EDWARD CLARK. 
289 
and unruffled and had so completely restrained the toe of 
his boot, a faint smile and shake of the head revealed the 
imperturbable temper, charity, and long experience that 
were his constant protection. 
Of course, such a man was possessed of many deserved 
friends in Congress. Nevertheless, when we are told that 
man cannot serve even so few as two masters, with what awe 
must we contemplate this man who succeeded in serving a 
hundredfold more for thirty-seven years, and then at his 
death left not only no enemies, but many more friends and 
admirers than fall to the lot of most men. 
Unaggressive and more disposed and accustomed to follow 
and obey than to lead, thoroughly constant, faithful, and 
industrious, and always approachable, he quietly went about 
his duty with a pleasant face and a kindly smile of recog¬ 
nition for every one about him to the end of his long life. 
Nearly all his time was devoted, from first to last, to the 
duties of his office and the remainder to a sweet and modest 
life with his library and family friends at home. 
Confidence in his ability and integrity was widespread. 
The extent of it was illustrated by an invitation from the 
State Capitol Commission of Iowa to revise the plans of their 
proposed building, which he did to their great satisfaction. 
Congress showed its regard for his integrity, good judgment, 
and knowledge of fine art by constantly consulting him 
through committees or individual members and placing 
him on most of the commissions designated by Congress 
charged with such matters. These included works of art, 
buildings, and monuments of all kinds. The construction, 
remodeling, and repair of many such works in the District 
were put in his charge by law, but singularly without ad¬ 
ditional compensation beyond the regular salary of Archi¬ 
tect of the Capitol. All this was thus added gratuitously to 
his multifarious duties and innumerable personal consulta¬ 
tions within the Capitol concerning the hundred and one 
details of the great building and its grounds and the numer¬ 
ous rooms and conveniences of the committees of Congress. 
