Rambles about Portsmouth. Sketches of persons, localities, and incidents of two centuries: principally from tradition and unpublished documents. By Charles W. Brewster.

SAMUEL E. COUES. 247
on ground where few were ready to follow him. He even
called in question the truth of the Newtonian system of
philosophy, and published a volume to prove the truth of
his own peculiar theory. He enjoyed the confidence of his
fellow citizens, and was for several years a Representative
in the Legislature. Humanity was a principle of his nature,
and in no better way did he ever display his philanthropy
than in his active and successful efforts to establish the
Asylum for the Insane in this State. He was a devoted advocate of peace principles, and some of his lectures on this
subject were the best productions of his pen. On the death
of William Ladd, Mr. Coues was elected President of the
American Peace Society, which office he held for several
years. As a member of the School committee he took deep
interest in our public schools, and labored efficiently sever.
al years for their elevation.
In 1853, Mr. Coues received an appointment at Washington, connected with the Patent Office. His health failing,
he returned to Portsmouth in 1866, to close his life, sure
rounded by the scenes of his early days. He might not
always have been right in his philosophy-he might not
always have been judicious in his business matters-but
under the influence of a strong nervous temperament, his
active'mind had a keen perception of the beauties and
mysteries of nature, and the ever pervading feeling of
philanthrophy gave a living vivacity to his conversation, in
wh;ich he ever exhibited a desir.e to make those. around
him happy.