HONORS AND REWARDS 169 
the ‘‘whereas” paragraph. There were also two “resolved” 
paragraphs. A “copy of the foregoing preamble and resolu- 
tion,” properly engrossed and duly authenticated was “pre- 
sented to Cyrus W. Field, Esq. as a slight evidence of the ap- 
preciation by the people of this city of the service he has ren- 
dered in uniting the old and new worlds in the electric bonds 
of fraternity and peace.” Obviously these city fathers were 
more enthusiastic in words after the event than they had been 
in subscriptions to Field’s pleas before the event. Such is 
fame, and such is human nature! 
Harper's Magazine of October, 1866, spoke glowingly of 
this “‘great historical event” and predicted: ‘““The name which 
will be always associated with this historical event is that of 
the man who has so patiently and unweariedly persisted in 
the project, Cyrus W. Field. With an undaunted cheerfulness, 
which often seemed exasperating and unreasonable and fanat- 
ical, he has steadily and zealously persevered, no more dis- 
mayed or baffled by apparent failure than a good ship by a 
head wind.” This sentiment implies that, until final success 
was achieved, Field’s optimism and persistent faith exasperat- 
ed many stout American burghers. What a difference success 
makes! 
A curious train of events now began in regard to a gold 
medal voted to Field by Congress. Henry Field considered 
such a medal the equivalent of a knighthood. A resolution 
was introduced in the Senate in December, 1866, expressing 
the thanks of Congress in the name of the country for Field’s 
“foresight, courage, and determination” etc. ‘The two Houses 
expedited its progress and passed it unanimously. President 
Johnson signed it promptly. 
The resolution specified “that the President of the United 
States be requested to cause a gold medal to be struck, with 
suitable emblems, devices, and inscription,” and “that when 
the medal shall have been struck, the President shall cause 
a copy of this joint resolution to be engrossed on parchment, 
