The two most prominent men on the North American Continent
are reported dangerously ill. Sir J. A. Macdonald, Premier of Canada, has been struck down by paralysis of the brain, from overwork and excitement during the recent election, and although his intense vitality keeps him alive, the doctors have no hope of a recovery. His career, at all events, is ever; and so great has been the influence of his personality, that all parties in the Dominion alike feel that Canadian politics will enter on a new phase. Mr. Blaine is also ill. He has retired to Bar Harbour to recruit himself with a holiday of four months; but it is clear that he is exhausted, and probable that his nerve-force has permanently diminished. Under such circumstances, a contest for the Presidency would be a dangerous experiment. The excite- ment, and even the work, are excessive ; and while they tried Mr. Lincoln's cool nerves and frame of hickory, they directly killed poor Horace Greeley, a healthy but overstrung man. 'The pace quickens in America, as it does here ; they have not our moist climate or our habit of exercise; and in a few years paralysis will be the regular ending of an American politician. The Union should treat its great officers as we do London Stipendiaries, appoint two to each post, and let them relieve each other.
Previous page
