and Franklin.