The Harris Testimonial Fund. [Volume: 2, Issue: 4, November, 1860, pp. 220-223]

PROCEEDINGS OF DENTAL SOCIETIES.

223

should have been selected to perform this sad and solemn office; yet, how
can words adequately convey the expression of deep and heartfelt sorrow
at the loss of one so universally mourned, or impart consolation to your
afflicted and stricken hearts?
We should hardly dare intrude, even in our thoughts, on the sacredness
of the bereaved home, did we not realize from our own experience, that
no dark page of life's history is so dear to memory as that in which the
sorrowful heart has been solaced, and its burdens shared by others; when
the bereaved feelings have been turned from their sadness, and the tears
of anguish have been dried by the hand of sympathy and love.
There are circumstances which give this event prominence, even among
the severest afflictions with which it is the plan of God's providence to
try us in this world.
We have no right to use the language of private and exclusive sorrow.
Dr. Chapin A. Harris belonged to the public, to whom he has given the
proofs of rare and unequaled eminence in his literary labors, and endeared
to him troops of friends by his disinterested, devoted, and enthusiastic
zeal.
His uncommon attainments and his ardent devotion to dental science
had given his name a world-wide reputation, and his own works are a
more lasting monument to his memory than sculptured urn or marble
mausoleum. His is one of the noblest names that Fame has inscribed
upon her rolls-" one of the few, the immortal names that were not born
to die."
He does not need our inadequate eulogy. In losing him we feel that
indeed a bright and shining light has gone out from among us. We,
who had promised ourselves many years to rejoice in his friendship, have
this to console and cheer us, that "it is well with him." God forbid that
we should distrust His infinite love I
But, alas! what sorrow is like their sorrow who mourn for such a husband and father? and how weak is human endeavor to lighten the shadow
of the dark valley which seems to have settled down over their worldly
prospects
Accept, dear madam, from each of us our deep sympathy for yourself
and family, in this severe trial to which you have been called, and renewed
assurances of the sincere commiseration and sympathy of our professional
brethren in this city. Trusting that in leaning upon Him who has said,
"I will be the widow's God, and a Father to the fatherless," you may find
your surest consolation, we remain, truly and respectfully yours,
ELEAZAR PARMLY,
SOLYMAN BROWN,
J. H. FOSTER, M.D.