of Governor Herbert R. O'Conor 181

Having a full appreciation of his real worth, the people loved him. They
rallied to his support and enthusiastically followed his leadership, as a conse-
quence of which the public showered upon him honors to a degree unparalleled
in the State's history. Of true patrician cast and character, his heart throbbed
in unison with the humblest, the plainest and untutored. There constant de-
mands for his presence among them were so continuous and so irresistible
that he literally wore himself out in responding to their appeals..

Furthermore, it is refreshing to recall the position which Governor Ritchie
occupied in the minds and hearts of a great number of admirers not residents
of our State. Their admiration for his accomplishments, their respect for his
mental qualities were unbounded. As a result Maryland became better known
and better understood and the traditions and history of the State were more
widely cherished as a result of the exemplar who was known to personify the
Maryland spirit.

In brief, Albert C. Ritchie was ever a gentleman in the age-old meaning
of that word; he was the possessor of rare intellectual gifts; he was generous
in the use of his talents and abilities for the betterment of his State and was
unsparing in his quest for the goal of efficient public service; he was a states-
man whose policies and doctrines were bedrocked in a philosophy which was
and is forward-looking yet conservative; he was a true exponent of tolerance;
and championed this cause throughout the nation.

Therefore, on behalf of the State of Maryland and its people whom Gov-
ernor Ritchie served so well and, because of a personal affection and admiration
for him, it is a privilege, indeed, for me officially to accept this memorial. The
State henceforth will be the richer as a result of this gift. Richer will we be
because of this welcome addition to the State's physical possessions, this
artistic achievement which will provide enjoyment and satisfaction to thousands
of our own citizens and to many more thousands from other States, both today
and tomorrow.

But, more important, however, than any consideration of physical value
is the enrichment of the spirit and of the tradition of our State. Richer,
therefore, will our State be as long as this memorial shall endure, because it
will ever be a vital reminder to all our people of the nobility of purpose and
the superiority of achievement of one who typified the Maryland tradition to
the fullest.

With assurance it can be said that, if he could be granted permission now
to return to the State of his choice, this hallowed spot would be his preference.
He cannot do that but the citizens now do for him and for Marylanders of the
present and future generations a lasting service in perpetuating here the name
of Maryland's distinguished Governor, Albert C. Ritchie.

MARYLAND SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF

May 21, 1940

Frederick

OF all the commencements that I have addressed, and all those which I am
scheduled to attend this year, I can think of none that has given me, or