4 The American Geologist. January, 1904. 
feelings and unselfishly doing more than his share of the duties 
which came in his way. He was outspoken against shams and 
pretensions of all kinds, and his opposition to the present 
methods "of exploiting mines in the west often brought down 
upon him the displeasure of promoters, and caused efforts to 
be made to force him out of his position. His assays were 
fearless and honest. He was tempted at times by offers of 
large salaries to go into mining work, but he refused them al- 
ways because of his love for science." 
All this I can corroborate. It was a few weeks before his 
death that he wrote me he had been sadly tempted to accept an 
excellent position in mining work with a salary of five thous- 
and dollars a year, but he could not abandon his scientific 
work. The State had learned to trust him for his ability and 
fearless integrity, and ne might have had many opportunities 
in business life had he desired. The appreciation of scientific 
merit comes slowly in the western states unless it leads im- 
mediately to the almighty dollar, and he who loves science for 
science's sake is usually regarded outside of his immediate cir- 
cle of friends, with a feeling of mild contempt. More than 
anywhere else, I think, newspaper notoriety is necessary in the 
west to give fame to the "scientist." But professor Knight 
was not that kmd of a man, and this must be taken into account 
in correctly appreciating his character. Nevertheless, after 
many years Wyoming did appreciate him, as was evident by 
the universal regret at his demise. 
Professor Knight was married in 1889 to [Nliss E. Emma 
Howell, who survives him with four children. That his home 
life was a happy one I can certify from personal knowledge. 
Professor Knight gave his life unselfishly and freely, with- 
out the recompense he deserved, and amid many discourage- 
ments, to his adopted State. His period of highest usefulness 
was only fairly begun, and his university had learned his real 
worth ; his colleagues have only the kindest and most sincere 
words of appreciation for him as a man and as a teacher. 
The State of Wyoming could do no better service to the 
youth of the state, no greater honor to itself than by erecting a 
fitting and lasting memorial at the university where he worked 
so faithfully, to the memory of professor Wilbur Clinton 
•Knight, a sincere and a faithful man. and an earnest student. 
