HERBERT GOUVERNEUR OGDEN. 227 



ties, since the accuracy of the finished product depended in a 

 large degree on his decision. 



In 1898 he was appointed Inspector of Hydrography and 

 Topography. His new duties were rendered the more difficult 

 from the fact that a change was being made in the organization 

 of the Survey, and also on account of the rapid expansion of 

 the field of work, due to the development of Alaska, the acqui- 

 sition of Porto Rico and the Philippine Islands. 



In this position it came within the scope of his duties to for- 

 mulate a general plan for hydrographic and topographic sur- 

 veys ; to make field inspections of the work ; also of the ships, 

 and to supervise their repairs and maintenance. Only those 

 engaged in the same lines of work can fully appreciate the im- 

 portance and value of what Mr. Ogden accomplished. Of the 

 many thousands who traverse our coasts in ships, there are few 

 indeed who are aware to what extent they are indebted to him 

 for the integrity and completeness of the charts on which their 

 safety depends. 



The leading trait of Mr. Ogden's character — the one which 

 endeared him most to his associates, both old and young — was 

 his unfailing interest in their welfare. His ever ready sympathy 

 attracted the confidences of his juniors, and his advice and as- 

 sistance was ever constantly sought by them. At the same time 

 his loyalty to the service never allowed his kindly feelings to 

 override his high sense of duty. Decided in his convictions, he 

 was firm in refusing ill-considered or improper requests, but he 

 could deny in such a tactful and considerate manner as rarely 

 to wound the most sensitive. 



Having a genial and sanguine disposition — a man of simple 

 habits — his friends hoped and expected that there were many 

 years of activity and usefulness before him. 



It was ordained otherwise, and he died suddenly February 

 25, 1906. 



D. B. Wainwright. 



