Nine years ago we were called upon to record the death of Governor
Washburn, President of this Association. While he was seemingly in the
fullness of life and while on the platform at the meeting of the
American Board he suddenly and unexpectedly fell asleep in death. In a
far different way did his successor, Rev. William M. Taylor, D.D., meet
in quietude and with patient resignation the summons that called him
home. The premonition of death came three years ago, and the march has
been steady to the close. During these months his patience and sweet
assurance have been as marked illustrations of the power of the Gospel
as other graces were in his more active career.

Dr. Taylor, long before he became President of this Association, took a
deep interest in its work and brought to it his own personal influence
and that of his large and wealthy congregation. As a presiding officer
he was constant in his attendance, and by the dignity of his manner and
his great force of character gave guidance and strength to the
gatherings of our annual meeting. But Dr. Taylor was broad, and his
sympathies went forth to every form of endeavor for the spread of the
Gospel and the benefit of mankind. With a strong character derived from
his Scottish ancestry, he had made his mark as a pastor in the growth of
a church under his care in the old country. Nearly a quarter of a
century ago he came to this city, and by his commanding eloquence, his
pastoral gifts and the books which flowed from his pen, he has exerted a
wide and salutary influence. On great occasions, at college
anniversaries and at missionary and ecclesiastical gatherings, Dr.
Taylor was one of the most acceptable and efficient speakers. One marked
characteristic of Dr. Taylor came from his great heart, and mellowed and
sweetened all his other powers. He has finished a glorious course, and
has gone to his reward.