The old merchants of New York City / by Walter Barrett.

OF NEW YORK CITY.

15

largely, his house in the country being always filled with
an influx of visitors, in which were included the very
numerous connections of himself and wife. In all business matters he was looked up to as a man whose advice
and judgment was of the greatest value, and his career as
a merchant fully justified that confidence. His maxim
was to stick to legitimate business, and he could never
be induced himself, and constantly dissuaded others,
from entering into any speculation not connected with
the regular business which they had adopted as a pur
suit.
Though liberal in aiding measures designed for the
public benefit, notlhing could tempt him to take any part
in public affairs, a disinclination partly personal and partly the result of his political opinions.
His business morality was of the highest kind. His
word was as good as his note, and maintaining himself
the strictest integrity in all his dealings, he could neither
do business with nor even speak to a man who was ever
known to have done what he, in a mercantile sense looked upon as dishonorable.
As we remember him, he was a man a little above
the ordinary height, portly in person, with a finely shaped head, large forehead, a serious, thoughtful looking
face, the intelligent expression of which was enhanced by
his gold spectacles, somewhat reserved in his manner,
and dignified in his bering.
His son Phillip Lydlig was connected with his father
in business at No. 160 South street, under the firm of
David Lydig & Sor. as early as 1824. It continued
several years, and h. retired when the former did. He
married the eldest laughter of John Suydam, and has
since led the life of in unobtrusive gentleman, bringing
up a large farnii, ssing as his father did, his winters