and in diplomatic and executive affairs. His articles are written with true insight and from the experience of one who has been constantly at the center of national life and on terms of friendly acquaintance with men who are in control of affairs; and thus he is enabled to judge shrewdly of the probable effects of measures of policy and statesmanship. As a speaker, he is gifted with a ready and urbane wit and a quick sense of humor; and the fact that he was unanimously elected president of the "Gridiron Club of Washington Correspondents," of Washington, District of Columbia, in 1900, shows the appreciation in which he is held by his fellow-members of that famous club.
In early life a Methodist, he is now connected with the Congregational church. His political affiliations are with the Democratic party. When a boy he was especially fond of Ruskin, Emerson and Thoreau. Ruskin was to him most helpful, and he speaks of Smiles' "Self Help" as a book which encouraged him in his life-work. Out-of-door amusement, tramping, camping, fishing attract him. He was for two years president of the Columbia Golf club in Washington, District of Columbia. The choice of his vocation was a matter of necessity, he says, for he "was determined to earn something for his mother's support," and the opening he wished came to him in the offer of work in a printing office. His "ambition has always been to be a leader or at the top," and his career has shown the possibility of rising which is open to every young American, who makes use of the opportunities which come in his way, and by industry and application "creates circumstances" by force of his personal character.
Mr. West speaks of his "home training as thoroughly good." He remembers little of school as a strong influence; his companions were good, but not especially helpful. The "reading of books" was an important factor in his education, and "the study of men, to see what qualities made for advancement," has always had great interest for him.
Mr. West was married to Mary Hope White, July 25, 1882. They had three children living in 1905.
