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there were many whom he quietly befriended. He was never heard to say an ill word about any one, or repeat gossip, nor did he want to hear it. Even if under provocation he seemed to have perfect control of himself, never losing his equilibrium. Henry Herchmer Gildersleeve was, truly, a friendly man -- and it has been said: "Blessed is the man who has the gift of making friends; for it is one of God's best gifts." James P. Gildersleeve, LL. B. James Philip Gildersleeve (1840-1929), born at Kingston was the youngest son of Henry Gildersleeve. He was educated at a private school and then attended Upper Canada College. He also took up the study of law, graduating from Queen's University, in 1863, with the degree of LL. B. Taking up the practice of his profession at Kingston, he entered into partnership with his brother, Charles F. Gildersleeve. When the latter discontinued practice to take over the steamboat management, James P. became associated with Richard T. Walkem, K. C., the firm of Gildersleeve and Walkem continuing for some ten years. After dissolution of this partnership he retired from legal work, establishing a steamship and insurance agency. In 1901, he was appointed Registrar, in charge of the Kingston registry office, which position he filled until his retirement about 1920. He was interested in civic affairs to a considerable extent, representing Sydenham Ward as an alderman for four years. It had not at all times been fair weather sailing for the Gildersleeves, during the century of their ownership and operation of steamboats; they had to face their share of adversities, for, as those who engage in the trade know, the calling is hazardous and precarious. There had been accidents, both minor and major, groundings, sinkings and destruction by fire but no recorded loss of life. For no matter what precautions were taken and foresight exercised, the natural elements are beyond control of man, and there always exists the human factor. Still, it must be admitted, the family left a record unique in the annals of shipping on the inland waters of Canada. There were times when they might have been tempted to "rest on their oars," and enjoy the fruits of their labors, but they persistently continued to employ their capital, creating, besides benefit to themselves, employment for hundreds of others--citizenship at its best. Their steamers during the years made a profit, but, unfortunately, ventures outside their own particular field of endeavor were liabilities. Yet, excursions into other fields had in view the furtherance of public welfare, as well as possible private profit. Nevertheless, they steadfastly continued to pursue their course to the end, endeavoring at all times to be true to the motto. "Live, Fight, and Die, like Norsemen. " -49-